Modular Power System for Autonomous Water Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous water vehicles face challenges in efficiently managing and distributing power for long-term oceanic observations, as existing systems are limited in adaptability and scalability, and require efficient methods to collect and distribute electrical energy while minimizing the need for complex electronics and waterproof connectors.
Innovation Solution
The Adaptable Modular Power System (AMPS) provides a three-line power bus with producer, consumer, and ground lines, utilizing modular components such as consumer, producer, and bridge modules, which can be distributed across power domains in waterproof payload boxes, allowing for efficient power distribution and monitoring, and enabling easy integration of high-power sensors and instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional power distribution system is used in autonomous water vehicles, then the system structure is simple, but the adaptability and scalability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is divided into modular power modules that can be independently configured and connected. Each module contains standardized power management circuitry, allowing the system to be segmented into functional units that can be rearranged or scaled based on specific application requirements, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universal power modules with standardized interfaces and protocols that can serve multiple functions and applications. These modules are designed to be interchangeable and can be used in various configurations across different autonomous water vehicle platforms, enabling a single module design to support multiple uses and enhancing system versatility.
2Power
If high-power sensors and instruments are integrated into the vehicle, then the sensing capability is improved, but the power management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
High-power instruments and sensors are allocated to dedicated power modules that handle their specific power requirements independently. This segmentation isolates the complex power management for high-power devices from the rest of the system, allowing these instruments to be integrated without increasing the overall electronics design effort, as each module is self-contained with standardized interfaces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are distributed across power domains, then the scalability is improved, but the connector requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal connectors with standardized pinouts and communication protocols that can handle multiple functions including power transmission, data communication, and module identification. This universality allows modular components to be distributed across multiple power domains while using the same connector type throughout the system, enabling scalability without increasing connector variety or complexity.
4Duration of action of moving object
If existing power systems are used for long-term oceanic observations, then the operational duration is limited, but the system design is straightforward
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into independent power modules that can be individually monitored and managed. This segmentation enables efficient power allocation and load management across multiple modules, extending operational duration by optimally distributing power resources and allowing individual modules to be cycled or recharged without shutting down the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular power modules incorporate feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor power consumption, module status, and system load. This feedback enables dynamic power management decisions that extend operational duration by adjusting power allocation in real-time, prioritizing critical functions during low-power conditions and enabling the system to operate longer than traditional fixed-power designs.
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptable modular power system (AMPS) is hierarchical in a number of ways. AMPS modules connect to a backplane, and one or multiple AMPS backplanes can form an AMPS domain. At the same time, the vehicle electronics is modular, with various payload boxes needing to communicate with each other. A common power and signaling cable is provided to interconnect payload boxes. A dedicated connector system is also provided so that AMPS modules may communicate, control, receive data, and supply and receive power.