Electric Refuse Chassis Power Distribution for E-PTO Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric refuse vehicles face challenges in efficiently managing power distribution and energy storage, particularly in balancing the power needs of the prime mover and auxiliary systems, which affects their operational efficiency and energy conservation.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a power distribution unit (PDU) and a controller that monitors and controls the supply of electrical power from an energy storage device to the electric motor and auxiliary systems, allowing for selective power transmission and prioritization of critical functions, along with an E-PTO system that converts electrical power to hydraulic power for subsystems like the compactor and lifting system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrical power is provided to auxiliary systems from the energy storage device, then the operational functionality of the vehicle is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into multiple circuits with independent control. The PDU divides the electrical power distribution into separate controllable paths, allowing selective powering of auxiliary systems based on operational needs, thus maintaining functionality while reducing unnecessary energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power distribution based on real-time operational requirements. The controller and PDU work together to modify power allocation to auxiliary systems according to actual needs, enabling the vehicle to transition between different power consumption modes while maintaining required operational capabilities
2Loss of energy
If power transmission to auxiliary systems is controlled and restricted, then energy conservation is improved, but the operational efficiency may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives feedback regarding vehicle operational status and energy levels, then adjusts power distribution accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures that power is conserved when possible while automatically increasing allocation to maintain operational efficiency when required by actual vehicle conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-establishes multiple power distribution modes that can be quickly activated based on operational requirements. By having predetermined power allocation strategies ready, the system can rapidly switch between energy conservation and operational efficiency modes without compromise
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 the operational efficiency of electric refuse vehicles by optimizing power usage, conserving energy, and enabling the vehicle to operate in lower power consumption modes, while also allowing for the integration of hydraulic power systems for improved responsiveness and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The chassis supports an inverter configured to convert DC electrical power received from the energy storage device into AC electrical power for use within the body assembly
Implementation Method 2
along with an E-PTO system that converts electrical power to hydraulic power for subsystems like the compactor and lifting system
Data Source
AI summary
A refuse vehicle includes a chassis, an energy storage device supported by the chassis, a body assembly, and a power distribution unit. The energy storage device is configured to provide electrical power to a prime mover. Activation of the prime mover selectively drives the refuse vehicle. The body assembly is configured for storing refuse and is supported by the chassis. The power distribution unit is coupled to the energy storage device and is configured to control power transmission outward from the energy storage device, between the chassis and the body assembly. The body assembly includes a controller that communicates with the power distribution unit to adjust a flow of electrical power from the energy storage device to the body assembly.