Power Supply Device Automatic Module Addressing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply devices for electric vehicles face complexity and inefficiency in ID assignment for functional modules, leading to increased production costs and time, especially as the number of modules increases.
Innovation Solution
A power supply device with a main controller that automatically assigns unique addresses to functional modules via a communication interface, allowing them to distinguish themselves in data communications, simplifying the production process and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ID numbers are assigned by hardware components such as DIP switches or connecting pins, then individual ID assignment is achieved, but the work burden increases significantly especially as the number of functional modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical hardware-based ID assignment system (DIP switches, connecting pins) with a software-based ID assignment system. The main controller automatically assigns IDs to functional modules through software communication, eliminating the need for manual hardware configuration and significantly reducing the assignment work burden while maintaining reliable individual identification.
2Reliability
If predetermined ID numbers are previously assigned to functional modules, then individual identification is enabled, but productivity deteriorates due to the need to assign IDs during production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the functional modules with basic identification capabilities through standardized hardware design, but defers the actual ID assignment to occur automatically after connection via the main controller. This approach allows functional modules to be produced without ID assignment, improving productivity, while still enabling individual identification when needed through the automated software-based system.
3Ease of manufacture
If IDs are assigned after functional modules are connected, then functional modules can be produced with common hardware, but the ID assignment process becomes more complex to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the main controller to automatically assign IDs to functional modules without requiring external manual intervention or complex management processes. The system autonomously handles the ID assignment task through standardized communication protocols, simplifying the management complexity while maintaining the flexibility of post-connection assignment and common hardware production.
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply device includes functional modules, and a main controller that is connected to and controls the modules. Each module includes a battery block, a communication interface, a memory and a battery state detector. The block includes a battery cells that are connected in serial and/or in parallel to each other. The interface exchanges data with other modules or the controllers. The memory can store data exchanged through the interface. The battery state detector can detect at least one of current, voltage and temperature of the block. When the module is connected to the controller, the controller assigns a unique address to the module. The module stores the unique address, which is assigned by the controller, in the memory. The module exchanges data based on the address.