DE102005013099A1 - system - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for a vehicle for generating electrical energy, wherein it is proposed that the system comprises an air flow energy into kinetic energy converting energy converter and an energy supplied by the energy converter kinetic energy converting electric machine, wherein the energy converter at least partially in the flowing past the vehicle Exposed to air.

Description

The The present invention relates to a system for a vehicle for production electrical energy.

at combustion engines driven land vehicles it is known one for the operation of the land vehicle provided with electrical system supply electrical energy by one of the internal combustion engine additionally powered electric generator, the alternator, the required electrical energy supplies. To compensate for different operating conditions, an accumulator is provided as energy storage, which during the Operation of the internal combustion engine charged with electrical energy and, as needed, power to operate the electrical device supplies. A disadvantage of these systems is that the operation of the electrical Generator constantly a certain proportion of that provided by the internal combustion engine Performance for needed, the then the drive of the land vehicle is no longer available.

electrical powered land vehicles can have a system operated independently of the electric drive, a reliable, undisturbed Function of the facilities associated with this system. Such facilities can For example, a radio, interior lighting, meters or to be like that. In many cases, the operating voltages for the drive the electrical systems are very different from each other. costly Voltage converter and suppression measures are for the intended operation of the electrical system required. Is beyond the energy storage for the drive emptied, even the electrical system can no longer with energy be supplied.

at non-powered land vehicles, on the other hand, is usually not own electrical energy supply provided. These vehicles are often in the parked operating condition without an electric Power supply.

The It is an object of the present invention to provide a system which makes it possible overcome the aforementioned disadvantages.

When solution This object is achieved with the present invention, a system for a vehicle proposed for generating electrical energy, which a Air flow energy into kinetic energy converting energy converters and one from the energy converter having supplied kinetic energy converting electrical machine, wherein the energy converter at least partially the air flowing past the vehicle is exposed.

for the first time can be achieved that preferably while the drive a flowing past the land vehicle air flow to Purposes of energy production can be used. With a suitable arrangement can by air displacement while Partially used the energy of the land vehicle to get extra from this to gain electrical energy. The expended by the air displacement Power to move the land vehicle is usually one Loss energy, which is not used further. The invention allows it, with a suitable design to recover part of the energy loss and generate electrical energy from this. The vehicle can for example by a motor vehicle or a lorry, but also be formed by a rail vehicle. Furthermore, can the system according to the invention also for Air or water vehicles are used.

Of the Energy converter may be formed by a device with which the flow energy the passing one Air is converted into a kinetic energy, for example can exist in a rotary motion. The energy converter is advantageous Coupled with an electrical machine that controls the kinetic energy turn converted into an electrical energy. The electric Energy is preferably provided in the form of a DC voltage, with the preferably an energy storage, for example in the form a rechargeable battery or an electric capacitor, charged can be. It can, of course another voltage may be provided, for example, pulse voltages, AC voltages or the like. The energy storage, whose Use is optional, in turn, can be for the power supply of chosen Be provided consumers, such as an alarm or an additional one Energy supply, which in case of failure an operating power supply intervenes to dangerous conditions to avoid or to enable an emergency operation.

So that the energy converter can generate kinetic energy, it is at least partially, but preferably completely, exposed to the air flowing past the vehicle. In this case, the vehicle can be both at a standstill and in motion. When the vehicle is at a standstill, the air flowing past the vehicle in the form of wind is used, wherein the energy converter can preferably be aligned in such a way that optimal utilization of the air flowing past the vehicle is ensured. In a particular embodiment, it is provided that the energy converter before the vehicle while driving is exposed to flowing air, thus the wind is used. Preferably, the energy converter can be positioned relatively adjustable to the vehicle in order to align it depending on the exploiting air flow, that is, to adjust it so that it can be used both while driving the vehicle and at its stoppage.

In Another embodiment proposes that the energy converter having a rotatably mounted paddle wheel. The paddle wheel can, for example through one with outward be formed projecting blades occupied rotor shaft. But it can be formed by a rotatably mounted sleeve, at the Inner wall arranged radially inwardly extending blades are. This configuration allows it for Such energy converter known to use existing components to a simple, inexpensive To get construction.

Furthermore It is suggested that the energy converter a turbine is. With this form of energy converter can be a high Efficiency can be achieved.

In a further embodiment, it is proposed that the electrical Machine is a generator. The generator is usually one on the generation electric power specialized electric machine, which itself in terms of the energy production is characterized by a high degree of efficiency, in particular also because a motor operation is not provided. The efficiency of the system can be further increased become.

In a development is proposed that the electric machine a DC machine is. In this embodiment, the electrical Machine can be used both as a generator and as a motor. This embodiment may be advantageous, for example, if in addition to power generation, for example, a flow generation outside the normal driving of the land vehicle should be provided.

Besides It is suggested that the electric machine is a three-phase machine. With a three-phase machine In addition to a very compact design, high efficiency can be achieved the generation of electrical energy can be achieved. The high degree exploiting the kinetic energy thus makes it possible to have a low cost electric machine to use.

Furthermore It is suggested that the electrical Machine has a control device. With the control device can be achieved that the System in dependence operated by the operating conditions in each case in the optimum operating mode becomes. For example, it may be provided that in the state of the land vehicle or at a low speed, the power generation of the electrical Machine is set. In addition, at changing speeds be achieved that the electrical machine is controlled so that it is a largely constant Can supply voltage. It can about that In addition, other parameters for considered the scheme be, such as speed of the energy converter, speed the air flow, Temperature, current drain, state of charge of the energy storage or like. It can be provided, for example, that the impeller of the Energy converter only from a certain speed of the wind is released to generate kinetic energy. Such controls For example, wind turbines are also known for their aging to reduce at low speeds.

Farther It is suggested that the electric machine by means of a switching unit with the electric Energy storage is connectable. The switching unit can, for example through a contactor, a Relays or by electronic switches such as transistors, GTO or the like may be formed. The switching unit can be advantageous For example, be used to the electric machine only then pair with the energy store when a minimum power can be provided. This has the advantage, for example, that the at the start of the electrical machine required high inrush current for the Energy storage not to block the electrical machine and thus the system leads. This can be a safe start of the electrical machine coupled energy converter can be achieved. In addition, it can be achieved that one electrical discharge of the energy storage device via the electrical machine can be avoided.

In Another embodiment proposes that the energy converter and the electric machine are coupled by means of a shaft. A cost, durable, robust coupling can be achieved. Further, however, can be provided that the Energy converter and the electric machine by means of a transmission are coupled. This embodiment lends itself, for example, if a speed adjustment with respect the energy converter and the electrical machine is appropriate, for optimal adaptation to achieve the producible power. That way, both the energy converter as well as the electric machine in their largely optimal operation are used.

In addition, it is proposed that the energy converter and the electric machine by means of coupled to a belt. A cost-effective, flexible coupling of the electric machine with the energy converter can be achieved. This embodiment allows, among other things, a compensation of differences in distance due to temperature influences, vibrations, shocks and the like.

Further It is suggested that the System has an air duct in which the energy converter at least partially protruding. By means of the air duct, the flow guidance can be optimized so that the Efficiency of the energy converter can be further improved. In one embodiment, the air duct in a preferred Direction of travel of the land vehicle on an inlet opening. The optimal utilization the energy of the air flow can be reached. Preferably, the inlet opening in the front region of the Land vehicle arranged. This allows, among other things, the use an already existing dynamic pressure during the journey of the land vehicle. Part of the energy contained here, by the way anyway of the land vehicle may be used to generate electrical Energy with the system according to the invention be used. The overall efficiency of the land vehicle can be up this way be improved as the otherwise unused one Loss energy of the air flow be used can.

In a development is proposed that the air duct against the preferred direction of travel of the land vehicle has an outlet opening. The outlet opening can be provided for example on a vehicle side. she can while aerodynamically favorable be configured to use, for example, a suction effect and to further improve the efficiency. It is suggested with advantage that the Outlet opening in Rear area of the land vehicle is arranged. Preferably the outlet opening in upper area of the land vehicle may be arranged depending on the stern shape a negative pressure effect in addition to use.

In Another embodiment proposes that the land vehicle having a drive. The drive can, for example, as an internal combustion engine be formed, but it can also be designed as an electric motor be. The system according to the invention can be as additional Energy supply can be used. In an electric vehicle can This, for example, an increased range and / or a greater security in terms of operation of non-drive components become.

In In one embodiment, it is proposed that the system be separate electrical device supplied with energy. This device For example, by a cooling device, a separate electrical system or an emergency power supply be formed. For example, it may be provided that the system an emergency stand lighting for energized a parked land vehicle. Furthermore can use the system an independent Safety power supply are formed, for example, in the case a fault the normal operating power supply operation safety relevant Functions continue to ensure. The power supply can be used, for example, to to supply an on-board computer without interruption, if in a motor vehicle, for example in the context of a repair the vehicle battery must be disconnected.

In Another embodiment proposes that the land vehicle a follower is. Often dispose Trailer about none own power supply, but they are from the towing vehicle with supplied electrical energy. A parked trailer is therefore usually without its own power supply and therefore has for example, not over a parking light when it is disconnected from the towing vehicle. The system according to the invention allows it thus, a trailer to provide with its own power supply. In addition, can the system according to the invention with a trailer retrofitted with little effort become. Another advantage results from the fact that an electric Attachment of the trailer independently can be operated by the towing vehicle. It is not required that the electrical systems of towing vehicle and trailer must be compatible. A high flexibility can be reached.

In An advantageous development is proposed that the land vehicle has a residential structure. The land vehicle can, for example, by be formed a caravan or a caravan. Preferably have Such land vehicles have their own energy supply for the housing construction on, so that for The operation of the land vehicle required electrical system not additionally charged becomes. An independent Energy supply of the residential construction can be achieved. The system according to the invention is thus capable of housing either alone and / or in addition to energy to supply. costs for An external power supply in stand-by mode can be reduced.

The invention further proposes a vehicle having a system of the type described above. Such a vehicle may be, for example, a land vehicle, an aircraft or a watercraft. As a land vehicle in particular motor vehicles, such as cars or trucks come into consideration, which has its own drive, for example, have an internal combustion engine or an electric machine. As land vehicles but also come rail-bound vehicles, such as maglev trains or conventional railways into consideration. Furthermore, the system according to the invention is suitable for use in an aircraft, for example a helicopter, an aircraft or the like. Particularly in the case of aircraft, the use of the system according to the invention is advantageous since aircraft, in particular jet-powered aircraft, fly at high speed and thus generate a high flow velocity with respect to the air flowing past the aircraft. The energy obtained by means of the system according to the invention can be used to supply an additional energy store with energy, which is otherwise independent of the power supply of the aircraft and can serve as Notenergieversorgungseinrichtung.

The inventive system is characterized in particular by the fact that it is independent of other energy production facilities can be operated. It provides a redundant system especially for safety reasons Advantage is. Of course, the system according to the invention can also be used for this purpose to provide power to electrically operable facilities, as they are present in every vehicle. This is especially true the use of the system according to the invention for campers, caravans or the like that do not have their own power supply feature.

Further Features and advantages will become apparent from the following description an embodiment. The embodiments illustrated in the figures are merely intended the explanation and are for these are not restrictive. Identical components are designated by the same reference numerals.

It demonstrate:

1 a schematic side view of a motor vehicle,

2 a front view of the in 1 shown motor vehicle,

3 an enlarged view of the section III in 1 .

4 a section of the flow channel in 3 along a line IV-IV and

5 a schematic diagram of the system according to the present invention.

1 shows a motor vehicle 10 in lateral, schematic representation with a rear fender 12 in which in connection with the rear part of the bodywork of the motor vehicle 10 an air duct 16 is arranged. The air duct 16 points in the front section of the fender 12 an inlet opening 14 on. In the upper rear area of the motor vehicle 10 the flow channel opens 16 in an outlet opening 18 , As further out 1 it can be seen is in the flow channel 16 the energy converter 20 of the system according to the invention.

2 shows the motor vehicle with the system according to the invention in front view. Clearly visible are the widened fenders 12 that are required anyway due to widened tires. The fenders 12 have in the direction of travel inlet openings 14 on.

3 shows an enlarged view of the air duct 16 with the energy converter 20 , In the flow channel 16 arises during the journey of the motor vehicle 10 an air flow in the direction 42 , In the air duct 16 is by means of brackets 22 the energy converter 20 arranged. The energy converter 20 has a rotatably mounted paddle wheel 24 on, on whose front sides Strömungsleitkappen 44 are arranged. The through the flow channel 16 flowing air 42 drives the paddle wheel 24 on, so that this is put into a rotary motion.

4 shows a sectional view through the energy converter 20 , Within the energy converter 20 , inside the fan 24 is an alternator 26 arranged, which is rotatably connected as external rotor with the fan. About not shown lines, for example, in the brackets 22 can be housed, the electrical connection to the accumulator 28 ,

5 shows a schematic diagram of the system according to the invention. The air flow 42 flows through the flow channel 16 , being with the energy converter 20 interacts. This takes the air flow 42 Energy that is converted into a kinetic energy, namely a rotational energy. The one with the energy converter 20 connected electric generator 26 converts the kinetic rotational energy into an electrical energy.

The generator 26 is on its electrical side with a switching unit 34 connected by means of an electrical connection to the accumulator 28 can be produced. The accumulator 28 in turn is in electrical connection with a consumer 30 ,

Both the generator 26 as well as the switching unit 34 and the accumulator 28 are about communication lines 36 . 38 . 40 with a control unit 32 connected. The control unit 32 detected via the communication line 36 the speed of the generator rotor and the generator current. About the communication line 38 becomes the switching unit 34 controlled, so that by means of the control unit 32 the electrical connection between the generator 26 and the accumulator 28 is controllable. By means of the communication line 40 is the accumulator voltage and the state of charge of the accumulator 28 detected, which is presently designed as a lead-acid battery.

Is the motor vehicle 10 during start-up, the air flows 42 through the air inlet opening 14 as well as through the canal 16 and drives the fan 24 the energy converter 20 at. At the same time with the fan 24 becomes the generator 26 supplied with rotational, kinetic energy, so that at its terminals, not shown, an electrical voltage as a function of one of the control unit 32 over the communication line 36 predetermined arousal sets. In this state, the switching unit is located 34 in the open position. The control unit 32 measures the electrical voltage of the accumulator 28 over the communication line 40 , Once equal voltage exists and a sufficient speed at the generator 26 is reached, receives the switching unit 34 over the communication line 38 from the control unit 32 the command, the electrical connection between the generator 26 and the accumulator 28 manufacture. The generator 26 now supplies the accumulator 28 with electrical energy in the form of direct current, which in turn is the consumer 30 energized.

Now reaches the state of charge of the accumulator 28 a maximum value, so receives the switching unit 34 from the control unit 32 the command, the connection between the generator 26 and the accumulator 28 to interrupt, overcharging the accumulator 28 to avoid. At the same time a braking device not shown in the generator 26 over the communication line 36 activated to a rotary motion of the generator 26 as well as the runner 24 to avoid. As a result, unnecessary wear can be avoided by high-speed components, whereby the life expectancy of the system can be increased. The energy supply of the consumer 30 now takes place solely by the accumulator 28 , regardless of whether the motor vehicle 10 in driving or not.

Once the critical state of charge of the accumulator 28 is left, the brake of the generator 26 through the control unit 32 disabled, and the electrical connection via the switching unit 34 restored, as previously described.

In the present embodiment, the motor vehicle 10 an electric car. The accumulator 28 serves to supply the consumer 30 specified drive motor with electrical energy. The additionally provided energy allows the range of the motor vehicle 10 to increase. In one embodiment, it is provided that an electric car with an electric drive and an energy storage by the inventive system is additionally supplied with electrical energy by the system feeds the energy provided by him directly into the already required for the drive energy storage.

Farther comprises the invention is an electric motor vehicle with an electric drive and a system for generating electrical energy, wherein the system an airflow energy into kinetic energy converting energy converters, one from the Energy converter supplied kinetic energy converting electrical Machine and one supplied by the electric machine Has energy storage energy storage. The energy storage is also to supply the electric drive with energy intended.

For the expert it can be seen that it in addition to the described embodiment a variety of other embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, it may be provided that the inlet opening of the flow channel in the bumper area or the grille is arranged. The outlet could, for example inside the fenders or be arranged centrally in the upper region of the stern. The openings are preferably with respect to Arrangement and shaping streamlined optimized select. Of course The present invention can also be applied to trailers and trucks Find.

The previously described embodiment acts also not restrictive insofar than that the system according to the invention also for other types of vehicles can be used, such as for rail-bound Land vehicles, aircraft or watercraft. The scope of the system according to the invention There are no limits.

10

motor vehicle

12

fender

14

inlet port

16

flow channel

18

outlet

20

energy converters

22

bracket

24

paddle wheel

26

Alternator

28

accumulator

30

consumer

32

control unit

34

switching unit

36

communication line

38

communication line

40

communication line

42

airflow

44

Strömungsleitkappe

Claims (25)

System for a vehicle for generating electrical energy with an air flow energy into kinetic energy converting energy converters and one the supplied by the energy converter kinetic energy converting electrical Machine, wherein the energy converter at least partially on the vehicle flowing past Exposed to air. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the energy converter having a rotatably mounted paddle wheel. System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized that the Energy converter is a turbine. System according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized that the electric machine is a generator. System according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized that the Electric machine is a DC machine. System according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized that the electric machine is a three-phase machine. System according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized that the electrical machine has a control device. System according to one of the preceding claims by an energy supplied by the electric machine storing energy storage. System according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized that the electrical machine and the energy storage coupled by means of a switching unit are. System according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized that the Energy converter and the electric machine by means of a shaft are coupled. System according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized that the Energy converter and the electric machine coupled by means of a transmission are. System according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized that the Energy converter and the electric machine coupled by means of a belt are. System according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized through an air duct into which the energy converter at least partially protrudes. System according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized that the Air duct in a preferred direction of travel of the vehicle Having inlet opening. System according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized that the Inlet opening in the front area of the vehicle is arranged. System according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized that the Air duct against the preferred direction of travel of the vehicle a Has outlet opening. System according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized that the Outlet opening in the rear area of the vehicle is arranged. System according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized that this Vehicle has a drive. System according to claim 18, characterized that the Drive is formed by an electric machine. System according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized that this System powered by a separate electrical device. System according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized that this Vehicle a trailer is. System according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized that this Vehicle has a residential structure. Land vehicle, in particular electrically operated Land vehicle, comprising a system according to one of the preceding claims. Land vehicle according to claim 23, characterized that this Land vehicle is a rail vehicle. Aircraft, in particular aircraft, with a system according to one of the preceding claims.