Hybrid Vehicle Power Outlet Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems lack an efficient method to dynamically adjust power delivery to external electrical outlets based on the vehicle's power capacity and accessory loads, potentially leading to overloading and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system that includes a controller programmed to adjust power delivery to electrical outlets based on the discharge power capacity of the battery, power output capacity of the engine and electric machine, and current accessory loads, ensuring that power is delivered within safe limits and prioritizing essential systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If power delivery to electrical outlets is increased to meet external device demands, then the power output capacity is improved, but the risk of overloading and system instability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power delivery limits based on real-time operating conditions including battery state of charge, battery temperature, engine availability, and accessory loads. This dynamic adaptation allows the electrical outlet to safely deliver variable power levels without overloading, resolving the contradiction between maximizing power delivery and maintaining system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors system state (battery charge level, temperature, engine status, accessory power consumption) and uses this feedback to adjust the power delivery limit to the electrical outlet. This closed-loop control ensures power delivery remains within safe operational boundaries while optimizing available power output.
2Power
If power delivery to electrical outlets is increased to support external devices, then the power output capacity is improved, but accessory performance and vehicle propulsion may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system calculates power delivery limits by considering total available power from the battery and engine, then allocates appropriate portions to electrical outlets while reserving sufficient power for vehicle propulsion and essential accessories. This partial action approach ensures that power delivery to outlets is optimized without compromising vehicle performance or accessory operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller adjusts power delivery parameters based on vehicle operating mode, battery state of charge, and accessory loads. By dynamically changing power allocation parameters, the system optimizes the balance between external power delivery and internal vehicle power requirements, preventing degradation of vehicle performance.
3Power
If the electrical outlet delivers high power to external devices, then the power output is improved, but battery discharge capacity and system durability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system preemptively adjusts power delivery limits based on battery state of charge and temperature conditions that indicate reduced battery capacity or increased stress. By cushioning against excessive power draws before they occur, the system protects battery durability while still allowing optimized power delivery during safe operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller implements preliminary constraints on power delivery when battery conditions suggest vulnerability to damage or reduced lifespan. These preemptive anti-actions prevent harmful high-power discharges that would compromise battery durability, while allowing full power delivery when battery conditions are optimal.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes an engine, an electric machine, a battery, accessory devices, an electrical outlet, an inverter, and a controller. The engine and the electric machine are each configured to propel the vehicle. The inverter is configured to deliver power from the battery or the electric machine to the accessory devices or the electrical outlet. The controller is programmed to adjust the power being delivered by the inverter to the electrical outlet based on a discharge power capacity of the battery, a power output capacity of the engine, a power output capacity of the electric machine, and the power being drawn from the inverter via the accessories.