Hybrid Power Path Control for Dynamic Source Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional power management systems for electrical vehicles struggle to dynamically optimize power source utilization due to fluctuating energy demands from varying terrains and driving conditions.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid power system with multiple power storage components, each with a unique source profile, and a power path controller that selectively switches between these sources based on real-time input signals to optimize power distribution to an external load.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional power management system is used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot dynamically optimize power source utilization under fluctuating energy demands

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic optimization capabilityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power management system implements dynamic optimization by continuously monitoring energy demands from varying terrains and driving conditions, then automatically adjusting power source selection in real-time. The system transitions from static to dynamic operation, adapting power distribution strategies based on current operational requirements while managing multiple power storage components with different source profiles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If multiple power storage components are used, then the energy utilization is optimized, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy utilization efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of power storage components
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the power storage function into multiple specialized components, each with distinct source profiles optimized for specific operational conditions. This segmentation allows each component to excel at particular tasks (e.g., high-power delivery, energy efficiency, rapid response) while the control system orchestrates their coordinated operation, achieving superior overall energy utilization efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The power management system implements multi-functionality by enabling a single control architecture to manage multiple different power storage components (batteries, capacitors, fuel cells) with varying characteristics. The universal control strategy adapts to handle diverse source profiles and operational requirements, allowing the system to function efficiently across various driving conditions and terrain types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If conventional power management is used, then the system operation is simple, but the longevity and performance of power storage components are not enhanced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelongevity and performanceVSAvoidpower management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the state of charge, health, and performance metrics of each power storage component. This feedback information is used to adjust power distribution strategies in real-time, preventing over-discharge, managing thermal conditions, and optimizing charge/discharge cycles to enhance the longevity and performance of components while automating the management complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12184100B1Hybrid power system with power optimization and methods of use
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 M4CL PRODUCTIONS LLC
  • US12184100B1 patent drawing
  • US12184100B1 patent drawing
  • US12184100B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A hybrid power system, comprising at least two power storage components, each power storage component comprising a power source having a corresponding source profile and a source charger electrically connected to the power source, and a power path controller operatively connected to the at least two power storage components, comprises a processing circuit configured to receive an input signal and selectively switch between the source profiles correspond to the power sources of the at least two power storage components based on the received input signal, thereby configuring at least one power storage component of the at least two power storage components to provide stored power to an external load.