Vehicular Power Distribution Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft power distribution systems suffer from significant power dissipation due to long transmission distances, leading to increased energy requirements and weight/cost from using high-power conductors and components, as engines are positioned for propulsion rather than electrical efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Locating power sources closer to loads within the vehicle, allowing for shorter power transmission distances, with a network configuration that includes multiple power sources connected in parallel or series to loads, and using regeneration to optimize power distribution, potentially eliminating the need for high-power components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If power is transmitted from engines positioned on wings to loads in the body, then propulsion and aerodynamics are optimized, but power dissipation increases due to long transmission distances
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is segmented into multiple independent power sources distributed throughout the vehicle body, with each power source serving a local zone. This divides the single long transmission path into multiple short transmission paths, reducing overall power dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
Power sources are positioned locally near their respective loads rather than relying on centralized remote power generation. This creates locally-optimized power distribution where each segment operates independently with minimal transmission distance, reducing I2R losses in each local zone.
2Power
If high-power conductors and components are used to transmit power over long distances, then power delivery capability is maintained, but system weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments power distribution into multiple low-power local zones rather than one high-power long-distance transmission. Each local conductor only needs to handle the power requirements of its immediate zone, allowing use of lighter, lower-gauge wiring throughout the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
Each local power distribution zone is designed with power capacity matched to its specific load requirements rather than oversizing all conductors for maximum possible load. This localized matching reduces overall system weight while maintaining adequate power delivery capability for each zone.
3Power
If high-power conductors and components are used to transmit power over long distances, then power delivery capability is maintained, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system is divided into multiple independent low-power segments, each with its own power source and local conductors. This segmentation allows use of lower-cost, lower-specification components in each zone rather than requiring expensive high-power rated components throughout the entire vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
Components in each local zone are specified according to the actual power requirements of that zone's loads rather than uniform high-specification ratings. This localized component sizing reduces overall system cost while maintaining adequate power delivery capability for each local area.
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution system for a vehicle is provided. The power distribution system includes a network incorporating at least one load. At least a first and a second power source are connected to the network. The first power source is located and connected proximal to the load and the second power source is located distal from the load. A generator may be connected to the network distally from the first and second loads and configured to supply power to at least one of the first and second loads. The generator may be configured such that power is supplied selectively when power from at least one of the first and second power sources is less than respectively required by the first and second loads. The first and second power sources may be configured to be regenerated by the generator. The network may include more highly power-rated components in areas configured for higher power transmission and more lowly power-rated components in areas configured for lower power transmission.