Electric vehicle charging system

Abstract

To provide a method for further making it easier for EV owners to share a charging station and an electric vehicle charging system.SOLUTION: A plurality of vehicle charging systems, which is an electric vehicle (EV) charging system, includes a plurality of output connection units such as a cable. Each of the output connection units is connected to at least one head, and each head can be connected to an EV at the same time. When a first EV is connected to a head connected to a first output connection unit out of the output connection units, a controller directs a charging current supplied via a dedicated circuit from a power supply device to the first output connection unit out of the output connection units. If a second EV is connected to a head that is connected to a second output connection unit out of the output connection units, the controller stops a charging current to the first output connection unit out of the output connection units, switches to the second output connection unit out of the output connection units, and resumes charging.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 【0001】This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 263,564, filed Dec. 4, 2015, entitled “Multiple Vehicle Charging Stations Per Power Circuit and Time Multiplexing Charging Method,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application is related to co-pending applications CYSW-0001-02U00US and CYSW-0001-03U00US, both entitled “An Electric Vehicle Charging Method” and “An Electric Vehicle Charging System interface,” respectively, by C. Reynolds et al., which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 【Background Art】 【0002】 【0002】Electric vehicles (EVs) utilize batteries that need to be charged periodically. EV owners can easily charge their vehicles at home, where only the EV owners can use the home charging stand or outlet. However, when away from home, EV owners must use and share charging stands at public or private locations such as workplaces, shopping malls, movie theaters, restaurants, and hotels. 【0003】 【0003】The demand for charging stands is increasing as the number of EVs continues to grow. Companies are beginning to add charging stands to their parking lots as an amenity for their employees and customers. In some cases, local governments are mandating that companies add charging stands. 【0004】

[0004] Consequently, more charging stations are being installed outside homes, whether driven by consumer demand or government mandates. However, the cost of charging stations (hardware including dedicated power lines and installation) is relatively high and is usually borne by the business owners. Therefore, solutions to reduce the cost of charging stations are valuable because they alleviate the burden on businesses while increasing the availability of charging stations to EV owners. 【0005】

[0005] Even if the cost of charging stations (including installation) is reduced, it remains insufficient from a cost standpoint to install enough charging stations to satisfy peak demand. Therefore, charging stations still need to be shared. EV owners understand the need to share charging stations in essence, but nevertheless find it inconvenient to have to move their vehicle from their parking lot to a charging station when one becomes available, and then move their vehicle to another parking lot after it has been charged to make space for other vehicles. Therefore, solutions that make it easier for EV owners to share charging stations should also be valuable. [Overview of the project] 【0006】

[0006] In embodiments of the present disclosure, a single circuit (power supply circuit) is routed to a plurality of charging stations (or, as herein referred to, a single station having a plurality of charging connectors called output connectors, connectors, or cables). At any given time, only one of the charging stations / connectors on that single circuit is being used to charge a vehicle. The vehicle is charged for a specific period (e.g., 30 minutes), then charging of that vehicle is stopped, and then another vehicle is charged for a specific period (e.g., 30 minutes, or some other length of time) using the next charging station / connector on the single circuit, and so on. For example, if there are four charging stations / connectors on the single circuit and a vehicle is connected to each charging station / connector, then vehicle 1 at station / connector 1 is charged for a specific period (while vehicle 1 is being charged, the other vehicles are not being charged), then vehicle 2 at station / connector 2 is charged, and so on, and then, for example, in a brute-force manner, it returns to vehicle 1 at station / connector 1. If a vehicle is not connected to a charging station / connector, or if a vehicle connected to a charging station / connector does not need to be charged, that charging station / connector will be automatically ignored. 【0007】

[0007] More specifically, in one embodiment, the EV charging system includes a controller that controls the charging current that can be supplied to several output connections (e.g., cables). As described above, the output connections can be connected to the same charging station, or the output connections can be connected to different charging stations. Each output connection is connected to at least one head, and each head can be connected to an EV simultaneously. The controller can direct the charging current supplied from a power supply device or panel via a dedicated circuit to the first output connection of the output connections when a first EV is connected to the head connected to the first output connection of the output connections. The controller can then stop the charging current to the first output connection of the output connections and switch to the second output connection of the output connections, and resume charging when a second EV is connected to the head connected to the second output connection of the output connections. 【0008】

[0008] In one embodiment, the controller includes a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)) and several channels controlled by the CPU. Each channel can be connected to at least one head through its respective output connection. If multiple EVs are connected to the heads simultaneously, the CPU can direct the charging current from the input power supply to only one of the channels at a time. In one embodiment, each channel includes a voltage sensor and / or current sensor that can be used to determine whether an EV is connected to the head connected to the channel. 【0009】

[0009] In one embodiment, the charging current is directed to a first output connection of the output connections over a first time interval, stopped when the first interval ends, and then directed to a second output connection of the output connections, and charging resumes over a second time interval (if the EV is connected to the second output connection). The length of the first interval and the length of the second interval are individually programmable. In one embodiment, the length of the first interval and the second interval are each 30 minutes or less. 【0010】

[0010] In another embodiment, the charging current is directed to a first output connection of the output connections until the charging current drops to a threshold, at which point it is stopped, and then directed to a second output connection of the output connections to resume charging. 【0011】

[0011] In one embodiment, when multiple EVs are connected to the output connection section simultaneously, the charging current is guided to the output connection section in a brute-force manner. 【0012】

[0012] In one embodiment, the output connection section includes an output connection section designated as a priority connection section, in which case the charging current is led to the priority connection section more frequently than other output connection sections. 【0013】

[0013] In one embodiment, before the charging current is supplied to the output connection, the controller automatically determines whether there is an electrical load (e.g., an EV) connected to the output connection. If there is no electrical load, the charging current is not supplied to the output connection. 【0014】

[0014] In one embodiment, before the charging current is supplied to the output connection, the controller automatically determines whether the EV connected to the output connection requires charging. If the EV does not require charging, the charging current is not supplied to the output connection. 【0015】

[0015] In one embodiment, before the charging current is supplied to the output connection, the controller automatically determines whether the output connection is already drawing current, thereby indicating a possible fault condition. 【0016】

[0016] Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, the following features: multiple physical charging stations / connectors for each power supply circuit, sequential (e.g., brute-force) charging, and automatic charging of multiple vehicles without user intervention. The total cost of installing charging stations is substantially reduced by enabling multiple charging stations to share a common power supply circuit. 【0017】

[0017] More specifically, since only one circuit is used for multiple charging stations / connectors, costs are reduced. In other words, for example, there is no need to pay for a dedicated circuit for each charging station. New charging stations that share the same power circuit can be added at low cost for each station, and therefore more charging stations can be installed at the same cost. Existing infrastructure (e.g., existing circuits) can be easily modified to accommodate multiple charging stations / connectors instead of a single charging station with a single output connection. 【0018】

[0018] As the number of charging stations increases, vehicle charging becomes more convenient. For example, vehicles do not need to be moved as frequently. From an employee's perspective, the availability of convenient (and free) charging stations at the workplace is a perk. From an employee's perspective, the availability of convenient charging stations may encourage employees to stay longer at work to get free charges before leaving, and in addition, employees may be able to increase their productivity because they do not need to move their vehicles as frequently. 【0019】

[0019] These and other purposes and advantages of the various embodiments of the present invention will be recognized by those skilled in the art after reading the following detailed description of the embodiments shown in the various drawings. 【0020】

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of this specification and which, like numbers, represent the same elements, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description, serve to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0021】 [Figure 1] This is a configuration diagram showing elements of a multi-vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart illustrating a method for charging one or more electric vehicles (EVs) according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a configuration diagram showing elements of a multi-vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a configuration diagram showing the elements of a controller for a plurality of vehicle charging stations in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a configuration diagram showing an example of an implementation configuration of a multi-vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a configuration diagram showing an example of an implementation configuration of a multi-vehicle charging system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7]A configuration diagram showing an example of an implementation form of a multiple vehicle charging system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] A configuration diagram showing an example of an implementation form of a multiple vehicle charging system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of charging of multiple vehicles at a charging stand having a plurality of output connection parts according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] A graph showing an example of an EV charging signature used to manage charging according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] A flowchart showing an example of computer-implemented operations for monitoring and managing a network of EV charging stands according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] A flowchart showing an example of computer-implemented operations for monitoring and managing a network of EV charging stands according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] A flowchart showing an example of computer-implemented operations for monitoring and managing a network of EV charging stands according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] A diagram showing an example of a display constituting selected elements of a graphical user interface (GUI) rendered on a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] A diagram showing an example of a display constituting selected elements of a GUI rendered on a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] A diagram showing an example of a display constituting selected elements of a GUI rendered on a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] A diagram showing an example of a display constituting selected elements of a GUI rendered on a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18]This flowchart illustrates an example of computer operations associated with monitoring and managing a network of EV charging stations, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] This is a configuration diagram of an example of a computing device or computer system that can implement one embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0022】 【0040】 Next, various embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail, with examples shown in the accompanying drawings. While these embodiments will be described in conjunction with this disclosure, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit this disclosure to these embodiments. Rather, this disclosure is intended to encompass alternative, modified, and equivalent forms, which may be included within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Furthermore, numerous specific details are provided in the following detailed description of this disclosure to provide a complete understanding of it. However, it will be understood that this disclosure can be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the aspects of this disclosure. 【0023】 【0041】Some parts of the detailed description that follows are presented in terms of symbolism for procedures, logical blocks, processes, and other operations on data bits in computer memory. These descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the field of data processing to most effectively convey the substance of those operations to others skilled in the field. In this application, procedures, logical blocks, or processes, etc., are considered to be self-consistent sequences of steps or instructions that produce a desired result. Steps utilize the physical manipulation of physical quantities. These quantities usually, but not always, take the form of electrical or magnetic signals that can be stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated in a computer system. For reasons of common use, it is sometimes convenient to refer to these signals as transactions, bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, samples, or pixels, etc. 【0024】 【0042】 However, it should be kept in mind that all these and similar terms are to be associated with appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels affixed to these quantities. As will be evident from the following descriptions, unless otherwise specifically stated, descriptions throughout this disclosure using terms such as “receiving,” “directing,” “sending,” “stopping,” “determining,” “generating,” “displaying,” or “indicating” are understood to describe the operation and processes of an apparatus or computer system or similar electronic computing device or processor (e.g., device 1900 in Figure 19) (e.g., flowcharts 1100, 1200, 1300, and 1800 in Figures 11, 12, 13, and 18, respectively). A computer system or similar electronic computing device manipulates and transforms data expressed as physical (electronic) quantities in memory, registers, or other such information storage devices, transmission devices, or display devices. 【0025】 【0043】 The embodiments described herein can be described in the general context of computer executable instructions residing in some form of computer-readable storage medium, such as program modules, which are executed by one or more computers or other devices. By example, but not limited to, computer-readable storage mediums may include non-temporary computer storage media and communication media. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., that perform a specific task or implement a specific abstract data type. The functions of program modules can be combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments. 【0026】 【0044】 Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any way or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory (e.g., SSD or NVMD) or other memory technologies, compact disk ROM (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical storage devices, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tapes, magnetic disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other media that can be used to store desired information and that can be accessed to retrieve that information. 【0027】 【0045】 Communication media can embody computer executable instructions, data structures, and program modules, and include any information delivery medium. By example, but not limited to, communication media include wired media such as wired networks or direct wired connections, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared, and other wireless media. Any combination of the above may also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. 【0028】 【0046】In summary, in embodiments of the present disclosure, a single circuit (power supply circuit) is routed to a plurality of charging stations (or, as herein referred to, a single station having a plurality of charging connectors called output connectors, connectors, or cables). At any given time, only one of the charging stations / connectors on that single circuit is used to charge a vehicle. The vehicle is charged for a specific period (e.g., 30 minutes), then charging of that vehicle is stopped, and then the next charging station / connector on the single circuit is used to charge another vehicle for a specific period (e.g., 30 minutes, or some other length of time) according to a charging sequence or procedure. For example, if there are four charging stations / connectors on a single circuit and vehicles are connected to each charging station / connector, then vehicle 1 is charged at station / connector 1 for a specific period (while vehicle 1 is being charged, the other vehicles are not), then vehicle 2 is charged at station / connector 2, and then, for example, in a brute-force method (brute-force charging sequence), it returns to vehicle 1 at station / connector 1. If a vehicle is not connected to a charging station / connector, or if a vehicle connected to a charging station / connector does not require charging, that charging station / connector will be ignored according to the charging procedure. 【0029】 【0047】 Figure 1 is a configuration diagram showing selected elements of a multi-vehicle charging system 100 in an embodiment of the present invention. The multi-vehicle charging system 100 may include several different charging stations, such as charging station 110. Each charging station includes an input section 108 that receives voltage. The voltage originates from an electrical panel (main alternating current [AC] power supply 130) and, depending on the implementation, is supplied to the charging station or group of charging stations via a dedicated circuit 131. See Figures 4-8 for information regarding different implementations. Depending on the number of charging stations, there may be multiple electrical panels and multiple circuits. Each charging station includes power electronics (not shown), such as wires, capacitors, transformers, and other electronic components. 【0030】 【0048】In the example in Figure 1, the multi-vehicle charging system 100 also includes several output cables or output connectors 141, 142, 143, and 144 (141-144). As will be explained, depending on the implementation, a charging station may have only one output connector, or it may have multiple output connectors. Therefore, depending on the implementation, all of the output connectors 141-144 may be connected to a single charging station, or each of the output connectors may be connected to its own charging station (one output connector per charging station). See Figures 4-8 for additional information. Although four output connectors are shown and explained in the example in Figure 1, embodiments of the present invention are not limited thereto. There may be fewer than four output connectors per charging station, or more than four output connectors per charging station. 【0031】 【0049】 As explained in conjunction with Figures 4-8 below, the controller 106 (which can also be called the electric vehicle main controller) manages the power distribution of the multi-vehicle charging system 100. The controller 106 can also perform other functions, such as measuring power consumption and storing information related to charging events. Depending on the implementation, the multi-vehicle charging system 100 may include multiple controllers. Depending on the implementation, the controller may manage EV charging at multiple charging stations, or the controller may manage EV charging at a single charging station. Figures 5-8 below show different implementations of the controller 106. 【0032】 【0050】Continuing with the example in Figure 1, each of the output cables or connectors 141-144 is connected to at least one head (heads 111, 112, 113, and 114, respectively). The head may be a plug that can be inserted into a socket on an electric vehicle (EV), such as EVs 120 and 121. Alternatively, the head may be a socket that can be connected to a plug from an EV. Generally, the head is configured to connect to an EV and supply charging current to the EV to which it is connected. In the example in Figure 1, a single head is connected to each output cable. In one embodiment, multiple heads are connected to one or more of the output connectors 141-144 (see the following description of Figures 7 and 8). 【0033】 【0051】 EVs include, but are not limited to, passenger cars, trucks, motorcycles, golf carts, or motorized (electrically-assisted) bicycles; they can be any type of vehicle. 【0034】 【0052】 Embodiments of the present invention can be used in Level 2 or Level 3 charging stations, but the present invention is not limited to such types of charging stations and can be used in other types that may emerge in the future. In one embodiment, the maximum charging current is 32 amperes, but again, embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this respect. 【0035】 【0053】 In an embodiment of the present invention, using the example in Figure 1, the multi-vehicle charging system 100 supplies charging current to only one of the output connection units 141-144 at a time when multiple EVs (e.g., EVs 120 and 121) are simultaneously connected to the charging station via the head. That is, for example, if the period during which EV 120 is connected to output connection unit 144 overlaps with the period during which EV 121 is connected to output connection unit 143, the charging current is supplied to only one of those two EVs at a time. 【0036】 【0054】In one embodiment, if there is no electrical load (e.g., an EV) connected to the output connection, no charging current is supplied to the output connection. In another embodiment, if the EV connected to the output connection does not require further charging, no charging current is supplied to the output connection. 【0037】 【0055】 In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, a charging current is supplied to the first output connection among the output connection units 141 to 144 over a time interval, then the charging current is stopped and switched to another output connection among the output connection units, and charging is resumed over another time interval (the length of which may be the same as or different from the length of the preceding time interval), and so on, until a charging current is supplied to all the output connection units connected to the EV, and from that point the cycle starts again. 【0038】 【0056】 In one embodiment, each interval is 30 minutes long, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The length of each interval is programmable and changeable. The length of the interval between output connections may differ from the length of the interval between other output connections. In other words, the length of the intervals may not be the same across all of the output connections 141 to 144. 【0039】 【0057】 In another embodiment, the charging current is supplied to one of the output connections 141-144 until the charging current drops below a threshold amount (e.g., 50 percent of the peak), the charging current to that output connection is stopped, switched to another output connection, and charging is resumed until the charging current drops below the threshold amount again (additional details are provided below in the example of Figure 10).

[0040] 【0058】Referring again to the example in Figure 1, in one embodiment, the charging current is supplied to each of the output connections connected to the EV in a brute-force manner, one output connection at a time. For example, if the EV is connected to all of the output connections 141 to 144, the charging current is supplied to output connection 141, then to output connection 142, then to output connection 143, then to output connection 144, and then back to output connection 141, and so on (additional details are provided below in the example in Figure 9).

[0041] 【0059】 As described above, if an output connector is not connected to an EV, or if the EV does not require further charging, the output connector is automatically omitted. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, an output connector can be designated as a preferred connector, in which case the charging current is supplied to the preferred connector more frequently or for a longer period than to the other output connectors. More specifically, if there are four output connectors (1, 2, 3, and 4) used in a brute-force approach, the charging sequence should be 1-2-3-4-1-2-3-4, etc. (assuming an EV is connected to each of the output connectors). If output connector 2 is designated as a preferred connector, then the charging sequence could be 1-2-3-2-4-2-1-2-3-2-4-2, etc., or 2-1-2-3-4-2-1-2-3-4-2, etc. (again, assuming an EV is connected to each of the output connectors). The charging procedure or sequence is programmable and modifiable. From the perspective of charging time, if output connection 2 is designated as the priority connection, the charging time may be 30-60-30-30-30-60-30-30 (in minutes) (a brute-force approach, assuming an EV is connected to each output connection).

[0042] 【0060】As described above, in one embodiment, if there is no EV connected to the output connection, the charging current is not supplied to the output connection. In other words, the output connection is omitted. In such an embodiment, the charging system is configured to detect whether an EV is connected to the output connection before the charging current is supplied to the output connection (additional details are provided below in the example of Figure 4). Thus, in the example of Figure 1, a check is performed to determine whether an EV is connected to output connection 143, then EV 121 is connected to output connection 143, so the charging current is supplied to that output connection and the charging current to output connection 143 is stopped, a check is performed to determine whether an EV is connected to output connection 144, then EV 120 is connected to output connection 144, so the charging current is supplied to that output connection and the charging current to output connection 144 is stopped, a check is performed to determine whether an EV is connected to output connection 141, then EV is not connected to output connection 141, so the charging current is not supplied to that output connection, a check is performed to determine whether an EV is connected to output connection 142, and so on.

[0043] 【0061】Furthermore, as described above, in one embodiment, if an EV connected to an output connection does not require further charging, no charging current is supplied to that output connection. In such an embodiment, before charging current is supplied to the output connection, the charging system is configured to automatically determine whether the EV connected to the output connection requires charging. For example, the EV's charging signature or state of charge (SOC) can be provided by the EV or accessed by the charging system to determine whether the EV's battery is fully charged or at least charged to a threshold amount (see description of Figure 4 below). If the battery is fully or satisfactorily charged, no charging current is supplied to the output connection. In other words, the output connection is omitted. Therefore, in this embodiment, and referring to the example in Figure 1, a check is performed to determine whether an EV is connected to the output connection 143 and whether the EV needs to be charged. Since EV 121 is not connected to the output connection 143, if the EV does not require charging, charging current can be supplied to the output connection 143. The charging current to output connection 143 is stopped, and then a check is performed to determine whether another EV is connected to output connection 144 and whether that EV needs to be charged. Since EV 120 is connected to output connection 144, if that EV needs to be charged, charging current can be supplied to output connection 144. This process continues to the next output connection until all output connections have been checked, and then returns to the first output connection to start another cycle.

[0044] 【0062】Flowchart 200 in Figure 2 shows a method for charging one or more EVs in an embodiment of the present invention. In block 202, an output connection is selected or accessed. In block 204, it is determined whether there is a load (EV) present on the selected output connection. This determination can be performed automatically. If not, flowchart 200 returns to block 202, and another output connection is selected or accessed according to the charging sequence or procedure. If a load is present, flowchart 200 proceeds to block 206. In block 206, a check is performed to determine whether the EV requires charging. If so, flowchart 200 proceeds to block 208. Otherwise, the flowchart returns to block 202, and another output connection is selected or accessed. In block 208, a charging current is supplied to the selected output connection. In block 210, it is determined whether a condition is met. The condition may be, for example, that the time interval has ended, or that the charging current to the selected output connection has decreased to a threshold. If the conditions are met, in block 212, the charging current to the selected output connection is stopped, and then flowchart 200 returns to block 202, where another output connection is selected or accessed according to the charging sequence or procedure. If the conditions are not met, flowchart 200 returns to block 208, and the charging current to the selected output connection is continued.

[0045] 【0063】 Figure 3 is a configuration diagram showing elements of a multi-vehicle charging system in an embodiment of the present invention. Only a single power supply circuit is shown. However, the present invention is not limited in this way. In other words, multiple such systems can be implemented in parallel.

[0046] 【0064】In the example in Figure 3, the main power is supplied to the controller 106 from the electric panel 302 (e.g., from the main AC power supply 130) via a dedicated circuit 131, and the controller 106 can also be called a cyber-switching block. The controller 106 communicates with a graphical user interface (GUI) 304 implemented on the computer system 1900 (the GUI is further described in conjunction with Figures 14-18). Communication between the controller 106 and the computer system 1900 can be implemented using wired and / or wireless connections and may occur directly and / or via the Internet or intranet (e.g., Ethernet or local area network). In one embodiment, the controller 106 is located within the charging station 110. In another embodiment, the controller 106 is not located within the charging station 110 but communicates with the charging station.

[0047] 【0065】 In the example shown in Figure 3, the controller 106 has four channels: channels 1, 2, 3, and 4 (1-4). Depending on the implementation, each channel can be connected to its respective charging station, or each channel can be connected to its respective output connection. This will be further explained in conjunction with Figures 5 and 6.

[0048] 【0066】 Figure 4 is a configuration diagram showing the elements of a controller 106 in an embodiment of the present invention. In the example of Figure 4, the controller 106 includes a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)) 402 that can be connected to a computer system 1900 and a GUI 304 via a communication interface 404, the communication interface 404 being capable of wireless and / or wired communication as described above. The controller 106 can be mounted on a single printed circuit board (PCB) having a low-voltage side (e.g., including the CPU) and a separate high-voltage side (mains power side). In one embodiment, the processor 402 is powered by a separate low-voltage (e.g., 5-volt) power supply device 406. In one embodiment, the controller 106 includes a memory 401 which can be used to store information related to charging events, for example.

[0049] 【0067】 The main AC power supply 130 is connected to each of channels 1 to 4 by respective relays R or switches, each individually controlled by the processor 402. As described herein, by turning the relays or switches on and off, a charging current is supplied to a first channel, then the charging current to the first channel is turned off, then the charging current is supplied to a second channel, and so on. More specifically, for example, a charging current can be supplied to a first channel, turned off when the time interval ends or when a charging threshold is reached, and then supplied to a second channel. In various embodiments, the charging current may also be supplied to one channel at a time in a brute-force manner for each channel, and / or a channel may be designated as a priority channel, in which case the charging current is supplied to the priority channel more frequently than the other channels. Many different charging sequences or procedures can be used.

[0050] 【0068】 In one embodiment, each of channels 1 to 4 includes its own current sensor CT and its own voltage sensor VS. Thus, the controller 106 can detect whether an electrical load (e.g., an EV) is connected to the channel before charging current is supplied to the channel. In one embodiment, the controller 106 can also detect the charging signature of the EV connected to the channel before charging current is supplied to the channel. If the charging signature indicates that the EV does not require further charging (e.g., the EV is fully charged), charging current is not supplied to the channel.

[0051] 【0069】In one embodiment, the controller 106 can also automatically determine whether a channel is already drawing current before charging current is supplied to the channel. If so, the controller indicates a fault condition (or rather, indicates a possible fault condition). For example, an alert can be displayed on the GUI 304. A diagnosis can then be performed to determine whether an actual fault condition exists, and if so, corrective action can be taken.

[0052] 【0070】 In one embodiment, the controller 106 can also automatically determine whether a channel is drawing more current than it should be, and if so, the controller indicates a fault condition. For example, if the maximum current that should be drawn is 32 amperes, and a higher amperage is detected, a fault condition is indicated. For example, an alert can be displayed on the GUI 304. A diagnosis can then be performed to determine whether an actual fault condition exists, and if so, corrective action can be taken.

[0053] 【0071】 In one embodiment, at the end of each cycle after all channels 1-4 have been completed, a check is performed to ensure that no channels are drawing current. If a channel is drawing current, all relays are opened, and then the check is completed again to ensure that all channels are off and not drawing current. Once it is confirmed that all channels are clear, the multi-vehicle charging process can be restarted.

[0054] 【0072】 In one embodiment, the channel is automatically shut down when any power-related failure or problem is detected. In one embodiment, if the channel is shut down (either automatically or manually), load checks on the channel are ignored until the channel is manually turned on again.

[0055] 【0073】Figure 5 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an implementation of a multi-vehicle charging system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the example in Figure 5, the charging station 110 is connected to an electric panel (main AC power supply 130) via a single (dedicated) circuit 131 and is also connected to a controller 106. In one embodiment, the controller 106 is incorporated into the charging station 110. Each of channels 1 to 4 of the controller 106 is connected to output connection sections 541, 542, 543, and 544 (541 to 544), respectively, which are then connected to heads 511, 512, 513, and 514 (511 to 514), respectively. In this implementation, the controller 106 directs the charging current to the output connection sections 541 to 544 one at a time as described above, and therefore directs the charging current to the heads 511 to 514 one at a time as well.

[0056] 【0074】 The embodiment shown in Figure 5 can be replicated such that the multi-vehicle charging system constitutes part of a network of multiple charging stations, each charging station is capable of charging multiple EVs, and each charging station has its own dedicated circuit from the electric panel.

[0057] 【0075】 Figure 6 is a configuration diagram showing an example of another implementation of a multi-vehicle charging system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the example in Figure 6, the controller 106 is connected to an electrical panel (main AC power supply 130) via a single (dedicated) circuit 131. Each of channels 1 to 4 of the controller 106 is connected to the respective charging stations 611, 612, 613, and 614 (611 to 614), which are then connected to the respective heads 651, 652, 653, and 654 (651 to 654) via their respective output connectors 641, 642, 643, or 644 (641 to 644). In the implementation of Figure 6, the controller 106 directs the charging current to channels 1 to 4 one at a time, and therefore to the charging stations 611 to 614 one at a time, and therefore to the output connectors 641 to 644 and the heads 651 to 654 one at a time.

[0058] 【0076】 The implementation shown in Figure 6 can be replicated such that the multi-vehicle charging system constitutes part of a network of multiple charging stations, the multiple charging stations are connected to a single controller, and each controller has its own dedicated circuit from the electrical panel.

[0059] 【0077】 Figure 7 is a configuration diagram showing an example of an implementation of a multi-vehicle charging system in an embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment in Figure 7 is similar to the embodiment in Figure 5, except that the charging station 110 has at least one output connection section (e.g., output connection section 741) having more than one (e.g., two) heads 751 and 752. In one embodiment, the controller 106 is incorporated into the charging station 110.

[0060] 【0078】 In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the controller 106 directs the charging current to output connections 741, 542, 543, and 544 one at a time, as described herein. When the charging current is directed to output connection 741, it is divided between heads 751 and 752. For example, one head receives about half of the charging current, and the other head receives the remainder. If the maximum charging current is 32 amperes, heads 751 and 752 each receive about 16 amperes. In this way, the two EVs can be charged simultaneously, even though the charging current is supplied to only one output connection at a time.

[0061] 【0079】Figure 8 is a configuration diagram showing an example of another implementation of a multi-vehicle charging system in an embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment in Figure 8 is similar to the embodiment in Figure 6, except that at least one of the channels in the controller 106 (for example, channel 1) is connected to two charging stations 610 and 611. Charging station 610 is connected to an output connector 840, which is connected to a head 850, and charging station 611 is connected to an output connector 641, which is connected to a head 642. In this embodiment, the controller 106 directs the charging current to channels 1 to 4 one channel at a time. However, when the charging current is directed to channel 1, that charging current can be divided between charging stations 610 and 611, and therefore, ultimately, the charging current to channel 1 can be divided between output connectors 840 and 641, and thus between heads 850 and 651. Therefore, for example, when EVs are connected to heads 850 and 651, one head receives approximately half of the charging current through channel 1, and the other head receives the remainder of that charging current. In this way, the two EVs can be charged simultaneously, even if the charging current is supplied to only one channel at a time.

[0062] 【0080】 Any combination of the implementation configurations shown in Figures 5, 6, 7, and 8 can be deployed within the same multi-vehicle charging network.

[0063] 【0081】 Figure 9 shows an example of charging multiple vehicles in a charging station having multiple output connections in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Four output connections and vehicles are shown. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0064] 【0082】 In the example shown in Figure 9, sequential charging is performed at 30-minute intervals. However, the present invention is not limited to the use of 30-minute intervals, nor is it limited to each vehicle being charged for the same duration.

[0065] 【0083】In the example in Figure 9, vehicle 1 is charged for a maximum of 30 minutes (if vehicle 1 is fully charged in less than 30 minutes, charging can be stopped earlier). Charging stops after 30 minutes, the output connector to vehicle 1 is turned off, and the next output connector is checked to determine if it is connected to a load (e.g., another vehicle). In this example, a load is detected (vehicle 2), and therefore the output connector to vehicle 2 is turned on, vehicle 2 is charged for a maximum of 30 minutes, then charging stops, and the connector to vehicle 2 is turned off. The next output connector is checked to determine if it is connected to a load. In this example, a load is detected (vehicle 3), but the charging signature indicates that vehicle 3 is fully charged, and therefore the connector to vehicle 3 is turned off, and vehicle 3 is omitted. The next output connector is checked to determine if it is connected to a load. In this example, a load is detected (vehicle 4), and therefore the output connector to vehicle 4 is turned on, vehicle 4 is charged for a maximum of 30 minutes, then charging stops, and the connector to vehicle 4 is turned off. Next, this charging cycle returns to the output connector of vehicle 1, and the cycle continues until each vehicle is fully charged as described above. At any point, a vehicle can be disconnected and replaced with another vehicle. If a vehicle is not connected to the output connector, its position in the cycle is omitted.

[0066] 【0084】 Figure 10 is a graph showing an example of an EV charging signature used to manage charging in an embodiment of the present invention (amount of charging current supplied to the EV versus time). At time t0, the charging current is turned on and increased to its maximum value (100 percent). The maximum value may be 16 amperes or 32 amperes, for example, depending on the type of EV (e.g., Level 2 or Level 3). That is, one EV (Level 2) is configured for a charging current of 16 amperes, while another EV (Level 3) is configured for a charging current of 32 amperes. Generally, the charging station 110 or controller 106 (Figure 4) can determine which type of EV is connected to the charging system and then supply the correct amperage.

[0067] 【0085】 Continuing with the example in Figure 10, after a certain period at 100 percent, the EV is almost fully charged and the charging current begins to decrease. At time t1, the decreasing charging current has reached a threshold (e.g., 50 percent).

[0068] 【0086】 In one embodiment, the charging current at each head (or output connection or channel) is monitored. In such an embodiment, when the charging current decreases to a predetermined threshold (e.g., 50 percent as in the example in Figure 10), the charging current is stopped and switched to another head (or output connection or channel). In the example in Figure 9, instead of turning off the charging current to the output connection when the time interval ends or when the EV is fully charged, the charging current is turned off when it decreases to the threshold.

[0069] 【0087】 The charging signature can also be used to automatically determine whether the EV is fully charged. For example, if the charging current to a head (or output connection or channel) is turned on at time t0 but does not stabilize after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed (t2), the charging current is turned off and the system switches to another head (or output connection or channel).

[0070] 【0088】 Figures 11, 12, and 13 are flowcharts 1100, 1200, and 1300, respectively, illustrating examples of operations for monitoring and managing a network of EV charging stations in embodiments of the present invention. These operations are described below in general terms, as their details have already been explained above.

[0071] 【0089】 The flowchart 1100 in Figure 11 can be implemented in a multi-vehicle charging system such as those shown in Figures 5, 6, 7, and 8. In block 1102, also referring to Figures 5-8, voltage is received from the power supply device (130) via a dedicated circuit (131) to the controller (106).

[0072] 【0090】In block 1104, if the first EV is connected to the head of the first output connection (e.g., 511), the charging current generated using the voltage is led to the first output connection (e.g., 541).

[0073] 【0091】 In block 1106, the charging current to the first output connection is stopped.

[0074] 【0092】 In block 1108, if a second EV is connected to the head of the second output connection (e.g., 512) after the charging current to the first output connection has been stopped, the charging current is directed to the second output connection (e.g., 542). In one embodiment, the charging current is directed to the first output connection over a first time interval, stopped when the first interval ends, and then directed to the second output connection over a second time interval. In one embodiment, the charging current is directed to the first output connection until the charging current drops to a threshold amperage, stopped when the threshold is reached, and then directed to the second output connection.

[0075] 【0093】 In one embodiment, blocks 1104 and 1108 make a determination as to whether or not to supply a charging current before the charging current is supplied to the output connection.

[0076] 【0094】 In one embodiment, blocks 1104 and 1108 determine whether there is an electrical load connected to the output connection before supplying the charging current to the output connection. In this embodiment, if there is no electrical load, the charging current is not supplied to the output connection.

[0077] 【0095】In one embodiment, blocks 1104 and 1108 determine whether the EV connected to the output connection requires further charging (e.g., is fully charged) before the charging current is supplied to the output connection. For example, the EV's charging signature can be used to determine whether the EV is fully charged. In this embodiment, if the EV does not require further charging, the charging current is not supplied to the output connection.

[0078] 【0096】 In one embodiment, blocks 1104 and 1108 perform a determination regarding whether the output connection is already drawing current before the charging current is supplied to the output connection, and whether a fault condition is indicated if the output connection is drawing current before the charging current is supplied.

[0079] 【0097】 The flowchart 1200 in Figure 12 can be executed by a controller (106) including a processor 402 and several channels (1-4), as explained in conjunction with Figure 4. In block 1202, the charging current generated from the input power supply (130) is led to the first channel among the channels.

[0080] 【0098】 In block 1204, the charging current to the first channel is turned off. In various embodiments, the charging current is turned off when the time interval ends or when the amperage of the charging current decreases to a certain threshold.

[0081] 【0099】 In block 1206, after the charging current to the first channel is turned off, the charging current is led from the input power supply to the second channel of the channels.

[0082] 【0100】Referring also to Figure 1, flowchart 1300 in Figure 13 shows how one or more EVs are charged at a charging station (110). In block 1302, voltage from a power supply unit (130) is received at the input section (108) of the charging station via a dedicated circuit (131). The charging station includes several output cables or connectors (141-144), each of which is connected to at least one head (111-114).

[0083] 【0101】 In block 1304, if multiple EVs are connected to the charging station simultaneously via the head, the charging current is supplied to only one of the output cables at a time. The charging current is supplied to the first output cable, then the charging current is stopped and switched to the second output cable, and charging resumes.

[0084] 【0102】 Figures 14, 15, 16, and 17 show examples of displays that constitute selected elements of the GUI 304 (Figure 3) rendered on the display device 1912 in embodiments of the present invention. The displays shown in these examples may be full-screen displays, or they may be windows in a full-screen display. The displays may be displayed individually, or multiple displays may be displayed simultaneously (e.g., side by side). The displays illustrated and described below are merely examples intended to illustrate some of the functions of the GUI 304. The present invention is not limited to these types or configurations of displays.

[0085] 【0103】 GUI304 is a browser-based interface that utilizes the latest basic functions of a browser with additional capabilities, and can be used to manage and monitor a multi-vehicle charging system or network including one or more charging stations, such as those previously described herein. Each charging station, output connection, and / or head can be monitored and controlled (programmed) via the network.

[0086] 【0104】 Furthermore, part or all of the GUI304 can be remotely accessed from another computer system or device, such as a smartphone, or information from the GUI can be transferred to other computer systems and remote devices such as smartphones. In one embodiment, information from a smartphone or computer system, including a computer system on an EV or a similar type of intelligent device, is received and used, for example, to control charging or to provide billing information to the owner or administrator of an EV charging system, via a browser-based interface.

[0087] 【0105】 In one embodiment, the display 1400 includes rendering a map showing a network of charging stations 1-5, which are essentially represented by GUI elements 1401, 1402, 1403, 1404, and 1405 (1401-1405), respectively. Charging stations 1-5 can be exemplified by any of the charging stations described herein. In one embodiment, the display 1400 shows the location of the charging stations relative to each other and to nearby landmarks (e.g., building A), as well as the approximate arrangement of the charging stations in the parking lot. Priority charging stations (stations with priority connections or channels) can also be designated on the map. In the example in Figure 14, the letter "P" indicates a charging station located near a priority connection or channel. As described above, the information contained in the display 1400 can be sent to or accessed by a remote device such as a smartphone. Thus, a driver can determine the arrangement of charging stations in the network. In another embodiment, GUI elements 1401-1405 can be used to indicate which of the charging stations have, or may have, available output connections. In the example in Figure 14, GUI element 1401 is shaded to indicate that it has an output connection that may be available.

[0088] 【0106】GUI elements 1401 to 1405 can be selected individually (for example, by clicking on one of them with a mouse, or by touching one of them on a touch screen). When one of the GUI elements (for example, element 1401 corresponding to stand 1) is selected, the display 1500 in Figure 15 is displayed on the display device 1912. The display 1500 includes GUI elements 1501, 1502, 1503, and 1504 (1501 to 1504) representing the output connections 141 to 144 of the selected charging stand, as well as a GUI element 1510 that identifies the selected charging stand.

[0089] 【0107】GUI elements 1501-1504 can be used to indicate which of the output connections is connected to the EV and which of the output connections is currently supplying charging current to the EV. In the example in Figure 15, GUI elements 1503 and 1504 are colored, brightened, or darkened to indicate that they are currently connected to the EV, and GUI element 1503 is highlighted in some way (e.g., surrounded by GUI element 1515) to indicate that output connection 143 of stand 1 is currently supplying charging current to the EV. In one embodiment, GUI elements 1501-1504 include text to indicate the status of each output connection. For example, the word "active" can be displayed within a GUI element to indicate that the corresponding output connection is being used to charge the EV, and the word "standby" can be displayed within a GUI element to indicate that the corresponding output connection is available. A preferred output connection can also be identified in some way. In the example in Figure 15, the letter "P" is placed close to the GUI element 1504 to indicate that the output connection 144 is a priority connection. As described above, the information contained in the display 1500 can be sent to or accessed by a remote device such as a smartphone. Therefore, the driver can determine which charging stations on the network are in use and which are available. Alternatively, certain types of alerts can be sent to the driver's device.

[0090] 【0108】In one embodiment, the display 1600 is opened and displayed on the display device 1912 by selecting (clicking or touching) the GUI element 1510. The display 1600 displays information for each of the output connections 141-144 of the charging station 1. For example, the display 1600 can show the status of each of the output connections 141-144 to indicate which of the output connections is connected to the EV and which of the output connections is supplying charging current to the EV, as described above. Other information such as the voltage level and amperage of each output connection and the on / off status of each output connection can also be displayed. Using GUI elements 1611, 1612, 1613, and 1614, the user can turn the output connections 141-144 on individually. Using a similar control mechanism, individual charging stations can be turned on and off, and individual heads can be turned on and off. Preferred output connections can also be identified in some way. In the example in Figure 16, the letter "P" is placed close to the GUI element 1604 to indicate that the output connection 144 is a priority connection.

[0091] 【0109】In one embodiment, the display 1600 includes GUI elements 1601, 1602, 1603, and 1604 (1601-1604) for output connection units 141-144, respectively. GUI elements 1601-1604 can be selected individually (for example, by clicking on one of them with a mouse or by touching one of them). When one of the GUI elements (for example, element 1603 corresponding to output connection unit 143) is selected, the display 1700 in Figure 17 is displayed on the display device 1912. In one embodiment, the display 1700 includes a graph 1710 (charging signature) showing amperage versus time for output connection unit 143. As described above, the information contained in the display 1700 can be sent to or accessed by a remote device such as a smartphone. Therefore, the charging signature can be used by a driver to determine whether or not the vehicle has finished charging.

[0092] 【0110】 In one embodiment, the display 1700 also includes a log 1720. The log 1720 can display information such as a sequential log of events, with the most recent event at the top. Events may include alerts, status changes, user-initiated changes, device additions, and changes made by the event for each charging station, output connector, and / or channel. The log 1720 or a separate log may include information such as charging data (charging signature) for each charge, and the amperage drawn along with the time for each charging station, output connector, and / or head. The charging data may include the length of each charging cycle (for example, when charging the EV started and when it ended for each output connector). The charging data can be used to identify and implement better charging and cycle duration.

[0093] 【0111】Referring also to Figure 14, GUI304 may include a settings tab that, when selected, can be used to open a display or window that allows the user to edit charging station settings such as the length of the charging interval for each output connection, set thresholds such as the charging threshold (Figure 10) described above, set alert thresholds and functions, and define additional information such as charging station name / label, description, and location. GUI304 may also include a user tab that can be used to grant permissions to which users can use the multi-vehicle charging system and which users are currently using the system.

[0094] 【0112】 GUI304 can display alerts in any number of different ways. For example, GUI elements (not shown) can be displayed on display 1400, or GUI elements 1401-1405 associated with a charging station experiencing a potential fault condition can be modified in some way (e.g., by changing the color). Similarly, GUI elements 1501-1504 associated with an output connection experiencing a potential fault condition can be modified in some way (e.g., by changing the color). The alert may also be an audio alert.

[0095] 【0113】 Figure 18 is a flowchart 1800 illustrating an example of operations associated with monitoring and managing a network of EV charging stations in an embodiment of the present invention. These operations are described below in general terms, as their details have already been described above.

[0096] 【0114】 In block 1802, referring to Figure 14, a GUI (304) is generated that includes GUI elements (1401-1405) for each of the charging stations in the network.

[0097] 【0115】 In block 1804, the selection of GUI elements for the charging stand is received.

[0098] 【0116】In block 1806, a GUI element is displayed that identifies which output connection of the charging station is receiving charging current, based on information received from the charging station network.

[0099] 【0117】 In block 1808, in response to commands received via the GUI (i.e., in response to user interaction with the GUI), network components (e.g., the charging station itself, and / or the output connector and head of the charging station) are individually turned on and off.

[0100] 【0118】 In block 1810, information indicating the availability of the charging stand and / or the output connection and / or head is sent to another device such as a smartphone.

[0101] 【0119】 Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, the following features: a plurality of physical charging stations / connectors per circuit, sequential (e.g., brute-force) charging, and automatic charging of multiple vehicles without user intervention.

[0102] 【0120】 Since only one circuit is used for multiple charging stations / connectors, costs are reduced. In other words, for example, there is no need to pay for a dedicated circuit for each charging station. New charging stations can be added at a reduced cost per station. More charging stations can be installed at the same cost. Existing infrastructure (e.g., existing circuits) can be easily modified to accommodate multiple charging stations instead of a single station.

[0103] 【0121】As charging stations become more numerous, vehicle charging becomes more convenient. For example, vehicles don't need to be moved as frequently. From an employee's perspective, the availability of convenient charging stations at the workplace is a perk. From an employee's point of view, the availability of convenient charging stations encourages employees to stay at work a little longer to get free charges, and in addition, employees may be able to increase their productivity because they don't have to move their cars as often.

[0104] 【0122】 Figure 19 is a configuration diagram of an example computing device or computer system 1910 that can implement embodiments of the present invention. Device 1910 broadly includes any single or multiple processor computing device or system capable of executing computer-readable instructions, such as those described in conjunction with Figures 2, 11, 12, 13, and 18. In its most basic configuration, device 1910 may include at least one processing circuit (e.g., a processor 1914) and at least one non-volatile storage medium (e.g., a memory 1916).

[0105] 【0123】 The processor 1914 in Figure 19 represents as a whole any type or form of processing device or circuit that can process data or interpret and execute instructions. In one embodiment, the processor 1914 may receive instructions from a software application or module (e.g., application 1940). These instructions allow the processor 1914 to perform one or more functions from the embodiments described and / or shown above.

[0106] 【0124】 System memory 1916 generally represents any type or form of volatile or non-volatile storage device or medium capable of storing data and / or other computer-readable instructions. Examples of system memory 1916 include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, flash memory, or any other suitable memory device. In one embodiment, system memory 1916 includes a cache 1920.

[0107] 【0125】 Device 1910 may include one or more components or elements in addition to the processor 1914 and system memory 1916. For example, device 1910 may include a memory device, input / output (I / O) devices such as a keyboard and mouse (not shown), and a communication interface 1918, each of which can be interconnected via a communication infrastructure (e.g., a bus). Device 1910 may also include a display device 1912, which is generally configured to display a GUI (e.g., the GUI displays in Figures 14, 15, 16, and 17). The display device 1912 may also include a touch-sensitive device (e.g., a touch screen).

[0108] 【0126】 The communication interface 1918 broadly represents any type or form of communication device or adapter that can facilitate communication between device 1910 and one or more other devices. The communication interface 1918 may include receivers and transmitters that can be used (wired or wirelessly) to receive and transmit information, for example, information from and to charging stations in a multi-vehicle charging system or network, and information from and to other devices, such as a smartphone or another computer system.

[0109] 【0127】Device 1910 can run an application 1940 that enables the performance of operations including those described herein (for example, the operations shown in Figures 11, 12, 13, and 18). A computer program containing application 1940 can be loaded into device 1910. For example, all or part of a computer program stored on a computer-readable medium can be stored in memory 1916. When executed by processor 1914, the computer program can enable the processor to perform and / or be a means to perform the functions of the embodiments described and / or shown herein. Furthermore, or / or the embodiments described and / or shown herein can be implemented in firmware and / or hardware.

[0110] 【0128】Application 1940 may include various software modules that perform the functions described herein. For example, the application may include a user management module 1941, a system management module 1942, and a GUI module 1943. The user management module 1941 may perform functions such as granting users permission to use a multi-vehicle charging network, authenticating users, measuring the power consumed by each user, and setting up user accounts for which users are optionally charged. The system management module 1942 may perform functions such as monitoring the availability and functionality of network components such as circuits, channels, output connectors, heads, and charging stations; controlling such components (e.g., turning them on and off); monitoring charging signatures and charging periods (e.g., to sequentially charge in a brute-force manner as described herein); collecting and logging network information; and performing diagnostics. The GUI module 1943 may perform functions such as generating a GUI that can be accessed by a network administrator and can also be accessed by other devices such as smartphones or transferred to other devices.

[0111] 【0129】 The foregoing disclosure describes various embodiments using specific diagrams, flowcharts, and examples, but the components of each diagram, the steps and operations of the flowcharts, and / or the components described and / or shown herein can be implemented individually and / or collectively using a wide range of hardware, software, or firmware (or any combination thereof) configurations. Furthermore, any disclosure of components contained within other components should be considered as examples, as many other architectures can be implemented to achieve the same functionality.

[0112] 【0130】The process parameters and sequences of the steps described and / or shown herein are given only by example and can be modified as desired. For example, the steps shown and / or described herein may be shown or described in a particular order, but these steps do not necessarily have to be performed in the order shown or described. Various method examples described and / or shown herein may omit one or more of the steps described or shown herein, or include additional steps in addition to those disclosed.

[0113] 【0131】 While various embodiments have been described and / or shown herein in the context of fully functional computing systems, one or more of these embodiments can be distributed as program products in various forms, regardless of the specific type of computer-readable medium used to actually perform the distribution. Embodiments disclosed herein can also be implemented using software modules that perform a certain task. These software modules may include scripts, batches, or other executable files that can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium or in a computing system. These software modules can configure a computing system to implement one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein. One or more of the software modules disclosed herein can be implemented in a cloud computing environment. Cloud computing environments can provide a variety of services and applications over the internet. These cloud-based services (e.g., Storage as a Service, Software as a Service, Platform as a Service, Infrastructure as a Service, etc.) may be accessible through a web browser or other remote interface. The various functions described herein can be provided through a remote desktop environment or any other cloud-based computing environment.

[0114] 【0132】While the subject matter has been described in language specific to its structural features and / or methodological behavior, it should be understood that the subject matter as defined in this disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or behaviors described above. Rather, the specific features and behaviors described above are disclosed as examples of forms that implement this disclosure.

[0115] 【0133】 Embodiments of the present invention are described in this manner. Although the present disclosure has been described in particular embodiments, it should be understood that the present invention should not be construed as being limited by such embodiments, but rather should be construed as being limited by the following claims.

Claims

[Claim 1] A method for charging one or more electric vehicles (EVs), wherein the method is A printed circuit board comprising a controller and a processor, comprising the steps of: receiving an alternating current (AC) charging current from a power source via a dedicated circuit on the high-voltage side, wherein the printed circuit board also comprises a low-voltage side that receives power from a second power source and supplies power to the processor, and the low-voltage side receives a voltage lower than the voltage received by the high-voltage side; The step of guiding the charging current from the high-voltage side of the printed circuit board to a plurality of output connection points, wherein the step of guiding the charging current from the high-voltage side of the printed circuit board is The steps include: guiding the charging current to the first output connection among the plurality of output connection points; The steps include determining the charging status of an electric vehicle connected to a first output head connected to the first output connection section, A method comprising the steps of stopping the charging current led to the first output connection and leading the charging current to the second output connection when the charging state of the electric vehicle exceeds a predetermined charging threshold. [Claim 2] The method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined charging threshold is reached when the electric vehicle is approximately half charged. [Claim 3] The method according to claim 1, wherein the step of determining the charging state of an electric vehicle connected to a first output head connected to the first output connection unit includes accessing the EV charging signature of the electric vehicle. [Claim 4] The method according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined charging threshold is reached when the electric vehicle is charged to approximately 60-80% based on the EV charging signature of the electric vehicle. [Claim 5] The method according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined charging threshold is reached when the electric vehicle is charged to approximately 90% based on the EV charging signature of the electric vehicle. [Claim 6] The method according to claim 3, further comprising the step of stopping the charging current led to the second output connection and leading the charging current to the third output connection when the charging state of the second electric vehicle connected to the second output head connected to the second output connection exceeds a predetermined charging threshold based on the EV charging signature of the second electric vehicle. [Claim 7] The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of stopping the charging current led to the first output connection after a certain time threshold, regardless of the charging state. [Claim 8] The steps include determining that multiple electric vehicles are connected to the multiple output connection units, The steps include charging each of the plurality of electric vehicles one at a time in a brute-force manner until each of the plurality of electric vehicles reaches the predetermined charging threshold, The method according to claim 1, further comprising: [Claim 9] The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of determining whether there is an electrical load connected to the first output connection before the charging current is provided to the first output connection, wherein if there is no electrical load connected to the first output connection, the charging current is not led to the first output connection. [Claim 10] The method according to claim 1, wherein the first output connection is further connected to a second output head, and when the first output head and the second output head are simultaneously connected to an electric vehicle with a charge level below a predetermined threshold, the first output connection is operable to divide the charging current between the first output head and the second output head. [Claim 11] An electric vehicle (EV) charging system comprising a controller and multiple output connection units, The controller comprises a central processing unit and is mounted on a single printed circuit board, the printed circuit board also having a low-voltage side capable of supplying power to the central processing unit (CPU), the printed circuit board also having a high-voltage side capable of receiving alternating current (AC) charging current supplied from an AC power source via a dedicated circuit, the central processing unit receives power from a low-voltage power source, the low-voltage power source is separate from the AC power source and is not powered by the AC power source, and the voltage from the low-voltage power source is lower than the voltage from the AC power source. The plurality of output connection units are connected to the controller, and each of the output connection units can be connected to at least one head among a plurality of heads that can be connected to an electric vehicle, and the controller, When the first electric vehicle is connected to a head connected to the first output connection of the output connection section, the charging current is guided from the high-voltage side of the printed circuit board to the first output connection of the output connection section. The charging status of the electric vehicle connected to the first output head connected to the first output connection section is determined. An electric vehicle charging system that, when the charging state of the electric vehicle exceeds a predetermined charging threshold, is capable of stopping the charging current led to the first output connection and leading the charging current to the second output connection. [Claim 12] The electric vehicle charging system according to claim 11, wherein the controller is also operable to stop the charging current led to the first output connection after a threshold time has elapsed. [Claim 13] The electric vehicle charging system according to claim 11, wherein determining that the charging state of the first electric vehicle exceeds a threshold includes the controller accessing the EV charging signature of the first electric vehicle. [Claim 14] The electric vehicle charging system according to claim 13, wherein the predetermined charging threshold is reached when the electric vehicle is charged to approximately half capacity based on the EV charging signature of the electric vehicle. [Claim 15] The electric vehicle charging system according to claim 13, wherein the predetermined charging threshold is reached when the electric vehicle is charged to approximately 60-80% based on the EV charging signature of the electric vehicle.