[ausev] switching the mainline power

[MLAB]

Some clarification is in order about my application...

Vehicle stats are 48V, up to 60A.

This switch will not be in the passenger compartment, but back at the 
motor system.  This is more of a motorcycle in its configuration, so the 
motor system is fairly accessible, though it is enclosed.  I use a key 
switch on the throttle line to conveniently disable the system from the 
handlebars, but I need to a way to easily isolate the batteries from all 
the onboard systems (controllers, panel meters, and lighting systems).

I have a breaker switch on the battery pack, so I don't need this key 
switch to serve as a safety breaker. 

The problem is that this breaker seems to disagree with the battery 
management software built into my fancy Valence Saphion RT batteries, 
and I cannot just disconnect the batteries by throwing the breaker 
switch.  Right now I have to physically unplug and replug the battery 
with the breaker on if I want the system to work.  Toggling the breaker 
on with the plug connected causes the batteries to shut down (P2C2E).  
What I want is a switch that can disconnect the battery from everything 
else while the vehicle is stopped.  I expect no significant current to 
be in the line when this is switched.  But it must be able to carry the 
current when on.  It need not "switch" 60 amps, only "carry" 60 amps.

In truth, this need not be a key switch, but that would be best.  It is 
an open question whether this switch would create the same problem that 
the breaker does.  Hopefully if it just a simple switch it will not.


-- 
Mike Librik, LCI #929
Easy Street Recumbents
(512) 453-0438
45th and Red River Streets, thereabouts
Central Austin
info at easystreetrecumbents.com
www.easystreetrecumbents.com
www.urbancycling.com