Transformer-Based Current Control in Hybrid Vehicle DC Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hybrid vehicles, controlling the current in the high-voltage direct voltage network requires additional hardware, increasing manufacturing costs and complexity when energy is transmitted between two on-board networks with different voltage levels.
Innovation Solution
A method where the current control of the first direct voltage network is achieved without additional hardware by determining a second current setpoint from the first current setpoint and using a transformer with a constant transformation ratio to control the actual currents in both networks, with an offset current value adjustment to compensate for efficiency variations and limit tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If additional hardware is installed to control current in the high-voltage direct voltage network, then current control capability is improved, but manufacturing costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the transformer as an intermediary element to enable current control in the high-voltage network. By utilizing the existing transformer and its transformation ratio, the system can control high-voltage network current through low-voltage network current control, avoiding the need for additional dedicated hardware while achieving the desired control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The existing transformer in the direct voltage converter is made multi-functional. It not only performs voltage transformation but also serves as the basis for current control in the high-voltage network. The control unit utilizes the transformer's properties to achieve dual functionality without adding separate control hardware
2Ease of operation
If additional hardware is installed to control current in the high-voltage direct voltage network, then current control capability is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its own existing components (transformer and control unit) to achieve current control functionality. The transformer's inherent properties are exploited for control purposes, and the control unit self-adapts to utilize the transformation ratio, eliminating the need for external or additional hardware components that would increase manufacturing costs
3Device complexity
If current control is implemented in the first direct voltage network without additional hardware, then device complexity is reduced, but control precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the actual currents in both networks and compares them with desired values. It uses feedback from the transformer's transformation ratio and efficiency characteristics to adjust control parameters dynamically, ensuring precise current control in the high-voltage network despite using existing hardware without additions
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts control parameters based on operating conditions. The control unit modifies current setpoints and control gains according to the transformer's efficiency variations and load conditions, maintaining high control precision across different operating points without requiring additional hardware
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 allows for cost-effective and simplified current control in the first direct voltage network, enabling direct control of the first current level without additional electrical components, thereby reducing complexity and manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
By means of the transformer, which has a constant transformation ratio, the second actual current (i3) is converted to a first actual current (i1) in the current-control-free first direct voltage network
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the control of a first current in a first direct voltage network which is connected to a direct voltage converter, wherein energy is transmitted between the first and a second direct voltage network via a transformation unit of the direct voltage converter, wherein a current control is provided for the control of a second current in the second direct voltage network. A second current setpoint is determined from a first current setpoint of the first direct voltage network based on a transfer function of the transformation unit, which second current setpoint is fed to the current control and therefore, due to the transformation ratio of the transformation unit, a first actual current of the current-control-free direct voltage network is controlled.