In-Vehicle Solar Charger Controller Using Digital PWM Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-vehicle solar energy chargers using analog control methods are inflexible, limiting the utilization of solar energy due to hardware-based circuit adjustments that cannot be changed without replacing components like resistances or capacitances.
Innovation Solution
A control system and method for an in-vehicle solar energy charger that employs a controller to perform a maximum photovoltaic power tracking algorithm, adjusting between boosting and bucking modes based on vehicle state and output power, using PWM signals to optimize charging of both power and starting batteries, and controlling operation based on input and light intensity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an analog control method using pure hardware circuits is used, then the control system can be implemented with fixed parameters, but the system becomes inflexible and cannot adapt to changing conditions without replacing hardware components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the analog hardware-based control system with a digital control system using a microcontroller. This substitution allows control parameters to be modified through software programming rather than hardware component replacement, achieving both reliability of digital systems and flexibility of software-based parameter adjustment. The microcontroller reads sensor inputs and adjusts PWM duty cycles through programmed logic, eliminating the need for physical component changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements variable control parameters through software rather than fixed hardware values. The microcontroller dynamically adjusts PWM duty cycle percentages (e.g., 30%, 70%, 90%) based on real-time sensor feedback and predefined thresholds stored in memory. This allows seamless parameter changes without hardware modification, resolving the contradiction between fixed parameter reliability and parameter flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hardware components such as resistances or capacitances are replaced to adjust control parameters, then the control characteristics can be changed, but the system complexity and difficulty of adjustment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual hardware component replacement with automated digital parameter configuration. The microcontroller stores multiple sets of control parameters in memory and selects appropriate parameters through software commands rather than physical component swapping. This dramatically simplifies adjustment procedures while maintaining full adaptability of control characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates software copies of control parameters that can be instantly switched without physical changes. Multiple parameter sets are stored as digital data in the microcontroller's memory, allowing rapid switching between different control modes by loading different parameter sets. This eliminates the need for physical component replacement while maintaining all adjustment capabilities.
3Productivity
If the solar energy charger operates without intelligent control, then the system structure is simple, but the utilization of solar energy is not high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where the microcontroller continuously monitors battery voltage, current, and solar panel output through connected sensors. Based on this real-time feedback, the controller dynamically adjusts the PWM duty cycle to optimize charging efficiency and prevent overcharging. This intelligent feedback mechanism significantly improves solar energy utilization while adding manageable complexity through standardized sensor integration and control algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the solar charging system to autonomously optimize its operation without manual intervention. The microcontroller automatically adjusts charging parameters based on battery state of charge, solar irradiance conditions, and load requirements. The system self-regulates PWM duty cycles, selects appropriate charging modes, and manages power distribution between starting and power batteries, achieving high energy utilization with automated decision-making logic.
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 solution provides a flexible control system that maximizes solar energy output without requiring hardware changes, allowing for efficient charging and utilization of solar energy based on real-time vehicle and environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a solar cell panel (110), a solar energy charger (120)... The solar cell panel is electrically connected to the solar energy charger
Implementation Method 2
outputting the first PWM signal to control that the solar energy charger enters into a boosting mode to charge the power battery
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for an in-vehicle solar energy charger, comprising a solar cell panel, a solar energy charger, a starting battery, a power battery and a controller. The solar energy charger, the starting battery and the power battery are electrically connected to the controller respectively. The controller is configured for performing a maximum photovoltaic power tracking algorithm and controlling an output power of the solar energy charger for charging the power battery or starting battery, according to an input power of the solar energy charger.