Single-Stage AC-AC Converter for Lightweight Vehicle-to-Load Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle-to-load (V2L) systems in vehicles are bulky, heavy, and complex due to duplicate subcomponents like DC-link capacitors and transformers, which increase size, weight, and reduce lifetime.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a single-stage non-isolated AC-AC converter with a relay matrix to provide 120 Vac and 240 Vac power directly from an AC grid to external loads, integrating with an existing onboard charging module (OBCM) to minimize hardware additions and maintain stable voltage during grid disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If duplicate subcomponents like DC-link capacitors and transformers are used in V2L systems, then the system can provide AC power to external loads, but the size, weight, and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the V2L power conversion function with the existing onboard charging module (OBCM) by using a single-stage non-isolated AC-AC converter. This integration eliminates the need for separate DC-link capacitors and transformers that would otherwise be required, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining AC power supply capability to external loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The AC-AC converter is designed to serve multiple functions: it enables vehicle-to-load power delivery while integrating with the onboard charging module for bidirectional power flow. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to support both charging the vehicle battery and powering external AC loads, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If duplicate subcomponents like DC-link capacitors and transformers are used in V2L systems, then the system can provide AC power to external loads, but the size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the V2L functionality with the existing onboard charging module through a single-stage AC-AC converter, the patent eliminates the need for heavy duplicate subcomponents such as DC-link capacitors and transformers. This integration significantly reduces the overall weight of the power delivery system while maintaining full AC power supply capability.
3Device complexity
If a single-stage non-isolated AC-AC converter is used, then complexity, size, and weight are reduced, but voltage stability during grid disruptions must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors the AC voltage and adjusts the switching of the AC-AC converter to maintain stable output voltage. During grid disruptions, the feedback control mechanism detects voltage deviations and modifies the converter operation to compensate, ensuring voltage stability is maintained despite the simplified single-stage non-isolated architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Examples described herein provide a circuit that includes a power electronics converter disposed in a vehicle. The power electronics converter receives alternating current (AC) electrical power from an AC grid source and provides AC electrical power to an AC load external to the vehicle. The circuit further includes an on-board charging module electrically connected to the power electronics converter and a battery disposed in the vehicle. The power electronics converter provides vehicle-to-load functionality by providing, to the AC load, AC electric power as an output of at least one of a 120 Vac output or a 240 Vac output.