Electric Vehicle DC-to-DC Converter Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional utility vehicles rely on internal combustion engines, which are inefficient and environmentally harmful, and existing electric vehicles lack efficient power management systems for accessories and charging mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electric utility vehicle with a DC-to-DC converter system that selectively powers accessories and manages battery charging based on vehicle conditions, utilizing multiple chargers and a sophisticated electronic controller to optimize power distribution and accessory operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single battery system is used to power both vehicle components and accessories, then the system structure is simple, but power management efficiency is poor and accessory operation is unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power system into two separate battery systems: a first battery system for powering vehicle components and a second battery system for powering accessories. This segmentation allows each battery system to be independently managed and optimized, ensuring that accessory operation remains reliable even when the main vehicle system is under heavy load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a DC-to-DC converter as an intermediary device between the two battery systems. This converter enables controlled power transfer from the first battery system to charge the second battery system, allowing the main vehicle battery to support accessory operations when needed while maintaining proper charge management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DC-to-DC converters are used to manage different output voltages, then power management flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single DC-to-DC converter that can operate in multiple modes: charging the second battery system from the first battery system, and potentially providing auxiliary power to accessories. This multi-functional approach achieves the needed adaptability without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The DC-to-DC converter is designed with dynamic control capabilities that allow it to adjust its operation based on real-time system conditions, such as battery charge levels, accessory power demands, and vehicle operating state. This dynamic adaptability provides flexibility without requiring multiple fixed-function converters.
3Reliability
If the accessory battery is continuously charged from the main battery, then accessory power availability is ensured, but energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a control system that continuously monitors the charge state of both battery systems and the power demands of accessories. Based on this feedback, the system intelligently determines when to activate the DC-to-DC converter for charging, when to rely on the second battery system, and when to limit charging to minimize energy losses while ensuring accessory power availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The second battery system is designed to be self-sufficient for accessory power needs, charging itself from the first battery system only when necessary. This self-service capability reduces continuous energy transfer and associated losses, while maintaining reliable accessory operation through the battery's own stored energy.
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
This solution enables efficient power management, enhances vehicle performance by adapting to different power sources, and provides reliable accessory operation, improving the overall efficiency and environmental sustainability of electric utility vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a first DC-to-DC converter operatively coupled to the plurality of batteries, the first DC-to-DC converter having a first output voltage; and a second DC-to-DC converter operatively coupled to the plurality of batteries, the second DC-to-DC converter having a second output voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A utility vehicle is disclosed having an electric drive. The drivetrain is comprised of batteries, a motor, a transaxle driven by the motor, a rear differential driven by the transaxle, and a prop shaft which is driven by the transaxle and drives a front differential. The batteries are provided in two groups and are supported on the frame of the vehicle.