VEHICLE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM STATE CONTROLLER

摘要

A motor vehicle electrical power distribution system includes a plurality of distribution sub-systems, an electrical power storage sub-system and a plurality of switching devices for selective connection of elements of the power distribution system to the electrical power storage sub-system. A state transition initiator directs control system operation of switching devices to change the states of the power distribution system. The state transition initiator has a plurality of positions selection of which initiates a state transition. The number of states of the power distribution system exceeds in number the number of positions of the state transition initiator. The control system enables the state transition initiator to emulate a four position rotary ignition switch, provides for interaction with fail safe power cutoff switches and provides high voltage switching device protection during instances of control system low voltage conditions.

主权项

1. A power distribution system comprising:
at least a first high voltage bus and a low voltage bus; a plurality of loads; a plurality of electrically controlled switches for controlling connection of the plurality of loads to the first high voltage bus; means connected to draw power from the low voltage bus for supplying control signals to the plurality of electrically controlled switches for closing the plurality of electrically controlled switches; and a control system connected to monitor voltage on the low voltage bus and responsive to a voltage level on the low voltage bus below a minimum threshold for preventing operation of the means for supplying applying control signals for closing the plurality of electrically controlled switches.