Dual-Path Power Distribution for In-Drive Wire Disconnect Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-vehicle power networks face challenges in detecting wire disconnects while the vehicle is traveling, which can lead to excessive current flow and potential damage due to interrupted power supply.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution device that receives power from two paths, using current detection elements and examination current control units to manage current flow and detect wire disconnects without interrupting power supply, even during vehicle travel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the ring-like connection is temporarily cut off to detect wire disconnect, then wire disconnect detection can be performed, but power supply to part of the ring-like power network is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
An examination current is introduced as an intermediary signal to test the integrity of the ring-like power network without physically disconnecting it. The examination current flows through the network paths and its return path is monitored to detect wire disconnects, thus maintaining continuous power supply while enabling detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical/physical disconnection method is replaced with an electrical measurement method. Instead of physically cutting the connection to test for disconnects, the system uses current flow measurement and monitoring to detect wire disconnects electronically, maintaining system continuity.
2Reliability
If wire disconnect is not detected promptly while vehicle is traveling, then power supply continues, but current exceeds acceptable current level causing potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the examination current flow and provides feedback to detect wire disconnects in real-time. When a disconnect is detected, the system can immediately respond by switching to an alternative power supply path or limiting current flow, preventing excessive current conditions while maintaining power supply continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The examination current is continuously or periodically applied to detect wire disconnects before they lead to excessive current conditions. This preliminary detection allows the system to take preventive action by switching paths or limiting current before damage occurs.
3Reliability
If radial wire harness configuration is used to ensure redundancy, then reliability is improved, but number of wire harnesses increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ring-like power network configuration allows each wire segment to serve multiple functions - it is part of the power supply path and simultaneously serves as a test path for the examination current. This multi-functionality enables redundancy with fewer wire harnesses compared to traditional radial configurations where each path is dedicated solely to power supply.
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
Enables rapid and accurate detection of wire disconnects without power interruption, ensuring safe operation by limiting current flow and reducing cable design requirements, thereby enhancing reliability and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a current detection element for detecting current in the main power line
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~3A
Figure 3B~4
AI summary
A power distribution device receives supply of power from a main power line along at least two paths, and supplies the power to a vehicle load, the power distribution device including: a current detection element for detecting current in the main power line; and an examination current control unit that controls, in accordance with an operating state of the vehicle load, an amount of current flowing in a path other than a path to the vehicle load.