Transformer Power Path Selection for Redundant EV Low-Voltage Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power source systems in electric vehicles lack redundancy in power supply paths to low-voltage loads, leading to concerns about reliability and compactness.
Innovation Solution
A power source system with multiple conductive paths and a selection circuit that converts DC power from one path to AC power and back to DC power for storage, allowing for switching between paths to maintain power supply redundancy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single power supply path is used to simplify the system configuration, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of power supply to loads deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transformer unit is designed with multiple second coils that can serve different functions: one second coil connects to the converter circuit for power storage unit charging, while other second coils connect to output circuits for load power supply. This multi-functional design allows a single transformer unit to support multiple power paths, improving reliability without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The selection circuit dynamically switches between different power paths based on system conditions. The controller can redirect power flow through different second coils of the transformer unit depending on whether the power storage unit needs charging or loads need power supply, providing adaptive redundancy that activates only when needed.
2Reliability
If multiple power supply paths are provided to increase redundancy, then the reliability of power supply to loads is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple power paths are merged through a single transformer unit that shares the first coil and magnetic core. The multiple second coils are wound on the same transformer core, allowing multiple output paths to be generated from a single input path. This merging approach provides redundancy while minimizing the number of separate transformer units needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The transformer unit serves multiple functions simultaneously: it can transfer power to the power storage unit through one second coil, supply loads through other second coils, and the selection circuit can dynamically reconfigure which function each second coil performs. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each power path.
3Volume of stationary object
If a compact configuration is achieved by sharing components, then the volume of the system is reduced, but the ability to maintain power supply redundancy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The power source system implements a nested structure where multiple power paths are contained within a single transformer unit. The multiple second coils are nested on the same magnetic core, and the selection circuit is integrated within the existing power conversion architecture. This nesting provides redundancy while maintaining a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple power conversion paths are merged into a single transformer unit with multiple second coils. Instead of having separate transformers for each power path, the system combines them into one shared transformer, reducing overall volume while maintaining the ability to provide multiple independent power paths through the selection circuit.
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 system achieves a more compact configuration while increasing the redundancy of power supply to loads, ensuring reliable operation even in the event of abnormalities in power supply circuits.
Implementation Method 1
an inverter unit including one or more inverter circuits that convert DC power obtained based on power supplied from a power source that is different from the power storage unit into AC power
Implementation Method 2
a transformer unit including one or more first coils to which AC power is supplied from the inverter unit and a plurality of second coils
Implementation Method 3
a converter circuit that is electrically connected to a second coil on a first side of the plurality of second coils, and is configured to convert AC power of the second coil on the first side into DC power
Data Source
AI summary
A power source system includes a plurality of output circuits electrically connected to a plurality of second coils on a second side of a transformer unit, and a selection circuit to which power is supplied from the plurality of output circuits. Each of the plurality of output circuits is electrically connected to each of the plurality of second coils on the second side, and outputs DC power to the selection circuit based on AC power of the second coil on the second side. The selection circuit selects a supply destination of the power from a first conductive path and a second conductive path.