Design of a Novel Wavelet Based Transient Detection Unit for In-Vehicle Fault Determination and Hybrid Energy Storage Utilization

This paper addresses the performance and reliability issues as encountered by the present EV technology. The research work presented in this paper is based on an ongoing project which has a twofold research motivation: 1) use of wavelet analysis to determine transients in electric vehicles; and 2) application the information obtained during transient detection to address the performance and reliability concerns. The novel wavelet based transient detection unit designed and developed as part of this project is discussed in this paper. The prototype is developed on a low-cost embedded system in order to provide an economical solution. Significance of the developed transient detection unit is also illustrated in this paper by developing applications that ensure a robust and reliable drivetrain with enhanced performance. Firstly, the information gathered from the transient detection unit is used to determine in-vehicle electrical faults. Secondly, this transient detector is used to facilitate the optimization of hybrid energy storage system (battery/ultra-capacitor combination) and to ensure smooth battery operation.