Vehicle Electrical System Trailer Power Distribution via Voltage Converters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional on-board network topologies for commercial vehicles face increased load requirements on DC-DC converters when connecting a trailer electrical system, leading to indirect power requirement identification and lack of energy supply prioritization without additional switching elements, and require additional measuring points for state recognition.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle electrical system with two coupled sub-systems connected via voltage converters, allowing controlled power distribution and prioritization between the vehicle and trailer systems, using a second voltage converter to supply the trailer electrical system independently and preventing interference between sub-systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the trailer electrical system is connected to the first sub-network via the existing interface, then the trailer can be supplied with power, but the load requirement on the DC-DC converter increases and must be adapted accordingly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power supply path by introducing a second voltage converter dedicated to the trailer interface, separating the trailer load from the first sub-network's DC-DC converter. This segmentation allows the original converter to maintain its design while the new converter handles trailer-specific power conversion requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second voltage converter acts as an intermediary component between the first sub-network and the trailer interface. It mediates the power transfer by converting voltage specifically for trailer loads, preventing direct impact on the first DC-DC converter's operation and eliminating the need for its adaptation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the trailer electrical system is connected to the first sub-network, then power can be supplied to the trailer, but the power requirement of the trailer cannot be identified directly and prioritization is not possible without additional switching elements
Solution Approach 1:
The control device monitors the electrical parameters (voltage, current, power) of the second voltage converter and uses this feedback to determine trailer power requirements. Based on this direct measurement feedback, the control device can prioritize power distribution between vehicle and trailer loads and adjust the second voltage converter's operation accordingly, eliminating the need for complex switching elements.
3Loss of information
If additional measuring points are introduced on the trailer battery to recognize the state of the trailer electrical system, then the system state can be monitored, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second voltage converter inherently provides measurement capabilities by monitoring its own input and output electrical parameters (voltage, current, power). This self-service measurement approach allows the control device to determine the trailer's state of charge and power requirements directly from the converter's operational data, eliminating the need for additional external measuring points on the trailer battery.
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 controlled power distribution and prioritization between vehicle and trailer systems, reduces the need for adapting existing DC-DC converters, and allows for energy transfer without additional measuring points, enhancing operational efficiency and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The first and the second partial network are coupled to one another via a first voltage converter (4). A second voltage converter (5) is provided, via which the second sub-system (2) can be connected to the interface (11)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical system for a motor vehicle, in particular for a commercial vehicle, with an interface for connecting a trailer electrical system. The electrical system further comprises a first sub-network (3) in which a first nominal voltage is applied, comprising a first energy storage device (9) and a first load resistance (7) formed by several consumers; a second sub-network (2) in which a second nominal voltage is applied, comprising a generator (10) and a second energy storage device (8). Here, the first and the second sub-network (11, 12) are coupled to each other via a first voltage converter (4), and the interface (11) for connecting the trailer electrical system (20) is coupled to the second sub-network via a second voltage converter (5).