The company says that with the numerous complex systems and their many parts, it is no surprise that utilizing space efficiently can be a challenge for engineers.
Its newly released PD400 modular inverter provides space savings and flexibility to system designers with a solution for high-voltage/high-power hybrid electric vehicles.
The all-in-one system eliminates the need for multiple interfaces, while also matching exact system requirements, simplifying work, and allowing system designers to optimize machine performance in the often-extreme conditions of off-highway and heavy-duty applications.
One of the many considerations when designing a hybrid electric system is whether the system will need more than one inverter. In most modern hybrid systems, using at least two inverters is increasingly common. One often controls the ground drive functions and the others supply power to various systems, such as HVAC, electronics and energy regeneration.
The PD400 modular design can be configured with a single or dual inverter for maximum design flexibility. An optional brake chopper can be used to redirect excess energy into various forms of energy storage such as batteries or ultra-caps.
A problem that can arise with the use of multiple inverters is the potential for resonance, which could damage hardware or provide unpredictable power output. By using a dual inverter, the PD400 protects both itself and the machine’s other systems from resonance at a low cost while freeing up space with its compact design.
Another benefit of the compact design is its impact on energy loss and heat control. One by-product of inverter operation is the generation of heat and thus loss of energy through the conductors and at connection points. However, John Deere has eliminated multiple connector and cooling interfaces to decrease cost, minimize space requirements and reduce energy losses for improved efficiency.
February 2, 2016