Hybrid Powertrain Charging via Virtual Network and Voltage Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hybrid powertrain charging systems face inefficiencies in managing the transfer of energy between low voltage and high voltage batteries, particularly in detecting external power sources and optimizing energy distribution during charging.

Innovation Solution

The method involves detecting an external power source through monitored voltage across the low voltage battery, establishing a virtual network between charging control modules, and transferring charge from the low voltage battery to the high voltage battery, while reducing energy supply to inactive auxiliary control modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If external power source charging is implemented, then charging rate is improved, but energy management complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging rateVSAvoidenergy management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a virtual network as an intermediary communication layer that coordinates between the external power source, low voltage battery system, and high voltage battery system. This virtual network manages the complex energy flow relationships without requiring direct complex wiring or control connections between all components, thereby enabling high charging rates while managing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the battery system into two distinct voltage levels (low voltage and high voltage batteries) with separate control and monitoring. The external power source charges the low voltage battery, which then transfers energy to the high voltage battery through controlled energy transfer. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each subsystem while managing overall charging complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If energy is supplied to all control modules during charging, then operational reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational reliabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic energy distribution where control modules receive power selectively based on their operational status and charging phase. During external charging, the system dynamically adjusts which modules remain active versus entering low-power mode, ensuring critical functions maintain reliability while non-critical functions consume minimal energy. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between maintaining reliability and reducing energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 approach enhances energy conservation and maximizes charging rate by efficiently utilizing external power sources, ensuring effective power distribution and maintaining optimal battery voltages during the charging process.

Implementation Method 1

transferred charge from the external power source through the low voltage battery of the powertrain to the high voltage battery of the powertrain

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy transfer: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentEP2055523B1Method for charging a powertrain
Publication Date: 2013.04.03 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • EP2055523B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2055523B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2055523B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method of charging a powertrain includes detecting an external power source in electrical communication with the powertrain, establishing a virtual network between charging control module, and transferring charge from the external power source to the powertrain.