Vehicle Ancillary Function Control for Extended Parked Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited capacity and low voltage of typical starting-lighting-ignition (SLI) batteries in vehicles prevent ancillary functions from being used for extended periods while the vehicle is parked, as they are quickly depleted when the powertrain is deactivated, necessitating additional and weight-consuming auxiliary batteries or power units.
Innovation Solution
A control system that monitors energy availability in the SLI battery, allowing ancillary functions to be used beyond the initial powertrain deactivation state by setting a dynamic depletion limit based on battery health and environmental conditions, thereby extending usage time without compromising engine startability and reducing the need for additional batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If an SLI battery is used to power ancillary functions while the vehicle is parked, then the duration of use is extended, but the battery capacity is depleted faster
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the depletion limit based on real-time monitoring of battery state of charge, temperature, and age. The controller adapts the allowable energy consumption threshold dynamically, permitting higher usage when battery conditions are favorable and restricting usage when conditions deteriorate, thereby extending usable duration while preventing premature depletion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the ancillary functions by adjusting power consumption levels based on battery state. When battery state of charge is high and temperature is optimal, the system allows higher power consumption. When battery state degrades or temperature becomes extreme, the system reduces allowable power consumption to extend duration while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If the depletion limit is set low to ensure engine startability, then reliability is improved, but the duration of ancillary function use is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The depletion limit transitions from a static fixed threshold to a dynamic adaptive threshold that responds to real-time battery conditions. The controller continuously monitors state of charge, temperature, and battery age, adjusting the depletion limit dynamically to maintain engine startability reliability while maximizing ancillary function usage duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements closed-loop feedback by continuously monitoring battery state parameters and using this information to adjust the depletion limit. The controller receives feedback on battery health and operating conditions, then adapts the energy consumption threshold to maintain reliable engine starting while extending usable duration.
3Duration of action of moving object
If an auxiliary battery is added to extend usage duration, then the duration of action is improved, but the vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing SLI battery multi-functional by enabling it to serve both its traditional engine-starting function and extended ancillary power supply function. Through intelligent control and dynamic depletion limit adjustment, the single battery performs multiple roles that would traditionally require separate auxiliary power systems, eliminating the need for additional weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the SLI battery to serve itself by implementing intelligent self-management of its energy resources. The controller autonomously monitors battery state and adjusts operational parameters to extend the battery's own useful life and capacity for ancillary functions, allowing the battery to provide extended duration service without external assistance from auxiliary power units.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the depletion limit is adjusted dynamically based on battery conditions, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback-based adaptation where the controller monitors battery state parameters and automatically adjusts the depletion limit accordingly. This feedback mechanism provides high adaptability to varying battery conditions while maintaining relatively simple control logic, avoiding the need for complex manual intervention systems or elaborate hardware modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method, a computer program and a control system for a vehicle. The control system comprises one or more controllers, wherein the control system is configured to: in a first operating mode, deactivate an ancillary vehicle function in dependence on a powertrain of the vehicle entering a deactivated state; and in a second operating mode, enable the ancillary vehicle function to be used while the powertrain is in the deactivated state, in dependence on monitored energy availability of a battery of the vehicle being greater than a depletion limit of the battery, wherein the depletion limit of the battery is dependent on one or more monitored variable parameters.