Charging system for electric vehicles

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a charging system (10) for electric vehicles (12) comprising: a number N of charging ports (LPj), each charging port (LPj) having an interface (14) for power exchange with an electric vehicle (12); a number M of modular energy storage direct converter systems (MESDCSs) (Ui); a switchable connection matrix (16); and a control system (18). The control system (18) is configured to control an output voltage (Ui) of each MESDCS (Ui). The switchable connection matrix (16) is configured to connect one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to each given charging port (LPj) and is further configured to connect one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to a power source (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electric mobility. More specifically, this invention relates to a charging system for electric vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] The number of electric vehicles worldwide is increasing rapidly. With this increase, there is a growing demand for charging systems. In existing charging systems, AC / DC converters are typically used to convert AC voltage supplied by the power network into DC voltage. Since different electric vehicles require different charging voltages, this DC voltage cannot simply be used directly to charge different vehicles simultaneously at different charging ports. Instead, in conventional charging systems, DC voltage is supplied to the DC bus, and an additional DC / DC converter is provided between the DC bus and each individual charging port, where the DC / DC converter allows the desired charging voltage to be provided.

[0003] These existing charging systems lack the flexibility to meet potentially changing charging demands. Specifically, the DC / DC converter is designed for maximum charging power and maximum charging voltage. If a new type of electric vehicle becomes available requiring higher charging voltage or higher charging power, the DC / DC converter must be replaced. On the other hand, if the DC / DC converter is over-designed to serve all types of vehicles, the hardware is used inefficiently most of the time.

[0004] Another challenge to the increasing demand for charging systems is the local supply of electricity from the power grid. If an additional intermediate voltage network, such as one providing voltages greater than, for example, 1kV and typically in the range of 10kV to 50kV, must be provided for the additional charging systems, the cost of supplying these systems increases significantly. On the other hand, low-voltage power grids with voltages less than 1kV, while available in many places, generally do not provide enough power to charge multiple electric vehicles simultaneously at high charging power.

[0005] US 2013 / 006 9592 A1 discloses a charging system having multiple charging ports, multiple power converters for converting power from a power source into power of a desired specification for charging a vehicle, and a switchable connection matrix for connecting at least one power converter to at least one charging port. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The fundamental problem of this invention is to provide a charging system for electric vehicles that allows service to different types of vehicles with varying charging needs, while optimally utilizing available hardware and available power supplied from sources such as power grids. In some embodiments, the electric vehicle may be an electric car, and in the specific embodiments described herein, reference is primarily made to automobiles for illustrative purposes. However, the invention is not limited thereto, but generally relates to any type of electric vehicle, including electric cars, motorcycles, scooters, trucks, tractors, boats, or aircraft.

[0007] This problem is solved by the charging system according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are defined in the dependent claims. This problem is also solved by the method of operating the charging system according to claim 30. Advantageous embodiments of the method are defined in the corresponding dependent claims.

[0008] According to one aspect, the present invention provides a charging system for electric vehicles, comprising: N charging ports, each charging port having an interface for power exchange with an electric vehicle; M modular energy storage direct converter systems (MESDCS); a switchable connection matrix; and a control system. Each MESDCS includes a converter arm having a first end and a second end and including a plurality of sequentially interconnected modules, wherein each module includes...

[0009] -At least one first terminal and at least one second terminal,

[0010] - Element used for storing electrical energy, especially batteries, or energy conversion elements, and

[0011] - Multiple module switches.

[0012] In every two adjacent modules, at least one first terminal of one module is connected directly or via an intermediate component to at least one second terminal of the other module. The plurality of module switches at least allow for: selectively deactivating the storage element or energy conversion element of each module, and connecting the storage elements or energy conversion elements of adjacent modules in series. Note that the term “deactivating” a MESDCS storage element or energy conversion element has a broad meaning and should only indicate that the corresponding element, in its deactivated state, does not contribute to the current or voltage supplied by the MESDCS’s converter arm. Specifically, this can mean that the storage element or energy conversion element for electrical energy is bypassed in the current flow through the MESDCS. For example, this could involve providing a short circuit between at least one first terminal and at least one second terminal of the corresponding module. In other words, the “deactivated” energy storage device or conversion element is not itself deactivated, but is only in a non-active state from the MESDCS’s perspective.

[0013] Furthermore, the control system is configured to control the output voltage of each MESDCS based on information about the current charge state of the storage element or the voltage or output power of the energy conversion element, and by actuating at least a portion of the plurality of module switches according to this information, such that the converter arm as a whole supplies the output voltage. The switchable connection matrix is ​​configured to connect one or more selected MESDCSs to each given charging port under the control of the control system, and is also configured to connect one or more selected MESDCSs to a power source.

[0014] In this document, "power source" can generally refer to an electrical network, such as a grid or trunk network, or a microgrid. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the power source can be, for example, a solar power plant, one or more wind turbines, etc.

[0015] The control system can consist of a single electronic control unit or multiple interconnected control units. Each control unit may include one or more microprocessors or ASICs. 。 The functions of the control system disclosed in this article can be manifested in hardware, software, or both.

[0016] The general term “modular energy storage direct converter system” as used herein derives from the fact that it is “modular” because it is an assembly of modules, capable of storing energy through energy storage elements, and is a “direct converter system”—because it is designed to actuate at least a portion of the multiple module switches according to the current charge state of the storage element (or according to the current power or voltage of the energy conversion element), in such a way that the converter arm as a whole is supplied with the desired output voltage. In practice, a MESDCS can typically provide any DC or AC output voltage waveform by actuating at least a portion of the multiple module switches. Thus, when a MESDCS is connected to a charging port, it can provide any desired charging voltage, and in particular both DC and AC voltages. Furthermore, for charging the energy storage element, there is the same flexibility as with the output voltage; the energy storage element can be charged with virtually any voltage applied across the converter arm, including both DC and AC voltages. Therefore, when one or more selected MESDCSs are connected to the power source, their corresponding energy storage element can be charged by the power source. One type of MESDCS is described in WO2016 / 012247A1.

[0017] Therefore, MESDCS not only allows the voltage from the power source to be converted to the desired charging voltage at the charging port, but also allows energy storage, enabling it to act as an energy buffer. This allows for: providing high instantaneous total charging power at multiple charging ports, potentially exceeding the power source's capacity, when there is high demand for vehicle charging, and refilling the energy storage elements when there is less charging demand at the charging port.

[0018] While each of the modules described herein includes a battery, it should be noted that the invention is not limited thereto, as it can also be applied to systems employing other energy storage elements, such as redox flow batteries or capacitors, or to systems in which at least a portion of the module includes energy conversion elements such as solar cells, fuel cells, or thermocouples. Therefore, wherever battery-based systems are described in the following description, it should be understood that, where applicable, the corresponding disclosure should also relate to other forms of energy storage or energy conversion elements without further mention.

[0019] The MESDCS defined above offers several important advantages. For example, since the voltage associated with each individual energy storage / conversion element can be relatively low, the module switch does not have to switch high voltages. This allows, for example, the use of standard low-voltage silicon MOSFETs instead of more expensive IGBTs or silicon carbide MOSFETs. Furthermore, switching lower voltages via module switching allows for better electromagnetic compatibility and reduced total harmonic distortion.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the control system is configured to ensure that no MESDCS is simultaneously connected to a phase (or “phase conductor”) of the power source and a charging port. This allows the potential of the charging port to be automatically isolated from the potential of the phase of the power source. Complete isolation between the potential of the power source on one hand and the potential of the charging port / electric vehicle on the other hand can then be easily achieved, for example, by ensuring that when a MESDCS is connected to a given charging port, it is not simultaneously connected to the same ground connection as the power source. For this purpose, a separate ground for the MESDCS can be provided, and it can be connected directly or indirectly (e.g., via another MESDCS) to the MESDCS when the MESDCS is connected to the charging port. Conversely, when the MESDCS is connected to the power source, or more precisely, to a phase or “phase conductor” of the power source, it can also be directly or indirectly connected to the ground connection associated with the power source. The switching between the two grounds can also be established by a switching matrix.

[0021] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the connection matrix is ​​configured such that, under the control of the control system, when one or more selected MESDCSs are connected to the power source, the one or more selected MESDCSs are directly or indirectly connected to the ground associated with the power source, and when the one or more selected MESDCSs are connected to the charging port, the one or more selected MESDCSs are disconnected from the ground of the power source. In this case, the selected MESDCSs may be directly or indirectly connected to the ground associated with the charging port, as will become apparent from the detailed description below.

[0022] In order to charge an electric vehicle at a desired charging voltage at a given charging port, in a preferred embodiment, the control system is configured to establish at least two, and preferably all, of the following charging states:

[0023] - A single charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of a selected MESDCS to match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect only the selected MESDCS to the given charging port.

[0024] - Parallel charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltages of at least two selected MESDCSs to match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect each of the at least two selected MESDCSs to the given charging port, and

[0025] - Series charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of a group of two or more selected MESDCSs such that their sum matches the desired charging voltage at the given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect the group of two or more selected MESDCSs in series and to connect the series-connected group to the given charging port.

[0026] In this paper, the parallel charging state allows for a higher charging current than is possible with a single MESDCS, enabling particularly rapid charging at the given charging port. Furthermore, the series charging state allows for particularly high charging voltages. In both cases, individual MESDCSs do not necessarily need to be sized for particularly high output voltages or currents; rather, they can be combined in parallel or series charging states only when there is a corresponding demand for high voltage and such high current charging.

[0027] Note that the single charging state does not preclude a single selected MESDCS connected to the given charging port from also being connected to another charging port. In this case, the given charging port and the other charging port would be connected in parallel to the single selected MESDCS. However, in a preferred embodiment, the single charging state is a state in which one and only one MESDCS is connected to one and only one charging port. In a preferred embodiment, the control system is configured to simultaneously establish different charging states among the single charging state, parallel charging state, and series charging state for different charging ports.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the control system is configured to establish a reverse charging state in which it controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs to a value lower than the current voltage of the battery of an electric vehicle connected to a given charging port, and controls the switchable connection matrix to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs to the given charging port, such that the energy storage devices within the one or more selected MESDCSs are charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the given charging port. The appropriate value of the output voltage of the one or more selected MESDCSs used for reverse charging depends on the current impedance and can be adjusted to establish a desired charging current or charging power. Figuratively, in the reverse charging state, the charging system “borrows” energy from the vehicle’s battery, thereby effectively extending the inherent “buffer capacity” of the MESDCSs to the vehicle connected to the charging port. This can be useful, for example, when the charging system is used to stabilize the power source to which it is connected (e.g., a trunk network).

[0029] Preferably, the control system is configured to establish a power source support state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs to a value higher than the voltage of the power source and controls the connection matrix to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs to the power source. Again, the appropriate value of the output voltage of the one or more selected MESDCSs for the power source depends on the current impedance and can be adjusted to establish the desired current or power. In the power source support state, energy is supplied from the MESDCSs to the power source. This can be a stopgap measure if there is a risk of power failure or outage, and if the power source (e.g., the trunk network) can be stabilized by the MESDCSs in the power source support state. However, feeding energy from the MESDCSs to the power source is not only useful in emergencies but can also be done routinely to compensate for anticipated peaks in power demand. In particular, by alternately employing reverse charging and power source support states, energy can be efficiently transferred from the vehicle battery to the power source as part of the regular operation of the charging system, such that not only the MESDCSs but also the vehicle battery acts as a buffer for the power system. The charging system is particularly useful when used for parked cars where there is no specific time requirement for charging.

[0030] Note that the feature mentioned above—that the switchable connection matrix, according to which the feature is configured to connect one or more selected MESDCSs to each given charging port under the control of the control system—can involve: connecting a single MESDCS to a given charging port, connecting two or more MESDCSs in parallel to a given charging port, or connecting two or more MESDCSs in series to a given charging port, as in single charging, parallel charging, and series charging states, respectively. However, the same single, parallel, and series connections of MESDCSs to the charging port can also be used in reverse charging. Specifically, when two or more MESDCSs are connected to the charging port in series in reverse charging, the "output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs" corresponds to the sum of the individual voltages of the series-connected MESDCSs, and this total voltage can then be controlled to be lower than the voltage of the vehicle's battery connected to the charging port. In other words, the main difference between charging and reverse charging states is the direction of energy flow, while the connections provided by the connection matrix can be the same in both charging and reverse charging modes.

[0031] Similarly, the feature mentioned above—that the switchable connection matrix "is configured to connect one or more selected MESDCSs to a power source under the control of the control system"—can involve: connecting a single MESDCS to a power source (or its selected phase), connecting two or more MESDCSs in parallel to a power source (or its selected phase), or connecting two or more MESDCSs in series to a power source (or its selected phase). Again, this applies both to cases where the MESDCSs will be charged by the power source and to cases where the MESDCSs provide energy to the power source in a power source-supported state. In particular, the possibility of connecting two or more MESDCSs in series to a power source (or its selected phase) can be advantageous when the voltage of the power source is higher than or even significantly higher than the voltage of the battery to be charged. For example, consider a vehicle battery with 400V and a power source with 2kV. If only a single MESDCS is connected to the power source, that MESDCS would also have to be designed to provide 2kV, requiring a corresponding number of modules. If only 400V is needed for charging, this would not be an efficient use of the hardware. However, when the connection matrix enables, for example, a series connection of five MESDCSs to be connected to a power source, each of the MESDCSs will only receive 400V, and therefore designing each of the MESDCSs for this lower voltage would be sufficient for optimal use of the hardware.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, connecting the one or more selected MESDCSs to the power source in the power source support state includes: connecting the one or more selected MESDCSs to a given phase of the power source, wherein the control system further controls the output voltage of the one or more selected MESDCSs to follow the time-varying phase voltage of the power source phase, such that it is higher than the time-varying phase voltage at every moment, again utilizing the "direct converter" capability of the MESDCSs to output an optimal voltage waveform for supporting the AC phase of the power source. Note that "output voltage higher than phase voltage" means that its magnitude is higher and its polarity is the same as the phase voltage, such that the MESDCS output voltage effectively always supports the power source phase voltage. Note that, as before, the output voltage of the MESDCSs is controlled to obtain the desired power flow or energy exchange. In other words, although power flow is the quantity of actual interest, the controllable output voltage of the MESDCSs is adjusted to obtain such a power flow, and in this case, a power flow supporting the power source is obtained. It should also be noted that both reverse charging and power support states can be maintained for extended periods, such as one minute or more, 10 minutes or more, 30 minutes or more, or even one hour or more. However, the duration of reverse charging and power support states can be much shorter, on the order of seconds or even less, and they can be established intermittently depending on technical requirements. For example, when power support mode is used for purposes such as peak shaving, the power support mode can be relatively short, on the order of seconds or minutes, while for purposes such as capacity firming or load shifting, such as to account for fluctuations in electricity generated by, for example, wind or solar power, the power support mode can be established for longer periods, such as half an hour or more.

[0033] When replacing the inertia of a rotating rotor in a conventional power plant (the so-called "spinning reserve"), the time horizon is also short and a few seconds. Frequency regulation or frequency containment reserve is typically supplied in 15-minute intervals, as this is the period defined in grid specifications supporting grid frequencies (e.g., 50 Hz in Europe) for primary frequency control (often using battery storage systems). Secondary frequency control will have a longer time horizon. Grid disturbances, such as voltage drops in short time frames, can also be compensated for (flicker compensation, voltage / power quality). By providing or absorbing reactive power to reduce apparent power on the power line, the system can also be used to move the power factor ("cos phi") to 1 (unity), which is referred to in the art as "power factor correction".

[0034] While the “power source support state” described above is generally used to describe the state of supplying power from the MESDCS to the power source, this should not imply a continuous supply of power to the power source. Instead, the power source—such as a trunk network—can also be supported in a manner involving a time-dependent bidirectional power flow. In some implementations of the “power source support state,” the control system is configured to control the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs to result in a time-dependent bidirectional power flow between the charging system and the power source to establish (but is not limited to) grid support applications such as peak shaving, load balancing, flicker compensation, power factor correction, frequency containment reserve, frequency regulation, capacity fixing, spinning reserve, and power or voltage quality enhancement.

[0035] In some embodiments, the switchable connection matrix has a first portion comprising: N first terminals, each first terminal connected to a corresponding one of the N charging ports; and M second terminals, each second terminal connected to a corresponding first terminal of a MESDCS, wherein the switchable connection matrix is ​​switchable under the control of the control system to selectively connect each of the first terminals to one or more selected second terminals. Note that it is possible, but not necessary, for each of the first terminals to be selectively connected to each of the second terminals. While this would provide maximum flexibility regarding connection states, it would often not be necessary in practical applications. However, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, each of the first terminals may be selectively connected to at least a subset of the second terminals.

[0036] Preferably, the first portion of the switchable connection matrix further includes L third terminals, each of which is connected to a corresponding phase of the power source or to ground, wherein the switchable connection matrix is ​​switchable under the control of the control system to selectively connect each of the third terminals to one or more selected second terminals.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the switchable connection matrix can be switched under the control of the control system (18) to connect the two second terminals to each other, but not to either of the first terminals.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the switchable connection matrix has a second portion, wherein the second portion of the switchable connection matrix is ​​switchable under the control of the control system to connect the second terminals of two selected MESDCSs to each other, or to connect the second terminals of the selected MESDCSs to ground.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the power source is a low-voltage network with a DC voltage of up to 1500V or an AC voltage of up to 1000V, particularly the 230 / 400 volt or 110 volt networks commonly used in the United States. Such low-voltage networks are widely available, allowing the charging system according to this embodiment to be installed in a wide variety of locations without requiring additional or extended power networks. While the total power available at such a low-voltage network is limited due to the buffering provided by the energy storage elements of the MESDCS, considerably high instantaneous charging power can be provided, and the energy storage elements are refilled during periods of lower charging demand, ensuring that the limited power provided by the low-voltage network is optimally used for efficient charging.

[0040] In an alternative implementation, the power source is an intermediate voltage network having a voltage between 1kV and 60kV, preferably between 1kV and 30kV.

[0041] In various embodiments, the number N of charging ports is 3 or more, preferably 5 or more, more preferably 10 or more, and most preferably 50 or more.

[0042] In some embodiments, the charging system is configured for fast charging, and in this case, the number of MESDCSs M is preferably greater than the number of charging ports N, and particularly M:N ≥ 1.25, preferably M:N ≥ 1.5, and most preferably M:N ≥ 2.0. A higher M:N ratio means that more MESDCSs are available to establish series and parallel charging states, which in turn allows for higher charging power and therefore shorter charging times. This is particularly useful for charging systems installed on the roadside of busy roads—such as highways or toll roads—where most users prefer to charge only for short stops. Various embodiments of the invention allow for charging power of 50 kW or more, preferably 150 kW or more, or even 300 kW or more. High charging power can be readily provided within the framework of the invention due to the possibility of connecting two or more MESDCSs in parallel and / or in series.

[0043] In an alternative implementation, the charging system is located in a parking facility where vehicles will be parked for a considerable period of time, and where fast charging is typically not required. In this case, the number of charging ports N is greater than the number of MESDCSs M, and particularly N:M ≥ 1.5, preferably N:M ≥ 3.0, and most preferably N:M ≥ 5.0. This allows for providing charging infrastructure to a large number of parked vehicles with a relatively low number of MESDCSs, and thus allows for a low-cost charging system.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the charging system is associated with an energy-consuming entity, particularly a factory, airport, train station, hospital, building, or group of buildings, wherein the energy-consuming entity has a local electricity network that, under normal operation, is supplied with electrical power by a power source, which may but not necessarily be the same power source to which the charging system is connected. The charging system includes a switching arrangement that allows some or all of the MESDCSs of the charging system to be coupled to the local electric network to supply electrical power to the local electric network. The control system is configured to establish an associated entity supply mode in which the control system controls the output voltage of the MESDCSs coupled to the local electric network to provide the associated entity with a desired voltage of power.

[0045] In one relevant implementation, the connection matrix provides the switching devices that allow some or all of the MESDCS in the charging system to be coupled to the local electrical network, and this coupling is implemented under the control of the control system and, in particular, by connecting some or all of the selected third terminals to the corresponding phases of the local electrical network. In this implementation, for example, the same third terminals of the phases to be connected to the power network in a power source-supported state can therefore be connected to the phases of the local electrical network. Hereinafter, the energy-consuming entity may include switching devices that allow decoupling of the local electrical network from its power source, thereby ensuring that energy supplied to the local electrical network is not dissipated into the power network, especially in the event of a power network failure.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the associated entity supply mode is one of the following: an emergency standby mode that will be activated in the event of a power failure in the power source, and a peak shaving mode that will be activated in the event of a high instantaneous demand for power in the local power network of the associated entity.

[0047] During the associated entity supply mode, the control system is preferably configured to establish a reverse charging state at the selected charging port, in which the selected MESDCS is charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the selected charging port. In this way, energy from the electric vehicle can be transferred to the associated entity, thereby effectively increasing the buffer capacity of the MESDCS through the battery capacity of the vehicle currently connected to the charging system.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, a communication interface is associated with each charging port, thereby allowing charging parameters to be transmitted to the control system. Hereinafter, the charging parameters may include one or more parameters selected from the group consisting of: desired charging voltage, target charging level, charging rate, charging power, maximum charging period, end of charging time, and information regarding payment mode, vehicle identification, and user identification. The communication interface may be a wire-based interface established when the electric vehicle is electrically connected to the charging port. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the charging information is provided at least in part automatically by the electric vehicle. Vehicles capable of automatically providing the charging information are also referred to herein as "intelligent vehicles."

[0049] In alternative implementations, the communication interface is a wireless interface or provided by a communication network such as the Internet. In related implementations, the control system is configured to communicate with an application (App) to be installed on a user's portable network-enabled device to transmit the charging parameters. This is particularly useful when the charging system is associated with parking facilities—i.e., where the electric vehicle will be connected to the charging point during extended periods. For example, if the charging parameters include the end of the midday charging period, but the vehicle owner changes plans and decides to pick up his / her car only the following morning, he / she can communicate this via the app, and this can be taken into account in the charging strategy implemented by the control system. For example, near midday or in the evening, where there is high energy demand, the energy contained in the vehicle's battery can be "borrowed" using a reverse charging mode in the MESDCS and can be resupplyed at night, where there is less demand for energy from the power grid and power can be obtained at a lower price.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the communication interface allows information about the charging process to be transmitted from the control system to the electric vehicle or network-enabled device, specifically whether one or more of the requested charging rate, target charging level, maximum charging period, or end of charging time are currently available, and if not, suggesting alternative charging parameters that can be provided.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the control system is configured to receive charging parameters via the communication interface associated with the charging port, and to establish a charging strategy based on the received charging parameters, wherein establishing the charging strategy includes: selecting a charging state or a time series of charging states for each of the ports for which charging parameters have been received, the charging states being selected from the following charging states:

[0052] - Idle state, in which no charging occurs.

[0053] - A single charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of a selected MESDCS to match the desired charging voltage at a given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect only the selected MESDCS to the given charging port.

[0054] - Parallel charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltages of at least two selected MESDCSs to match the desired charging voltage at a given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect each of the at least two selected MESDCSs to the given charging port.

[0055] - In a series charging state, the control system controls the output voltages of a group of two or more selected MESDCSs such that their sum matches the desired charging voltage at a given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect the group of two or more selected MESDCSs in series, and connects the series-connected group to the given charging port.

[0056] - Reverse charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs to a value lower than the current voltage of the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the given charging port, and controls the switchable connection matrix to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs to the given charging port, such that the energy storage device within the one or more selected MESDCSs is charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the given charging port.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the control system is configured to establish the charging strategy based at least in part on predictions of future charging demand. For example, future charging demand can be predicted very reliably based on statistical and empirical information.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of module switches of the module also allow for the selective anti-series connection of storage elements or energy conversion elements of adjacent modules. "Anti-series connection"—as opposed to "series connection"—means a connection with opposite phase polarities. The possibility of anti-series connection of individual modules can, for example, help in measuring the health or state of charge of a battery included in the module. However, the ability to freely change the polarity of energy storage elements in a series connection implies that the polarity of the MESDCS as a whole can be changed, thereby allowing the provision of both positive and negative output voltages.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, each module that is not the first or last in the sequential interconnection of the MESDCS includes at least two first terminals and at least two second terminals, wherein in every two adjacent modules, at least two first terminals of one module are directly or via an intermediate component connected to a corresponding one of at least two second terminals of the other module, and wherein the plurality of module switches of the modules also allow for selective parallel connection of storage elements or energy conversion elements of adjacent modules. This reduces the internal resistance of the energy storage direct converter and thus reduces internal losses.

[0060] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the multiple module switches of the MESDCS module allow for the selective parallel and series connection of storage elements or energy conversion elements of modules separated by at least one intermediate module with a deactivated storage element / conversion element. This variant has at least two significant advantages. One advantage is that the operation of the remaining modules is not impaired if one of the modules or its energy storage device is defective. Another advantage is that even non-adjacent energy storage elements / conversion elements can be selectively switched in parallel. This allows for the selective parallel connection of energy storage devices / conversion elements with the same or at least similar voltages, thereby avoiding current / charge transfer between balancing energy sources / conversion elements, which would only result in internal losses.

[0061] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of operating a charging system for an electric vehicle, the charging system comprising:

[0062] There are N charging ports, each with an interface for power exchange with an electric vehicle.

[0063] A modular energy storage direct converter system (MESDCS) of number M,

[0064] Switchable connection matrix, and

[0065] Control system

[0066] Each MESDCS includes a converter arm having a first end and a second end and comprising a plurality of sequentially interconnected modules, wherein each module includes

[0067] -At least one first terminal and at least one second terminal,

[0068] - Element used for storing electrical energy, especially batteries, or energy conversion elements, and

[0069] - Multiple module switches,

[0070] In each pair of adjacent modules, at least one first terminal of one module is connected directly or via an intermediate component to at least one second terminal of the other module.

[0071] The aforementioned multiple module switches at least allow for: selectively disabling the storage element or energy conversion element of each module, and connecting the storage element or energy conversion element of adjacent modules in series.

[0072] The method includes: controlling the output voltage of each MESDCS based on information about the current charge state of the storage element or the voltage or output power of the energy conversion element, and by actuating at least a portion of the plurality of module switches according to this information, such that the converter arm as a whole supplies the output voltage.

[0073] The operation includes connecting one or more selected MESDCSs to each given charging port, and connecting one or more selected MESDCSs to a power source.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the method is implemented such that any one MESDCS is always prevented from being simultaneously connected to the power source and the charging port, wherein the method preferably further includes: when one or more selected MESDCSs are connected to the power source, selectively connecting the one or more MESDCSs directly or indirectly to the ground associated with the power source via the connection matrix, and disconnecting the one or more MESDCSs from the ground of the power source when the one or more selected MESDCSs are connected to the charging port.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, in order to charge an electric vehicle at a desired charging voltage at a given charging port, the method includes establishing at least two, and preferably all, of the following charging states:

[0076] - A single charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of a selected MESDCS to match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect only the selected MESDCS to the given charging port.

[0077] - Parallel charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltages of at least two selected MESDCSs to match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect each of the at least two selected MESDCSs to the given charging port, and

[0078] - Series charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of a group of two or more selected MESDCSs such that their sum matches the desired charging voltage at the given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect the group of two or more selected MESDCSs in series and to connect the series-connected group to the given charging port.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes: simultaneously establishing different charging states among the at least two, preferably three, charging states for different charging ports.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes: establishing a reverse charging state in which the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs is controlled to present a value lower than the current voltage of the battery of an electric vehicle connected to a given charging port, and the switchable connection matrix is ​​controlled to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs to the given charging port, such that energy storage devices within the one or more selected MESDCSs are charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the given charging port.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes: establishing a power source support state in which the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs is controlled to present a value higher than the voltage of the power source, and the connection matrix is ​​controlled to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs to the power source.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, connecting the one or more selected MESDCSs to the power source under the power source support state includes: connecting the one or more selected MESDCSs to a given phase of the power source, wherein the method further includes: controlling the output voltage of the one or more selected MESDCSs to follow the time-varying phase voltage of the power source phase, such that it is higher than the time-varying phase voltage at each moment.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the switchable connection matrix has a first portion comprising: N first terminals, each first terminal being connected to a corresponding one of the N charging ports; and M second terminals, each second terminal being connected to a first terminal of a corresponding MESDCS, wherein the switchable connection matrix is ​​switchable under the control of the control system to selectively connect each of the first terminals to one or more selected second terminals.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the first portion of the switchable connection matrix further includes L third terminals, each of which is connected to a corresponding phase of the power source or to ground, wherein the first portion includes selectively connecting each of the third terminals to one or more selected second terminals.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of connecting the two second terminals to each other, but not to either of the first terminals.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the switchable connection matrix has a second portion, wherein the second portion of the switchable connection matrix is ​​switchable under the control of the control system to connect the second terminals of two selected MESDCSs to each other, or to connect the second terminals of the selected MESDCSs to ground.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, the power source is

[0088] - Low-voltage networks with a maximum DC voltage of 1500V or a maximum AC voltage of 1000V, especially 230 / 400 volt networks or 110 volt networks, or

[0089] - An intermediate voltage network having a voltage between 1kV and 60kV, preferably between 1kV and 30kV.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the number N of charging ports is 3 or more, preferably 5 or more, more preferably 10 or more, and most preferably 50 or more.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the number of MESDCS M is greater than the number of charging ports N, and particularly M:N≥1.25, preferably M:N≥1.5, and most preferably M:N≥2.0.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, the charging system is installed in the parking facility, wherein the number N of charging ports is greater than the number M of MESDCS, and particularly N:M≥1.5, preferably N:M≥3.0, and most preferably N:M≥5.0.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the charging system is associated with an energy-consuming entity, particularly a factory, airport, train station, hospital, building, or group of buildings, wherein the energy-consuming entity has a local power supply network that is supplied with electrical power by a power source under normal operation, wherein the charging system includes a switching device that allows some or all of the MESDCSs of the charging system to be coupled to the local power network to supply electrical power to the local power network, and wherein the method includes: establishing an associated entity supply mode in which the output voltage of the MESDCSs coupled to the local power network is controlled to provide a desired voltage of power to the associated entity.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the connection matrix provides the switching devices that allow some or all of the MESDCS of the charging system to be coupled to the local electrical network, and the coupling is implemented under the control of the control system and, in particular, by connecting some or all of the selected third terminals to the corresponding phases of the local electrical network.

[0095] Preferably, the method further includes the step of decoupling the local power supply network from its power source.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, the associated entity's supply mode is one of the following: an emergency standby mode to be activated in the event of a power failure in the power source, and a peak shaving mode to be activated in the event of a high instantaneous demand for power in the local power network of the associated entity.

[0097] Preferably, the method further includes: during the associated physical supply mode, establishing a reverse charging state for the selected charging port, in which the selected MESDCS is charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the selected charging port.

[0098] In a preferred embodiment, a communication interface is associated with each charging port, wherein charging parameters are transmitted to the control system, wherein the charging parameters include one or more parameters selected from the group consisting of: desired charging voltage, target charging level, charging rate, charging power, maximum charging period, end of charging time, and information regarding payment mode, vehicle identification, and user identification.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, the communication interface is a wire-based interface established when the electric vehicle is electrically connected to the charging port, wherein preferably, the charging information is provided automatically, at least in part, by the electric vehicle.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment, the communication interface is a wireless interface or is provided by a communication network such as the Internet, and in particular, the method includes the step of the control system communicating with application software installed on a user's portable network-enabled device to transmit the charging parameters.

[0101] The method preferably further includes the following steps: transmitting information about the charging process from the control system to the electric vehicle or network-enabled device, in particular information on whether one or more of the requested charging rate, target charging level, maximum charging period, or end of charging time can currently be provided, and if not, suggesting alternative charging parameters that can be provided.

[0102] The method preferably further includes the following steps: receiving charging parameters via the communication interface associated with the charging port, and establishing a charging strategy based on the received charging parameters, wherein establishing the charging strategy includes: selecting a charging state or a time series of charging states for each of the ports for which charging parameters have been received, the charging states being selected from the following charging states:

[0103] - Idle state, in which no charging occurs.

[0104] - A single charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of a selected MESDCS to match the desired charging voltage at a given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect only the selected MESDCS to the given charging port.

[0105] - Parallel charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltages of at least two selected MESDCSs to match the desired charging voltage at a given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect each of the at least two selected MESDCSs to the given charging port.

[0106] - In a series charging state, the control system controls the output voltages of a group of two or more selected MESDCSs such that their sum matches the desired charging voltage at a given charging port, and controls the connection matrix to connect the group of two or more selected MESDCSs in series, and connects the series-connected group to the given charging port.

[0107] - Reverse charging state, in which the control system controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs to a value lower than the current voltage of the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the given charging port, and controls the switchable connection matrix to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs to the given charging port, such that the energy storage device within the one or more selected MESDCSs is charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle connected to the given charging port.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of: establishing the charging strategy based at least in part on predictions of future charging demand.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of: establishing the charging strategy based at least in part on the availability or price of electrical power supplied from the power source or a prediction thereof.

[0110] In a preferred embodiment, the multiple module switches of each MESDCS module also allow selectively connecting the storage elements or energy conversion elements of adjacent modules in reverse series.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, each of the modules that is not the first and last in the sequential interconnection includes at least two first terminals and at least two second terminals, wherein in every two adjacent modules, at least two first terminals of one module are directly or via an intermediate component connected to a corresponding one of at least two second terminals of another module, wherein the plurality of module switches of the modules also allow selective parallel connection of storage elements or energy conversion elements of adjacent modules, and preferably allow selective parallel and series connection of storage elements or energy conversion elements of modules separated by at least one intermediate module having a deactivated storage element / conversion element.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment, the method of the present invention is implemented using a charging system according to any of the embodiments described above. Furthermore, this disclosure also relates to any combination of embodiments of the systems and methods described above. Attached Figure Description

[0113] Figure 1 This is a schematic representation of a charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein a single charging state is established.

[0114] Figure 2 This is a schematic representation of a charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein a single charging state and a parallel charging state are established.

[0115] Figure 3 This is a schematic representation of a charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein a single charging state, a parallel charging state, and a series charging state are established.

[0116] Figure 4 This is a schematic representation of a charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein two single charging states and one series charging state are established.

[0117] Figure 5 This is a schematic representation of a charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the power source and the charging port are electrically isolated from each other, and wherein the charging system is associated with a hospital having a local power supply network.

[0118] Figure 6 It is based on Figure 5 A schematic representation of a charging system, in which a physical power supply mode is established, in which electrical power is supplied from the charging system to the hospital.

[0119] Figure 7 This is an example of using Figures 1 to 4 The flowchart of the system's charging process.

[0120] Figure 8 This is an example of using Figures 1 to 4 Another flowchart of the system's charging process.

[0121] Figure 9 This is a schematic representation of MESDCS.

[0122] Figure 10 and Figure 11 It shows that it can be used Figure 9 The modules used in MESDCS

[0123] Figure 12 is another schematic example of MESDCS.

[0124] Figure 13 to Figure 16 Examples of modules that can be used in the MESDCS shown in Figure 12 are provided.

[0125] Figure 17 shows a diagram containing, for example Figure 15 The MESDCS of the module shown is shown.

[0126] Figure 18 shows a diagram containing, for example Figure 16 The MESDCS of the module shown is shown.

[0127] Figure 19 This is a schematic representation of the battery connections in the MESDCS shown in Figures 17 and 18, and

[0128] Figure 20It is a schematic representation of a switchable connection matrix. Detailed Implementation

[0129] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to a preferred embodiment illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and this preferred embodiment will be described using specific language. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, and those skilled in the art related to the invention will now or in the future generally envision such changes and further modifications to the illustrated apparatus, as well as such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein.

[0130] Figure 1 A charging system 10 for an electric vehicle 12 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the charging system 10 has N = 8 charging ports LP1 to LP8, each charging port having an interface 14 for power exchange with the electric vehicle 12. Furthermore, the charging system 10 includes M = 5 Modular Energy Storage Direct Converter Systems (MESDCS) U1 to U5, a switchable control matrix 16, and a control system 18. As used herein, N and M are integers defining the number of charging ports LPj (where j = 1, ..., N) and MESDCS Ui (where i = 1, ..., M), respectively. Reference will be made below. Figures 9 to 19 The structure and operation of MESDCS U1 to U5 are described in more detail.

[0131] The switchable connection matrix 16 has eight first terminals 20, each connected to a corresponding one of the eight charging ports LP1 to LP8. Furthermore, the switchable connection matrix 16 has six second terminals 22, each connected to a first terminal 24 of a corresponding MESDCS Ui (where i = 1, ..., 5). Figures 1 to 4 In the diagram, the connection between the first terminal 20 and the second terminal 22 is indicated by a thick line. Therefore, in Figure 1In the switching states of the switchable connection matrix 16 illustrated, the first terminal 20 associated with charging port LP2 and the second terminal 22 associated with the first terminal 24 of MESDCS U5 are connected, and the first terminal 20 associated with charging port LP7 and the second terminal 22 associated with the first terminal 24 of MESDCS U2 are connected. As mentioned in the "Summary" section of this invention, the switchable connection matrix 16 is switchable under the control of the control system 18 to selectively connect each of the first terminals 20 to one or more selected second terminals 22. In some embodiments, each of the first terminals 20 can be selectively connected to each of the second terminals 22. This allows for the greatest variety of connection states. However, this is not necessary in practical applications, and in other embodiments, each of the first terminals 20 can only be selectively connected to a subset of the second terminals 22. Figure 1 As seen in the diagram, by connecting one of the first terminals 20 to a selected one of the second terminals 22, the corresponding charging port LPj (where j = i, ..., 8) is connected to the first terminal 24 of the corresponding MESDCS Ui. Figure 1 In the implementation scheme, the second terminal 26 of each MESDCSUi is connected to ground.

[0132] like Figure 1 As further shown, the connection matrix 16 includes three third terminals 28 connected to corresponding phases 30A to 30C of a power network 30, which is an embodiment of the "power source" mentioned in the "Summary" section of this invention. Under the control of the control system 18, each of the third terminals 28 can be selectively connected to one or more selected second terminals 28, such that the first end 24 of each MESDCS Ui can be selectively connected to phases 30A to 30C of the power network 30, thereby charging the energy storage element included in the corresponding MESDCS Ui, or feeding energy from the energy storage element of the MESDCS Ui back to the power network 30 for stabilization.

[0133] Importantly, in the illustrated embodiment, the control system 18, which controls the switching state of the connection matrix 16, is configured to always ensure that no MESDCS Ui is simultaneously connected to the power network 30 and the charging port LPj. Through this switching constraint, charging ports LP1 to LP8 are always disconnected from the power network 30. However, since both MESDCS Ui and the power network 30 are connected to the same ground, complete potential separation does not yet exist between the power network 30 and the charging port LPj. (The following is further elaborated...) Figure 5 and Figure 6 An implementation scheme for complete charge separation is shown in the figure.

[0134] To charge the electric vehicle 12 at a given charging port LPj, the control system 18 is configured to establish various charging states. These charging states include a single charging state in which the control system 18 controls the output voltage of a selected MESDCS Ui to match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port LPj, and controls the connection matrix to connect only the selected MESDCS to the given charging port. Figure 1 Of the switching states indicated, four of these single charging states are shown for charging ports LP2, LP4, LP6, and LP7. Note that the "desired charging voltage" can be a DC voltage of a certain magnitude, but it can also be an AC voltage. Under the control of the control system 18, MESDCS U1 to U5 are capable of generating almost any desired DC or AC output voltage.

[0135] Furthermore, the control system 18 is configured to establish a parallel charging state in which the control system controls the output voltages of at least two selected MESDCSs to match the desired charging voltage at a given charging port, and controls the connection matrix 16 to connect each of the at least two selected MESDCSs to the given charging port. Such a parallel charging state is illustrated, for example, in... Figure 2 In this configuration, four MESDCS U2 to U5 are connected to the same charging port LP7. When using parallel charging, faster charging, or in other words, greater charging power, can be provided compared to single charging.

[0136] Figure 3 and Figure 4 One embodiment is shown in which, in addition to single charging state and parallel charging state, a series charging state is also available, in which the control system 18 controls a group of two or more selected MESDCS (Medium-to-Low-Energy Controllers). Figure 3 MESDCS U4 and U5, and Figure 7 The output voltages of MESDCSs U3, U4, and U5 are controlled such that their sum matches the desired charging voltage at a given charging port (LP5), and the connection matrix is ​​controlled to make the group of two or more selected MESDCSs ( Figure 3 U4 and U5 in the middle; Figure 4 The U3, U4, and U5 in the diagram are connected in series, and this group of series connections is connected to a given charging port (LP5). For this purpose, the connection matrix 16 includes: a first portion 16A, which corresponds to... Figure 1The switching matrix 16 shown includes a first terminal 20, a second terminal 22, and a third terminal 28; and a second portion 16B, which is switchable under the control of the control system 18 to interconnect the second terminals 26 of the selected MESDCS Ui, as shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the case of the second terminal 26 of MESDCS U4 and U5, or to connect the second terminal 28 of the selected MESDCS to ground, as shown... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The cases of U1, U2, and U3 in the diagram. It can also be seen that the first part 16A of the switching matrix 16 is switchable to allow the two second terminals 22 to connect to each other, but not to either of the first terminals 20. For the cases with... Figure 4 The second terminal 22 associated with MESDCS U3 and U4 shown in the diagram illustrates this. In a series charging state, by connecting several MESDCS Ui in series, compared to a single charging state or a parallel charging state, the charging port ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 A higher charging voltage is generated at LP5 in the middle.

[0137] As exemplary Figures 1 to 4 Clearly, the control system 18 is configured to simultaneously establish different charging states among single charging state, parallel charging state, and series charging state for different charging ports LP1 to LP7. For example, Figure 3 The diagram illustrates the scenarios of establishing a single charging state for charging port LP3, a parallel charging state for charging port LP7, and a series charging state for charging port LP5.

[0138] Although Figures 1 to 4In this embodiment, the illustrated connection between MESDCS U1 to U5 and charging ports LP1 to LP7 is established for charging vehicle 12 at the respective charging ports LP1 to LP7. However, the same connection can also be used to establish a reverse charging state, in which energy is transferred from the battery of vehicle 12 to the energy storage element of MESDCS Ui. For this purpose, control system 18 controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCS Ui to a value lower than the current voltage of the battery of electric vehicle 12 connected to a given charging port LPj, and controls switchable connection matrices 16, 16A, 16B to connect one or more selected MESDCS Ui to the given charging port LPj, such that the energy storage device within one or more selected MESDCS Ui is charged with power received from the battery of electric vehicle 12 connected to the given charging port LPj. In this reverse charging state, charging system 10 “borrows” energy from the vehicle battery, which can then be provided to another vehicle 12 to be charged by charging system 10, or to the power network 30.

[0139] In the "Power Source Support State" mentioned in the "Summary of the Invention" section of this invention, power can be supplied from the charging system 10 to the power network 30. In this "Power Source Support State," the control system 18 controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCS Ui to a value higher than the voltage of the power source 30, and controls connection matrices 16, 16A, and 16B to connect the one or more selected MESDCS Ui to the power source 30. This can be done to protect the power system, such as the power network 30, should there be a risk of power network breakdown. In other words, the charging system 10 can provide a power safety margin that needs to be maintained at all times to prevent the power network 30 from collapsing. The Power Support State can be employed in various grid services, including but not limited to frequency regulation (frequency restraint reserve), peak shaving, spinning reserve, capacity sharding, load balancing, power quality, flicker compensation, uninterruptible power supply, reactive power compensation, etc.

[0140] However, power support status is not only useful for avoiding power outages, but can also be used in a planned manner to support the power network 30 during periods of anticipated high power demand. This is particularly useful when the charging system 10 is installed in a parking facility where the vehicle 12 will be connected to charging ports LP1 to LP8 throughout the parking time, and the vehicle battery can act as an energy buffer for the power network 30 throughout the parking time, provided that the vehicle 12's battery is fully charged at the end of the parking period. In such an application, there will be a relatively large number of charging ports LPj that will be served by a relatively small number of MESDCS Ui. Note that adding additional charging ports LPj to system 10 while maintaining the same number of MESDCS Ui does not significantly increase the cost of system 10, making it cost-effective to provide a large number of parking spaces with charging ports LPj, while choosing a number of MESDCS Ui that is not idle during normal operation.

[0141] Although Figures 1 to 4 Not explicitly shown, but the system 10 shown therein not only allows a single MESDCS to be connected to a power source 30 (or its selected phase), such as for example for Figure 1 The MESDCS U1 shown in the diagram also allows two or more MESDCS Ui to be connected in parallel with power source 30 (or its selected phase), or... Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the case of a system, it is permissible to connect two or more MESDCS Ui in series with a power source 30 (or its selected phase). Importantly, this applies both when the MESDCS Ui is being charged by the power source 30 and when the MESDCS Ui provides energy to the power source 30 in a power source-supported state. As mentioned above, the possibility of connecting two or more MESDCS Ui in series with a power source 30 (or its selected phase) is particularly useful in systems where the voltage of the power source 30 is significantly higher than the voltage of the battery of the vehicle 12 to be charged. This is because, in this series connection, each of the MESDCS Ui receives only a small fraction of the voltage from the power source 30, so that the individual MESDCS Ui does not need to adapt to the (high) voltage of the voltage source 30. It is also emphasized that the second part 16B of the connection matrix 16 can be larger than... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a larger number of horizontal connecting lines may be included to facilitate the series connection of a larger number of MESDCS Ui and to connect this series connection to the power source 30. Furthermore, it should be understood that, in practical constraints, the number of MESDCS Ui can be much larger than that shown in the current figures, thus allowing a considerable number of MESDCS to be connected in series.

[0142] Figure 5 It shows something similar to Figure 4 Another charging system 10 differs primarily in two aspects. According to the first difference, two separate grounds 35 and 36 are provided for the power network 30 and the charging port LPj, respectively. Through the second part 16B of matrix 16, with the first end of the MESDCS Ui connected to phases 30A-30C of the power network 30, the second end 26 of each MESDCS Ui can be selectively connected to the ground 35 associated with the power network 30. For Figure 5 In the case of MESDCS U1, the first terminal 24 of MESDCS U1 is connected to phase 30A of the power network 30, and the second terminal 26 of MESDCS U1 is connected to the ground 35 of the power network 30. Furthermore, any MESDCS Ui currently connected to the charging port LPj—whether individually (as in the case of U2), in series (as in the cases of U3, U4, and U5), or in parallel—[…]. Figure 5 (Not shown in the diagram) — Directly or indirectly connected to a separate ground 36, which is different from the ground 35 of the power network 30 and forms a separate ground potential for the charging port LPj. In this way, through the design of the connection matrix 16 and the control provided by the control system 18, current separation between the power network 30 and the charging port LPj is always ensured.

[0143] The second difference is Figure 5 The charging system 10 is associated with an energy-consuming entity, which in the illustrated embodiment is hospital 37. Hospital 37 has a local power supply network 38, which is also supplied with electrical power by power network 30 under normal operation.

[0144] Hospital 37 includes a switching device 39 that allows decoupling of the local power supply network 38 from the power network 30. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, this switching device 39 is formed by three power switches, each associated with a corresponding phase 30A-30C of the power network 30. Therefore, in the event of a failure of the power network 30, the local power supply network 38 can be isolated from it and can be maintained at least partially by power stored in the MESDCS Ui and possibly in the battery of the vehicle 12 currently connected to the charging port LPj of the charging system 10, as will be described in more detail below.

[0145] exist Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, the "switching device that allows some or all of the MESDCS Ui of the charging system 10 to be coupled to the local power supply network 38," mentioned in the "Summary of the Invention" section of this invention, is simply formed by a connection matrix 16. Under the control of the control system 18, as described above, the connection matrix 16 allows one or more selected MESDCS Ui to be connected to phases 30A-30C of the power network 30, and thus also allows them to be connected to the local power supply network 38, such as from... Figure 5 As seen, the control system 18 is configured to establish an associated entity supply mode in which it controls the output voltage of the MESDCS Ui coupled to the local power supply network 38 to provide the hospital 37 with power at the desired voltage. With this setting, the "associated entity supply mode" is very similar to a "power source support state," except that in the former, the power network 3 is separated from the local power supply network 38, so that the power supplied by the charging system 10 is received by the local power supply network 38, and therefore only by the hospital 37. A typical application of this would be to provide emergency backup in the event of a power failure in the power network 30, which is particularly important in the case of a hospital.

[0146] During the associated physical supply mode, the control system 18 is configured to establish a reverse charging state at the selected charging port LPj, in which the selected MESDCS Ui is charged using power received from the battery of the electric vehicle 12 connected to the selected charging port LPj. This is shown in Figure 6 In this configuration, hospital 37 and charging system 10 are separated from power network 30 via switching device 39, wherein U1, U2, and U4 are connected to their corresponding counterparts in local power supply network 38, and wherein U3 and U5 are connected to charging ports LP6 and LP2 respectively to "borrow" energy from the battery of the associated vehicle 12 in reverse charging mode. Naturally, the selection of MESDCS Ui currently connected to the selected charging port LPj for reverse charging and the selection of MESDCS Ui currently connected to local power supply network 38 can be interchanged, such that the energy storage elements of the individual MESDCS Ui will be alternately charged and discharged.

[0147] Next, refer to Figure 7 It describes an implementation scheme. Figures 1 to 4 The charging system 10 is in operation. Figure 7The process outlined in the text begins at step 40, where the electric vehicle 12 is connected to one of the charging ports LP1 to LP8. In this embodiment, the vehicle is an "intelligent vehicle" that automatically transmits charging parameters to the control system 18 via a communication interface associated with the charging port LPj. These parameters include the desired charging voltage and voltage type (DC or AC) and target charging level, as well as a parameter related to the charging rate, such as a specific charging rate, the maximum charging period, or the end of the charging time, and information regarding payment methods and vehicle or user identification. This interface may be a wire-based interface established when the electric vehicle 12 is electrically connected to the charging port LPj. Additionally or alternatively, the charging parameters may also be transmitted via a wireless interface or via, for example, through... Figure 1 The communication network transmission is shown by reference numeral 32 in the figure. In addition to or instead of automatic transmission of charging parameters by the intelligent vehicle 12, a portable network-enabled device installed in the user—such as a smartphone 34 (see reference numeral 32)—can be used. Figure 1 — An application installed on or set in each charging port LPj or a terminal set for a group of charging ports LPj transmits charging parameters or additional, more specific charging parameters to the control system 18.

[0148] In step 42, the control system 18 checks the available energy stored in the available MESDCS Ui and determines the required charging time for possible charging states—such as single charging state, parallel charging state, and series charging state.

[0149] Next, in step 44, the control system 18 determines the switching state of connection matrices 16, 16A, and 16B that will allow the establishment of the desired charging state. In step 46, it is determined whether the desired charging state that will satisfy the requested charging parameters can be established. If not, in step 48, the control system 18 transmits a suggested charging scenario to the vehicle 12 or to the network-enabled portable device 34 based on the available charging state, thereby feeding the possible amount of energy that can be provided within the desired time, or the possible charging time for the originally requested charging energy. The final decision on the charging parameters can be made by the user or automatically as a result of negotiation between the intelligent vehicle 12 and the control system 18. However, if sufficient MESDCS resources are available to meet the charging demand, the process proceeds to step 50, in which connection matrices 16, 16A, and 16B are switched so that one or more selected MESDCS Ui are connected to the charging port LPj to establish the selected charging state (single, parallel, or series charging). Furthermore, although in Figure 7It is not explicitly stated, but if the user agrees to receive possible energy / charging time in step 48, the process proceeds to step 50.

[0150] In step 52, vehicle 12 is charged with the determined energy. During charging, the charging status is checked periodically (step 54), and in step 56, it is checked whether charging is complete. If charging is not complete, the process moves to step 58, where the availability of the MESDCS, the available energy stored in the MESDCS, and the priority of the current charging process are checked. Then, in step 60, it is checked whether the availability of the requested charging resource has changed. For example, availability may change if another vehicle with a high charging priority is connected to another charging port during this period, such as a customer paying an extra rate to always guarantee the maximum charging rate, or if one or more selected MESDCS UIs must be switched to the aforementioned power source support state to stabilize the power network 30. If it is determined that there is no change, the process moves back to step 52. However, if there is a change, the process proceeds to step 48 and updated possible energy or charging time values ​​are transmitted to vehicle 12 or the customer. If there is no response from vehicle 12 or the user, in a preferred embodiment, charging system 10 continues charging at the next available highest possible rate.

[0151] If charging is determined to be complete in step 56, this is recorded in step 62, and in the subsequent step 64, the corresponding connections in the MESDCS Ui and connection matrices 16, 16A, 16b involved in the charging process at this charging port LPj are released. Note that since the number of combinations in connection matrix 16 is limited, the MESDCS Ui used to charge vehicle 12 may be changed during the process to balance their charging states or, if needed, to establish a requested configuration for charging another vehicle 12 or to provide requested grid support. If the currently used MESDCS is replaced by another subset of MESDCS during the charging process, the user or intelligent vehicle 12 will not be notified, and the charging process will continue as specified in step 46.

[0152] Figure 8 The closely related process is illustrated, the main difference being the way the user communicates with the control system 18. Specifically, steps 44 to 64 are... Figure 7The steps are essentially the same and do not need to be described again. The system begins in step 66, where vehicle 12 is connected to charging port LPj. In step 68, control system 18 checks only the charging voltage and maximum charging current, without checking other charging parameters such as charging time. Instead, in step 70, the user selects other charging parameters, such as charging time, desired charging energy, and / or charging current, preferably via an application installed on his / her network-enabled portable device 34. Then, in step 72, control system 18 checks the available power and possible charging time. Steps 44 to 64 are similar to... Figure 7 The steps described herein are largely the same, except that in steps 48A and 54A, a report on the charging status and information about the possible energy amount / charging time are communicated to the user. This implementation is particularly useful when the charging system 10 is associated with a parking facility where the user leaves his / her vehicle for an extended period of time.

[0153] For example, a charging system could be installed in an airport parking lot. A user can arrive at the airport and leave his / her car in the parking facility for two days. Then, in step 70, the user can select a 48-hour parking period and specify that during this time, his / her battery should be charged to a maximum of 75%, allowing him / her to safely drive home from the airport. Since the charging demand per car is very low in such a scenario, a large number of charging ports LPj can exist, served by a relatively small number of MESDCSUi. Furthermore, the batteries of parked cars can be used as energy buffers for the charging system 10 and for the entire power network 30. During extended stays in the parking facility, there may be periods of high power demand on the power network 30, and in these cases, power from the vehicle batteries can be transferred to the power network 30 via reverse charging and power source support states. During these periods, vehicle owners can sell the energy stored in their vehicle batteries to the power network. Conversely, sometimes there is excess power in the power network 30, and customers receive power almost for free, or even receive payment for consuming power from the network. During this period, the energy storage elements of MESDCSUi and the battery of vehicle 12 will preferably be charged.

[0154] Furthermore, the energy buffer capacity of the MESDCS Ui and the energy buffer capacity of the battery of the vehicle 12 connected to the charging system 10 can be used not only to support the power network 30, but also to support energy-consuming entities associated with the charging system 10. One embodiment of such an energy-consuming entity could be an airport as mentioned earlier, but it could also be a factory, train station, hospital, or more typically a building or group of buildings, where the energy-consuming entity has a local power supply network that, under normal operation, is supplied with electrical power by the power network. In this case, the charging system 10 and the battery of the vehicle 12 currently connected to it can act as a buffer for emergency backup in the event of a power failure in the power network 30, or support the local power network during transient periods of high power demand. Such transient power demand peaks could, for example, occur in a factory where a machine, for instance, is started only once a day and requires excessive energy, while the average daily demand is much lower. In this case, the local power network can be supported by the charging system 10 during the transient peak energy period. This is also known in the art as "peak shaving."

[0155] In this embodiment, the charging system 10 includes a switching device that allows some or all of the MESDCS Ui of the charging system 10 to be coupled to a local power network for supplying electrical power to the local power network. Furthermore, the control system 18 is configured to establish an associated entity supply mode in which it controls the output voltage of the MESDCS Ui coupled to the local power network to provide the associated entity with a desired voltage of power.

[0156] The energy-consuming entity then has a switching device that allows decoupling of the local power supply network from the power network 30. This ensures that energy supplied in the associated entity's supply mode will be used only for this entity and will not be dissipated through the currently non-operating local power network 30.

[0157] Figures 9 to 19 Examples are shown as follows Figures 1 to 4 Various implementations of MESDCS Ui are shown. Background information on MESDCS is disclosed in DE102017 110 410, WO2016 / 012247A1 and WO2018 / 122094A1, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0158] Figure 9 The general structure of a MESDCS Ui according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The MESDCS Ui includes a converter arm 76 having a first end 24 and a second end 26, and the converter arm 76 includes a plurality of sequentially interconnected modules 78. Although in Figure 9For illustrative purposes, only three exemplary modules 78 are shown, but in a real MESDCS, the number of modules 78 can be dozens or even hundreds. In its simplest form, each module 78 has only one first terminal 80 and one second terminal 82. Embodiments of such modules 78 are shown in Figure 10 and Figure 11 In addition, each module 78 includes an energy storage element 84 or an energy conversion element, which, for simplicity, is... Figures 10 to 16 In the illustration, it is represented by a capacitor symbol. However, in a preferred embodiment, element 84 is a battery. Different types of batteries can be used in module 78, such as lithium NMC batteries, LFP batteries, or LTO batteries. Furthermore, each module 78 includes multiple module switches 86. In the converter arm 76, in every two adjacent modules 78, a first terminal 80 of one module is connected to at least one second terminal of the other module 78.

[0159] The general symbol for switch 86 can be similar to that of a transistor, particularly a MOSFET or bipolar transistor, IGBT or switchable thyristor.

[0160] exist Figure 10 In the module 78 shown, the battery 84 can be deactivated by operating the switch 86, or it can be connected in series with the battery 84 of the adjacent module 78.

[0161] Figure 10 The module 78 shown—which has a full-bridge topology—also allows disabling or “bypassing” battery 84 and connecting batteries 84 of adjacent modules 78 in series, but also allows reversing the polarity of battery 84 in the connection; for simplicity, this is referred to herein as a “reverse series connection.” This “reverse series connection” allows changing the polarity of the entire converter arm 76 as a whole, which is necessary for handling AC voltage and is also in… Figure 3 The series connection is necessary to establish the connection matrix 16, 16A, 16B, where, for example, the converter arms 76 of MESDCS U4 and U5 have different polarities.

[0162] The voltage across the entire converter arm 76, or in other words, the output voltage of the MESDCS Ui, corresponds to the sum of the voltages of the currently selected series-connected batteries 84. The voltage can be reduced by disabling (i.e., bypassing) some of the batteries 84 in the modules, and increased by enabling previously disabled batteries 84. Since the number of modules 78 is finite, the output voltage specifically acquires only discrete states. However, due to the typically very large number of modules, the output voltage is smooth enough for the purpose of charging or establishing a power source-supported state or a local network-supported state. Furthermore, the effective voltage can be smoothed by rapidly connecting and disabling the batteries 84 in one of the modules 78 in a manner similar to pulse width modulation (PWM). Note that although not shown in detail in the figures, filter elements, such as choke inductors or capacitors, can be placed at terminals 24 and / or 26 for each arm 76. Capacitors allow for voltage smoothing, which is particularly useful in PWM operation. Choke inductors allow for current smoothing, which allows for network regulation to be satisfied and also allows for limiting the rate of current rise in the event of a malfunction. Typical configurations may involve L-filters, LC-filters, or LCL filters.

[0163] Figure 12 shows a schematic embodiment of another MESDCS Ui, which also includes a converter arm 76 containing cascaded modules 78, wherein the main difference in this case is that each module 78 has two first terminals 80a, 80b and two second terminals 82a, 82b.

[0164] In module 78, which has two first terminals 80a, 80b and two second terminals 82a, 82b respectively, the batteries 84 can not only be deactivated and selectively connected in series, but also connected in parallel, thus limiting internal resistance and therefore losses compared to MESDCS modules each having only one first terminal 80 and one second terminal 82. Figure 13 shows module 78, which allows the batteries 84 of adjacent modules 78 to be selectively connected in parallel or in series, although it includes only three switches 86. However, this module does not allow changing the voltage polarity. Figure 17 shows several modules of Figure 13 connected in series, with another switching device 88 provided that allows reversing the polarity of the entire converter arm 76. Therefore, although the batteries 84 of module 78 of Figure 13 cannot be connected in “reverse series”, the polarity of the converter arm 76 as a whole can be reversed. This also applies to Figure 8The module, likewise, cannot be connected in reverse series. Instead of providing another switching device 88 for reversing the polarity of the converter arm as a whole, a converter arm comprising two interconnected bridge branches and terminals at the connection points can be provided, as in Marquardt's groundbreaking patent application DE10217889A1. Figure 5 As shown in the figure.

[0165] Figure 14 illustrates module 78, which offers a greater degree of flexibility. By operating its switch 86, the batteries 84 of adjacent modules 78 can be selectively connected in series, in reverse series, and in parallel.

[0166] Figure 15 A variant of the module in Figure 13 is shown, in which an additional switch is provided to deactivate its battery 84 when switched in parallel. Similarly, Figure 16 The module is a modification of the module in Figure 14, which also provides an additional switch that allows its battery 84 to be deactivated. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The module not only allows adjacent modules 78 to be connected in parallel, but also allows modules separated by any number of modules 78 with deactivated batteries 84 to be connected in parallel. Therefore, there is considerable freedom regarding which batteries 84 should be connected in parallel. This is important because it is desirable to connect only those batteries 84 with equal voltage or only minimally different voltages to avoid balancing current among these batteries 84, which would lead to undesirable losses. The control system 18 can monitor the voltage of each individual battery 84 and can ensure that the voltages of the batteries 84 are balanced by the manner in which they are generated in the output voltage. For example, batteries 84 with a higher state of charge and therefore a higher voltage are preferably used in series connection in energy output modes such as a state of charge, a power grid supported state, or a local network supported state. Conversely, in a reverse charging state, or when MESDCS is connected to be charged by the corresponding phase of the power grid 30, batteries with a lower charge level and therefore a lower voltage are preferably connected for charging, while batteries with a higher charge level are deactivated first. Two batteries will be connected in parallel only if they reach the same or at least similar voltages. Importantly, for this switching strategy, batteries 84 that are not directly adjacent to modules 76 but are separated by one or more modules 76 with deactivated batteries 84 can still be switched in parallel, this is achieved through methods such as... Figure 15 and Figure 16 This is made possible by the module 78 shown.

[0167] about Figure 15 and Figure 16 Module 76, which is shown in more detail in Figures 17, 18 and... Figure 19 In the cascaded connection, the second and fourth modules 78 are connected in parallel, with the third module 78 having the deactivated battery 84 in the middle, and then this parallel connection is connected in series with the first module 78.

[0168] at last, Figure 20 The principle of switching matrix 16 is illustrated schematically, in which suitable switches 90 can be used to selectively connect crossing conductors at each intersection. As previously mentioned, it is not possible, but necessary, to install such a switch 90 at every intersection of conductors.

[0169] Although preferred exemplary embodiments have been shown and specified in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, these should be considered purely exemplary and not as limiting the invention. In this respect, it should be noted that only preferred exemplary embodiments have been shown and specified, and all variations and modifications that are present or will be protected within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims are to be protected.

[0170] List of reference markers

[0171] 10 Charging System

[0172] 12 Electric vehicles

[0173] 14 Interfaces

[0174] 16-matrix

[0175] The first part of matrix 16A

[0176] The second part of 16B matrix 16

[0177] 18 Control System

[0178] The first terminal of matrix 16 in 20

[0179] The second terminal of matrix 16 (22)

[0180] 24 MESDCS First End

[0181] 26 MESDCS second end

[0182] 28 Third terminal

[0183] 30 Power Network

[0184] 30A, 30B, 30C Phases of power network 30

[0185] 32 Network

[0186] 34 Smartphones

[0187] 40 to 70 process steps

[0188] 76 Converter Arm

[0189] 78 modules

[0190] 80, 80a, 80b First Terminal

[0191] 82, 82a, 82b Second Terminal

[0192] 84 batteries

[0193] 86 Module Switch

[0194] 88 Switching device

[0195] 90 switch

[0196] UI Modular Energy Storage Direct Converter (MESDCS)

[0197] LPj charging point

Claims

1. A charging system (10) for electric vehicles (12), comprising: a number N of charging ports (LPj), each charging port (LPj) having an interface (14) for power exchange with an electric vehicle (12), a number M of modular energy storage direct converter systems MESDCS (Ui), a switchable connection matrix (16), and a control system (18), wherein each MESDCS (Ui) comprises a converter arm (76) having a first end (24) and a second end (26) and comprising a plurality of sequentially interconnected modules (78), wherein each module (78) comprises - at least one first terminal (80; 80a, 80b) and at least one second terminal (82; 82a, 82b), - a storage element (84) for electrical energy, or an energy conversion element, wherein the storage element (84) for electrical energy comprises a battery, and - a plurality of module switches (86), wherein in each two adjacent modules (78), the at least one first terminal (80; 80a, 80b) of one module (78) is connected to the at least one second terminal (82; 82a, 82b) of the other module (78), directly or via an intermediate component, wherein the plurality of module switches (86) allows for selectively deactivating the storage element (84) or the energy conversion element of each module (78), and for connecting the storage elements (84) or the energy conversion elements of adjacent modules (78) in series, wherein the control system (18) is configured to control an output voltage of each MESDCS (Ui) based on information about a current state of charge of the storage elements (84) or a voltage or output power of the energy conversion elements and by actuating at least a portion of the plurality of module switches (86) in dependence on this information, such that the converter arm (76) as a whole supplies the output voltage, and wherein the switchable connection matrix (16) is configured to connect one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to each given charging port (LPj) under control of the control system (18), and is further configured to connect one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to a power source (30), wherein the control system (18) is configured to ensure that no MESDCS (Ui) is simultaneously connected to the power source (30) and a charging port (LPj).

2. The charging system (10) of claim 1, wherein the connection matrix is configured, under control of the control system (18), to connect one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) directly or indirectly to a ground associated with the power source (30) when the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) are connected to a phase of the power source (30), and to disconnect the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) from the ground of the power source (30) when the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) are connected to a charging port (LPj).

3. The charging system (10) of claim 1, wherein to charge an electric vehicle (12) at a given charging port at a desired charging voltage, the control system (18) is configured to establish at least two of the following charging states: - a single charging state in which the control system (18) controls an output voltage of one selected MESDCS (Ui) to match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port (LPj) and controls the connection matrix (16) to connect only the selected MESDCS (Ui) to the given charging port (LPj), - a parallel charging state in which the control system (18) controls output voltages of at least two selected MESDCSs (Ui) to each match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port (LPj) and controls the connection matrix (16) to connect each of the at least two selected MESDCSs (Ui) to the given charging port, and - a series charging state in which the control system (18) controls output voltages of a group of two or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) such that their sum matches the desired charging voltage at the given charging port (LPj) and controls the connection matrix (16) to connect the group of two or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) in series and to connect the series-connected group of two or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to the given charging port (LPj).

4. The charging system (10) of claim 1, wherein the control system (18) is configured to establish a reverse charging state in which the control system (18) controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to a value lower than the current voltage of the battery of an electric vehicle (12) connected to a given charging port (LPj) and controls the switchable connection matrix (16) to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to the given charging port (LPj) so that the storage elements (84) within the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) are charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle (12) connected to the given charging port (LPj).

5. The charging system (10) of claim 1, wherein the control system (18) is configured to establish a power source support state in which the control system (18) controls the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to a value higher than the voltage of the power source (30) and controls the connection matrix (16) to connect the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to the power source (30).

6. The charging system (10) of claim 5, wherein connecting the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to the source of electric power in the source of electric power (30) support state comprises: connects the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to a given phase (30A, 30B, 30C) of the power source (30), wherein the control system (18) also controls the output voltage of the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to follow the time-varying phase voltage of the power source phase (30A, 30B, 30C) so that it is higher than the time-varying phase voltage at every instant.

7. The charging system (10) of claim 1, wherein the switchable connection matrix (16) has a first portion (16A) that includes: N first terminals (20), each of the first terminals being connected with a corresponding one of the N charging ports (LPj); and M second terminals (22), each of the second terminals being connected with a first terminal of a corresponding MESDCS (Ui), and wherein the switchable connection matrix (16) is switchable under control of the control system (18) to selectively connect each of the first terminals (20) with one or more selected second terminals (22).

8. The charging system (10) of claim 7, wherein the first portion (16A) of the switchable connection matrix (16) further comprises a number L of third terminals (28), each of the third terminals (28) being connected to a corresponding phase (30A, 30B, 30C) of the power source (30) or to ground, wherein the switchable connection matrix (16) is switchable under control of the control system (18) to selectively connect each of the third terminals (28) with one or more selected second terminals (22), and wherein the switchable connection matrix (16) is further switchable under control of the control system (18) to connect two second terminals (22) to each other but not to any of the first terminals (20).

9. A method of operating a charging system (10) for electric vehicles (12), the charging system comprising: a number N of charging ports (LPj), each charging port (LPj) having an interface (14) for power exchange with an electric vehicle (12), a number M of modular energy storage direct converter systems MESDCS (Ui), a switchable connection matrix (16), and a control system (18), wherein each MESDCS (Ui) comprises a converter limb (76) having a first end (24) and a second end (26) and comprising a plurality of sequentially interconnected modules (78), wherein each module (78) comprises at least one first terminal (80; 80a, 80b) and at least one second terminal (82; 82a, 82b), a storage element (84) for electrical energy, or an energy conversion element, wherein the storage element (84) for electrical energy comprises a battery, and a plurality of module switches (86), wherein in each two adjacent modules (78), at least one first terminal (80; 80a, 80b) of one module (78) is connected to at least one second terminal (82; 82a, 82b) of the other module (78), directly or via an intermediate component, wherein the plurality of module switches (86) allows for selectively deactivating the storage element (84) or energy conversion element of each module (78), and for connecting the storage elements (84) or energy conversion elements of adjacent modules (78) in series, wherein the method comprises controlling the output voltage of each MESDCS (Ui) based on information about the current state of charge of the storage elements (84) or voltage or output power of the energy conversion elements and by actuating at least a portion of the plurality of module switches (86) in dependence on this information, such that the converter limb (76) as a whole supplies the output voltage, and wherein the operation comprises connecting one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to each given charging port (LPj) and comprises connecting one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to a power source (30), wherein the method is implemented such that it is always avoided that any one MESDCS (Ui) is connected to the power source (30) and a charging port (LPj) at the same time.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the method further comprises: When one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) are connected to a phase of the power source (30), the one or more MESDCS (Ui) are selectively connected by the connection matrix (16) directly or indirectly to a ground associated with the power source (30) and disconnected from the ground of the power source (30) when the one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) are connected to a charging port (LPj).

11. The method of claim 9, wherein to charge an electric vehicle (12) at a given charging port at a desired charging voltage, the method comprises establishing at least two of the following charging states: - a single charging state in which the control system (18) controls the output voltage of one selected MESDCS (Ui) to match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port (LPj) and controls the connection matrix (16) to connect only the selected MESDCS (Ui) to the given charging port (LPj), - a parallel charging state in which the control system (18) controls the output voltage of at least two selected MESDCS (Ui) to each match the desired charging voltage at the given charging port (LPj) and controls the connection matrix (16) to connect each of the at least two selected MESDCS (Ui) to the given charging port, and - a series charging state in which the control system (18) controls the output voltage of a group of two or more selected MESDCS (Ui) such that their sum matches the desired charging voltage at the given charging port (LPj) and controls the connection matrix (16) to connect the group of two or more selected MESDCS (Ui) in series and to connect the series connected group of two or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to the given charging port (LPj).

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the method further comprises: a reverse charging state in which the output voltage of one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) is controlled to assume a value lower than the current voltage of the battery of an electric vehicle (12) connected to a given charging port (LPj) and the switchable connection matrix (16) is controlled to connect the one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to the given charging port (LPj) such that the storage elements (84) within the one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) are charged with power received from the battery of the electric vehicle (12) connected to the given charging port (LPj).

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the method further comprises: establishing a power source support state in which an output voltage of one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) is controlled to assume a value higher than a voltage of the power source (30) and the connection matrix (16) is controlled to connect the one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to the power source (30).

14. The method of claim 13, wherein connecting the one or more selected MESDCSs (Ui) to the power source in the power source (30) support state comprises: connecting the one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to a given phase (30A, 30B, 30C) of the power source (30), wherein the method further comprises controlling an output voltage of the one or more selected MESDCS (Ui) to follow a time-varying phase voltage of the power source phase (30A, 30B, 30C) so that it is higher than the time-varying phase voltage at every instant.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the switchable connection matrix (16) has a first portion (16A) that includes: N first terminals (20), each of said first terminals being connected with a corresponding one of the N charging ports (LPj); and M second terminals (22), each of said second terminals being connected with a first terminal of a corresponding MESDCS (Ui), and wherein the switchable connection matrix (16) is switchable under control of the control system (18) to selectively connect each of the first terminals (20) with one or more selected second terminals (22).

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