Range extender, range-extended electric vehicle and power supply system of range-extended electric vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a range extender, a range-extended electric automobile and a power supply system of the range-extended electric automobile, and relates to the technical field of electric automobiles. The range extender is applied to a power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle, the power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle comprises a power distribution unit, and the range extender comprises a power input end used for being connected with charging equipment, a first switch and a direct current interface; the first end of the first switch is electrically connected with the power input end; the direct-current interface is electrically connected with the second end of the first switch and is used for accessing a power distribution unit; and when the first switch is switched on, the access between the power supply input end and the direct current interface is controlled to be connected, so that the electric energy provided by the charging equipment is output to the power distribution unit. The utility model aims to improve the compatibility of the power distribution unit and reduce the design complexity and cost of the extended-range electric vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of electric vehicles, and in particular to a range extender, a range-extended electric vehicle and a power supply system thereof. Background Art

[0002] The extended-range electric vehicle is a new energy vehicle that solves the pain points of both pure electric vehicles and pure fuel vehicles. Generally, an extended-range electric vehicle is based on a pure electric vehicle with the addition of a range extender and its accessories. When the battery is exhausted or in a low-power state, the range extender starts, and the generator controller of the range extender converts AC power into DC power, and outputs it to the power battery or other electrical equipment through the distribution unit, thereby extending the driving range of the electric vehicle. However, compared to pure electric vehicles, in addition to adding a range extender, the distribution unit of the extended-range electric vehicle also needs to add a high-power DC interface to connect to the generator controller. This makes the distribution units of pure electric vehicles and extended-range vehicles different and incompatible. Utility Model Content

[0003] The main purpose of the present utility model is to provide a range extender, an extended-range electric vehicle and a power supply system thereof, aiming to improve the compatibility of the power distribution unit and reduce the design complexity and cost of the extended-range electric vehicle.

[0004] To achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention proposes a range extender, which is applied to the power supply system of an extended-range electric vehicle. The power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle includes a power distribution unit, and the range extender includes:

[0005] Power input terminal, used to connect to charging equipment;

[0006] a first switch, wherein a first end of the first switch is electrically connected to the power input end;

[0007] a DC interface, electrically connected to the second end of the first switch, the DC interface being used to access the power distribution unit;

[0008] When the first switch is turned on, it controls the path between the power input terminal and the DC interface to be connected, so as to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power distribution unit.

[0009] In one embodiment, the range extender further comprises:

[0010] dynamo;

[0011] a generator controller, the generator controller being electrically connected to the generator and the DC interface respectively;

[0012] The generator controller is used to convert the alternating current output by the generator into direct current and output the direct current to the direct current interface.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first switch is integrated into the generator controller.

[0014] In one embodiment, the range extender further comprises:

[0015] a second switch, the second switch being arranged in series between the generator and the generator controller;

[0016] The second switch is used to control the on / off state of the path between the generator and the generator controller.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first switch includes any one of a contactor, a relay, and a circuit breaker.

[0018] The present invention also proposes a power supply system for an extended-range electric vehicle, which is applied to the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a power battery. The power supply system for the extended-range electric vehicle includes any of the above-mentioned range extenders, and:

[0019] a power distribution unit, wherein a first output terminal of the power distribution unit is electrically connected to the DC interface of the range extender, and a second output terminal of the power distribution unit is electrically connected to the power battery;

[0020] The power distribution unit is used to output the electrical energy of the DC interface of the range extender to the power battery.

[0021] In one embodiment, the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle further includes a power supply controller, and the power supply controller is electrically connected to the controlled end of the first switch;

[0022] The power supply controller is used to control the first switch to connect the path between the power input end and the DC interface when the power input end is connected to a charging device; and is also used to control the first switch to disconnect the path between the power input end and the DC interface when the power input end is not connected to a charging device.

[0023] In one embodiment, the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle has a power generation mode and a charging mode.

[0024] The power supply controller is electrically connected to the controlled end of the generator controller;

[0025] In the power generation mode, the power supply controller controls the first switch to be turned off and controls the second switch to be turned on, so as to control the generator controller to convert the AC power output by the generator into DC power and output it to the power distribution unit;

[0026] In the charging mode, the power supply controller controls the first switch to be turned on and controls the second switch to be turned off, so as to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power distribution unit.

[0027] In one embodiment, the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle further includes:

[0028] a voltage detection circuit, wherein an output end of the voltage detection circuit is electrically connected to the power supply controller;

[0029] The voltage detection circuit is used to detect the voltage of the power input terminal and output a corresponding voltage detection signal to the power supply controller, so that the power supply controller controls the working state of the first switch according to the voltage detection signal.

[0030] The present invention also provides an extended-range electric vehicle, comprising the range extender described in any one of the above items, or the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle described in any one of the above items, as well as an electric drive device and a power battery;

[0031] The electric drive device and the power battery are electrically connected to the power distribution unit respectively.

[0032] In one embodiment, the extended-range electric vehicle comprises:

[0033] A fast charging socket, which is electrically connected to the power input end and is used to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power input end.

[0034] The range extender of the present utility model is applied to the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle. The power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle includes a distribution unit. The range extender includes a power input terminal for accessing a charging device, a first switch and a DC interface; the first end of the first switch is electrically connected to the power input terminal; the DC interface is electrically connected to the second end of the first switch, and the DC interface is used to access the distribution unit; wherein, when the first switch is turned on, it controls the path between the power input terminal and the DC interface to be connected, so as to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the distribution unit.

[0035] In practical applications, by adding a first switch and a DC interface to the range extender, the power output from the charging device can be transmitted to the power distribution unit through the power input, the first switch, and the DC interface. The DC power output from the range extender's generator controller via the DC interface is then connected to the fast charging circuit of the power distribution unit. This eliminates the need to add a high-power DC interface to the power distribution unit to achieve an electrical connection between the power distribution unit and the generator controller. This improves the compatibility of the power distribution unit and reduces the design complexity and cost of the extended-range electric vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a module of an embodiment of a range extender of the present utility model;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a module schematic diagram of another embodiment of the range extender of the present utility model;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a module schematic diagram of another embodiment of the range extender of the present utility model;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a module diagram of an embodiment of a power supply system for an extended-range electric vehicle of the present utility model;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a module diagram of another embodiment of the power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle of the present utility model;

[0042] Figure 6 This is a module diagram of another embodiment of the power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a module diagram of an embodiment of the range-extended electric vehicle of the present utility model;

[0044] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a high-voltage architecture for a pure electric vehicle;

[0045] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a high-voltage architecture for a conventional range-extended vehicle;

[0046] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the high-voltage architecture of the range-extended vehicle model of the present invention.

[0047] Description of Figure Numbers:

[0048] 10. Power input terminal; 20. First switch; 30. DC interface; 40. Generator; 50. Generator controller; 60. Second switch; 70. Power distribution unit; 80. Power supply controller; 90. Voltage detection circuit; 100. Fast charging socket.

[0049] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0051] In addition, in this utility model, the descriptions of "first" and "second" are for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the technical features indicated. Therefore, the features specified as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of such features. In addition, the technical solutions between the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the fact that they can be implemented by ordinary technicians in this field. When the combination of technical solutions is mutually contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be deemed that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection required by this utility model.

[0052] An extended-range electric vehicle is a new energy vehicle that addresses the pain points of both pure electric vehicles and pure fuel vehicles. Typically, an extended-range electric vehicle is a pure electric vehicle with an additional range extender and its accessories. When the battery is exhausted or in a low-power state, the range extender starts, and the generator controller 50 of the range extender converts AC power into DC power, and outputs it to the power battery or other electrical equipment through the distribution unit 70, thereby extending the mileage of the electric vehicle. However, compared to pure electric vehicles, in addition to adding a range extender, the distribution unit 70 of the extended-range electric vehicle also needs to be equipped with a high-power DC interface 30 to connect to the generator controller 50. This makes the distribution units 70 of pure electric vehicles and extended-range vehicles different and incompatible.

[0053] refer to Figures 8 and 9 , Figure 8 It is a high-voltage architecture for pure electric vehicles. The input end of the distribution unit 70 is connected to the fast charging circuit, and the two output ends of the distribution unit 70 are connected to the power battery and electric drive respectively. The electrical connection is achieved inside the distribution unit 70 through a copper busbar. Figure 9 For the high-voltage architecture of the existing extended-range vehicle model, on the basis of the high-voltage architecture of the pure electric vehicle model, it is necessary to add a range extender (including an engine, a generator 40, a generator controller 50) and an interface for electrically connecting the range extender and the distribution unit 70, namely a high-power DC interface 30. This makes the distribution units 70 of the pure electric vehicle model and the extended-range vehicle model incompatible.

[0054] For this purpose, refer to Figure 1The range extender proposed in this application is applied to the power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle. The power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle includes a power distribution unit 70. The range extender includes:

[0055] Power input terminal 10, used to connect to charging equipment;

[0056] a first switch 20 , wherein a first end of the first switch 20 is electrically connected to the power input end 10 ;

[0057] a DC interface 30 electrically connected to the second end of the first switch 20 , the DC interface 30 being used to access the power distribution unit 70 ;

[0058] When the first switch 20 is turned on, it controls the path between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30 to be connected, so as to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power distribution unit 70 .

[0059] In this embodiment, the charging equipment includes a charging pile, a charging box, a solar charging panel, a mobile charging vehicle, etc. The first switch 20 can be implemented by switching devices such as contactors and relays, or by switching tubes such as transistors, MOS tubes, and IGBT tubes. Optionally, the first switch 20 includes any one of a contactor, a relay, and a circuit breaker. The power supply controller 80 can receive a feedback signal output by a battery management system (BMS) to determine the power level of the power battery. The BMS is responsible for monitoring the various parameters of the battery and passing this information to the power supply controller 80 so that the power supply controller 80 can work according to the battery status.

[0060] Specifically, the power input terminal 10 is the connection point between the range extender and an external charging device (e.g., a charging station). The first switch 20 is arranged in series between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30 to control the electrical connection between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30. The power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle also includes a voltage detection circuit 90 and a power supply controller 80. The voltage detection circuit 90 is used to detect the voltage at the power input terminal 10 and output a corresponding voltage detection signal to the power supply controller 80, so that the power supply controller 80 controls the operating state of the first switch 20 according to the voltage detection signal. For example, when the power supply controller 80 determines that the power input terminal 10 is connected to the voltage based on the voltage detection signal, it means that the extended-range vehicle is connected to the charging device. At this time, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to conduct the path between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30, allowing the power output of the charging device to flow from the power input terminal 10 to the DC interface 30, and then flow into the distribution unit 70 through the original fast charging circuit, so that the distribution unit 70 can distribute the received power to the power battery of the extended-range electric vehicle as needed to charge the power battery. It should be noted that in an extended-range electric vehicle, the power supply controller 80 can also detect the actual driving status of the electric vehicle (such as driving and parking) and the battery charge of the power battery, and control the operating state of the range extender. For example, when the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is in driving mode and the power battery charge is low (the battery charge is less than a preset charge threshold set in advance by the R&D personnel), it controls the range extender to output DC power via the DC interface 30 to the power distribution unit 70. The power distribution unit 70 distributes the received power according to demand to different components of the electric vehicle, such as the power battery, electric drive unit, and other power-consuming modules, to maintain the operating state of the electric vehicle and increase the driving range. In addition, when the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is in a parked state and the power battery is low on power, and determines based on the voltage detection signal that the power input terminal 10 is not connected to a voltage, it means that the electric vehicle is not connected to a charging device. At this time, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to disconnect the path between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30, and controls the range extender to start to charge the power battery. Therefore, when the power battery needs to be charged and there is no available charging equipment nearby, the range extender supplies power to meet the power demand of the extended-range electric vehicle and improve the user experience.

[0061] In practical applications, by adding a first switch 20 and a DC interface 30 to the range extender, the power output by the charging device can be output to the power distribution unit 70 through the power input terminal 10, the first switch 20, and the DC interface 30. The DC power output by the range extender generator controller 50 through the DC interface 30 is then connected to the fast charging circuit where the power distribution unit 70 is located. This eliminates the need to add a high-power DC interface 30 to the power distribution unit 70 to achieve an electrical connection between the power distribution unit 70 and the generator controller. This improves the compatibility of the power distribution unit 70 and reduces the design complexity and cost of the extended-range electric vehicle.

[0062] refer to Figure 2 In one embodiment of the present invention, the range extender further comprises:

[0063] generator 40;

[0064] A generator controller 50 , the generator controller 50 being electrically connected to the generator 40 and the DC interface 30 ;

[0065] The generator controller 50 is configured to convert the AC power output by the generator 40 into DC power and output the DC power to the DC interface 30 .

[0066] It should be noted that the first end of the generator controller 50 is electrically connected to the generator 40, and the second end of the generator controller 50 is electrically connected to the DC interface 30. The range extender also includes an engine, which is usually a small internal combustion engine, such as a gasoline engine or a diesel engine, and its function is to provide mechanical energy. When the power battery is not enough to support the vehicle's driving, the engine will start and drive the generator 40 to work through mechanical transmission. The generator 40 converts the mechanical energy generated by the engine into electrical energy. In the range extender, the generator 40 usually generates alternating current (AC). The generator controller 50 is responsible for converting the AC power output by the generator 40 into direct current (DC) suitable for use in electric vehicles. In addition, the generator controller 50 also monitors the working status of the generator 40 and controls the start and stop of the generator 40.

[0067] In combination with the contents of the above embodiments, when the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is in a driving state and the power battery is low on power, it controls the range extender to operate. For example, the power supply controller 80 controls the engine to start, driving the generator 40 to operate, so that the generator 40 converts the mechanical energy generated by the engine into electrical energy, and controls the generator controller 50 to convert the AC power output by the generator 40 into DC power and output it to the DC interface 30, so as to output the DC power to the distribution unit 70 via the DC interface 30. The distribution unit 70 distributes the received electrical energy to different parts of the electric vehicle according to demand, such as the power battery, electric drive device, etc., thereby maintaining the operating state of the electric vehicle and increasing the mileage. Furthermore, when the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is parked and the power battery is low on charge, and determines based on the voltage detection signal that the power input terminal 10 is connected to a voltage, i.e., that the power input terminal 10 is connected to a charging device, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to connect the power input terminal 10 to the DC interface 30, allowing the power output of the charging device to flow from the power input terminal 10 to the DC interface 30, and then to the power distribution unit 70 through the original fast charging circuit, so that the power distribution unit 70 can distribute the received power to the power battery of the extended-range electric vehicle as needed to charge the power battery. When the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is parked and the power battery is low on charge, and determines based on the voltage detection signal that the power input terminal 10 is not connected to a voltage, this indicates that the electric vehicle is not connected to a charging device. In other words, when the power battery needs to be charged and there is no available charging device nearby, the range extender is used to supply power. At this time, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to disconnect the path between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30, controls the engine to start, drives the generator 40 to work, and controls the generator controller 50 to convert the AC power output by the generator 40 into DC power and output it to the DC interface 30, so that the distribution unit 70 distributes the received electric energy to different parts of the electric vehicle according to demand, such as the power battery, electric drive device, etc., to ensure that when the battery power of the extended-range electric vehicle is insufficient, the power module of the extended-range electric vehicle can still be charged through the range extender.

[0068] Optionally, the first switch 20 is integrated into the generator controller 50. In this embodiment, the setting of the first switch 20 connects the DC power output by the range extender generator controller 50 to the original fast charging circuit, and adds a fast charging circuit to the generator controller 50 to connect to the charging equipment. Since the range extender itself is an independent subsystem and needs to be specially designed and developed, there is no need to add a DC interface 30 to the distribution unit 70. It is only necessary to reserve a DC interface 30 during the design stage of the range extender. Only corresponding improvements need to be made to the range extender, which avoids large-scale changes to the entire vehicle, simplifies the overall electrical architecture of the vehicle, and reduces hardware costs and assembly difficulty. In addition, this design concept of the utility model also improves the flexibility of the system, so that if the range extender module needs to be upgraded or replaced in the future, it will not affect the electrical layout of other parts of the vehicle. At the same time, the first switch 20 is integrated into the generator controller 50, reducing the wiring area and occupied space.

[0069] With the above configuration, the extended-range electric vehicle can receive timely energy replenishment whether driving or parked, thereby extending its driving range, enhancing the reliability of the electric vehicle, and improving the user experience. Furthermore, integrating the first switch 20 into the generator controller 50 directly utilizes the DC interface 30 of the range extender to achieve fast charging, improving the compatibility of the power distribution unit 70 and reducing the design complexity and cost of the extended-range electric vehicle.

[0070] refer to Figure 3 In one embodiment of the present invention, the range extender further comprises:

[0071] A second switch 60 , the second switch 60 is provided in series between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50 ;

[0072] The second switch 60 is used to control the on / off state of the path between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50 .

[0073] In this embodiment, the second switch 60 can be implemented using a switching device such as a contactor or a relay, or a switching transistor such as a triode, a MOS transistor, or an IGBT. In this embodiment, the second switch 60 can be implemented using an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), which is a semiconductor device widely used in high-power switching circuits. It has high-speed switching characteristics and high current handling capabilities, and is suitable for controlling the process of converting high-power AC power to DC power.

[0074] It should be noted that the on / off state of the second switch 60 can be controlled by the power supply controller 80 or the generator controller 50. In this embodiment, the power supply controller 80 controlling the second switch 60 is used as an example for description. When the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is in driving mode and the power battery is low on power, it controls the engine to start, driving the generator 40 to operate, so that the generator 40 converts the mechanical energy generated by the engine into electrical energy. It also controls the second switch 60 to conduct the path between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50, so that the generator controller 50 receives the AC power output by the generator 40, converts it into DC power, and outputs it to the DC interface 30. The DC power is then output to the power distribution unit 70 via the DC interface 30. The power distribution unit 70 distributes the received electrical energy to different parts of the electric vehicle, such as the power battery and the electric drive device, as needed, thereby maintaining the operating state of the electric vehicle and increasing the driving range. When the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is parked and the power battery is low on charge, and determines based on the voltage detection signal that the power input terminal 10 is connected to a voltage, i.e., that the power input terminal 10 is connected to a charging device, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to connect the power input terminal 10 to the DC interface 30, allowing the power output of the charging device to flow from the power input terminal 10 to the DC interface 30, and then to the power distribution unit 70 through the original fast charging circuit, so that the power distribution unit 70 can distribute the received power to the power battery of the extended-range electric vehicle as needed to charge the power battery. Simultaneously, the power supply controller 80 controls the second switch 60 to disconnect the path between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50, thereby controlling the range extender to stop output. When the power supply controller 80 detects that the electric vehicle is parked and the power battery is low on charge, and determines based on the voltage detection signal that the power input terminal 10 is not connected to a voltage, this indicates that the electric vehicle is not connected to a charging device. In other words, when the power battery needs to be charged and there is no available charging device nearby, the range extender is providing power. At this time, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to disconnect the path between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30, and controls the engine to start, driving the generator 40 to work, and controls the second switch 60 to conduct the path between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50, so that the generator controller 50 receives the AC power output by the generator 40, and converts it into DC power and outputs it to the DC interface 30, so that the distribution unit 70 distributes the received electric energy to different parts of the electric vehicle according to demand, such as the power battery, electric drive device, etc., to ensure that when the battery power of the extended-range electric vehicle is insufficient, the power module of the extended-range electric vehicle can still be charged by the range extender.

[0075] Changing the state of the second switch 60 (on or off) precisely controls the path between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50, thereby enabling start-stop control of the generator 40. When the range-extended electric vehicle is in motion and the power battery is low on charge, the second switch 60 is turned on, and the AC power generated by the generator 40 supplies power to the power consumption module. When the range-extended electric vehicle is parked and the power battery is fully charged or connected to an external charging device, the second switch 60 is turned off, and the generator 40 stops operating. This prevents unnecessary power loss, reduces wear on the generator 40 and its related components, and extends the service life of the range extender.

[0076] refer to Figure 4 The present invention also proposes a power supply system for an extended-range electric vehicle, which is applied to the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a power battery. The power supply system for the extended-range electric vehicle includes any of the above-mentioned range extenders, and

[0077] A power distribution unit 70, wherein a first output end of the power distribution unit 70 is electrically connected to the DC interface 30 of the range extender, and a second output end of the power distribution unit 70 is electrically connected to the power battery;

[0078] The power distribution unit 70 is used to output the electrical energy of the DC interface 30 of the range extender to the power battery.

[0079] It should be noted that a third switch may also be provided within the power distribution unit 70 or the power battery. For the purpose of illustration, the third switch provided within the power distribution unit 70 is used as an example. A first end of the third switch is electrically connected to the DC interface 30 at the output end of the range extender, and a second end of the third switch is electrically connected to the power supply end of the power battery. The third switch is used to open and close the electrical connection between the DC interface 30 and the power battery. The extended-range electric vehicle includes a power battery and an electric drive unit. The electric drive unit is provided with an electric drive controller and a fourth switch. The electric drive controller is used to control the on / off state of the fourth switch, thereby controlling the on / off state of the connection between the power distribution unit 70 and the electric drive unit.

[0080] In this embodiment, the third switch can be implemented using a switching device such as a contactor or relay, or a switching transistor such as a triode, MOS transistor, or IGBT transistor. As the core of the entire power supply system, the power distribution unit 70 is responsible for properly distributing the electrical energy from the range extender or charging device to the power battery and / or electric drive device.

[0081] Specifically, the first output terminal of the power distribution unit 70 is electrically connected to the power battery for charging the power battery; the second output terminal is electrically connected to the electric drive device for powering the electric drive device (hereinafter referred to as the electric drive). The function of the third switch is to control the conduction or disconnection of the path between the input terminal of the power distribution unit 70 and the power battery, thereby charging the power battery. When the extended-range electric vehicle is in the parked state and the external charging device is connected to the power input terminal 10, the power supply controller 80 will determine whether the power input terminal 10 is connected to the voltage based on the voltage detection signal. If the voltage is detected, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to conduct, allowing the power provided by the external charging device to enter the power distribution unit 70 through the DC interface 30 and the fast charging circuit. At this time, the third switch will also control the conduction of the path between the input terminal of the power distribution unit 70 and the power battery so that the power energy can charge the power battery. The second switch 60 will disconnect the path between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50 to ensure that the range extender is in the off state and does not consume additional power. Similarly, when the extended-range electric vehicle is parked and the power battery is low on charge, if the power supply controller 80 determines, based on the voltage detection signal, that the power input terminal 10 is not connected to the charging device's voltage, it will start the engine in the range extender, driving the generator 40. At this point, the power supply controller 80 controls the second switch 60 to conduct, allowing the AC power output of the generator 40 to be transmitted to the generator controller 50 and converted to DC power, which then enters the power distribution unit 70 through the DC interface 30. Simultaneously, the power supply controller 80 controls the third switch to connect the power distribution unit 70's input terminal to the power battery, charging the power battery. It will be appreciated that when the extended-range electric vehicle is parked, the electric drive controller controls the fourth switch to open, eliminating the need for power to the electric drive unit. Furthermore, when the extended-range electric vehicle is driving and the power battery is low on charge, the power supply controller 80 will start the engine in the range extender, driving the generator 40. At this time, the power supply controller 80 controls the second switch 60 to conduct, allowing the AC power output by the generator 40 to be transmitted to the generator controller 50 and converted into DC power, which then enters the power distribution unit 70 through the DC interface 30. Simultaneously, the power supply controller 80 controls the third switch to conduct the path between the input terminal of the power distribution unit 70 and the power battery, charging the power battery. The electric drive controller also controls the fourth switch to conduct the path between the power distribution unit 70 and the electric drive device, providing power to the electric drive device to drive the vehicle.

[0082] It should be noted that the power distribution unit 70 can also be integrated into the power battery or auxiliary drive controller. The auxiliary drive controller is responsible for managing the small electric motors on the vehicle, such as the air conditioning compressor, water pump, fan, and power steering pump, ensuring that these systems can be started or adjusted to their operating status in a timely manner according to the vehicle's operating status and environmental conditions. Integrating the power distribution unit 70 into the power battery or auxiliary drive controller can further optimize the design of the extended-range electric vehicle, reduce the occupied space and overall volume, and improve the integration level of the extended-range electric vehicle. In addition, to ensure the safe operation of the extended-range electric vehicle, the power distribution unit 70 can also integrate various protection circuits, such as overload protection, short-circuit protection, and leakage protection, to prevent damage to the vehicle in the event of a system failure. The power distribution unit 70 can also have a built-in monitoring and control system that can monitor key parameters such as battery status, voltage, and current in real time, and transmit this information to the power supply controller 80, so that the power supply controller 80 can directly determine the power battery charge based on the parameters output by the monitoring and control system of the power distribution unit 70.

[0083] Through the above settings, the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle can intelligently control the distribution and use of electric energy in different states (parking or driving), ensuring that the vehicle can obtain sufficient electric energy support whether it is driving or parked, thereby improving the endurance and user experience of the extended-range electric vehicle.

[0084] In one embodiment, reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle further includes a power supply controller 80, and the power supply controller 80 is electrically connected to the controlled end of the first switch 20;

[0085] The power supply controller 80 is used to control the first switch 20 to connect the path between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30 when the power input terminal 10 is connected to a charging device; and is also used to control the first switch 20 to disconnect the path between the power input terminal 10 and the DC interface 30 when the power input terminal 10 is not connected to a charging device.

[0086] a voltage detection circuit 90 , wherein an output end of the voltage detection circuit 90 is electrically connected to the power supply controller 80 ;

[0087] The voltage detection circuit 90 is used to detect the voltage of the power input terminal 10 and output a corresponding voltage detection signal to the power supply controller 80, so that the power supply controller 80 controls the working state of the first switch 20 according to the voltage detection signal.

[0088] In this embodiment, the power supply controller 80 can be implemented using a main controller, such as an MCU, a DSP (Digital Signal Process), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a PLC, a SOC (System on Chip), etc. The voltage detection circuit 90 can be implemented using a resistive voltage divider circuit, a voltage detection chip, etc. The power supply controller 80 can be implemented using a vehicle control unit (VCU) or other controllers in the control system of an electric vehicle.

[0089] In combination with the above embodiments, the voltage detection circuit 90 is used to detect the voltage of the power input terminal 10 and output a corresponding voltage detection signal to the power supply controller 80, so that the power supply controller 80 controls the working status of the first switch 20, the second switch 60, and the third switch according to the voltage detection signal.

[0090] Optionally, the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle has a power generation mode and a charging mode.

[0091] The power supply controller 80 is electrically connected to the controlled end of the generator controller 50;

[0092] In the power generation mode, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to be turned off and controls the second switch 60 to be turned on, so as to control the generator controller 50 to convert the AC power output by the generator 40 into DC power and output it to the power distribution unit 70;

[0093] In the charging mode, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to be turned on and controls the second switch 60 to be turned off, so as to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power distribution unit 70 .

[0094] It should be noted that the power supply controller 80 determines whether the extended-range electric vehicle's power supply system is in power generation mode or charging mode, typically relying on feedback from various sensors and onboard systems. For example, the power supply controller 80 may receive feedback from a vehicle speed sensor, which measures the vehicle's speed. If the power supply controller 80 determines based on the feedback signal that the vehicle's speed is greater than zero, the vehicle is considered to be in driving mode; conversely, if the speed is zero, the vehicle is likely parked.

[0095] In this embodiment, when the power supply controller 80 determines that the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle is in power generation mode (i.e., the extended-range electric vehicle is in driving mode) and the power battery charge level is below a preset charge threshold, insufficient to provide kinetic energy for the vehicle, the power supply controller 80 starts the engine in the range extender, driving the generator 40. At this point, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to be disconnected and the second switch 60 to be connected, allowing the AC power output by the generator 40 to be transmitted to the generator controller 50 and converted into DC power, which then enters the power distribution unit 70 through the DC interface 30. Simultaneously, the power supply controller 80 controls the third switch to connect the input terminal of the power distribution unit 70 to the power battery, charging the power battery. Furthermore, the electric drive controller controls the fourth switch to connect the power distribution unit 70 to the electric drive unit, providing power to the electric drive unit to drive the vehicle. When the power supply controller 80 determines that the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle is in charging mode, that is, the extended-range electric vehicle is in a parking state, and the power battery power level is below a preset power threshold and is insufficient to provide kinetic energy for the vehicle, if the power supply controller 80 determines based on the voltage detection signal that the power input terminal 10 is connected to a charging device, it will control the first switch 20 to conduct, allowing the power provided by the external charging device to enter the power distribution unit 70 through the DC interface 30 and the fast charging circuit, control the third switch to conduct the path between the input terminal of the power distribution unit 70 and the power battery so that the power energy can charge the power battery, and control the second switch 60 to disconnect the path between the generator 40 and the generator controller 50 to ensure that the range extender is in a closed state and does not consume additional power. Similarly, when the power supply controller 80 determines that the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle is in charging mode, but determines based on the voltage detection signal that the power input terminal 10 is not connected to a charging device, the power supply controller 80 will start the engine in the range extender to drive the generator 40. At this point, the power supply controller 80 controls the second switch 60 to conduct, allowing the AC power output by the generator 40 to be transmitted to the generator controller 50 and converted into DC power, which then enters the power distribution unit 70 through the DC interface 30. Simultaneously, the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to be disconnected and the third switch to connect the input terminal of the power distribution unit 70 to the power battery, thereby charging the power battery.

[0096] Specifically, the following description is made by taking the example that both the first switch 20 and the second switch 60 are contactors and the second switch 60 is an IGBT switch tube. Figure 10, relay 2 is the first switch 20, relay 1 is the third switch, the fast charging socket 100 is connected to the power input terminal 10 of the range extender, and the engine, generator 40 and generator controller 50 are electrically connected in sequence. When parking for charging, if there is an external power source (such as an external power grid and charging equipment), that is, when the power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle is in charging mode, the power supply controller 80 controls contactors 1 and 2 to close, and the electric energy from the external power grid will pass through the charging socket, generator controller 50, distribution unit 70 in sequence, and finally enter the power battery for storage. At the same time, the IGBT switch in the generator controller 50 is disconnected to ensure that the range extender is not powered. During the driving of the extended-range electric vehicle, when the battery power is low, that is, when the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle is in the power generation mode, the power supply controller 80 will control the contactor 2 to disconnect and the contactor 1 to close. At this time, the fast charging circuit is disconnected to ensure that the charging socket is not powered. At the same time, the IGBT switch in the generator controller 50 is closed, so that the electric energy output by the range extender is supplied to the power drive and other power-consuming modules through the distribution unit 70 to increase the driving mileage, and / or stored in the power battery to charge the power battery.

[0097] The power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) achieves efficient power distribution in both power generation and charging modes through the coordinated operation of a power supply controller 80, a voltage detection circuit 90, and a series of switches (e.g., a first switch 20, a second switch 60, and a third switch), thereby improving the vehicle's range and user experience. It also enables the commonality of the power distribution unit 70 between pure electric vehicles and EREVs, reducing the design complexity and cost of EREVs.

[0098] It is worth noting that since the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle of the present invention is based on the above-mentioned range extender, the embodiments of the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle of the present invention include all the technical solutions of all the embodiments of the above-mentioned range extender, and the technical effects achieved are also exactly the same, which will not be repeated here.

[0099] The present invention also provides an extended-range electric vehicle, comprising the range extender described in any one of the above items, or the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle described in any one of the above items, as well as an electric drive device and a power battery;

[0100] The electric drive device and the power battery are electrically connected to the power distribution unit 70 respectively.

[0101] In this embodiment, the electric drive device may include an electric motor, a speed reducer, a drive shaft, an inverter, and various sensors for monitoring the operating status of the electric drive device (such as a speed sensor, position sensor, and temperature sensor). Through the coordinated operation of these components, the electric drive device can efficiently convert electrical energy into kinetic energy to propel the vehicle forward while ensuring operational safety and reliability. The power battery is the primary device for storing electrical energy. It receives electrical energy from the range extender or an external charging device through the power distribution unit 70 and supplies power to power-consuming modules such as the electric drive device.

[0102] Optionally, the extended-range electric vehicle includes:

[0103] The fast charging socket 100 is electrically connected to the power input terminal 10 and is used to output the power provided by the charging device to the power input terminal 10.

[0104] It should be noted that the fast charging socket 100 is an important component in the extended-range electric vehicle, mainly used for fast charging. The fast charging socket 100 can improve the efficiency of charging the electric vehicle, allowing users to replenish sufficient power for the vehicle's power battery in a shorter time, thereby reducing waiting time and improving ease of use. The fast charging socket 100 generally supports high-power charging standards, such as DC Fast Charging, which can fully charge the battery of the electric vehicle in a short time. The fast charging socket 100 follows the charging interface standards formulated by the international or national authorities to ensure compatibility with various types or brands of fast charging piles. The fast charging socket 100 can also have multiple built-in safety protection mechanisms, such as overcurrent protection, overvoltage protection, short circuit protection, etc., to prevent accidents during the charging process and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.

[0105] The working principle of the fast charging socket 100 is mainly to directly input high-voltage direct current into the power battery of the electric vehicle by connecting an external charging device (including a charging pile). When the fast charging cable is inserted into the fast charging socket 100 of the extended-range electric vehicle, the connection between the vehicle and the charging device is first confirmed to ensure that the electrical connection is correct. The charging device and the vehicle then exchange information through the communication interface to confirm the charging parameters (such as voltage, current, etc.) and reach a consistent charging protocol. Once the handshake is successful, the charging device starts to output electrical energy, and the power supply controller 80 controls the first switch 20 to close, the second switch 60 to disconnect, and the third switch to close to ensure that the fast charging socket 100 transmits high-voltage direct current to the power battery. When the power battery is full or reaches a predetermined charge amount, the extended-range electric vehicle can notify the charging device to stop charging via the communication interface, thereby completing the entire charging process.

[0106] refer to Figure 10 , Figure 10The high-voltage architecture of the range-extended vehicle proposed in the present invention, the power distribution unit 70 is consistent with the high-voltage architecture of the pure electric vehicle, and the fast-charging circuit is transferred to the generator controller 50. When the vehicle is fast-charging, the range extender does not generate electricity, that is, the power supply controller 80 controls the contactor 1 and contactor 2 to close, and disconnects the IGBT, so that the electricity from the external power grid or the charging device passes through the fast-charging socket 100, the generator controller 50, and the power distribution unit 70 in sequence, and finally enters the power battery and is stored. When the power supply system of the range-extended electric vehicle is in the power generation mode, the fast-charging circuit is in the closed state, that is, the power supply controller 80 controls the contactor 1 to open, the contactor 2 to close, and controls the IGBT to turn on. The electric energy output by the range extender is used by the power drive and other power-consuming modules through the power distribution unit 70 to increase the driving mileage, and / or is stored in the power battery to charge the power battery.

[0107] It is worth noting that since the extended-range electric vehicle of the present invention is based on the power supply system of the above-mentioned extended-range electric vehicle, the embodiments of the extended-range electric vehicle of the present invention include all technical solutions of all embodiments of the power supply system of the above-mentioned extended-range electric vehicle, and the technical effects achieved are also exactly the same, which will not be repeated here.

[0108] The above description is only an optional embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent structural changes made by using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or directly or indirectly applied in other related technical fields are included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A range extender, characterized in that: A power supply system for an extended-range electric vehicle, the power supply system comprising a power distribution unit, and the range extender comprising: Power input terminal, used to connect to charging equipment; a first switch, wherein a first end of the first switch is electrically connected to the power input end; a DC interface, electrically connected to the second end of the first switch, the DC interface being used to access the power distribution unit; When the first switch is turned on, it controls the path between the power input terminal and the DC interface to be connected, so as to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power distribution unit.

2. The range extender according to claim 1, characterized in that: The range extender further includes: dynamo; a generator controller, the generator controller being electrically connected to the generator and the DC interface respectively; The generator controller is used to convert the alternating current output by the generator into direct current and output the direct current to the direct current interface.

3. The range extender according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first switch is integrated into the generator controller.

4. The range extender according to claim 2, wherein: The range extender further includes: a second switch, the second switch being arranged in series between the generator and the generator controller; The second switch is used to control the on / off state of the path between the generator and the generator controller.

5. The range extender according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The first switch includes any one of a contactor, a relay, and a circuit breaker.

6. A power supply system for an extended-range electric vehicle, characterized in that: Applicable to an electric vehicle, the electric vehicle includes a power battery, the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle includes a range extender according to any one of claims 1 to 5, and, a power distribution unit, wherein a first output terminal of the power distribution unit is electrically connected to the DC interface of the range extender, and a second output terminal of the power distribution unit is electrically connected to the power battery; The power distribution unit is used to output the electrical energy of the DC interface of the range extender to the power battery.

7. The power supply system for the extended-range electric vehicle according to claim 6, wherein: The power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle further includes a power supply controller, which is electrically connected to the controlled end of the first switch; The power supply controller is used to control the first switch to connect the path between the power input end and the DC interface when the power input end is connected to a charging device; and is also used to control the first switch to disconnect the path between the power input end and the DC interface when the power input end is not connected to a charging device.

8. The power supply system for the extended-range electric vehicle according to claim 7, wherein: The power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle has a power generation mode and a charging mode. The power supply controller is electrically connected to the controlled end of the generator controller; In the power generation mode, the power supply controller controls the first switch to be turned off and controls the second switch to be turned on, so as to control the generator controller to convert the AC power output by the generator into DC power and output it to the power distribution unit; In the charging mode, the power supply controller controls the first switch to be turned on and controls the second switch to be turned off, so as to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power distribution unit.

9. The power supply system for the range-extended electric vehicle according to claim 7, wherein: The power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle further includes: a voltage detection circuit, wherein an output end of the voltage detection circuit is electrically connected to the power supply controller; The voltage detection circuit is used to detect the voltage of the power input terminal and output a corresponding voltage detection signal to the power supply controller, so that the power supply controller controls the working state of the first switch according to the voltage detection signal.

10. An extended-range electric vehicle, characterized in that: The extended-range electric vehicle comprises the range extender according to any one of claims 1 to 5, or the power supply system of the extended-range electric vehicle according to any one of claims 6 to 9, as well as an electric drive device and a power battery; The electric drive device and the power battery are electrically connected to the power distribution unit respectively.

11. The extended-range electric vehicle according to claim 10, wherein: The extended-range electric vehicle comprises: A fast charging socket, which is electrically connected to the power input end and is used to output the electric energy provided by the charging device to the power input end.

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