Design of actuation control unit with EDLC capacitors as the embedded energy back up for mechatronic applications

This paper presents an Actuation Control Unit (ACU) of 450J embedded energy storage, which is used in the automotive domain for mechatronic applications such as door control, windows lifter control and for robotised gear box control of the vehicle. In case of abnormal conditions such as accidents, EDLC capacitors will provide the energy back up for emergency applications. Full operation of electric actuator can be done by using Electric double layer capacitor (EDLC). EDLC will provide embedded energy for the ACU, in case of battery failure or if any problem arises in wiring connection of the car subsystem. EDLC capacitor will store more energy compared to battery and normal capacitor. EDLC capacitor provides the necessary voltage and current levels for the actuator operation to make the system to work in safe condition. ACU provides more power within a short time for actuator operation. Boost Converter will provide the necessary voltage and current level for actuator operation. In most cases electro mechanical devices are powered with lithium ion based battery which will provide high energy density and low weight. Lithium-ion batteries are more economical compared to lead acid batteries. Energy backup device has temperature range, from -40 to 130° C and it provides life cycle of about 30,000 hours. Actuation control unit will maintain the power level and provides power level of hundreds of watt for safety electro-mechanical applications.