Retractable Vehicle Power Cord Control for Overload and Heat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicles lack efficient systems for powering auxiliary devices at remote locations, particularly addressing issues related to power transfer efficiency and safety due to extension cord length and heat generation.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle remote power transfer system featuring a retractable power extension cord with a control module that determines a maximum power limit based on cord parameters, monitors temperature, and issues alerts or shuts down power to prevent overload and overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the extension cord length is increased to reach remote locations, then the power transfer distance is improved, but the heat generation and power loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the maximum power limit based on the actual cord length being used. The control module receives input about the cord length (from user input or sensors) and calculates an appropriate power limit that accounts for the resistance and power loss associated with that specific length, allowing the system to operate safely at various distances from the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters (maximum power limit) based on the cord length parameter. By adjusting the power limit according to the length being used, the system optimizes power transfer efficiency while preventing excessive heat generation and energy loss that would occur with fixed high-power limits on long cords.
2Length of moving object
If the extension cord length is increased to reach remote locations, then the power transfer distance is improved, but the temperature increase and overheating risk worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations to determine the maximum power limit before power transfer begins. By pre-calculating the safe power limit based on cord length and characteristics, the system prevents excessive heat generation from the outset rather than reacting to temperature increases after they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates temperature sensors that monitor cord temperature during operation and provide feedback to the control module. This feedback mechanism allows the system to detect temperature increases and adjust or shut off power accordingly, preventing overheating and potential damage to the cord or connected devices.
3Power
If the maximum power limit is increased to meet high power demands, then the power availability is improved, but the safety risk due to overload worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically determines the maximum power limit based on multiple factors including cord length, cord gauge, and temperature conditions rather than using a fixed high power limit. This dynamic adjustment ensures high power availability when conditions permit while automatically reducing the limit when safety concerns arise, maintaining both power availability and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module continuously monitors temperature sensor data and power consumption, providing feedback to adjust the maximum power limit in real-time. This feedback loop ensures that the system maintains high power availability when safe while automatically preventing overload conditions that would create safety risks.
4Reliability
If temperature monitoring and power limit adjustment systems are added, then the safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module serves multiple functions: it calculates maximum power limits based on cord parameters, monitors temperature sensor data, adjusts power output accordingly, and communicates with the user interface. By consolidating these safety-related functions into a single multi-functional control module, the system improves safety without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment of power limits based on temperature feedback and cord parameters. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external control systems or manual intervention, improving safety while keeping the system relatively simple through automated decision-making algorithms.
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
Ensures reliable and efficient power transfer to remote devices by adjusting power usage based on cord conditions, providing alerts, and safeguarding against overloads and overheating.
Implementation Method 1
a retractable cord (42) including a first portion (42a) unwound from the reel and a remaining coiled portion (42b) wound onto the reel
Implementation Method 2
a sensor system configured to monitor a temperature associated with the retractable power extension cord
Implementation Method 3
a control module programmed to determine a maximum power limit of the extension cord based on a gauge of wire provided within the extension cord
Implementation Method 4
A generator system of the vehicle can operate in a power generation mode to provide power to the electrical power outlets
Data Source
AI summary
Remote power supply systems are provided for motor vehicles for powering auxiliary devices separate from the vehicles. Exemplary remote power supply systems may include one or more exportable power outlet boxes that include electrical power outlets for connecting the auxiliary devices. The electrical power outlets may be powered by a generator system of the vehicle. A retractable power extension cord may be connected to one or more of the electrical power outlets for repositioning the electrical power outlets at a distance away from the vehicle. Users may also supply their own extension cord, in which case a human machine interface of the system may allow the users to enter extension cord-related parameters. A control module of the system may determine a maximum recommended power limit of the extension cord based on known cord-related parameters. The control module may further issue alerts or power shutdown commands when certain extension cord overload or overtemperature conditions exist.