Vehicle Power Generation Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle electric power supply systems face challenges in maximizing regenerative electric power generation due to limitations in voltage levels for lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, which restrict the increase of regenerative electric power derived from electric power generators during vehicle deceleration.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle electric power generation apparatus that includes an electric power generator coupled to a wheel via a power transmission path, with parallel-connected first and second electric power storage batteries, and voltage detectors to set upper limit voltages for each battery, allowing the electric power generation controller to raise the generated voltage above these limits while preventing excessive voltage from reaching the batteries, thereby increasing regenerative electric power without deteriorating battery capacity or output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the generated voltage is raised higher than the upper limit values to increase regenerative electric power, then the regenerative electric power generation is improved, but the batteries may be damaged by excessive voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the battery system into two separate battery units (first battery and second battery) with different voltage characteristics. This segmentation allows the system to handle different voltage levels independently, enabling the generator to output higher voltage for increased regenerative power while each battery operates within its safe voltage limits through dedicated control strategies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter management by introducing separate upper limit voltage values for each battery type (e.g., 14.3V for lead-acid, 15.0V for lithium-ion). The control system dynamically adjusts the generated voltage based on which battery's voltage limit is reached first, allowing optimized regenerative power capture while maintaining battery safety through parameter-based control.
2Reliability
If the generated voltage is limited to the upper limit values to protect battery capacity, then the battery capacity and output are preserved, but the regenerative electric power generation is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage control where the upper limit voltage values are not fixed but can be adjusted based on battery state of charge, temperature, and other operational parameters. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maximize regenerative power capture by raising voltage limits when batteries can accept higher voltages while maintaining protection when limits are approached.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors the terminal voltages of both batteries and provides feedback to adjust the generated voltage. When either battery approaches its upper limit voltage, the system reduces the generated voltage accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures battery protection while maximizing regenerative power under varying operational conditions.
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
This solution enhances regenerative electric power generation while protecting the batteries from excessive voltage, improving energy efficiency and fuel consumption performance by effectively converting kinetic energy into electric energy during vehicle deceleration.
Implementation Method 1
an electric power generator coupled to a wheel via a power transmission path
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle electric power generation apparatus includes an electric power generator, a first electric power storage, a second electric power storage, a first voltage detector, a second voltage detector, and an electric power generation controller. The controller sets, as a first allowable voltage, an upper limit value of a terminal voltage of the first storage and sets, as a second allowable voltage, an upper limit value of a terminal voltage of the second storage, and raises, when the generator is to be controlled in a regenerative electric power generation state, a generated voltage derived from the generator higher than both of the first allowable voltage and the second allowable voltage. When the terminal voltage of the first storage reaches the first allowable voltage or the terminal voltage of the second storage reaches the second allowable voltage, the controller prevents the generated voltage of the generator from rising.