Adaptive Dual DC/DC Power Assembly for Fail-Safe Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power supply assemblies face challenges in achieving optimal power supply efficiency, stability, and reliability due to the coordination and optimization of multiple DC/DC converters and charge storage devices in response to varying voltage levels, particularly in systems requiring Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) D compliance.
Innovation Solution
A robust electrical power supply assembly with dual redundant DC/DC converters and an ultracapacitor-based energy storage device, controlled by an electronic controller that adjusts power output based on real-time voltage, current, and temperature feedback to maintain a predetermined power level, ensuring ASIL D performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple DC/DC converters and charge storage devices are used to provide robust power supply, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into multiple independent DC/DC converter modules and charge storage devices, each capable of operating autonomously. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability through redundancy while managing complexity by creating modular, standardized units that can be independently controlled and monitored.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller dynamically adjusts the operation of each DC/DC converter and charge storage device based on real-time voltage, current, and temperature feedback. This dynamic control optimizes power distribution efficiency and maintains system stability, resolving the complexity issue by implementing adaptive rather than static control mechanisms.
2Stability of the object's composition
If real-time monitoring and adjustment of multiple converters is implemented, then power supply stability is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms through voltage sensors, current sensors, and temperature sensors that continuously monitor each DC/DC converter and charge storage device. The electronic controller uses this feedback to automatically adjust converter output and charge storage operations, maintaining power supply stability without requiring complex manual intervention or centralized control algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
Each DC/DC converter and charge storage device is equipped with built-in monitoring and self-regulation capabilities, allowing them to maintain optimal operation independently. This self-service approach reduces the burden on the central controller and simplifies the overall control architecture while maintaining high stability.
3Reliability
If dual redundant DC/DC converters are used to ensure fail-safe operation, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dual redundant DC/DC converters that are identical copies of each other, allowing for standardized manufacturing and assembly. This copying approach enables economies of scale in production while ensuring that if one converter fails, the other can immediately take over, maintaining fail-safe operation without requiring custom-designed complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller dynamically changes operational parameters such as duty cycle, switching frequency, and power distribution ratios based on system conditions. This allows the redundant converters to operate efficiently under varying loads, reducing overall power consumption and heat generation, which in turn lowers cooling requirements and manufacturing costs for thermal management systems.
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
The system provides economical ASIL D level power delivery by using dual DC/DC converters and an ultracapacitor, ensuring reliable power to critical vehicle systems with fail-safe operation and extended component lifetime.
Implementation Method 1
The DC/DC converters are responsible for converting the input voltage to the desired output voltage
Implementation Method 2
an ultracapacitor-based energy storage device
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power supply assembly is disclosed, comprising first and second DC/DC converters, each equipped with a current sensor to determine respective currents. The assembly includes an electrical charge storage device with a boost/buck DC/DC converter and a charge storage medium. It features voltage sensors to determine input, output, and charge storage medium voltages. An electronic controller, in communication with the converters and sensors, includes a computer-readable medium storing instructions that enable the controller to adjust the output power of the first and second DC/DC converters based on their respective currents and the input and output voltages when the output voltage is outside a predetermined range. Additionally, the controller adjusts the output power of the boost/buck DC/DC converter based on the output and charge storage medium voltages under similar conditions, ensuring efficient power management and stability of the electrical power supply assembly.