Integrated Power System for Vehicle Accessories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercial vehicles face challenges in managing power demands for accessories without overloading the engine, as existing solutions either require auxiliary engines, significant modifications, or fail to consider load management and high-efficiency refrigeration needs.
Innovation Solution
An integrated power system that combines power from an engine-driven generator, a battery package, shore power, and the vehicle's electrical system, using a power sharing arrangement to minimize engine impact and prioritize efficient power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If an auxiliary engine is used to provide electrical power to vehicle accessories, then power demand is met, but fuel efficiency decreases and maintenance costs increase due to duplicated parasitic losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the auxiliary power unit with the existing engine exhaust system, using the exhaust heat to drive a turbine that generates electricity. This merges two separate functions (exhaust disposal and power generation) into one integrated system, eliminating the need for a separate auxiliary engine and its associated parasitic losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical auxiliary engine system with an electromagnetic generation system driven by exhaust gas flow. Instead of using a second combustion engine to generate electricity, the system uses the kinetic energy of exhaust gases to rotate a turbine connected to an alternator, substituting mechanical combustion with electromagnetic conversion.
2Productivity
If engine belt or engine direct driven components are replaced with electrical motors, then energy management is improved, but significant modifications to engine electrical systems and cooling system are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional power system that can serve multiple purposes: it provides electrical power for accessories, generates electricity from exhaust energy that would otherwise be wasted, and can charge the vehicle's battery system. This universal system replaces the need for multiple separate modifications while improving overall energy management.
3Device complexity
If the OEM electrical system is used to power accessories, then system simplicity is maintained, but the electrical system capacity is exceeded and excessive loading on the vehicle engine occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic power generation system where the alternator's output is controlled based on real-time electrical load demands. The system can dynamically adjust its power output to match accessory requirements, providing scalable power capacity without requiring a complete redesign of the electrical system architecture.
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 integrated power system efficiently manages power demands, reducing engine load and maintenance costs while providing effective power to vehicle accessories, especially for high-energy applications like refrigeration, without the need for auxiliary engines or extensive modifications.
Implementation Method 1
an engine driven generator
Implementation Method 2
a battery package
Data Source
AI summary
The integrated power system provides for the integration of multiple sources of power for powering a vehicle accessory. The integrated power system provides a power sharing connection which provides for a balance of the load current demanded by the vehicle accessory. As a result, excessive engine loading is avoided.