42V PowerNet System Protection Concepts

Abstract

Introduction of the 42V-PowerNet requires consideration of architecture and voltage specific fault scenarios.

It is the intention of this paper to create awareness of the most critical issues (corrosion, arcing and inter-bus short circuits) and to show solution concepts depending on application and the chosen architecture.

The trend towards semiconductor based power switching will support adaptive system protection and diagnostics for monitoring the state of the electrical system.

When we discuss the planned implementation of higher system voltage into future vehicles we always meet the topic of safety.

First of all there is the issue of human protection. This has been solved by choosing a voltage level which is considered safe for human beings. Therefore additional safety measures are not really required. Vehicle safety is the second issue:

• • What is the impact of 42 V on the vehicle elctrical system?

• • If we apply a dual voltage architecture - will the 14 V system be safe?

• • How do chemical and physical effects like corrosion and arcing behave at 42 V?

• • What are the recommended measures to be taken?

The following paper will give some answers to these questions.