Contribution to project
Antares were approached with the remit to provide part of the auxiliary electrical power system to manage the AC opportunity charging of the batteries from multiple external sources, to provide battery equalisation, and to offer 12V support for the forklift start battery.

COTS items
The IPC2 charging system offers a complete solution for charging lead acid batteries on the incident response vehicle. The system can be left operating unattended for long periods, as the unit monitors voltage and temperature to avoid unnecessary electrolyte loss. In addition the system has an auxiliary12V charging output.

The Battery Equalisation system enables the two batteries in the 24V auxiliary bank to be balanced whenever there is a charging voltage. This ensures the centre tap can be safely used to supply 12V equipment which may have a high short term load requirement. It also prolongs the life of the batteries by ensuring each battery gets the correct charge and allows the batteries to be replaced individually.

Special Developments
The specification requires the vehicles to be fitted with onboard battery charging and the ability to connect to either the familiar yellow 110VAC, or blue 230VAC inlet plugs commonly found in fire stations around the country. The proven Integrated Power Charger2 range is used, utilising a newly designed input module which enables either AC source to be connected to the charger.

A key feature of the new input module is the interlock that ensures that one input source, cannot back-feed into the other. The safety requirements of the Low Voltage Directive are met by maintaining the specified air gaps in the change over module. The charger is also suitable for use with either 110V or 230V generating sets and is capable of withstanding the typical voltage fluctuations that can be experienced during field operations.

Possible Future Integration
Our commitment to onboard electrical power management systems provides a unique UK electrical engineering resource to specialist vehicle integrators and vehicle operators. A partnership approach during feasibility, design, manufacture, supply and most importantly logistics yields both technical and financial benefits. Our engineering team are well versed in this complex field that includes alternator control, battery charging, power management, multiplexed task management, onboard AC generation and EMC.