Multi-Tap Transformer Control for EV Constant Power Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle batteries face inefficiencies at high speeds due to increased voltage and temperature, leading to faster drainage and reduced range.
Innovation Solution
A vehicular power system with a transformer having multiple taps that adjusts output voltage to the motor based on speed requests, maintaining constant battery voltage and reducing inefficiencies by stepping up voltage as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the battery voltage is increased to meet high speed power demands, then the power output is improved, but the battery efficiency deteriorates due to increased voltage and temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the transformer tap selection adjustable based on operating conditions. The system dynamically switches between different transformer taps (different voltage ratios) depending on the vehicle speed and power demand, allowing the battery to operate at constant optimal voltage while adapting the output voltage to match varying power requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer serves as an intermediary device between the battery and the motor. It decouples the battery operating voltage from the motor input voltage, allowing the battery to maintain constant voltage for optimal efficiency while the transformer adjusts the voltage level appropriate for the motor's power demands at different speeds.
2Power
If the battery voltage is increased to meet high speed power demands, then the power output is improved, but the vehicle range is reduced due to faster battery drainage
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects transformer taps based on speed requests, allowing the battery to operate continuously at its optimal voltage point regardless of whether the vehicle is traveling at low or high speeds. This dynamic adaptation preserves battery charge capacity and extends vehicle range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage transformation ratio parameter by selecting different transformer taps. This allows the output voltage to be adjusted according to speed requirements while keeping the battery voltage constant, optimizing the balance between power delivery and energy conservation for extended range.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transformer taps are added to provide different output voltages, then the adaptability to different speed conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer is designed with multiple taps that serve multiple functions: providing different voltage ratios for various speed conditions, maintaining battery efficiency, and supporting the full power range of the motor. This single multi-functional component achieves adaptability without requiring multiple separate transformers or complex power electronic converters.
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
This solution enhances battery efficiency and extends vehicle range by maintaining constant battery voltage and reducing the impact of speed on battery drainage, making the range more predictable.
Implementation Method 1
The transformer includes a plurality of taps, and each tap of the plurality of taps provides a different output voltage transformed from the constant battery voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicular power system includes a battery disposed at a vehicle, an electrical motor disposed at the vehicle that controls propulsion of the equipped vehicle when powered, a power system controller, and a transformer electrically connected to the battery. The transformer includes a plurality of taps, each tap of the plurality of taps providing a different output voltage. The power system controller, responsive to a vehicle speed request, determines one of the plurality of taps. The power system controller electrically connects the determined one of the plurality of taps to the electrical motor, and electrical power flows from the battery through the determined one of the plurality of taps to the electrical motor. The electrical motor, based on the electrical power from the determined one of the plurality of taps, adjusts speed of propulsion of the equipped vehicle toward the requested vehicle speed.