Shared Current Sensor Power Supply Circuit for Switch Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power supply systems require a large number of current sensors to diagnose and manage the electrical connections between storage batteries and circuits, which increases complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A power supply system with a minimized number of current sensors is achieved by using a shared current sensor for multiple electrical paths, controlled by a switch controller that analyzes sensor outputs to diagnose switch malfunctions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple current sensors are installed to diagnose electrical connections between storage batteries and circuits, then diagnosis capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single current sensor is designed to measure currents in multiple electrical paths by switching its measurement target. The sensor serves universal diagnostic functions for both the first electrical path (storage battery to high-voltage circuit) and the second electrical path (storage battery to low-voltage circuit) through controlled connection switching, eliminating the need for separate sensors for each path.
Solution Approach 2:
A switching device acts as an intermediary between the current sensor and the multiple electrical paths. The switch controller manages the switching operations to connect the sensor to different paths at different times, enabling one sensor to indirectly monitor multiple paths without direct permanent connections to all of them.
2Measurement precision
If multiple current sensors are installed to monitor electrical paths, then measurement coverage is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The current sensor is designed as a universal measurement device that can monitor multiple electrical paths sequentially. By making the sensor multi-functional through switching control, the system achieves comprehensive measurement coverage while purchasing and installing only one sensor, directly reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement functions for multiple electrical paths are merged into a single current sensor system. Instead of having separate sensors for each path, the patent combines the measurement capability across paths by using one sensor with switching control, reducing component count and manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply system includes a third-X electrical path which has a portion defined as a common path shared with at least portions of a second-X electrical path and a second-Y electrical path. The common path has a shared current sensor therein.