Active Fuse System, Improvements in the fuse system in commercial vehicles

Abstract

In this master thesis work the possibilities with an active fuse system has been investigated, with the background in the increased number of electric loads in commercial vehicles. Different design possibilities have be considered together with implementation alternatives. A prototype was built for testing turn-o_ times of an analogue switch circuit design. Experiments were also carried out on a power distribution unit, constructed by Volvo 3P in 2003 hereinafter referred to as the PDU, which utilizes a digital switch circuit design. The results shows that a analogue switch design is to prefer for best protection, with turn-o_ times down to 0,5_s. The digital switch design was slower in all tests. The power losses for a traditional blow out fuse were compared to the prototype showing an equal power loss up to 10A and a greater power loss in the prototype afterward. A mix of an analogue and digital circuitry design was thought as the best alternative. This design will have rapid response times and flexible fuse levels together with diagnostic features. The implementation of the active fuse system in a commercial vehicle has to be evaluated with respect to case specific needs.