Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a power distribution system (100, 200, 300) for a vehicle (500). The power distribution (100, 200, 300) system comprises one or more power source unit (100a), a housing (102) configured to accommodate the one or more power source unit. The housing comprising one or more apertures (312), one or more guiding members (218, 220, 302, 304) which are configured with the one or more apertures of the housing, and one or more cables extended though the one or more guiding members. The one or more cables are configured to electrically connect the one or more power source unit to one or more devices of the vehicle (500).
DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power distribution system for vehicles, and in particular, to a power distribution system that efficiently manages the electrical connection between a power source unit and various devices within a vehicle. Such a system is crucial for the reliable operation of a wide range of vehicles, including electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and other electrically powered vehicles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In recent years, there has been a growing reliance on public and cargo transportation, with a particular emphasis on light commercial multi-wheeled multi-track vehicles. These vehicles, which operate around the clock on roads, have witnessed a significant increase in numbers, especially in developing countries where they are considered a cost-effective mode of transport. Generally, such vehicles comprise a chassis structure supporting a body that is divided into a driver compartment and/or a passenger compartment for accommodating passengers. Some vehicles constitute monocoque construction of body which itself acts like a load bearing chassis or frame structure. Examples include three-wheeler passenger vehicles, four-wheeled vehicles, and multi-axle vehicles. Some variants of vehicles also feature a driver compartment mounted on the chassis structure. Some variants of vehicles also feature a loading compartment for transporting cargo, like three-wheeler passenger cargo vehicles. Further, these vehicles come in various powertrain configurations, ranging from internal combustion engines to electric motors, including hybrid and fully electric vehicles. Typically, these vehicles are equipped with rechargeable battery packs or fuel cells that supply electric power to electric motors and other vehicle components storing energy generated by the motor or charged from an external source. Other vehicle components include parts such as but not limited to a power distribution unit (PDU), charger, DC-DC, Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) / Control unit or the like.
[0003] To facilitate this electric power distribution, a Power Distribution Unit (PDU) is employed. The PDU connects the battery pack to a charger, a DC to DC converter, and a control unit within the vehicle through a connector and multiple cables. Specifically, the positive and negative terminals of the battery pack connect to the PDU via a connector, and the PDU's output links to control units, a DC to DC converter, and other vehicle components. Traditionally, the PDU and the battery pack are positioned at a considerable distance from each other on the vehicle and connected via thick high-voltage cables. This design makes cable routing challenging, necessitating different routing paths, increasing cable length, and requiring numerous heavy clips and clamps. Consequently, these complications lead to additional parts for the vehicle, weight and cost for the vehicle. Furthermore, different vehicle layouts demand various configurations and mounting arrangements for the PDU, further contributing to the vehicle's overall weight and cost.
[0004] Further, the packaging of the Power Distribution Unit (PDU) within the chassis or cabin of a vehicle presents several significant challenges. These challenges are driven by the need to optimize the use of space within the vehicle while ensuring the reliable and secure connection of the PDU components. The issues associated with PDU placement are exacerbated by the dynamic and sometimes harsh conditions that vehicles encounter during operation.
[0005] One of the primary challenges of integrating the PDU into the vehicle's chassis or cabin is the utilization of limited available space. Vehicles, particularly those configured for individual use or public transportation or cargo transport, are often engineered to maximize interior space for passengers, cargo, or other critical functions. This leaves limited room for additional components like the PDU, which plays a crucial role in distributing power from the vehicle's source unit, such as a battery or power supply, to various electrical devices within the vehicle.
[0006] Moreover, the constant vibrations generated by the vehicle's engine, road surface irregularities, and general vehicle motion can introduce dynamic stresses on the components of the PDU. These vibrations may stem from the internal combustion engine or the electric motor, causing components to shift or become loose over time. If not properly addressed, these vibrations can lead to a critical issue such as the potential loosening of connectors within the PDU.
[0007] When connectors become loose within the PDU, it can result in a dangerous situation e.g. short circuit, sparking, fire accident, etc. If these connectors are responsible for maintaining the electrical connection between the power source unit and the vehicle's components, a loss of connection could occur. This could potentially lead to the disassociation of the battery pack or power source from the vehicle, with severe consequences. Such disassociation can disrupt the operation of vital vehicle components, including control units, chargers, and DC to DC converters, and may pose a significant safety risk to both the vehicle and its occupants.
[0008] Therefore, there is a need of a simple and cost-effective solution which can obviates the above-mentioned problems.
[0009] The above information as disclosed in this background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the disclosure and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Further, limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present disclosure and with reference to the drawings
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present application discloses a power distribution system for a vehicle that includes one or more power source units. These power source units are accommodated within a housing, which is specifically configured with one or more apertures. To facilitate organized cable routing, the system incorporates one or more guiding members that align with the apertures in the housing. Through these guiding members, one or more cables extend to establish electrical connections between the power source unit(s) and various devices within the vehicle.
[0011] In one of embodiments of the present application, the guiding members are not only for cable routing but are also configured to support and guide the one or more cables as they pass through. This feature ensures the stability and reliability of cable connections within the system.
[0012] In one of the embodiments of the present application, flexibility of the system can be accomplished by having the one or more cables of different types, dimensions, and properties. This accommodates the diverse electrical requirements of various components and devices within the vehicle.
[0013] In one of the embodiments of the present application, the housing of the power distribution system is disclosed. More specifically, the housing of the power distribution system comprises protruded portions on at least one wall of the housing. These protruded portions extend outward, creating cavities on the inner surface of the housing. This will enhance the structured organization as well as protection of components within the system.
[0014] In one of the embodiments of the present application, the protruded portions with their cavities may incorporate the apertures required to receive the guiding members. This integration streamlines cable routing and enhances the overall efficiency of the system.
[0015] In one of the embodiments of the present application, the protruded portions are revealed. Each protruded portion comprises a first portion that is coupled to the housing and a second portion that is detachably coupled to the first portion. This allows for modular assembly and disassembly of the system, improving maintenance and customization.
[0016] In one of the embodiments of the present application, the protruded portions, are detachable. Further, the apertures for receiving the guiding members enhance ease of use and assembly.
[0017] In one of the embodiments of the present application, the system may include one or more junction boxes that are intentionally configured between the power source unit(s) and the various devices within the vehicle. These junction boxes serve to optimize the distribution of electrical power within the system.
[0018] In one of the embodiments of the present application, to ensure safety and protection within the power distribution system, it may incorporate one or more electric fuses. These fuses contribute to safeguarding the system's components and devices.
[0019] In one of the embodiments of the present application, the devices that can be electrically connected within the vehicle are defined. The devices can be a control unit, a charger unit, and a DC to DC converter, highlighting the system's versatility and compatibility with different vehicle components.
[0020] In one of the embodiments of the present application, the housing of the power distribution system is mounted on the chassis of the vehicle, ensuring a secure and stable installation, further emphasizing the system's reliability and safety.
[0021] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.
[0022] Further, 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
[0023] The proposed invention is described with reference to one or more embodiments of a power distribution system for a vehicle with the accompanying figures. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present embodiments are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.
[0024] Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a power distribution system for a vehicle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0025] Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a power distribution system with a junction box for a vehicle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0026] Fig. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a power source unit housing with a protruded portion integrated with the housing, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0027] Fig. 3B illustrates an exploded view of a power source unit housing with a protruded portion having a first portion detachably coupled to a second portion, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0028] Fig. 4 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the proposed power distribution system in a vehicle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
[0029] Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the proposed power distribution system in a vehicle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the techniques described herein can be practised without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring certain aspects.
[0031] Various features and embodiments of the present disclosure here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. Further “front” and “rear”, and “left” and “right” referred to in the ensuing description of the illustrated embodiment refer to front and rear, and left and right directions as seen from a rear portion of the vehicle and looking forward. However, it is contemplated that the disclosure in the present disclosure may be applied to any vehicle without defeating the spirit of the present subject matter. The detailed explanation of the constitution of parts other than the present disclosure which constitutes an essential part has been omitted at suitable places.
[0032] The present subject matter is further described with reference to the accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate the principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[0033] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense, and would in no way be construed as limiting the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, connected, etc.) are only used to aid the reader’s understanding of the present disclosure, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position orientation, or use of the system and/or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected to each other.
[0034] Additionally, all numerical terms, such as, but not limited to, “first”, “second”, “primary”, “secondary”, “main” or any other ordinary and/or numerical terms, should also be taken as identifiers, to assist the reader’s understanding of the various elements, embodiments, variations and/or modifications of the present disclosure, and may not create any limitations, particularly as to the order, or preference, of any element, embodiment, variation, and/or modification relative to, or over, another element, embodiment, variation and/or modification.
[0035] It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted in the drawings/figures can also be implemented in a more separated or integrated manner, or even removed, or rendered as inoperable in certain cases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application. The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments. While embodiments may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the claimed subject matter. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
[0036] Further, various embodiments disclosed herein are to be taken in the illustrative and explanatory sense and should in no way be construed as limiting of the present disclosure. All joinder references (e.g., attached, affixed, coupled, disposed, etc.) are only used to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and may not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the systems and/or methods disclosed herein. Therefore, joinder references, if any, are to be construed broadly. Moreover, such joinder references do not necessarily infer those two elements are directly connected to each other.
[0037] Embodiments of the present disclosure explained herein relate to an improved and cost-effective power distribution system for a vehicle. The power distribution system as per the present invention, eliminates the limitations of a conventional power distribution unit and a connector, thereby reducing use of thick and/or high voltage cables for connecting a power source unit to other devices such as control units, a charger unit, a DC to DC convertor, and the like.
[0038] Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a power distribution system for a vehicle, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The power distribution system (100) can be implemented in different types of vehicles, such as but not limited to two wheeler vehicles, three wheeler vehicles, four wheeler vehicles, or multi axle vehicle which can be internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and other electrically powered vehicles. The power distribution system (100) includes one or more power source unit (100a), such as but not limited to a battery pack including a plurality of rechargeable batteries or fuel cells, that is accommodated in a housing (102). The housing (102) is configured with one or more apertures (312) to receive one or more guiding members (118, 120, 122, 124). The one or more guiding members (118, 120, 122, 124) are configured to direct and secure cables within a system. These members ensure that one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107) are properly aligned and held in place, preventing them from moving around or getting damaged. In an embodiment, the guiding members (118, 120, 122, 124) can be cable glands or the like and are configured with the one or more apertures for guiding and holding one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107). The cable glands are specific types of guiding members and are used to attach and secure the one end of the one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107) to the one or more power source unit (100a). The cable glands provide an airtight seal to protect the one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107) from dust, dirt, water, and other contaminants. Further, the cable glands prevent the one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107) from being pulled out or twisted, which can cause damage and shield the one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107) from mechanical stress and environmental factors like moisture and chemicals. A first end terminals (110, 112, 114) of the cables (106, 108, 105, 107) are connected to one or more devices of the vehicle and a second end terminals of the cables are electrically connected or coupled to the power source unit (100a). The devices can be selected from a group comprising but not limited to a control unit such as iVCU (Integrated Vehicle Control Unit), MCU (Motor Control Unit), a charger unit, and a DC to DC convertor. In one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the cable (108) is connected to a chassis of the vehicle for grounding. The cables are flexibles as same are not thick in radius compared to thick high-voltage cables used in the existing systems to connect the PDU and the battery pack this facilities easy routing of the cables in the vehicle, enhance packaging of the cables in less space in the vehicle and also recues cost of the system (100).
[0039] The housing (102) covers and provides protection to the components of the power distribution system (100). Particularly, as per a preferred embodiment of the present invention having an electric power source, the housing (hereinafter, also referred to as casing) encloses the plurality of cells present inside the power source unit (100a), and other components. In addition to providing cover and protecting components of the power unit (100a), the housing (102) may facilitate dissipating the heat away from the power source unit (100a) to the surroundings. The power source unit (100a) may be a battery pack, also in the present specification the terms battery pack (100a) and power source unit (100a) are used interchangeably. Accordingly, in an example, the housing (102) may be made of a thermally conductive and electrically insulating material.
[0040] In one of the embodiments, as show in Fig. 2, the power distribution system (200) includes a power source unit (100a), one or more junction boxes (206), such as but not limited to a junction box (206), configured between the power source unit (100a) and other devices (208, 210, 212) of the vehicle. The power source unit (100a) includes at least one battery pack (not shown) that is accommodated in a housing (102). The housing (102) comprises at least a bottom cover (202) and a top cover (204). At least one end of the junction box (206) is connected to at least one cable (216) which is connecting the junction box (206) to the power source unit (100a). Another end of the junction box (206) is connected to a first end terminal of one or more cables (222, 226, 227). The second end terminal of the one or more cables (222, 226, 227) are further connected to the one or more devices (208, 210, 212) of the vehicle. The devices (208, 210, 212) can be selected from a selected group comprising a control unit (208), a charger unit (210), and a DC to DC convertor (212), or the like. A first end of a cable (214) is connected to the power source unit (100a) and second end of the cable (214) is connected to a chassis or body of the vehicle for grounding. As per an aspect of the present invention, the junction box (206) is configured to distribute a current which is coming from the power source unit (100a) via at least one cable to other devices using the one or more cables (222, 226, 227). In an embodiment, the junction box (206) also comprises one or more fuses (not shown). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the junction box (206) comprising one or more input and one or more output. More specifically, one end of the junction box (206) may be connected to the one or more power source unit (100a) and the other end is connected to the one or more devices (208, 210, 212) of the vehicle.
[0041] In another embodiment, one or more fuses can be configured between the power source unit (100a) and the junction box (206).
[0042] Further, as per an alternate embodiment, the top cover (204), and the bottom cover (202) of the power source unit (100a) housing (102) are connected with each other to form the housing (102) of the power source unit (100a). Furthermore, the housing (102) is also configured with plurality of heat dissipating fins (not shown) on at least one of the top cover (204) and the bottom cover (202) or one the sides of the housing (102) for dissipating heat from inside the battery pack to the surroundings. Each of the top cover (204) and the bottom cover (202) can include an inner area which is facing the battery pack and an outer area which is opposite to the inner area.
[0043] In an embodiment, the housing (102) comprises at least one protruded portion (218p) on at least one wall of the housing (102), as shown in Figs. 2 to 3B, for instance on the bottom cover (202) or the top cover (204) or on the sides of the housing (102). The protruded portion (218p) is extended towards outside of the housing (102) to define a cavity or a recess on a surface of the housing (102). The protruded portion (218p) is provided with one or more apertures (not shown) which are capable of receiving one or more cable guiding members (218, 220). These cable guiding members help organize and route cables within the housing (102), ensuring proper alignment and protection.
[0044] The power distribution system (200) can include one or more electric fuses (not shown) configured with the power source unit (100a).
[0045] In an embodiment, the guiding members (218, 220) /cable glands (302, 304) such as but not limited to glands can be used to establish electrical connections between the one or more power source unit (100a) and the externally placed junction box.
[0046] Fig. 3a illustrates a perspective view of a power source unit housing (102) with the protruded portion (218p) which is integral with the wall of the housing (102), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The second portion protruded portion (218p) is provided with one or more apertures (312) to receive the one or more guiding members (218, 220). Further, by integrating the protruded portion (218p) with apertures, the cables can be routed through a recessed area, providing them with additional protection from external forces or environmental factors that could damage them. The protruded portion (218p) helps maintain the structural integrity of the housing (102), while still providing functionality like cable management without requiring extensive changes to the overall configuration of the casing (102). Furthermore, this configuration allows for optimal use of internal space, as the cables are guided through designated apertures, keeping the interior of the casing (102) organized and preventing interference with other components.
[0047] In one of the embodiments, as show in Fig. 3b, the power distribution system (300) includes a power source unit (100a), a housing (102) with at least one protruded portion (218p). The protruded portion (218p) is configured with a first portion (318) and a second portion (310), where the second portion (310) can be a cover detachably coupled to the first portion (318), for instance through one or more connecting or coupling units (308), such as but not limited to screws.
[0048] The second portion (310) of the at least one protruded portion (218p) is provided with one or more apertures (312) to receive the one or more guiding members (304, 302). Seals (306) are provided between the second portion (310) and a one or more guiding members (304, 302) for sealing the coupling between the second end terminal of cables (214, 216) with the power source unit (100a). Power connectors (316) of the power source unit (100a) are accessible through the guiding members (304, 302) and the apertures (312) for connecting cables (not shown) to the power source unit (100a). Other, connecting or coupling units, such as nuts (314) can be used for connection. As per an embodiment, the guiding members (304, 302) can be cable glands.
[0049] In another embodiment, the guiding members (218, 220)/cable glands (302, 304) can be used as connector to establish connection between the cables and the power source unit.
[0050] As shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the protruded portion (218p) can in an embodiment be a locally extended die-casted integral portion of the battery pack housing. The protruded portion create space in the housing for the cable terminals and the guiding members/ cable glands in the housing, and optimizing the housing design for cable connections.
[0051] In an embodiment, the protruded portion (218p) along with the second portion/ cap (310) provide space for mounting the guiding members /cable glands (302, 304) and offer flexibility in adjusting the inner space of the housing (102), by changing new designs of the second portion (310) alone, for cable terminal connection with the power source unit (100a). By changing the shape and/or size of the at least one of the first portion (318) and the second portion (310), inner volume of the housing (102) can be changed to provide more space to receive the guiding members /cable glands (302, 304) of different lengths inside the housing (102) and to provide more space to form electric connections between the cables (not shown) and power connectors (316) of the power source unit (100a). Therefore, ease of change in the volume of the housing (102) only by changing the shape and size of the second portion (310), can allow use of the housing (102) for different requirements of the power source units to cater to different variants of vehicles and vehicle models.
[0052] Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary implementation of the proposed power distribution system (100, 200, 300) in a vehicle (500), in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The housing (102) of the power distribution system (100, 200, 300) is mounted on a chassis (402) of the vehicle (500), ensuring a secure and stable installation, further emphasizing the system's reliability and safety. In an embodiment, the cables (106, 108, 105, 107) can be routed under chassis floor on either LH side or RH side of the vehicle (500). In the exemplary embodiment as shown in the figures of the present disclosure, the cables (106, 108, 105, 107) can be routed under chassis floor on LH side of the vehicle (500).
[0053] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one protruded portion (218p) in the housing (102) is configured to project outward from the housing (102), while in another embodiment, it projects inward. This flexibility in the at least one protruded portion (218p) orientation allows for adaptability in different configurations based on specific functional or structural requirements. The at least one protruded portion (218p) can be easily integrated into the housing (102) of one or more power source units (100a). This will simplify the manufacturing process but also enhances the ease of maintenance. One of the key advantages of this configuration is that in the event of an issue or breakage, the damaged part can be replaced without the need to change the entire housing (102) of the power source units (100a). This modular approach increases the durability and serviceability of the unit. By isolating the damaged component and allowing for its easy replacement, maintenance becomes more efficient, reducing downtime and costs associated with repairs. This feature also contributes to the sustainability of the product, as it minimizes waste by allowing individual parts to be replaced instead of discarding the entire casing or power unit.
[0054] In another embodiment, the cables (106, 108, 105, 107) can be routed under chassis floor from the center the vehicle (500). In another embodiment, the housing (102) of the power distribution system (100, 200, 300) can be mounted on below the chassis (402) of the vehicle (500).
[0055] In another embodiment, the housing (102) of the power distribution system (100, 200, 300) can be mounted any of a front portion, either side portion or a rear portion of the chassis (402) of the vehicle (500).
[0056] Referring to Fig. 1 to Fig. 5, the guiding members (118, 120, 12, 218, 220, 302, 304) can be disposed on top or bottom region of the housing (102,) on at least one side of the housing (102). The cables can be integrated with the power source unit (100a,) /battery pack through the guiding members/cable glands.
[0057] In an embodiment, by using different types of cables glands and/or cable out design, the power distribution can happen inside the housing with internal fuse and relay control.
[0058] In one embodiment, the battery pack(s) can be disposed below the driver seat in a front portion of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the battery pack can be disposed in lateral direction/ longitudinal direction of the vehicle.
[0059] In another embodiment, the battery pack can include low voltage connector. The guiding members/ cable glands (118, 120, 122, 124, 218, 220,302, 304) can be on either LH or RH side of the battery pack or from the top cover or the bottom cover.
[0060] The location of the devices such as iVCU, the DC-DC converter, the charger and other devices can define the location of the guiding members (118,120, 122, 124 218, 220, 302, 304) from the battery pack/housing (102).
[0061] As per an embodiment, some of the cables such as positive terminal cable connected to the battery, DC-DC converter cables, charger cables can be routed through a cut out in a floorboard of the vehicle on a left hand side or a right hand side. The negative terminal cable can be connected to the chassis of the vehicle for grounding.
[0062] The power distribution system disclosed herein addresses the challenges associated with efficiently managing the electrical connections within a vehicle. This system offers an innovative approach to organize and secure these connections, enhance cable routing and cable packaging in the vehicle by reducing the length of the cables which can be covered by any suitable covers, this reduces the chances of direct exposure of cables to users thereby enhancing safety.
[0063] The system is configured to accommodate one or more power source units. The one or more power source units may include batteries, power supplies, or other energy storage devices, depending on the specific requirements of the vehicle. The power source units serve as the primary energy source for the vehicle's components and devices.
[0064] The housing is configured to house the power source unit(s) and facilitate efficient cable management. This housing is configured with the one or more apertures intentionally positioned to allow the passage of the cables in an effective manner enabling ease of routing, coupling and flexibility of power source unit. The housing is configured to provide secure and organized storage for the power source unit(s).
[0065] The guiding members are configured to ensure that cables are safely routed and securely connected. These guiding members are configured with the apertures in the housing and work in conjunction with the housing to support and guide the cables. They play a crucial role in guiding and maintaining the stability and reliability of the cable connections.
[0066] Diverse cable types cater diverse electrical requirements of various vehicle components and devices. As such, the present invention is engineered to accommodate cables of different types, dimensions, and functional properties. This flexibility allows for the effective distribution of power to a wide range of components within the vehicle. For instance, the different cables can supply power of different voltage. In an exemplary embodiment, the cables can be made of same material or different materials.
[0067] The protruded portions with cavities are provided on the housing of the system on at least one of the walls of the housing. These protruded portions extend outward from the housing, creating cavities on the inner surface. These cavities are specifically designed to enhance cable organization / routing in a structured manner as well as accomplish component protection.
[0068] Each protruded portion comprises a first portion that is securely coupled to the housing. Further, it includes a second portion that is detachably coupled to the first portion. This modular design allows for easy assembly and disassembly of the system, simplifying maintenance as well as enable customization for vehicle manufacturer as needed.
[0069] The junction boxes and electric fuses of the system are configured to optimize the distribution of electrical power and ensure safety within the system, one or more junction boxes may be incorporated. These junction boxes facilitate the efficient routing of power to various devices within the vehicle. Further, the system may include one or more electric fuses, which serve as safeguards to protect the system's components and devices from electrical faults.
[0070] The system is configured to seamlessly connect a range of devices within the vehicle. These devices include, but are not limited to, control units responsible for managing various vehicle functions, charger units that handle the recharging of the power source unit(s), and DC to DC converters that convert and regulate electrical voltage for specific vehicle components.
[0071] The housing of the power distribution system is securely mounted on the vehicle's chassis. This ensures a stable and reliable installation, safeguarding the integrity of the electrical connections within the system. By being firmly fixed to the chassis or body structure, the system can withstand the dynamic forces and vibrations associated with vehicle operation. The housing can be mounted on a front portion of the vehicle.
[0072] In one embodiment, the housing can be mounted on a rear portion of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the housing can be mounted on a middle portion of the vehicle.
[0073] Thus, the present disclosure provides an improved power distribution system that reduces costs, weight, and part count of a vehicle, and making a battery pack more cost-effective, efficient, and reliable in the long term. Additionally, the inclusion of protruded portion with cover/cap, the housing offers flexibility in adapting to different configurations, by changing the shape and/or size of the cover/cap, for increasing space in the housing.
[0074] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified. It should be appreciated that the following figures may not be drawn to scale.
[0075] In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific embodiments disclosed herein can be modified or otherwise implemented in various other ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, this description is to be considered illustrative and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the manner of making and using various embodiments of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the forms of the disclosure herein shown and described are to be taken as representative embodiments. Equivalent elements, materials processed or steps may be substituted for those representatively illustrated and described herein. Moreover, certain features of the disclosure may be utilized independently of the use of other features, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the disclosure. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “consisting of”, “have”, and “is”, used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components, or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.
[0076] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims. ,CLAIMS:We Claim:
1. A power distribution system (100, 200, 300) for a vehicle (500), the power distribution system (100, 200, 300) comprising:
one or more power source units (100a);
a housing (102) configured to accommodate the one or more power source units (100a), the housing (102) comprising one or more apertures (312);
one or more guiding members (118, 120, 122, 124, 218, 220, 302, 304) configured with the one or more apertures (312) of the housing (102); and
one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107, 216, 214 ) extended though the one or more guiding members (118, 120, 122, 124, 218, 220, 302, 304), the one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107, 216, 214) being configured to electrically connect the one or more power source unit (100a, 100a, 100a) to one or more devices (208, 210, 212) of the vehicle (500).
2. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more guiding members (118, 120, 122, 124, 218, 220, 302, 304) being configured to support and guide the one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107, 216, 214) passing through the one or more guiding members (118, 120, 122, 124, 218, 220, 302, 304).
3. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more cables (106, 108, 105, 107, 216, 214) being of different types, different dimension, and different functional property.
4. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (102) comprises at least one protruded portion (218p) on at least one wall of the housing (102), each protruded portion (218p) being extended towards outside of the housing (102) to define a cavity on inner surface of the housing (102).
5. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the at least one protruded portion (218p) comprises the one or more apertures (312) to receive the one or more guiding members (218, 220, 302, 304).
6. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 4, wherein each protruded portion (218p) comprises a first portion (318) coupled to the housing (102) and a second portion (310) detachably coupled to the first portion (318).
7. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the second portion (310) comprises the one or more apertures (312) to receive the one or more guiding members (302, 304).
8. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 1 comprises one or more junction boxes (206) configured between the one or more power source unit (100a) and the one or more devices (208, 210, 212).
9. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 1 comprises one or more electric fusses.
10. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more devices (208, 210, 212) being selected from a group comprising a control unit (208), a charger unit (210), a DC to DC convertor (212).
11. The power distribution system (100, 200, 300) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing (102) being mounted on a chassis (402) of the vehicle (500).
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202341082681-PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION [05-12-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-12-05 |
| 2 | 202341082681-FORM 1 [05-12-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-12-05 |
| 3 | 202341082681-DRAWINGS [05-12-2023(online)].pdf | 2023-12-05 |
| 4 | 202341082681-REQUEST FOR CERTIFIED COPY [08-11-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-11-08 |
| 5 | 202341082681-FORM 18 [27-11-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-11-27 |
| 6 | 202341082681-DRAWING [27-11-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-11-27 |
| 7 | 202341082681-CORRESPONDENCE-OTHERS [27-11-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-11-27 |
| 8 | 202341082681-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [27-11-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-11-27 |