Trailer Hitch Jump Start System for Electric Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicles face challenges in jump-starting when the low voltage battery is discharged, as it requires external power to engage the high voltage battery, but accessing the battery terminals can be difficult, especially for inexperienced users, and existing solutions like jumper cables are cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a trailer wiring connector as an external charge port to receive electrical current from an external power source, which is then transmitted to the low voltage battery to partially charge it, allowing the high voltage battery to be engaged and power the vehicle, thereby simplifying the jump-start process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional jumper cables are used to charge the low voltage battery, then the battery can be charged, but the operation becomes cumbersome and difficult for inexperienced users
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer wiring connector is designed to serve multiple functions: its original purpose for trailer electrical connections and the additional function of serving as an external charge port for the low voltage battery. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate jumper cables or external charging equipment, making the jump-start process as simple as plugging in a standard connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle itself provides the charging capability through its existing trailer wiring infrastructure. The low voltage battery can be charged using the vehicle's own electrical system through the trailer wiring connector, eliminating the need for external charging devices or complex jump-start equipment.
2Productivity
If the low voltage battery is discharged, then the vehicle cannot start, but accessing the battery terminals is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer wiring connector acts as an intermediary access point between the external power source and the low voltage battery. Instead of requiring direct access to the battery terminals located in the engine compartment, users can charge the battery through the conveniently located trailer wiring connector, which is easily accessible from the vehicle exterior.
3Extent of automation
If external power is needed to charge the low voltage battery, then the high voltage battery can be engaged, but the charging process requires manual handling of jumper cables
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical process of connecting and disconnecting jumper cables is replaced by an electrical plug-and-connector system. The trailer wiring connector provides standardized electrical contacts that automatically establish charging connections when plugged in, eliminating the need for manual cable handling and improving both automation and ease of operation.
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
Enables efficient and safe jump-starting of electric vehicles by allowing external charging through a standard trailer wiring connector, reducing the time required to charge the low voltage battery enough to engage the high voltage system, and ensuring the vehicle can be started without manual handling of jumper cables.
Implementation Method 1
a trailer wiring connector in electrical communication with the battery charging circuitry, the trailer wiring connector forming a charge port configured to receive an electrical current and transmit the electrical current to the battery charging circuitry to charge the second battery
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods for jump starting an electric vehicle. In some embodiments, an electric vehicle includes battery charging circuitry electrically connected to a high voltage storage system and a low voltage storage system mounted in the vehicle. The high voltage storage system may be configured to drive a motor for propelling the vehicle. The low voltage storage system may be configured to drive a contactor electrically connected between the high voltage storage system and a drive train of the vehicle. In some implementations, the vehicle may include an electrical connection that is easily accessible and configured to supply power from an external power source to the low voltage system. The electrical connection may be integrated into a standard trailer wiring system.