Matrix-Based Power Distribution Architecture for Vehicle Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution architectures face challenges in efficiently managing and distributing power to various vehicle systems, particularly in handling failures and variable load demands, which often require redundant power supplies and large SSPCs to accommodate overload conditions.
Innovation Solution
A matrix-based power management and distribution system that utilizes a PMAD controller to dynamically control a matrix of solid-state power controllers (SSPCs) between power supplies and loads, allowing for selective power transfer, load sharing, and fault tolerance by adjusting voltage outputs and controlling SSPCs to manage power distribution efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant power supplies and large SSPCs are used to accommodate overload conditions, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power distribution by replacing fixed redundant power supply architecture with a controllable matrix of SSPCs that can dynamically reconfigure power paths based on real-time load conditions and fault states, allowing the system to adapt its complexity rather than being statically complex
Solution Approach 2:
The SSPC matrix serves multiple functions simultaneously: power distribution, fault isolation, load management, and system reconfiguration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated redundant power supply circuits and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability
2Power
If large SSPCs are used to accommodate overload conditions, then power handling capability is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power distribution function into multiple smaller SSPC units arranged in a matrix, where each unit handles a portion of the total power load, allowing the system to achieve high power handling capability through parallel operation of smaller, more manageable components
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple smaller SSPCs are combined in a matrix configuration to collectively handle overload conditions, distributing the power handling stress across multiple devices rather than requiring a single large SSPC, thereby reducing individual device size and cost
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional power distribution architecture is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability to variable load demands deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static power distribution architecture into a dynamic system where the SSPC matrix can be programmatically controlled to adapt power distribution ratios based on real-time load demands, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while gaining significant adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables flexible adjustment of power distribution parameters (voltage, current, power ratio) by controlling the SSPC matrix configuration, allowing adaptation to variable load demands without changing the physical hardware architecture
4Reliability
If power is interrupted to faulty loads, then system protection is improved, but loss of function increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic fault management where the SSPC matrix can selectively isolate faulty loads while maintaining power delivery to healthy loads, and can even reconfigure to supply power from alternative sources to critical loads, thereby maintaining system protection while minimizing function loss
Data Source
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AI summary
A power management and distribution (PMAD) system includes a first power supply 113 of a first type, a second power supply 118 of a second type different from the first type and first and second loads 121, 122. The PMAD system includes a matrix 130 of solid state power controllers (SSPCs) connected between the first and second power supplies and the first and second loads. The matrix is configured to selectively supply each of the first and second loads with a plurality of different power levels based on on/off states of the SSPCs of the matrix.