Hybrid Jump-Start Switch Assembly for High-Current Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jump starting devices face challenges in efficiently delivering high current to vehicle batteries, especially in cold weather, and they often require large space and can be fragile due to the use of relays or FETs.
Innovation Solution
A jump starting device that combines one or more relays and field effect transistors (FETs) in parallel to share current, minimize space, and control current flow effectively, using a conductor like copper to connect them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a relay is used as a safety switch, then durability is improved, but space requirement increases and switching speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a relay and FETs into a hybrid switch assembly where the FETs share the current load with the relay. This merging allows the relay to be smaller than a standalone relay would require, while maintaining the durability benefits of the relay contact design.
Solution Approach 2:
The FETs act as intermediaries that share the current burden with the relay. By introducing FETs as intermediary current paths, the relay doesn't need to handle the full current alone, allowing for a more compact relay design while maintaining durability.
2Reliability
If a relay is used as a safety switch, then durability is improved, but switching speed worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic switching system where FETs can be activated quickly for high-speed switching requirements, while the relay provides durable contact closure. The system dynamically selects or combines these switching mechanisms based on operational needs, achieving both speed and durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The FETs serve as intermediary switching elements that can operate at high speeds to initiate or control current flow, while the relay provides the durable final contact closure. This intermediary approach allows the system to benefit from both fast FET switching and reliable relay contacts.
3Speed
If FETs are used as a safety switch, then size is reduced and switching speed is improved, but fragility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges FETs with a relay in a hybrid assembly where the relay's durable contacts provide mechanical reliability while the FETs provide compact size and fast switching. The combination allows the FETs to operate in a supported environment with the relay providing structural and thermal management benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The relay provides beforehand cushioning for the FETs by handling thermal management and providing a robust mechanical framework. The relay's contact design anticipates and absorbs thermal and mechanical stresses that would otherwise directly affect the fragile FET components.
4Power
If high current is delivered to vehicle battery, then jump starting capability is improved, but risk of damage to conductors and switching devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the current path into multiple parallel paths through the use of multiple FETs and relay contacts. This segmentation distributes the high current across multiple conductors and switching elements, reducing the current density and thermal load on any single component, thereby reducing damage risk while maintaining high power capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple switching devices (relay and FETs) into a hybrid assembly that collectively handles high current. The combination allows the system to deliver high jump starting power while the distributed architecture reduces the stress and damage risk to individual components.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a jump starting device for charging a depleted discharge battery, the device includes a rechargeable battery having a positive terminal and negative terminal; a switch comprising a jump start current sharing circuit electrically connected to the rechargeable battery; and a battery clamp electrically connected to the jump start current sharing circuit.