Multi-Input Power Controller for Mixed-Voltage Battery Charging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
State-of-the-art power controllers cannot simultaneously charge battery banks of differing types or voltages and cannot utilize two different input sources to charge multiple outputs connected to different battery banks, limiting their flexibility and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A power controller with multiple power inputs and outputs that can prioritize and manage power from various sources, such as alternators, solar panels, and rotating turbines, to charge battery banks of the same or differing types, allowing for simultaneous or independent charging of battery banks, even when they differ in voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If state of the art power controllers short two batteries together to conduct charging, then charging can be performed, but battery banks of differing types or voltages cannot be charged
Solution Approach 1:
The power controller is divided into separate charging channels, each capable of independently managing charging for different battery banks. Each channel has its own switching elements and control logic, allowing different charging parameters to be applied to different battery types without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically adjusts charging parameters based on battery type and voltage. The system can switch between different charging modes (constant current, constant voltage, trickle charging) and adjust parameters in real-time to match the specific requirements of each battery bank, enabling reliable charging of mixed battery types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If state of the art power controllers use a single input source, then the controller structure is simple, but two different input sources cannot be used simultaneously to charge different outputs
Solution Approach 1:
The power controller is designed with multiple input sources (alternator input, solar panel input, external power input) that can be independently connected to the circuit board. Each input source can independently charge different battery banks, and the controller can prioritize or combine inputs based on availability and system requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit board acts as an intermediary that manages power distribution from multiple input sources to multiple output battery banks. It includes switching elements that can selectively connect any input to any output, and control logic that automatically manages power flow prioritization and combination, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Productivity
If power controllers charge battery banks sequentially, then the controller structure is simpler, but charging efficiency and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power controller enables simultaneous charging of multiple battery banks through independent charging channels. The switching elements can establish multiple independent current paths, allowing the alternator, solar panels, or external power sources to charge different battery banks at the same time, maximizing charging productivity without sequential delays.
Data Source
AI summary
Present embodiments relate to a power controller for charging at least two battery banks. More specifically, the present embodiments relate to a power controller which provides for at least two input sources and may charge the at least two battery banks simultaneously or independently.