Method for determining a connection configuration of a dc charging system and dc charging system

Abstract

A method for determining a connection configuration of a DC charging system and a DC charging system are provided. The system includes a configuration controller to determine the connection configuration. The DC charging system includes: a first primary-side terminal of a first power module connectable to a DC power source; a second primary-side terminal of a second power module connectable to a DC power source; a switching system selectable between an open-circuit position and a first single-supply position; a first insulation monitoring device; a first primary-side voltage detector; and a first primary-side voltage detector. The method includes: operating the first insulation monitoring device to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive and / or DC negative terminals of a first vehicle connection terminal, or operating the first power module to apply a voltage to the first primary-side terminal; sequentially operating the switching system between the open-circuit position and the first single-supply position, and detecting the voltage at each switching position using each of the first primary-side voltage detector and the first primary-side voltage detector; and determining the connection configuration from the detected voltage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure generally relate to the field of DC charging systems, such as DC charging systems for electric vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] In an electric vehicle charging system, power is supplied in a power distribution network, and the electric vehicle charger is connected to this network. Therefore, an electric vehicle can connect to and draw power from the electric vehicle charger to recharge the battery installed in the vehicle. For example, a power unit (PU) includes one or more power modules (PMs) for supplying DC power to one or more DC charging units or user units (UUs). A DC charging unit may include one or more charging connection terminals, such as vehicle connection terminals, for supplying DC charging power to the object being charged (e.g., an electric vehicle).

[0003] Because the voltage used for DC charging power transmission can be quite high, such as 1000 volts (V) DC or more, some conventional DC charging units are equipped with an insulation monitoring device (IMD) at their charging connection terminals. The IMD monitors whether the DC charging unit's insulation is configured as intended. For example, EP4378046A1 describes a forced symmetry IMD and a method for controlling the forced symmetry IMD, wherein one or more IMD power supplies of the forced symmetry IMD are configured to control the common voltage on the common node based on a currently detected common voltage and a reference voltage signal.

[0004] However, in addition to insulation configurations, there are other configuration types to consider, such as the connection configuration of one or more DC charging units in a DC charging system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect, a method is provided for determining the connection configuration of a DC charging system. The DC charging system includes a DC charging unit, a first insulation monitoring device (IMD), a first primary-side voltage detector, and a first primary-side voltage detector. The DC charging unit includes a first primary-side terminal, a first primary-side vehicle connection terminal, and a switching system. The first primary-side terminal is connectable to or connected to a first power module of a DC power source. The first primary-side vehicle connection terminal is connectable to or connected to a vehicle for providing charging power to the vehicle. The first IMD is equipped with (e.g., connected) to the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. The first primary-side voltage detector is directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first insulation monitoring device. The first primary-side voltage detector is directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first power module. The switching system is operable to select between an open-circuit position and a first single-supply position. In the open-circuit position, the first primary-side terminal is disconnected from the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. In the first single-supply position, the first primary-side terminal is connected to the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. The method includes operating the first insulation monitoring device to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive and / or DC negative terminals of the first vehicle connection terminal. Alternatively, the method includes operating a first power module to apply a voltage to a first primary-side terminal. The method also includes sequentially operating a switching system between an open-circuit position and a first single-supply position, and in each switching position, detecting a voltage using each of a first primary-side voltage detector and a first secondary-side voltage detector. The method further includes determining a connection configuration from the detected voltage.

[0006] According to another aspect, the DC charging system includes at least one DC charging unit, a first insulation monitoring device (IMD), a first primary-side voltage detector, a first primary-side voltage detector, and a configuration controller. The DC charging unit includes a first primary-side terminal, a first primary-side vehicle connection terminal, and a switching system. The first primary-side terminal can be connected to or connected to a first power module of a DC power source. The first primary-side vehicle connection terminal can be connected to or connected to a vehicle to provide charging power to the vehicle. The first IMD is equipped with (e.g., connected) to the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. The first primary-side voltage detector is directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first insulation monitoring device. The first primary-side voltage detector is directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first power module. The switching system is operable to select between an open-circuit position and a first single-supply position. In the open-circuit position, the first primary-side terminal is disconnected from the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. In the first single-supply position, the first primary-side terminal is connected to the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. The configuration controller is configured to perform the methods described herein. For example, the configuration controller is configured to operate the first insulation monitoring device to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive and / or DC negative terminals of the first vehicle connection terminal. Alternatively, the configuration controller is configured to operate the first power module to apply voltage to the first primary-side terminal. The configuration controller is also configured to sequentially operate the switching system between an open-circuit position and a first single-supply position, and in each switching position, to detect voltage using each of the first primary-side voltage detector and the first secondary-side voltage detector. The configuration controller is further configured to determine the connection configuration from the detected voltage.

[0007] In this embodiment, the charging infrastructure includes at least one DC charging system as described herein. The charging infrastructure also includes a DC power supply as described herein. The DC power supply includes first and second power modules.

[0008] In one embodiment, the charging infrastructure includes two or more DC charging units. The DC charging units are interconnected via one or more secondary-side DC power sharing terminals.

[0009] According to another aspect, a computer system is provided. The computer system includes a memory and a processor. The memory is configured to store program code. The processor is configured to execute the program code (e.g., after the program code has been read from the memory) to implement a method for determining the connection configuration of a DC charging system. The DC charging system includes a DC charging unit, a first insulation monitoring device (IMD), a first primary-side voltage detector, and a first primary-side voltage detector. The DC charging unit includes a first primary-side terminal, a first primary-side vehicle connection terminal, and a switching system. The first primary-side terminal can be connected to or connected to a first power module of a DC power supply. The first primary-side vehicle connection terminal can be connected to or connected to a vehicle to provide charging power to the vehicle. The first IMD is equipped with (e.g., connected) to the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. The first primary-side voltage detector is directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first insulation monitoring device. The first primary-side voltage detector is directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first power module. The switching system is operable to select between an open-circuit position and a first single-supply position. In the open-circuit position, the first primary-side terminal is disconnected from the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. In the first single-supply position, a first primary-side terminal is connected to a first primary-side vehicle connection terminal. The method includes operating a first insulation monitoring device to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive and / or DC negative terminals of the first vehicle connection terminal. Alternatively, the method includes operating a first power module to apply a voltage to the first primary-side terminal. The method also includes sequentially operating a switching system between an open-circuit position and the first single-supply position, and in each switching position, detecting a voltage using each of a first primary-side voltage detector and a first secondary-side voltage detector. The method further includes determining a connection configuration from the detected voltage. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an exemplary DC charging infrastructure including a DC charging system is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating an exemplary method is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an exemplary DC charging infrastructure including a DC charging system is shown.

[0013] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an exemplary DC charging infrastructure including a DC charging system is shown.

[0014] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an exemplary DC charging infrastructure including a DC charging system is shown.

[0015] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an exemplary DC charging infrastructure including a DC charging system is shown.

[0016] Figure 7 This shows the hardware configuration of the computer system. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The technology is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate aspects of exemplary embodiments.

[0018] However, the claimed invention may be implemented in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Similar reference numerals throughout refer to similar elements. Therefore, similar elements will not be described in detail with respect to every drawing. It should also be noted that the drawings are intended only to facilitate the description of embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, the illustrated embodiments do not necessarily possess all the aspects or advantages shown. Aspects or advantages described in connection with a particular embodiment are not necessarily limited to that embodiment and may be practiced in any other embodiment, even if not so illustrated or so explicitly described. Features, functions, and advantages may be implemented independently in various embodiments or may be combined in other embodiments.

[0019] Before describing the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, a general introduction is provided to enhance understanding.

[0020] At charging stations, such as those for electric vehicles (EVs), DC charging power is distributed to on-site power outlets. DC charging systems (such as those configured to charge EVs) typically include at least one power unit and at least one vehicle charging unit. That is, the power unit is located at a distance from the power outlet and is connected via a DC link or DC cable to the vehicle charging unit or user unit where the power outlet is located.

[0021] DC charging systems can have modular configurations. For example, a power unit can be combined with multiple (e.g., two or more) vehicle charging units; or multiple (e.g., two or more) power units can be combined with one vehicle charging unit; or multiple (e.g., two or more) power units can be combined with multiple (e.g., two or more) vehicle charging units. In each case, the vehicle charging units (one or more) must be correctly wired to the power units (one or more). It is desirable to detect the configuration, for example, the combination of the power units (one or more) and the vehicle charging units (one or more), and / or to detect whether there is a correct or incorrect configuration, such as incorrect wiring and / or wiring / PE faults.

[0022] Figure 1A schematic diagram of an exemplary DC charging infrastructure 200 including a DC charging system 100 is shown. The power unit PU includes a first power module PM1 and a second power module PM2. Note that this disclosure is not limited to two power modules PM1 and PM2, and it may also include a single power module, or it may include more than two power modules.

[0023] As used herein, a power unit is typically a device connected to a power grid, such as a public AC grid. A typical power unit is configured to receive AC power from the AC grid on its primary side, convert it to DC power, and output DC power, and / or vice versa. Power units typically contain power electronics. Power units are usually installed in locations with favorable surrounding conditions, such as accessibility to the power grid, connectivity to the grid, available space, and cooling conditions. Power units are often located at a distance from the charging station (e.g., a parking lot) where the surrounding conditions for placing the power unit are less favorable.

[0024] For example, but not limited to, each power module (e.g., power module PM1 and power module PM2) has a rated power of 100kW.

[0025] The DC charging unit or user unit UU serves as an intermediate unit or interface unit between the power unit PU and the device to be charged / discharged (e.g., a vehicle). The side of the DC charging unit UU that provides the interface to the power unit PU is called the primary side of the DC charging unit UU, and the side of the DC charging unit UU that provides the interface to the device to be charged / discharged is called the secondary side of the DC charging unit UU.

[0026] The DC charging unit UU can be connected to the first and second power modules PM1 and PM2 via the first primary-side terminal UUF1 and the second primary-side terminal UUF2. Note that the DC charging unit UU can also be configured with only one primary-side terminal, or it can be configured to have more than two primary-side terminals. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to a single DC charging unit UU (see, for example...). Figure 6 It includes a first DC charging unit UU1 and a second DC charging unit UU2. The DC charging units are usually located at a certain distance from the power unit PU.

[0027] The primary-side DC terminal, as used herein, is typically any means of establishing or enabling connectivity that makes receiving a first input current possible. This can include plug / socket connections, but hardwiring of the primary-side terminal is also possible. A connection to the output side of the power unit PU can be established via the primary-side terminal to receive power output by the power unit PU, i.e., current at a specific voltage.

[0028] The DC charging unit UU includes at least a primary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS1. The primary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS1 can be connected to a vehicle to provide charging power and / or to receive power from the vehicle. The DC charging unit UU may include a secondary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS2, which can be connected to a vehicle to provide charging power and / or to receive power from the vehicle. Vehicles that can be connected to the primary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS1 may differ from vehicles that can be connected to the secondary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS2.

[0029] The secondary-side DC vehicle connection terminal used in this article is typically any kind of means of establishing or enabling connectivity that makes it possible to receive vehicle charging current, and usually includes a plug / socket connection.

[0030] As used herein, charging is understood as an illustrative rather than limiting term. Charging may include the flow of electrical power (current) in the direction from the distribution unit to the vehicle connected to the corresponding secondary-side DC vehicle connection terminal, or in the direction from the secondary-side DC vehicle connection terminal to the distribution unit. Furthermore, charging may include supplying the vehicle with power for purposes other than improving the state of charge (SoC) of the vehicle's battery, such as power consumed by onboard devices. Additionally, charging may include supplying the vehicle with power solely for the purpose of improving the battery's SoC.

[0031] The DC charging unit UU also includes a switching system comprising switches S1, S2, S3, and S4. The switching system is operable to at least select an open-circuit position to disconnect the first primary-side terminal UUF1 from the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS1, and to select a first single-power-supply position to connect the first primary-side terminal UUF1 to the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS1. Note that the switching system does not necessarily need to include four switches S1, S2, S3, and S4 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (As illustrated in the example), and may include at least one switch, such as switch S1. For example, a switching system includes switch S1, which can be opened and closed according to a switch selection signal from configuration controller 10. For convenience, configuration controller 10 is only depicted in the example. Figure 1 In the following figures, it is omitted. In the case where the switching system contains more than one switch (e.g., switches S1 to S4), each switch can be opened and closed according to a switch selection signal from the configuration controller 10. By selectively opening and closing (one or more) the switches of the switching system, various switch positions can be selected (i.e., established), as described herein.

[0032] As used herein, a switch can be any kind of device capable of safely connecting and disconnecting a corresponding current path and configured to transition between an on (conducting) state and an off (disconnecting) state. Typically, the transition between the on and off states can be controlled so that it is performed automatically. Examples of switches include switches, circuit breakers, isolators, or contactors, each with its own physical contacts. Another example of a switch includes semiconductor elements such as (power) MOSFETs (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors), IGBTs (Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistors), and so on.

[0033] The DC charging system 100 also includes a first insulation monitoring device IMD1. The first insulation monitoring device IMD1 is equipped with (e.g., connected) to the primary side vehicle connection terminal UUS1. Note that IMD1 can be connected internally or externally to the primary side vehicle connection terminal. The DC charging system 100 also includes a primary side voltage detector V1. The primary side voltage detector V1 is directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first insulation monitoring device IMD1. The DC charging system 100 also includes first primary side voltage detectors V2 and V3. The first primary side voltage detectors V2 and V3 are directly equipped with (e.g., directly connected) to the first power module PM1.

[0034] As used herein, the placement of a device on a target element indicates that the functionality implemented by the corresponding device and described herein is applied to the corresponding target element, for example, having a direct effect on the corresponding target element. For example, the placement of a first insulation monitoring device IMD1 on a primary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS1 means that the insulation monitoring functionality of the first insulation monitoring device IMD1 is applied to the primary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS1. In some or all of these cases, the placement of a device on a target element can be achieved by an electrical connection (e.g., a current connection) between the device and the target element.

[0035] As used herein, the direct attachment of a device to a target element indicates that the functionality implemented by the corresponding device and described herein is applied to the corresponding target element without the mediation of another functional element, for example, having a direct effect on the corresponding target element without being substantially affected by another functional element. In some examples, any such other functional element may be, for example, a switching system or part of a switching system.

[0036] As used herein, the direct connection of a device to a target element indicates that the functionality implemented by the corresponding device and described herein is applied to the corresponding target element via an electrical connection (e.g., a current connection) without the mediation of another functional element, for example, having a direct effect on the corresponding target element without being substantially affected by another functional element. In some examples, any such other functional element may be, for example, a switching system or part of a switching system.

[0037] The insulation monitoring device described herein (e.g., the first insulation monitoring device IMD1) may be configured as described, for example, in EP4378046A1. For example, DC charging system 100 includes IMD1 to detect a first ground fault via ground leakage detection. IMD1 is configured such that it can apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive terminal UUS1+ and / or DC negative terminal UUS1- of the first vehicle connection terminal UUS1.

[0038] In the example, the first insulation monitoring device IMD1 is operated such that a common-mode voltage is applied to the DC positive terminal UUS1+ and / or DC negative terminal UUS1- of the first vehicle connection terminal UUS1. As used herein, applying a common-mode voltage to the DC positive terminal UUS1+ and / or DC negative terminal UUS1- does not necessarily mean that IMD1 is directly connected to the corresponding poles; however, IMD1 applies a common-mode voltage such that it acts on the DC positive terminal UUS1+ and / or DC negative terminal UUS1-. However, in the example, IMD1 is connected to the corresponding poles. Alternatively, the first power module PM1 is operated to apply a voltage to the first primary-side terminal UUF1. When a corresponding voltage is applied via IMD1 or PM1, the switching system is operated sequentially between an open-circuit position and a first single-supply position. In each of these switching positions, the voltage is detected using each of the first primary-side voltage detector V1 and the first primary-side voltage detectors V2, V3. The connection configuration is determined from the detected voltage.

[0039] As used herein, the connection configuration may include information regarding the correctness of the connection from the first power module PM1 to the first primary-side terminal UUF1. In this sense, the detected connection configuration is equivalent to a self-test. Additionally or alternatively, as used herein, the connection configuration may include information about the connection topology, possibly including additional power modules (e.g., the second power module PM2 and / or the third power module PM3, which will be described in more detail later) and / or additional secondary-side vehicle connection terminals (e.g., possibly the second secondary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS2 contained in another DC charging unit UU2, which will be described in more detail later).

[0040] In this example, the DC charging unit UU also includes a second primary-side terminal UUF2 that can be connected to a second power module PM2 of the DC power supply PU. In this example, the switching system is also operable to select—in addition to the aforementioned selectable positions—a first dual-supply position to connect both the first and second primary-side terminals UUF1, UUF2 to the first secondary-side vehicle connection terminals. In this example, the switching system operates sequentially between an open-circuit position, a first single-supply position, and a first dual-supply position. At each of these switching positions, a voltage is detected using each of the first secondary-side voltage detector V1 and the first primary-side voltage detectors V2, V3. The connection configuration is determined from the detected voltage. Here, the open-circuit position includes the position where the primary-side terminals UUF1, UUF2 are disconnected from the secondary-side vehicle connection terminals UUS1, UUS2.

[0041] In the example, when the DC charging unit UU further includes a second primary-side terminal UUF2 as described above, the DC charging unit UU also includes a second primary-side voltage detector V4, V5 that is directly equipped with (e.g., connected to) the second power module PM2. The second primary-side voltage detectors V4, V5 are configured to measure the voltage at the second power module PM2, such as the output voltage of the second power module.

[0042] The operations described herein and / or at least some of the determined features may be performed by the configuration controller 10. For example, the configuration controller 10 may perform actions such as Figure 2 The method is shown in the flowchart. For example, refer to... Figure 2 The configuration controller 10 can operate the first insulation monitoring device in S1010 to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive terminal UUS1+ and / or DC negative terminal UUS1- of the first vehicle connection terminal UUS1, or operate the first power module PM1 to apply voltage to the first primary side terminal UUF1; in S1020, the switching system S1, S2, S3, S4 are operated sequentially between the open circuit position and the first single power supply position, and in each switching position, the voltage is detected by each of the first primary side voltage detector V1 and the first primary side voltage detectors V2, V3; and in S1030, the connection configuration is determined from the detected voltage.

[0043] Return to reference Figure 1In the variant where common-mode voltage is applied via the first insulation monitoring device, in the open-circuit position of the switching system, both the DC+ / PE voltage and the DC- / PE voltage are expected to be detectable or measurable via the first-level side voltage detector V1. Note that PE is "protective ground," DC+ is the positive DC voltage of the common-mode voltage applied via IMD1, and DC- is the negative DC voltage of the common-mode voltage applied via IMD1. IMD1 supplies safe voltage to DC+ and PE (DC+ / PE voltage) and safe voltage to DC- and PE (DC- / PE voltage). That is, activating IMD1 should only result in a voltage at V1. If a voltage is present at V2, V3, or possibly other points, a contactor fault or wiring error exists.

[0044] In the first single-supply position of the switching system, it is expected that both the DC+ / PE voltage and the DC- / PE voltage can be detected or measured via the first primary-side voltage detectors V2 and V3.

[0045] In a variant where the first power module PM1 applies voltage to the first primary side terminal UUF1, PM1 is preferably operated to supply a safe voltage, such as a low voltage similar to IMD1. Here, in the open-circuit position of the switching system, voltage is expected to be measured only at V2 and V3, and in the first single-supply position, voltage is measured at V1, V2, and V3.

[0046] In the example, the DC charging unit UU includes a first-stage DC power sharing terminal UUS4 and a second-stage DC power sharing terminal UUS5. The configuration can also be such that the first-stage DC power sharing terminal UUS4 is located in the first user unit UU1, and the second-stage DC power sharing terminal UUS5 is located in the second user unit UU2, as shown in the example. Figure 6 As shown in the example. In this example, the secondary side power sharing terminals UUS4 and UUS5 are connected, for example, as shown in the diagram. Figure 1 Internal connections like those in [the text], or like [the text] Figure 6 External connections are possible in the configuration shown. Cascading of DC charging units UU is possible via secondary-side power sharing terminals. For example, the DC charging unit also includes a third secondary-side power sharing terminal UUS3 and a fourth secondary-side power sharing terminal UUS6. That is, each secondary-side power sharing terminal can be connected to another existing charging distribution unit. In this way, input power can be obtained from the secondary-side power sharing terminal, i.e., from another existing charging distribution unit. This enables the cascading of distribution units for power exchange on their secondary sides.

[0047] As used herein, a secondary-side DC power sharing terminal is typically any kind of means of establishing or enabling connectivity that makes it possible to receive vehicle charging current, and may include plug / socket connections or hardwired connections.

[0048] In this example, a connection is established between the first power module PM1 and the first primary-side terminal UUF1 via the first power supply lines UUF1+ and UUF1-. A first primary-side voltage detector V3 is located on the first power supply line, on the power module side, and a third primary-side voltage detector V2 is located on the first power supply line, on the DC charging unit UU side. In other words, the first primary-side voltage detector V3 is located at the power module PM1, and the third primary-side voltage detector V2 is located at the DC charging unit UU. In this exemplary configuration, in addition to the configuration detectable via the above process, connection configurations regarding the first power supply lines UUF1+ and UUF1-, such as connection faults in the first power supply lines UUF1+ and UUF1-, can also be detected.

[0049] In this example, the DC charging system also includes second power supply lines UUF2+ and UUF2- between the second power module PM2 and the second primary-side terminal UUF2. A second primary-side voltage detector V4 is disposed on the power module side of the second power supply line. The DC charging system also includes a fourth primary-side voltage detector V5, which is disposed on the DC charging unit side of the second power supply line to measure the voltage supplied to or from the DC charging unit UU. In this exemplary configuration, at each switching position, in addition to the detection operations described above, the voltage is also detected via the fourth primary-side voltage detector V5.

[0050] Here, in the first dual-supply position, DC+ / PE voltages are expected to be measured on V1, V2, V3, V4, and V5, and DC- / PE voltages are expected to be measured on V1, V2, V3, V4, and V5.

[0051] In the example, switches S1, S2, S3, and S4 of the switching system are initially in the open position, and then closed in the order of S1, S2, S3, and S4. The system configuration can be determined by measuring the voltages (e.g., DC+ / PE voltages) across V1, V2, V3, V4, and V5, as well as by measuring the voltages (e.g., DC- / PE) across V1, V2, V3, V4, and V5.

[0052] Figure 3 The diagram shows a configuration where the third power module PM3 is connected to the same point as the second power module PM2 (i.e., the second primary-side terminal UUF2). A third primary-side voltage detector V7 is arranged in the third power module PM3. Voltage measurement included in the third primary-side voltage detector V7 can be used to determine... Figure 3The connection configuration is shown in the diagram. That is, if, for example, PM2 is turned on, and V7 and V5 measure the same or similar voltage, it can be determined that PM2 and PM3 are connected to the same point.

[0053] Figure 4 This illustrates a configuration containing a wiring error. Specifically, the wiring of the first and second power supply lines UUF1+, UUF1-, UUF2+, and UUF2- has been partially swapped (incorrect lines to the wrong power modules). Common-mode voltage measurements will identify which line is incorrectly connected. For example, when S1 is closed, a voltage will also be measured at V4, while only a voltage (DC+ / PE) will be measured at V3, which is unexpected. Therefore, when determining the connection configuration, this connection will be identified as incorrect.

[0054] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a configuration containing a wiring error. Specifically, in the wiring of the first power supply lines UUF1+ and UUF1-, the poles (DC+, DC-) have been swapped. Similarly, in the wiring of the second power supply lines UUF2+ and UUF2-, the poles (DC+, DC-) have been swapped. Therefore, common-mode voltage measurements will detect the reversed signal. Thus, when determining the connection configuration, it will be determined that the connection is incorrect. In other words, it is possible to detect whether the connection configuration involves a primary-side pole swapping connection.

[0055] In a variant of this type of wiring error, a missing protective earth (PE) connection, for example, will result in common-mode differential, which will be detected in common-mode measurements. In other words, it can detect whether the connection configuration is missing a ground connection.

[0056] In the example, the DC charging unit UU also includes a secondary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS2 that can be connected to a vehicle to provide charging power. The DC charging system also includes a second insulation monitoring device IMD2 connected to the secondary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS2, and a secondary-side voltage detector V6 for measuring the voltage supplied to or from the second insulation monitoring device IMD2. Here, the second insulation monitoring device IMD2 is operated such that it applies a common-mode voltage to the DC positive and / or DC negative terminals of the secondary-side vehicle connection terminal UUS2. Then, in each switching position, in addition to the above measurements, the voltage is detected by the secondary-side voltage detector V6.

[0057] In the example, if the power module (e.g., voltage detector V3) cannot measure the common-mode voltage, or if, for example, IMD1 is not strong enough to drive the voltage on either V3 or V4 (e.g., due to high capacitance, resistance, etc.), an alternative method can be used. In the first step, the power module PM1 is turned on so that it supplies voltage, and the switch is in the open position. Here, it is expected that DC+ / PE voltage will be measured on V2 and V3, and DC- / PE voltage will be measured on V2 and V3. If voltage is also measured elsewhere (such as V1, V4, V5), there is a wiring problem or a damaged contactor (this may be visible on the common-mode side such as V1, V5, V6). If the voltage is negative (already swapped), the wiring has been swapped. In the second step, S2 is closed. Here, it is expected that DC+ / PE voltage will be measured on V2, V3, V4, V5, and DC- / PE voltage will be measured on V2, V3, V4, V5. If PM1 can supply a safe voltage, S1 can be closed in the next step. Alternatively, PM1 can be disconnected, and IMD1 can be used to measure the voltage.

[0058] Figure 6 An example is shown in which the first user unit UU1 and the second user unit UU2 are each powered via different power modules PM1 / PM2. Similarly, in this case, wiring errors can be detected, for example, via the techniques described herein.

[0059] In the example above, for example Figure 1 The correct connection is shown. For example, when the switch is in the open position, only the primary side voltage detector V1 detects voltage, and in the first single-supply position, only the primary side voltage detector V1 and the first primary side voltage detector V3 detect voltage, the correct connection is determined as the connection configuration. As an additional measure, when the primary side voltage detector V1, the first primary side voltage detector V3, and the second primary side voltage detector V4 detect voltage in the first dual-supply position, the correct connection is determined as the connection configuration.

[0060] Figure 7The hardware configuration of computer system 15 is shown. Some or all of the functions performed in the methods disclosed herein can be performed via computer system 15. Computer system 15 includes processor 11 and memory 12. The methods can be implemented using program code. Memory 12 is configured to store program code. The program code can be implemented in software, etc. (such as software, firmware, or software and firmware). Memory 12 can therefore store a program that can be read from and executed by processor 11 to thus perform the methods as described herein. For example, processor 11 is connected to configuration controller 10 via a data connection (not shown). Memory 12 can be, for example, a non-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory, such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, (E)EPROM. Memory 12 can be, for example, an HDD, floppy disk, optical disk, etc. Processor 11 can be, for example, a central processing unit, processing unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, DSP, single-programmable or multi-programmable processor, ASIC, FPGA, any combination of these, etc.

[0061] While specific embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the claimed invention to the preferred embodiments, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention. Therefore, the specification and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. The claimed invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for determining the connection configuration of a DC charging system (100), wherein, The DC charging system includes: - A DC charging unit (UU), the DC charging unit comprising: - The first primary side terminal (UUF1) of the first power module (PM1) that can be connected to a DC power supply (PU); - A primary-side vehicle connection terminal (UUS1) that can be connected to a vehicle to provide charging power to the vehicle. - A switch system operable to select between the following positions (S1, S2, S3, S4): - An open-circuit position used to disconnect the first primary side terminal (UUF1) from the first primary side vehicle connection terminal (UUS1); - A first single power supply position for connecting the first primary side terminal (UUF1) to the first primary side vehicle connection terminal (UUS1); - A first insulation monitoring device (IMD1) is provided to the first-stage vehicle connection terminal (UUS1). - A primary side voltage detector (V1) directly connected to the first insulation monitoring device (IMD1). - A first primary-side voltage detector (V2, V3) directly connected to the first power module (PM1); The method includes: - Operate the first insulation monitoring device to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive terminal (UUS1+) and / or DC negative terminal (UUS1-) of the first vehicle connection terminal (UUS1), or operate the first power module (PM1) to apply a voltage to the first primary side terminal (UUF1); - The switching system (S1, S2, S3, S4) is operated sequentially between the open-circuit position and the first single-supply position, and in each switching position, the voltage is detected using each of the first primary-side voltage detector (V1) and the first primary-side voltage detector (V2, V3); and - The connection configuration is determined from the detected voltage.

2. The method as described in claim 1, wherein, The DC charging unit (UU) also includes: - The second primary side terminal (UUF2) of the second power module (PM2) that can be connected to the DC power supply (PU); The switching system (S1, S2, S3, S4) can also be operated to select: - A first dual power supply position for connecting both the first primary-side terminal and the second primary-side terminal (UUF1, UUF2) to the first primary-side vehicle connection terminal (UUS1). During operation of the switching system, the method includes: - The switching system (S1, S2, S3, S4) is operated sequentially between the open circuit position, the first single power supply position, and the first dual power supply position, and in each switching position, the voltage is detected by each of the first primary side voltage detector (V1) and the first primary side voltage detector (V2, V3).

3. The method as described in claim 2, wherein, The DC charging unit (UU) also includes: - A second primary-side voltage detector (V4, V5) directly connected to the second power module (PM2) to measure the voltage at the second power module (PM2). During operation of the switching system, the method includes: The switching system (S1, S2, S3, S4) is operated sequentially between the open circuit position, the first single power supply position, and the first dual power supply position, and in each switching position, the voltage is detected by each of the first primary side voltage detector (V1), the first primary side voltage detector (V2, V3), and the second primary side voltage detector (V4, V5).

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The DC charging system further includes a first power supply line (UUF1+, UUF1-) between the first power module (PM1) and the first primary-side terminal (UUF1), wherein the first primary-side voltage detector (V3) is arranged on the power module side of the first power supply line, and wherein the DC charging system further includes a third primary-side voltage detector (V2) arranged on the DC charging unit side of the first power supply line to measure the voltage supplied to or from the DC charging unit, wherein the method further includes using the third primary-side voltage detector (V2) to detect voltage at each switching position.

5. The method according to claim 3 or claim 4 when dependent on claim 3, wherein, The DC charging system further includes a second power supply line (UUF2+, UUF2-) between the second power module (PM2) and the second primary-side terminal (UUF2), wherein the second primary-side voltage detector (V4) is arranged on the power module side of the second power supply line, and wherein the DC charging system further includes a fourth primary-side voltage detector (V5) arranged on the DC charging unit side of the second power supply line to measure the voltage supplied to or from the DC charging unit, wherein the method further includes using the fourth primary-side voltage detector (V5) to detect voltage at each switching position.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The DC charging unit (UU) further includes a secondary-side vehicle connection terminal (UUS2) connectable to a vehicle for providing charging power to the vehicle. The DC charging system also includes a second insulation monitoring device (IMD2) connected to the secondary-side vehicle connection terminal (UUS2) and a secondary-side voltage detector (V6) for measuring the voltage supplied to or from the second insulation monitoring device (IMD2). The method further includes operating the second insulation monitoring device (IMD2) to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive and / or DC negative terminals of the secondary-side vehicle connection terminal (UUS2), and using the secondary-side voltage detector (V6) to detect the voltage at each switching position.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The connection configuration contains a correct connection.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, The method further includes determining the correct connection as the connection configuration when: - In the open-circuit position of the switch, the voltage is detected only by the primary side voltage detector (V1); and - In the first single-supply position, the voltage is detected only by the first primary-side voltage detector (V1) and the first primary-side voltage detector (V3).

9. The method according to claims 7 and 8 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 3, wherein, The method further includes determining the correct connection as the connection configuration when: - In the first dual-supply position, the voltage is detected by the first primary-side voltage detector (V1), the first primary-side voltage detector (V3), and the second primary-side voltage detector (V4).

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The connection configuration includes a primary side electrode switching connection.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The connection configuration includes a missing grounding connection.

12. A DC charging system (100), comprising: - At least one DC charging unit (UU), said DC charging unit comprising: - The first primary side terminal (UUF1) of the first power module (PM1) that can be connected to a DC power supply (PU); - The second primary side terminal (UUF2) of the second power module (PM2) that can be connected to the DC power supply (PU); - A switch system operable to select between the following positions (S1, S2, S3, S4): - An open-circuit position used to disconnect the first primary side terminal (UUF1) from the first primary side vehicle connection terminal (UUS1); - A first single power supply position for connecting the first primary side terminal (UUF1) to the first primary side vehicle connection terminal (UUS1); - A first insulation monitoring device (IMD1) is provided to the first-stage vehicle connection terminal (UUS1). - A primary side voltage detector (V1) directly connected to the first insulation monitoring device (IMD1). - A first primary-side voltage detector (V2, V3) directly connected to the first power module (PM1); - Configuration controller (10), the configuration controller is configured to: - Operate the first insulation monitoring device to apply a common-mode voltage to the DC positive terminal (UUS1+) and / or DC negative terminal (UUS1-) of the first vehicle connection terminal (UUS1), or operate the first power module (PM1) to apply a voltage to the first primary side terminal (UUF1); - The switching system (S1, S2, S3, S4) is operated sequentially between the open circuit position and the first single power supply position, and in each switching position, the voltage is detected by each of the first primary side voltage detector (V1) and the first primary side voltage detector (V2, V3); as well as - The connection configuration is determined from the detected voltage.

13. A charging infrastructure (200), comprising: - At least one DC charging system (100) according to claim 12. as well as - The DC power supply (PU) includes the first power module and the second power module (PM1, PM2).

14. The charging infrastructure (200) of claim 13 includes two or more DC charging units (UU) interconnected via one or more secondary-side DC power sharing terminals (UUS4, UUS5).

15. A computer system (15), comprising: - Memory (11), the memory being configured to store program code; as well as - A processor (12) configured to execute the program code to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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