Energy regulating system and methods using same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Battery-powered electric vehicles experience a significant reduction in driving range in cold environments due to the use of the same battery system for both propulsion and cabin heating, leading to inefficient energy management and comfort issues for occupants.
Innovation Solution
An energy regulating system that incorporates a flexible graphite sheet as a thermally conductive member in thermal communication with a thermal energy source, combined with a PID controller for precise temperature regulation, to efficiently manage heat transfer and reduce energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the same battery system is used for both propulsion and cabin heating, then the vehicle can operate in cold environments, but the driving range is significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the thermal management system by introducing a dedicated heating element separate from the propulsion battery system. The heating element is powered by a separate power source (such as a fuel cell or auxiliary battery), while the propulsion battery is reserved solely for motor operation. This segmentation allows independent optimization of both heating and propulsion functions, eliminating the energy conflict that reduces driving range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a multi-functional thermal management system where the heating element can serve multiple purposes: providing cabin heating, pre-conditioning the battery for optimal performance, and potentially providing localized heating to specific battery cells. This universal heating system resolves the contradiction by making the heating function available without compromising propulsion energy reserves.
2Ease of operation
If conventional heating systems are used in electric vehicles, then cabin heating is provided, but energy consumption increases and response time is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning the heating element in direct thermal communication with the battery pack, which is typically located in the vehicle's thermal management system. The heating element provides localized heating to the battery and surrounding components first, then this thermal energy is distributed to the cabin through the vehicle's existing thermal pathways. This localized approach is more energy-efficient than conventional cabin-only heating systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the battery thermal management system as an intermediary between the heating element and the cabin. Rather than heating the cabin directly, the system heats the battery pack first, and the thermal energy is then transferred to the cabin through the battery's thermal management pathways. This intermediary approach optimizes energy utilization by first ensuring battery operational temperature while simultaneously providing cabin heating.
3Speed
If thermal energy is rapidly transferred to the cabin, then heating effectiveness is improved, but energy loss to the environment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-heating the battery pack and thermal management system components before cabin heating is requested. The heating element is positioned to first warm the battery and surrounding thermal pathways, ensuring that when cabin heating is needed, the thermal infrastructure is already prepared to efficiently transfer heat. This preliminary thermal preparation reduces the time and energy required for actual cabin heating while minimizing thermal losses.
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 enhances thermal responsiveness and energy efficiency, maintaining consistent occupant comfort while increasing vehicle range by reducing battery energy consumption and achieving faster temperature regulation with less energy usage.
Implementation Method 1
an energy conserving thermally conductive member in thermal communication with the thermal energy source
Data Source
AI summary
An energy regulating system for a habitable space or vehicle interior space is provided which includes a thermally conductive member, such as one or more sheets of flexible graphite member, in thermal communication with a heat source or cold source. The thermally conductive member having an exterior surface adapted to be exposed to an occupant of the vehicle or building. A controller is in operable communication with a power source connected to the heat source or cold source for regulating the temperature perceived by the occupant by varying the power supplied to the heat source or cold source.