Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] This disclosure relates generally to power management in a vehicle, more particularly to power management system for powering sensors in the vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[002] Safety monitoring systems of vehicles include sensors that monitor various operational parameters of the vehicle in order to ensure the safety of the vehicle and the passengers. Examples of such sensors include temperature sensors, proximity sensors, gas sensors, pressure sensors, etc. that may be powered by a low voltage battery, such as a 12 V battery of the vehicle. The sensors are generally powered when the vehicle ignition is powered on and are not powered on when the ignition is turned off, to prevent draining of the charge of the low voltage battery while the vehicle is not running.
[003] Vehicles which are fully or partially electrically driven may include a traction battery, also referred to as a high voltage battery. Such electrified vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower environmental impact, improved efficiency, and reduced operating costs. Such electrochemical batteries are prone to faults and errors due to stray chemical reactions and other operational defects. Such faults and errors, if unchecked may lead to damage to the high voltage battery and may lead to battery catching fire or bursting of the battery packs. Thermal runaway in high voltage batteries is one such common error that may occur when temperature of a battery cell becomes excessively high, for example, due to lack of proper ventilation in the battery pack and high ambient temperature. Thermal runaway may lead to dangerous consequences such as the battery catching fire.
[004] Therefore, there is a requirement to continuously monitor safety of high voltage battery and vehicles irrespective of the ignition state of the vehicle.
SUMMARY
[005] In one embodiment, a method of powering at least one sensor in a vehicle is disclosed. The method may include determining, by a controller, a sensor-powering state of a plurality of modules of a high-voltage battery that is to power the vehicle. In an embodiment, the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules of the high-voltage battery may be determined by the controller based on an output voltage of each of the plurality of modules. The method may further include selecting as a source of power supply, one of the high-voltage battery or a low voltage battery based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules. The method further includes allowing the transmission of electrical power to the at least one sensor from the selected source of power supply.
[006] In another embodiment, a system of powering at least one sensor in a vehicle is disclosed. The system may include a controller and a memory coupled to the controller. The memory may store a set of instructions, which, on execution, may cause the controller to determine a sensor-powering state of plurality of modules of a high-voltage battery that is to power the vehicle based on an output voltage of each of the plurality of the modules. The controller may further select a source of power supply from one of the high-voltage battery or a low-voltage battery based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules. The controller may allow the transmission of electrical power to the at least one sensor from the selected source of power supply.
[007] In yet another embodiment, a vehicle comprising a controller is disclosed. The vehicle may further include a memory coupled to the controller. The memory may store a set of instructions, which, on execution, may cause the controller to determine a sensor-powering state of plurality of modules of a high-voltage battery that is to power the vehicle based on an output voltage of each of the plurality of the modules. The controller may further select a source of power supply from one of the high-voltage battery or a low-voltage battery based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules. The controller may allow the transmission of electrical power to the at least one sensor from the selected source of power supply.
[008] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.
[010] FIG. 1A illustrates a block diagram of a sensor power management system in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[011] FIG. 1B illustrates a schematic circuit diagram of the switching device of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[012] FIG. 2 illustrates a functional module diagram of switching device of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[013] FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of a methodology of powering one or more sensors in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[014] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow diagram of a methodology of selecting a module from a plurality of modules of the high voltage battery, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[015] The foregoing description has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which forms the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying other devices, systems, assemblies and mechanisms for carrying out the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristics of the disclosure, to its device or system, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.
[016] The terms “including”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “comprising of” or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusions, such that a system or a device that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
[017] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals have been used to refer to the same or like parts. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIGs. 1A - 4. It is to be noted that the system may be employed in any electrified vehicle (EV) including but not limited to a passenger vehicle, a utility vehicle, commercial vehicles, and any other transportable machinery. For a sake of clarity, EV is not shown.
[018] Various sensors are utilized in a vehicle for monitoring various parameters to ensure safety of the vehicle and the passengers. Such sensors may include, but not limited to, smoke sensors, temperature sensors, speed sensors, etc. However, sensors are typically activated once the ignition of the vehicle is on, to prevent draining of the battery of the vehicle. It may be crucial to monitor safety of vehicles even when the ignition of the vehicle is off, so that a potentially unsafe situation occurring during the off state of the vehicle can be detected. For example, a fire occurring in a battery of an EV during an off state of the EV is to be detected in a timely manner and doused. The present disclosure provides a methodology to ensure a powered state of sensors that detect a potentially unsafe situation in vehicles, such as EVs, even when the vehicle is in an off state.
[019] Referring now to FIG. 1A, a block diagram of a sensor power management system 100A in a vehicle is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sensor power management system 100A may enable powering of one or more sensors 102 in the vehicle (not shown). The sensor power management system 100A may include a switching device 106, a BMS (Battery Management System) 108, a power module 114 and a vehicle control unit (VCU) 116. In an embodiment, the switching device 106 may include a controller 104 and a memory 109. The power module 114 may include a high-voltage battery 110 and a low-voltage battery 112. In an embodiment, the high-voltage battery 110 may provide power to an electric drive motors partially or completely in the electrified vehicle (not shown). In an embodiment, the voltage capacity of high-voltage battery 110 may be in a range of 400V to 1000V. Further, electrified vehicles may also include the low voltage battery 112 as an auxiliary battery and supplies power for the ignition of the vehicle and for smaller electrical accessories of the vehicle, such as headlamps and ECUs. Typically, the low voltage battery 112 may be a 12V battery and may be charged when the ignition of the vehicle is on.
[020] In an embodiment, the vehicle control unit 116 may include various controller units such as, but not limited to, body control unit (BCU), telematics control unit (TCU), instrument panel control unit (IPC), etc. By way of an example, one or more sensors 102 may include, but are not limited to, moisture detection sensor, temperature sensor, aerosol sensor, pressure sensor, gas sensor, smoke sensor, etc. In an embodiment, the moisture detection sensor may be used to detect leakage of coolant or cell electrolyte in the battery modules 111. In an embodiment, the controller 104 of the switching device 106 may be integrated with the VCU 116 or BMS 108 of the vehicle.
[021] In an embodiment, the controller 104 of the switching device 106 may be configured to determine any potential faults or errors in the high-voltage battery 110 based on detection of one or more parameters and events pertaining to the high-voltage battery 110 by the one or more sensors 102. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 102 may be associated to various components of the vehicle in order to monitor the one or more parameters or events corresponding to the various components of the vehicle. In an embodiment, at least one of the one or more sensors 102 may be housed in the power module 114. In an embodiment, at least one of the one or more sensors 102 may be placed in a housing (not shown) enclosing the high voltage battery 110. In an embodiment, the one or more parameters may include, but not limited to, temperature, pressure, output voltage, etc. Further, one or more events may include, for example, emission of smoke by the high-voltage battery 110. One or more faults such as, but not limited to, thermal runaway, may be determined based on the one or more parameters and events, such as, but not limited to, increase in temperature beyond predefined safety level, electrolyte vaporization, aerosol generation, increase in pressure beyond predefined safety level, voltage drop below a predefined threshold voltage, gas generation, smoke detection, etc. Since, the one or more sensors 102 detect the occurrence of faults and events that may cause extensive damage to the vehicle and its passengers, it is crucial for the sensors 102 to be active all the time, such as even when the vehicle is in an OFF state, so that the faults may be detected without significant delay. However, keeping the one or more sensors 102 powered by using the low voltage battery 112 during an off state of the vehicle may cause draining of the low voltage battery 112. Accordingly, it is necessary to ensure a continuous powered state of the one or more sensors 102 while also preventing draining of the low voltage battery 112. To this end, the one or more sensors 102 may be powered by the high-voltage battery 110 and in the case the output voltage of the high-voltage battery 110 becomes lower than the predefined threshold voltage level, the one or more sensors 102 may be powered by the low-voltage battery 112. The switching of the power supply to the one or more sensors 102 from the high-voltage battery 110 to the low-voltage battery 112 and vice-versa may be performed by the switching device 106.
[022] In an embodiment, the high voltage battery 110 may include a plurality of battery modules 1111, 1112, … 111N (individually referred to as the module 111 and collectively referred to as modules 111). The switching device 106 may include one or more electrical switches (described in detail below) that may electrically connect each of the plurality of modules 111 and the low voltage battery 112 to the one or more sensors 102.
[023] In continued reference to FIG. 1A, the one or more sensors 102 may be electrically and communicatively couped to the switching device 106 through a wireless or wired communication link (not shown). In an embodiment, the memory 109 may store instructions that, when executed by the controller 104, may cause the controller 104 to powering the one or more sensors 102 provided in a vehicle (not shown) as discussed in greater detail below. In an embodiment, the memory 109 may be a non-volatile or a volatile memory. Examples of non-volatile memory may include, but are not limited to a flash memory, a Read Only Memory (ROM), a Programmable ROM (PROM), Erasable PROM (EPROM), and Electrically EPROM (EEPROM) memory. Examples of volatile memory may include but may not limited to Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), and Static Random-Access memory (SRAM). The memory may also store operational parameters of the vehicle and data received from the one or more sensors 102. In an embodiment, the communication between various components of the system 100A may be based on a wired or a wireless network connection or a combination thereof. The communication may be implemented using one or more protocols such as, but not limited to, Automotive Ethernet, DeviceNet network, ethernetIP network, LTE network, CAN, CAN FD, CDMA network, 5G, and the like. Further the communication may be implemented through a variety of network devices, including routers, buses, bridges, servers, computing devices, storage devices, cables, and the like.
[024] The controller 104 may determine the output voltage of each of the plurality of battery modules 111. In case, the output voltage of any of the plurality of battery modules 111 is determined above the predefined threshold voltage level, the corresponding module 111 may be determined to be in a sensor powering state. Accordingly, the high voltage battery 110 may be determined to be in a sensor-powering state based on determination of the output voltage of each of the plurality of modules 111.
[025] The switching device 106 may select as a source of power supply one of the high voltage battery 110 or the low voltage battery 112 based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules 111. The switching device 106 may allow transmission of electrical power to the one or more sensors 102 from the selected source of power supply of the power module 114.
[026] In an embodiment, the switching device 106 may allow the transmission of electrical power to the one or more sensors 102 from the high-voltage battery 110 in case at least one of the plurality of modules 111 are determined in a sensor powering state. In some embodiments, the predefined threshold voltage level may be configured based on an operational voltage requirement of the one or more sensors 102. Further, the switching device 106 may determine a module amongst the plurality of modules 111 having a highest output voltage based on a comparison of the output voltages of the plurality of modules 111. Accordingly, the switching device 106 may select one of the modules 111 having the highest output voltage and having output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage level.
[027] The switching device 106 may include a step-down converter or a buck converter (described in greater detail below). The switching device 106 may allow power transmission from the selected one module having the highest output voltage from the plurality of modules 111 via the buck converter. In an embodiment, the buck converter may bring the output voltage of the module 111 in an operating voltage range of the one or more sensors 102. In an embodiment, the step-down converter may be a dc-dc converter.
[028] The switching device 106 may select the low-voltage battery 112 for transmitting the electrical power to the one or more sensors 102 in case the high voltage battery 110 is determined not in a sensor-powering state. The high voltage battery 110 may be determined not in a sensor-powering state if the output voltage of each of the plurality of modules 111 is determined below the predefined threshold level. The high voltage battery 110 may not be in a sensor powering state due to occurrence of a fault or due to reduction in SoC of the battery or the like.
[029] In order for the one or more sensor 102 to operate at all times and be able to detect one or more parameters, the switching device 106 may transmit power from either the high voltage battery 110 or the low voltage battery 112 to the one or more sensor 102. The one or more sensors 102 may provide an output based on the detected one or more parameters, to the BMS 108. The BMS 108 may then transmit an alert to the VCU 116, via the controller 104 in case a fault is detected.
[030] In an embodiment, the BMS 108 may alert the user by transmitting the alert signal to several control units of the vehicle such as, but not limited to, IPC, BCM, TCU, etc. Accordingly, the user may be alerted based on an audio alert, visual alert or an audio visual alert generated by the control units of the vehicle. Therefore, a timely alert may allow the user to take appropriate actions in order to avert any damage to the vehicle, its occupants or people around the vehicle due to any fault detected by the one or more sensors 102.
[031] Referring now to FIG. 1B, a schematic circuit diagram 100B of the switching device of FIG. 1A is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The schematic circuit diagram 100B of the switching device 106 depicts a power-source selector switch 118 that may be controlled by the controller 104 of the switching device 106. In an embodiment, the power-source selector switch 118 may be an electrical switch that may allow transmission of power to the one or more sensors 102 from either the high voltage battery 110 or the low voltage battery 112. Further, power from one of the plurality of modules 111 of the high voltage battery 110 may be transmitted to one or more sensors 102 via a module-selector switch 122. Accordingly, each of the plurality of modules 111 may be connected in parallel to a buck converter 120 through the module-selector switch 122.
[032] The module-selector switch 122 may be controlled by the controller 104 of the switching device 106 based on determination of the output voltage of each of the plurality of modules 111. A module 111 from the plurality of module 111 having highest output voltage and having output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage level may be selected by the controller 104. Accordingly, the module-selector switch 122 may connect the corresponding selected module 111 for power transmission to the one or more sensors 102. In an embodiment, the switch 122 may be operated by the controller 104 to select one of the plurality of modules 111 based on selection of the high-voltage battery 110 by the source-selector switch 118.
[033] In an exemplary embodiment, Table 1 depicted below provides output voltage determined for three modules 111-1, 111-2, 111-3 in the high-voltage battery 110. In case, the threshold voltage level is predefined as about equal to 12V and the high-voltage battery 110 may be selected as the source of power supply since the output voltage of the modules 111-1 and 111-3 are above the predefined threshold voltage level, i.e., 12V. Hence, the high-voltage battery 110 and the modules 111-1 and 111-3 may be determined to be in a sensor powering state. Further, out of the three modules 111-1, 111-2, 111-3, module 111-3 may be selected by the controller 104 to transmit power to the one or more sensors 102 since it has the highest output voltage amongst the three modules 111-1, 111-2, 111-3. Further, the module 111-2 may not be determined to be in a sensor-powering state as its output voltage is determined to be below the predefined threshold voltage level.
Module Number Output Voltage (V)
111-1 12.6
111-2 10.1
111-3 16
Table 1
[034] Accordingly, the module-selector switch 122 may be switched by the controller 104 in order to connect the selected module 111-3 to the one or more sensors 102 via the buck converter 120.
[035] The module-selector switch 122 may connect the corresponding module having the highest output voltage and having an output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage level, to supply power to the one or more sensors 102. The buck converter 120 may convert the high voltage power supplied by the selected module 111 to a low voltage power supply that may be transmitted to the one or more sensors 102. It is to be noted that, the buck converter 120 is used because the one or more sensors 102 generally requires lower voltage to operate as compared to the voltage generated by the module 111.
[036] Unlike prior art systems in which the sensors are powered off during an off state of the vehicle, the switching device 106 allows continuous transmission of power to the one or more sensors 102 from a module 111 of the high voltage battery 110 or the low voltage battery 112 to keep the one or more sensors 102 continuously active. The switching device 106, thus prevents drainage of the low voltage battery 112 and keeps the sensors 102 in an active state irrespective if the ignition of the vehicle is off.
[037] In an embodiment, the module-selector switch 122 may be operated only after the power-source selector switch 118 has been operated by the controller 104 to select the high-voltage battery 110 as the power source. Accordingly, one of the plurality of modules may be selected by the operation of the module-selector switch 122 to transmit power from one of the plurality of modules 111 to the one or more sensors 102. However, in case none of the plurality of modules 111 are determined to be in the sensor-powering state, the power-source selector switch 118 may be operated by the controller 104 to select the low voltage battery 112 to transmit power to the one or more sensors 102.
[038] Referring now to FIG. 2, a functional block diagram of the switching device 106 of FIG. 1A is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The switching device 106 may include a sensor-powering state determination module 202, a power source determination module 204, a power transmission module 206, a fault detection module 208 and an alert module 210.
[039] The sensor-powering state determination module 202 may determine a sensor-powering state of the high-voltage battery 110 based on determination of output voltage of each of the plurality of modules 111. The controller 104 may determine whether an output voltage of at least one of the plurality of modules 111 is above the predefined threshold voltage. In an embodiment, the sensor-powering state determination module 202 may determine the high voltage battery 110 to be not in a sensor-powering state in case the output voltage of the plurality of modules 111 is determined below predefined threshold voltage level. In an embodiment, the predefined threshold voltage may be predefined based on an operating voltage range for the one or more sensors 102.
[040] In an exemplary embodiment, the predefined operating range may be defined as a range within a minimum voltage threshold (Vmin) and a maximum voltage threshold (Vmax). For example, in one scenario, Vmin may be about equal to 14V and Vmax may be about equal to 16V respectively. Accordingly, in order for the high voltage battery 110 to be in the sensor-powering state the output voltage of any of the plurality of modules 111 after being stepped down by the buck converter 120 should be in the range of 14V to 16V.
[041] In continued reference to FIG. 2, the power source determination module 204 may select one of the high-voltage battery 110 or the low-voltage battery 112 as a source of power supply based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules 111. For example, in case the output voltage of at least one of the plurality of modules 111 is determined to be above the predefined threshold voltage, the high-voltage battery 110 may be selected as the power source. Alternatively, in case the output voltage of none of the plurality of modules 111 is determined above the predefined threshold voltage, then the power source determination module 204 may select the low voltage battery 112 as the power source. The output voltage of the plurality of modules 111 may become less than the predefined threshold voltage due to discharge of the power due to regular use or due to occurrence of some fault in the high voltage battery 110. Accordingly, the power-source selector switch 118 may be controlled by the controller 104 to transmit power to the one or more sensors 102 from the low voltage battery 110, in order to keep the sensors 102 active.
[042] The power source determination module 204 may further select one of the plurality of the modules 111 having an output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage and a highest output voltage amongst the plurality of the modules 111. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of modules 111 may be connected in parallel connection to the module-selector switch 122 as shown in FIG. 1B. In an embodiment, the module-selector switch 122 may connect the selected module 111 having the highest output voltage for powering the one or more sensors 102. The module-selector switch 122 may connect the corresponding power line between the selected module 111 and the buck converter 120. Further, once the power source determination module 204 has selected a module 111 having highest output voltage amongst the plurality of module 111, the selected module may continue to transmit electrical power until its output voltage is determined to be above the predefined threshold voltage level. In a scenario, if the output voltage of another module becomes more than the output voltage of the selected module, the selected module will continue to transmit power until the output voltage of the selected module is above the predefined threshold voltage level.
[043] It should be noted, the electrical power transmitted from the selected module 111 may be stepped down to be in the predefined operating voltage range of the one or more sensors 102 using the buck converter 120. In an embodiment, the selection of the module 111 having the highest output voltage and having output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage level or within the predefined threshold voltage range amongst the plurality of modules 111 may be again performed in case the output voltage of the selected module 111 becomes out of range of the predefined threshold voltage range or below the predefined threshold voltage level. Therefore, the selection of one of the plurality of modules 111 may be performed until none of the plurality of modules 111 of the high-voltage battery 110 have output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage. In case the output voltage of none of the plurality of modules 111 is determined above the predefined threshold voltage then power from the low voltage battery 112 may be transmitted to power the one or more sensors 102. Even if, the output voltage of the selected module 111 from the plurality of modules 111 may become less than the predefined threshold voltage, for example, due to discharge or due to any fault or error in the module 111. The power source determination module 204 may ensure consistent electrical power transmission to the one or more sensors 102 from the low voltage battery 112.
[044] The fault detection module 208 may determine one or more faults in the high voltage battery 110 or the vehicle. The fault detection module 208 may detect one or more faults based on the detected one or more parameters and events by the one or more sensors 102. In an embodiment, the fault detection module 208 may compare values of the detected one or more parameters based on predefined threshold values corresponding to each of the one or more parameters. In case the fault detection module 208 determines any of the values to be not within the corresponding predefined threshold values, the fault detection module 208 may determine a fault or an error.
[045] Further, the predefined threshold values corresponding to each of the one or more parameters may be predefined and saved in the memory 109. In an embodiment, in case of detection of occurrence of a predetermined event, the fault detection module 208 may determine a fault or an error. For example, the fault detection module 208 may detect a fault in the high voltage battery 110 in case of detection of events such as, but not limited to, generation of smoke or aerosol, in the high voltage battery module (not shown), by one or more sensors 102. Accordingly, based on the detection of any potential fault or error, the fault detection module 208 may transmit an error signal to the BMS 108 that may accordingly alert the controller 104 and the VCU 116.
[046] In case, the fault detection module 208 may transmit a signal to the alert module 210 based on detection of a fault or an error in the high voltage battery 110 or the vehicle. The alert module 210 may be connected to various control units of the vehicle such as, but not limited to, IPC, BCM, TCU, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the alert module 210 may generate an alert to a user of the vehicle by generating an audio alert, visual alert or an audio-visual alert. In an embodiment, a type of alert may be based on an intensity of the fault. In an embodiment, the intensity of the fault may be determined based on a predefined threshold ranges of parameters predefined for each intensity levels of the fault such as, but not limited to, low intensity, medium intensity and high intensity predefined based on error and fault data. In an embodiment, the error and fault data may include a list of plurality of faults and errors, one or more parameters based on which each of the plurality of faults and errors may be detected, predefined threshold ranges of each of the one or more parameters for each intensity levels, an alert type to be generated corresponding to each intensity levels of each fault and error etc. For example, in order to determine thermal runaway, temperature of the high voltage battery may be determined as one of the parameters. Further, in case the temperature of the high voltage battery 110 is detected as 200ºC and the temperature threshold range is predefined to be as 180ºC to 280ºC. Accordingly, a low intensity fault may be determined until temperature threshold value of 210ºC and a visual alert may be generated for the user. Further, a medium intensity fault may be determined in case the temperature of the high voltage battery 110 is detected above 210ºC and below 250ºC and an audio-visual alert may be generated. However, in case the temperature of the high voltage battery 110 becomes above 250ºC, then a high intensity fault may be determined and an audio alarm may be sounded along with an indicator blink.
[047] In an embodiment, the alert type may also be generated based on the ignition state of the vehicle if the vehicle ignition is off or on. Accordingly, based on the intensity of the fault, a corresponding alert type may be generated in order for the user to take appropriate action to rectify the fault or error in a timely manner.
[048] In an exemplary embodiment, in case of a fault, the alert generation module 210 may be enabled in the VCU 116 that may send an appropriate signal to the BCM, IPC and/or TCU in order to generate corresponding alert type. In some embodiment, the VCU 116 may send a signal to the BCM to enable an alert type including a horn chime or an alarm. In another exemplary embodiment, the VCU 116 that may send a signal to the IPC to generate warning signal on a cluster to control indicators of the vehicle, etc. corresponding to an alert type. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the VCU 116 that may send a signal to the TCU to generate warning signal to be sent to a smart-phone application corresponding to an alert type.
[049] Referring now to FIG. 3, a flow diagram 300 of a methodology of powering one or more sensors 102 in a vehicle is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 302, of the flow diagram 300, the controller 104 of the switching device 106 may determine an output voltage of each of the plurality of modules 111 of the high voltage battery 110. At step 304, a sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules 111 of the high voltage battery 110 is determined based on a comparison of the output voltage of each of the plurality of modules 111 with the predefined threshold voltage. At step 306, high voltage battery 110 may be selected as a source of power supply in case the output voltage of any of the plurality of modules 111 is determined above the predefined threshold voltage. At step 308, the controller 104 may select low voltage battery 112 as a source of power supply in case the output voltage of the plurality of modules 111 is determined below the predefined threshold voltage. At step 310, the controller 104 may allow transmission of electrical power to the one or more sensors 102 by operating the power-source selector switch 118. The electrical power may be transmitted from either the high voltage battery 110 or the low voltage battery 112 selected as the source of power supply in order to provide incessant electrical power to the one or more sensors 102.
[050] Referring now to FIG. 4, a flow diagram 400 of a methodology of selecting a module from a plurality of modules 111 of the high voltage battery 110 is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In case, the controller 104 determines the high voltage battery 110 as the source of power supply at step 306 of the flow diagram 300, the controller 104 may implement the methodology of flow diagram 400 to determine a module 111 from the plurality of modules 111 in order to supply power to the one or more sensors 102 by operating the module-selector switch 122. Accordingly, at step 402, the controller 104 may determine an output voltage of each of the plurality of modules 111. At step 404, the controller 104 may determine a module from the plurality of modules 111 having output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage level and having a highest output voltage amongst the plurality of modules 111. In an embodiment, the modules 111 may be determined to be in a sensor powering state in case their corresponding output voltage is determined above the predefined threshold voltage level. Accordingly, electrical power may be transmitted to the one or more sensors 102 from the selected module at step 404. Further, at step 406, the output voltage of the selected module at step 404 may be monitored while it continues to transmit power to the one or more sensors 102 at step 408. The selected module at step 406 may continue to transmit power to the one or more sensors 102 at step 408 until its output voltage is determined to be above the predefined threshold voltage level. In case, the output voltage of the selected module at step 406 is determined below the predefined threshold voltage level, then the controller 104 may again select a module from the plurality of modules 111 having an output voltage above the predefined threshold voltage level and having a highest output voltage amongst the plurality of modules 111 at step 404.
[051] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
[052] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.
[053] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.
[054] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

, Claims:1. A method (300) for powering at least one sensor (102) in a vehicle, comprising:
determining (302), by a controller (104), a sensor-powering state of a plurality of modules (111)¬ of a high-voltage battery (110) that is to power the vehicle based on an output voltage of each of the plurality of modules (111)¬;
selecting (306), by the controller (104), as a source of power supply one of the high-voltage battery (110) or a low-voltage battery (112) based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules (111); and
allowing (310), by the controller (104), transmission of electrical power to the at least one sensor (102) from the selected source of power supply.

2. The method (300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrical power is transmitted from the high-voltage battery (110) in case the output voltage of the at least one of the plurality of modules (111) is above a predefined threshold voltage level.

3. The method (300) as claimed in claim 2, comprising selecting one of the at least one of the plurality of modules (111) based on a comparison of the output voltage among the at least one of the plurality of modules (111).

4. The method (300) as claimed in claim 1, comprising selecting the low-voltage battery (112) for transmitting the electrical power to the at least one sensor (102) in case the output voltage of each of the plurality of modules (111) is below a predefined threshold level.

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor (102) is a thermal runaway detection sensor that is to wake up to detect a thermal runaway in the plurality of modules (111).

6. A system (100) for powering at least one sensor (102) in a vehicle, comprising:
a controller (104), and
a memory (109) coupled to the controller (104), wherein the memory (109) stores a set of instructions, which, on execution, causes the controller (104) to:
determine a sensor-powering state of a plurality of modules (111) of a high-voltage battery 110 that is to power the vehicle based on an output voltage of each of the plurality of modules (111);
select as a source of power supply one of the high-voltage battery (110) or a low-voltage battery (112) based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules (111); and
allow transmission of electrical power to the at least one sensor (102) from the selected source of power supply.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the electrical power is transmitted from the high-voltage battery (110) in case the output voltage of the at least one of the plurality of modules (111) is above a predefined threshold voltage level.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the controller (104) is configured to select one of the at least one of the plurality of modules (111) based on a comparison of the output voltage among the at least one of the plurality of modules (111).

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the controller (104) is configured to select the low-voltage battery (112) for transmission of the electrical power to the at least one sensor (102) in case the output voltage of each of the plurality of modules (111) is below a predefined threshold level.

10. The system as claimed in claim 6, wherein the at least one sensor (102) is a thermal runaway detection sensor that is to wake up to detect thermal runaway in the plurality of modules (111).

11. A vehicle comprising:
a controller (104), and
a memory (109) coupled to the controller (104), wherein the memory (109) stores a set of instructions, which, on execution, causes the controller (104) to:
determine a sensor-powering state of a plurality of modules (111) of a high-voltage battery 110 that is to power the vehicle based on an output voltage of each of the plurality of modules (111);
select as a source of power supply one of the high-voltage battery (110) or a low-voltage battery (112) based on the determination of the sensor-powering state of the plurality of modules (111); and
allow transmission of electrical power to the at least one sensor (102) from the selected source of power supply.

12. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, wherein the electrical power is transmitted from the high-voltage battery (110) in case the output voltage of the at least one of the plurality of modules (111) is above a predefined threshold voltage level.

13. The vehicle as claimed in claim 12, wherein the controller (104) is configured to select the low-voltage battery (112) for transmission of the electrical power to the at least one sensor (102) in case the output voltage of each of the plurality of modules (111) is below a predefined threshold level.

14. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, wherein the at least one sensor (102) is a thermal runaway detection sensor that is to wake up to detect thermal runaway in the plurality of modules (111).