Master-Slave ECU Battery Power Distribution Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved battery systems for electric vehicles that address the challenges associated with nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) and lithium-ion batteries, including increased travel distance, performance enhancement, and cost reduction, while managing temperature variations unique to lithium-ion batteries.
Innovation Solution
A battery system comprising a plurality of modules electrically coupled in series, with a master electronic control unit (ECU) controlling power distribution to slave ECUs, allowing for precise management of battery performance, temperature regulation, and efficient power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If lithium-ion batteries are used to increase charge density and specific power, then the vehicle range and performance are improved, but the system becomes more susceptible to temperature variations requiring additional temperature regulation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is divided into multiple modules, each with its own slave ECU for localized monitoring and control. This segmentation allows independent temperature management of each module, addressing the temperature sensitivity of lithium-ion batteries without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The master ECU receives status information from slave ECUs and implements feedback control for temperature management. The system continuously monitors battery conditions and adjusts power distribution and cooling strategies based on real-time data, resolving the temperature sensitivity issue through active regulation.
2Measurement precision
If multiple ECUs are used to control each battery module independently, then the precision of power management and temperature control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into one master ECU and multiple slave ECUs, with clearly defined hierarchical responsibilities. Slave ECUs handle localized module monitoring while the master ECU provides centralized coordination, achieving precise power management without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The master ECU consolidates high-level control functions and receives integrated status information from all slave ECUs. This merging of centralized intelligence with distributed sensing achieves precise control while avoiding the complexity of fully decentralized control systems.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the master ECU controls power distribution to slave ECUs based on vehicle operation, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is made dynamic, with the master ECU adjusting power supply to slave ECUs based on real-time vehicle operation conditions. This dynamic control optimizes energy efficiency by powering down non-critical monitoring functions when full precision is not required, while maintaining the ability to activate full control capability when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A battery system includes a plurality of battery modules electrically coupled together in series. The battery system also includes a first electronic control unit (ECU) configured to act as a master ECU. The master ECU is electronically coupled to a first one of the plurality of battery modules. The battery system further includes a plurality of slave ECUs, wherein each slave ECU is electronically coupled to one of the other of the plurality of battery modules. The master ECU is configured to control whether electrical power is provided to each of the plurality of slave ECUs.