Vehicle Power Distribution Module for Extended Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle power distribution systems lead to undesired power drain and complex diagnostic strategies, as electronic components are either constantly powered or activated simultaneously, causing battery drain and unnecessary complexity when unattended or in storage.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle power control system comprising a power source, control circuits, electronic control units, a power distribution module with adjustable switches, and sensors that monitor current conditions to manage power distribution based on preset instructions, allowing for more control over vehicle systems and reducing parasitic losses during extended storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic components are directly connected to the vehicle's power supply, then the systems are always powered-up and ready for operation, but the battery is completely drained during extended storage periods
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into multiple controllable circuits, each with its own power relay. This allows individual control of power supply to different electronic components and systems, enabling the vehicle to maintain readiness for critical systems while powering down non-essential components during storage to prevent battery drain.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts power distribution based on vehicle state. The processor monitors conditions and automatically controls power relays to connect or disconnect power sources from various circuits, transitioning between powered and unpowered states as needed for operation or storage modes.
2Ease of operation
If all electronic systems are activated simultaneously via ignition switch, then the vehicle is ready for immediate operation, but the diagnostic strategies become unnecessarily complex
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system divides electronic systems into separate controllable circuits, each with its own power relay. This segmentation allows selective activation of systems and simplifies diagnostics by isolating problematic circuits rather than dealing with all systems activated simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor monitors vehicle conditions and receives feedback from various sensors and control units. This feedback mechanism enables intelligent control of power relays and simplifies diagnostic strategies by providing real-time status information about each circuit and system state.
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution module for use in a vehicle's power control system is provided. The power distribution module includes a plurality of control circuits, each of which is under the control of its own circuit switch, and each of which is coupled to one or more electronic control modules. The power distribution module also includes a processor that is configured to close each of the circuit switches, thereby providing power to the corresponding control circuits, in response to current vehicle conditions and in accordance with a preset set of conditions. An extended storage switch, when closed, prevents the power distribution module from electrically connecting any of the control circuits to the power source, thereby allowing parasitic power loss to be reduced to the point where the only loss is due to internal self-discharge.