Electric Refuse Vehicle Power Distribution for Flexible E-PTO Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric refuse vehicles face inefficiencies in power distribution and management, particularly in balancing the power requirements between the prime mover and auxiliary systems, leading to potential energy wastage and limited operational flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A refuse vehicle with an integrated power distribution unit (PDU) and controller that monitors and controls the supply of electrical power from the energy storage device to the electric motor and auxiliary systems, including an E-PTO system for hydraulic power, ensuring critical functions are prioritized and allowing for selective decoupling of subsystems to conserve energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrical power is continuously supplied to all subsystems from the energy storage device, then all vehicle functions remain operational, but energy consumption increases and operational flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution unit dynamically adjusts power transmission to subsystems based on operational needs. The controller monitors system requirements and selectively couples or decouples subsystems from the energy storage device, transitioning power distribution from static to dynamic adaptation, thereby optimizing energy consumption while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution system is segmented into controllable modules, allowing individual subsystems to be selectively coupled or decoupled from the energy storage device. This segmentation enables independent control of power supply to different vehicle functions, permitting energy conservation by disconnecting non-critical subsystems while maintaining essential operations.
2Loss of energy
If the power distribution unit controls power transmission to all subsystems, then power distribution is optimized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution unit serves multiple functions: it controls power transmission to various subsystems, monitors system requirements, determines coupling decisions, and manages energy conservation. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional unit, the system reduces overall complexity while achieving optimized power distribution and minimized energy wastage.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller and power distribution unit are integrated into a unified control system that combines monitoring, decision-making, and power management functions. This merging of functions into a single coordinated unit simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining the capability to optimize power distribution and reduce energy losses across multiple subsystems.
3Productivity
If the controller adjusts power flow based on system needs, then energy efficiency improves, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically monitors subsystem requirements and autonomously makes coupling decisions without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates power distribution by detecting operational needs and adjusting power flow accordingly, improving operational efficiency while keeping control complexity manageable through automated decision-making algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors subsystem performance and energy consumption, then adjusts power distribution based on this feedback. This closed-loop control optimizes energy efficiency by responding to actual system conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through rule-based or algorithmic decision-making processes.
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
Enhances energy efficiency by optimizing power distribution, enabling flexible operation and reducing energy consumption, while allowing for integration of hydraulic systems when needed, thus improving the overall performance and functionality of the refuse vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage device supported by the chassis... configured to provide electrical power to a prime mover
Implementation Method 2
The chassis supports an inverter configured to convert DC electrical power received from the energy storage device into AC electrical power for use within the body assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A refuse vehicle includes a chassis, an energy storage device supported by the chassis, a body assembly, and a power distribution unit. The energy storage device is configured to provide electrical power to a prime mover. Activation of the prime mover selectively drives the refuse vehicle. The body assembly is configured for storing refuse and is supported by the chassis. The power distribution unit is coupled to the energy storage device and is configured to control power transmission outward from the energy storage device. The body assembly includes a controller that communicates with the power distribution unit to adjust a flow of electrical power from the energy storage device to the body assembly.