Selective Voltage Conversion for Vehicle Energy Storage Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traction and energy storage systems in vehicles require constant DC/DC converters to manage voltage differences, leading to increased size, weight, and cost due to the need for wide voltage capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that activates converters based on demand and supply characteristics, using inverters and controllers to selectively change or augment voltage, allowing for efficient energy conversion only when needed, reducing the number and size of conversion devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DC/DC converters are used constantly to manage voltage differences between traction and energy storage systems, then voltage isolation and compatibility are ensured, but system size, weight, and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the converter operation flexible rather than static. The controller selectively activates the converter based on real-time voltage conditions, load requirements, and state of charge levels. This dynamic operation allows the system to use the converter only when necessary, reducing overall system weight while maintaining voltage isolation reliability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the converter from constant operation to conditional operation. By monitoring voltage thresholds, load demands, and energy storage state of charge, the system adjusts converter activation status, thereby reducing weight and complexity while maintaining necessary voltage compatibility and isolation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If DC/DC converters are designed with wide voltage capability to handle all operating conditions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having the converter handle only the specific voltage conversion needs when activated, rather than constantly managing all voltage differences. The converter is designed with sufficient capability but operates partially, only when voltage conditions require conversion, thus reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from voltage sensors, load monitors, and state of charge indicators to control converter activation. This feedback mechanism allows the relatively simple converter to adapt to varying voltage conditions dynamically, achieving high adaptability without increasing device complexity.
3Loss of energy
If converters are activated selectively based on demand and supply characteristics, then energy efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The converter system performs self-service through automatic controller activation based on pre-programmed voltage thresholds and operational conditions. The controller monitors system parameters and autonomously decides when converter activation is necessary, reducing energy losses without requiring complex external control or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses pre-established voltage thresholds and operational criteria to anticipate when converter activation will be needed. By preparing control logic in advance based on expected operating conditions, the system achieves efficient energy management with relatively simple control architecture.
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 approach reduces the weight, size, and cost of the system while increasing energy efficiency by using converters only when necessary, optimizing voltage supply to meet the requirements of different vehicle loads.
Implementation Method 1
The converter may change a voltage output by an energy storage device prior to the voltage being supplied to an inverter
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided that may include activating a converter coupled with at least one energy storage device, one or more inverters, and one or more of a load or a charging input. The converter may be activated based on (a) demand characteristics of the one or more of the load or the charging input and (b) supply characteristics of the at least one energy storage device. The converter may be activated to change a voltage that may be supplied to the load or that may be supplied by the charging input via the inverter.