Dual-Battery Charging Control for In-Motion EV Range Extension

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing mobility apparatuses, such as electric vehicles, face limitations in driving distance due to the capacity of their fixed high-voltage batteries, necessitating an alternative solution to enhance range without compromising power system operations.

Innovation Solution

A charging control method is introduced that allows a second high-voltage battery to be added and separated from the power system of a mobility apparatus, enabling it to charge the first high-voltage battery while the vehicle is in motion, with settings based on state of charge, temperature, and driver demand power to optimize efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of moving object

If a fixed high-voltage battery is installed in the mobility apparatus, then the power system can operate reliably, but the driving distance is limited by the battery capacity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving distanceVSAvoidpower system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power system is segmented into a first high-voltage battery (fixed, integrated into the mobility apparatus) and a second high-voltage battery (mobile, separable). The first battery handles primary power needs while the second battery serves as an auxiliary charging source, dividing the energy storage function into distinct modular components that can be independently managed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second high-voltage battery is designed with multi-functionality: it can be connected to charge the first high-voltage battery during travel, serve as a portable power source when separated, and adapt to different charging scenarios based on driver demand and battery state, making it a versatile component that addresses multiple power needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Quantity of substance

If a second high-voltage battery is added to extend driving distance, then the energy capacity increases, but the device complexity and connection management increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy capacityVSAvoidconnection mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between the first and second high-voltage batteries is dynamic rather than fixed. The second battery can be connected or separated based on operational needs, with the controller automatically managing the connection state. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt between single-battery and dual-battery modes without permanent structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The controller acts as an intermediary that manages the complex interaction between the two batteries. It monitors the state of charge, temperature, and driver demand power of both batteries, then automatically determines optimal charging current distribution, simplifying the management of the dual-battery system through intelligent control rather than mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Duration of action of moving object

If the second high-voltage battery charges the first high-voltage battery during travel, then the driving distance increases, but the charging efficiency may be compromised without proper control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving distanceVSAvoidcharging efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The controller implements a feedback-based charging control system that continuously monitors the state of charge and temperature of both batteries, along with driver demand power. Based on this real-time feedback, the controller adjusts the charging current from the second battery to the first battery, ensuring optimal charging efficiency while preventing overheating or overcharging that would waste energy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The charging current parameter is dynamically changed based on operating conditions. The controller determines the charging current by considering the state of charge of the first battery, its temperature, and the driver's instantaneous power demand. This parameter adjustment ensures that charging occurs at optimal rates that maximize efficiency while adapting to real-time system conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach significantly increases the driving distance of the mobility apparatus by leveraging the second high-voltage battery for charging, enhancing the overall efficiency and flexibility of the power system.

Implementation Method 1

a first high-voltage battery providing power to the at least one first drive motor, a second high-voltage battery configured to be added to and separated from the power system as needed to supply charging power to the first high-voltage battery

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBattery (electricity): Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentUS20250091461A1Charging control method for mobility apparatus and the mobility apparatus thereof
Publication Date: 2025.03.20 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US20250091461A1 patent drawing
  • US20250091461A1 patent drawing
  • US20250091461A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A charging control method for a mobility apparatus including a plurality of first wheels, at least one first drive motor providing a driving power to the plurality of first wheels, a first high-voltage battery providing power to the at least one first drive motor, a first connection mechanism, and a first controller includes when a second high-voltage battery, which is configured to be moved as a first mobility apparatus travels and to supply a charging power to the first high-voltage battery while the first mobility apparatus is traveling and is removeably connected to the first high-voltage battery, is electrically connected to the first high-voltage battery, charging the first high-voltage battery with the second high-voltage battery under settings for a charging efficiency of the first high-voltage battery.