Modular Pneumatic Power Modules for Low-Emission Vehicle Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing environmental impact of internal combustion engines due to greenhouse gas emissions and the finite supply of oil necessitate the development of high-efficiency power systems that reduce dependence on oil and mitigate climate change.

Innovation Solution

A modular power and charging system utilizing a fluid-driven power unit with an electronic controller, solenoids, and a battery bank, which operates in either a four-stroke or two-stroke mode, and includes a gearbox and generator, allowing for efficient electrical power generation and transmission, with the option for renewable energy sources to minimize emissions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If internal combustion engines are used to power vehicles and equipment, then power and mobility are provided, but greenhouse gas emissions and pollutant emissions increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower outputVSAvoidgreenhouse gas emissions

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the internal combustion engine's mechanical combustion system with an electric motor driven by a battery bank, eliminating the need for fossil fuel combustion and thereby eliminating greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining power output capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The power system is designed to serve multiple functions: the battery bank provides electrical power to the motor, the motor drives the vehicle, and the system can operate in different modes (electric-only, hybrid, or with regenerative braking) to adapt to various operational requirements while maintaining low emissions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If internal combustion engines are used for transportation and power generation, then operational capability is maintained, but operating costs increase due to rising petroleum prices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational capabilityVSAvoidoperating cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the energy source parameter from petroleum-based fuel to electrical energy stored in a battery bank, fundamentally altering the cost structure by replacing volatile petroleum prices with more stable electricity costs and enabling regenerative braking to recover energy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates regenerative braking capability where the motor acts as a generator during deceleration to recharge the battery bank, allowing the vehicle to partially service its own energy needs and reduce overall operating costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Quantity of substance

If oil reserves continue to deplete, then energy security improves, but the supply and demand imbalance causes petroleum pricing to spike

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoil supplyVSAvoidpetroleum product cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the vehicle's dependence on petroleum by replacing the internal combustion engine with an electric motor system, removing the link between oil supply/demand dynamics and vehicle operating costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The power system is segmented into independent components (battery bank, electric motor, control system) that can function without petroleum, allowing the vehicle to operate independently of oil market fluctuations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

The system provides a highly efficient, low-emission power solution for electric vehicles and other applications, reducing reliance on oil and promoting sustainable energy use while maintaining long-lasting battery charge and operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a fluid-driven power unit with an electronic controller, solenoids, and a battery bank, which operates in either a four-stroke or two-stroke mode

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid pressure to mechanical motion conversion:

Implementation Method 2

includes a gearbox and generator, allowing for efficient electrical power generation and transmission

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20240391329A1Vehicle with pneumatic drive power system

Publication Date: 2024.11.28 UNIVERSAL POWER & PNEUMATICS LLC

AI summary

A modular charging and power system for generating and supplying electrical power to electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, other manned and unmanned remotely operated vehicles, drones, robotics, marine and aerospace vehicles, equipment, or apparatus, portable power units, propulsion systems, and other electrically powered systems. The modular charging and power system comprises a racking system for retaining one or more interchangeable power modules. Each power module comprises a generator driven by a power unit, a compressor to deliver high-pressure driving fluid to the power unit, and a battery bank. Electrical power generated by the generator powers the compressor, the battery bank, and/or an external electronic device or system.