Multi-Functional Solid State Power Controller for Hybrid Vehicle Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Solid State Power Controllers (SSPCs) lack system-oriented functions and face integration issues in high voltage direct current (DC) power generation and distribution systems, particularly in hybrid vehicles, leading to instability and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional SSPC system incorporating an on/off-current limit controller, pre-charge controller, active damper controller, and main switch, along with auxiliary switches and sensors, which provides protective functions such as current limiting, voltage regulation, and temperature monitoring to ensure stable power distribution and prevent faults like over/under voltage, excessive ripple current, and repetitive low over-current conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional electromechanical circuit breakers are used for power distribution, then system integration is simpler, but response time is slow and arcing occurs during turn-off transient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromechanical circuit breakers with a solid state power controller using semiconductor switches (IGBTs or MOSFETs). This substitution eliminates mechanical moving parts and contact arcs, providing fast response time (microsecond range) while completely eliminating arcing during turn-off transient through solid state switching operation.
2Speed
If solid state power controllers are used to replace electromechanical devices, then response time improves and arcing is eliminated, but system integration issues and lack of system oriented function occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional solid state power controller that combines multiple system-oriented functions within a single device. The controller integrates power distribution switching, over-current protection, over-voltage protection, pre-charge control, and system diagnostics capabilities. This multi-functionality approach allows the SSPC to adapt to various system requirements and resolve integration issues by providing all necessary control functions in one unified device.
3Reliability
If separate pre-charge circuits and passive dampers are used in the power distribution system, then protection functions are provided, but weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges separate pre-charge circuits and passive damper components into the solid state power controller itself. The SSPC integrates pre-charge resistors and damping functions within its internal circuitry, eliminating the need for external separate components. This integration maintains all necessary protection functions while significantly reducing overall system weight and footprint by consolidating multiple functions into a single compact device.
4Weight of stationary object
If solid state power controllers are used, then size and weight are reduced, but system integration issues persist
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves system integration issues by designing the solid state power controller as a universal multi-functional device that handles power distribution, protection, pre-charge, and diagnostics in one integrated unit. This approach simplifies system integration by reducing the number of separate components and interconnections required, while the compact size of the integrated circuitry maintains weight reduction benefits.
Data Source
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AI summary
A solid state power controller apparatus can include an on/off-current limit controller, a pre-charge controller coupled to the on/off-current limit controller, an active damper controller coupled to the on/off-current limit controller and a main switch coupled to and responsive to on/off and protective commands from the on/off-current limit controller.