Electrified Vehicle Connector Power Splitting Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems in electrified vehicles are inefficient in reducing cable usage, leading to longer cables and increased complexity, which can affect reliability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A power splitting assembly with a connector that provides multiple electrical transmission paths between a traction battery and various components, including a plug and jack configuration, positive and negative splitters, and direct connections to cables, to efficiently transmit power and reduce cable length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate cables are used to connect the traction battery to each component (first cable to first component, second cable to second component), then each component receives power independently, but the cable usage increases and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cable functions into a single integrated connector assembly. The first cable and second cable are merged into one connector unit that distributes power to both the first component and second component simultaneously, reducing the total number of separate cable assemblies while maintaining independent power transmission paths to each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple purposes: it provides power transmission to the first component through the first cable, power transmission to the second component through the second cable, and integrates connection points for both components within a single structural unit, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If longer cables are used to reach all components from the traction battery, then all components can be powered, but power transmission efficiency decreases and energy loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into localized distribution points. The connector assembly creates intermediate power distribution nodes closer to the components, allowing power to be transmitted over shorter distances from the traction battery to the connector, and then from the connector to each component, thereby reducing overall cable length and energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly acts as an intermediary power distribution node between the traction battery and the components. It receives power from the battery and redistributes it to multiple components through shorter cable segments, reducing the total cable length required and minimizing power transmission losses compared to direct long-distance connections from the battery to each component.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate cable assemblies are used to connect the traction battery to multiple components, then each component can be powered independently, but the overall system efficiency decreases due to increased cable usage
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cable assemblies are merged into a single integrated connector unit that maintains the ability to connect to multiple components independently. This consolidation reduces the total amount of cable material required while preserving the versatility to power different component configurations through the same connector assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed with universal multi-functionality to accommodate various component connection configurations. It can simultaneously or selectively power the first component, second component, or both, providing adaptability while improving power distribution efficiency through reduced cable usage and optimized power transmission paths.
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary power splitting assembly for an electrified vehicle includes a connector providing at least a portion of a first path and at least a portion of a second path. The first path is to transmit power between a traction battery and a first component. The second path is to transmit power between the traction battery and a second component.