Dynamic Threshold Adjustment for Electric Machine Fault Recognition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for fault recognition in electric machines controlled by inverters in motor vehicles do not effectively adapt to varying operating conditions, leading to suboptimal protection of power components and limited operating ranges due to fixed threshold values.

Innovation Solution

The method involves dynamically adjusting upper and lower threshold values for phase currents based on operating parameters such as intermediate circuit voltage, temperature, and operating mode, allowing for real-time protection and extended operational ranges of the inverter.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fixed threshold values are used for fault recognition, then the protection of power components is simplified, but the operating range of the inverter is limited and protection effectiveness is reduced under varying operating conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection effectivenessVSAvoidoperating range
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the threshold values dynamic instead of fixed. The upper and lower threshold values for phase currents are continuously adapted based on real-time operating parameters such as intermediate circuit voltage, temperature, and operating mode. This allows the protection system to remain effective across varying operating conditions while extending the inverter's operational range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by adjusting threshold values according to operating parameters. The upper threshold value is set as a function of intermediate circuit voltage and temperature, while the lower threshold value is adjusted based on operating mode and current magnitude. This parameter adaptation enables both reliable protection and extended operating range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If dynamic threshold adjustment is implemented, then the operating range and protection effectiveness are improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection effectivenessVSAvoidmonitoring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses feedback by continuously monitoring operating parameters (intermediate circuit voltage, temperature, operating mode) and using this information to dynamically adjust threshold values. The control unit receives feedback from sensors and automatically adapts the upper and lower threshold values accordingly, achieving improved protection without requiring complex manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements self-service by automatically adjusting its own threshold parameters based on monitored operating conditions. The control unit autonomously determines appropriate threshold values without external intervention, reducing the need for complex external control systems while maintaining high protection effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9059655B2Method for fault recognition in an electric machine controlled by an inverter in a motor vehicle and device for monitoring an operation of the electric machine
Publication Date: 2015.06.16 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • US9059655B2 patent drawing
  • US9059655B2 patent drawing
  • US9059655B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for fault recognition in an electric machine controlled by an inverter in a motor vehicle, in which the phase currents of the electric machine are ascertained, in particular ascertained by measuring, and a fault is recognized if at least one of the phase currents or a variable derived therefrom, exceeds a predefined upper threshold value, the upper threshold value being established as a function of operating parameters of the motor vehicle, in particular of the electric machine and/or of the inverter.