Autonomous Vehicle LVPDU Backup Battery Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles require robust and redundant power systems to ensure safe operation, particularly in scenarios where primary power sources fail or become insufficient.
Innovation Solution
A low voltage power distribution unit (LVPDU) is designed to provide low voltage power to autonomous vehicle components, incorporating a DC-DC converter and backup batteries that can take over in case of primary power failure. The LVPDU includes error control units to monitor and manage power distribution, switching to backup power and isolating faults as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If backup power systems are added to provide redundancy, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is divided into multiple independent power domains (first low voltage power domain and second low voltage power domain), each with its own power distribution unit and backup battery. This segmentation allows redundancy without requiring a completely separate backup system, as each domain can independently manage its own power failure scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
Backup batteries are pre-charged during normal operation when the primary power source is functional. The system proactively stores energy in advance of potential failures, allowing immediate switching to backup power without waiting for failure detection and battery charging sequences.
2Reliability
If multiple backup batteries are used for different power domains, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each power distribution unit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both its primary power domain and providing backup power capabilities. The error control units and switching mechanisms are universally applicable across different domains, reducing the need for domain-specific components and lowering overall manufacturing costs.
3Reliability
If real-time monitoring and fault isolation capabilities are added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Error control units continuously monitor power parameters (voltage, current) in real-time and provide feedback to the power distribution system. When anomalies are detected, the system automatically adjusts power distribution, isolates faults, or switches to backup power without requiring complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The power distribution system performs self-diagnosis and self-isolation of faults through its error control units. When a fault is detected in one power domain, the system automatically isolates that domain to prevent affecting other domains, without requiring external intervention or complex centralized control.
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 LVPDU ensures continuous operation of autonomous vehicles by providing reliable low voltage power, even in the event of primary power failure, thereby enhancing safety and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating a DC-DC converter and backup batteries that can take over in case of primary power failure
Data Source
AI summary
According to one aspect, an autonomous vehicle includes hardware systems which receive relatively low voltage from a low voltage power distribution unit (LVPDU). An LVPDU includes a power source such as a DC-DC converter and a plurality of backup batteries. The plurality of backup batteries is configured to provide backup power to subsets of components arranged to effectively all be powered by the power source onboard the LVPDU. The backup batteries may be tested, substantially while LVPDU is being used to provide power. The backup batteries may be charged substantially in parallel.