Vehicle Charging Interface for AC/DC Input Detection and Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Charging stations are typically dedicated to either AC or DC charging, limiting their ability to support both types of charging due to differing connector configurations, which restricts flexibility and compatibility with vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A system with common input terminals for AC and DC charging, utilizing a sensor to detect voltage type, a charge controller to generate PWM signals for different modes, and an on-board charger to switch between DC and AC charging based on vehicle readiness and user selection, ensuring compatibility and efficient charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a charging station is configured for AC charging, then it supports AC voltage input, but it cannot support DC voltage input due to different connector configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station is designed with a universal charging interface that can accept both AC and DC voltage inputs through the same physical connector. The system includes voltage detection circuitry that automatically identifies whether AC or DC voltage is applied, and control logic that routes the appropriate charging protocol, enabling a single charging station to serve multiple charging needs without requiring separate dedicated stations for AC and DC charging.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a charging station is configured for DC charging, then it supports DC voltage input, but it cannot support AC voltage input due to different connector configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station incorporates a multi-functional charging port design that physically accommodates both AC and DC connectors or uses a universal connector type. The system includes detection mechanisms that identify the voltage type and automatically switch between AC charging mode and DC charging mode, allowing the same hardware infrastructure to support both charging standards without requiring separate dedicated charging bays.
3Reliability
If separate charging stations are used for AC and DC charging, then each station can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines previously separate AC charging station and DC charging station functionalities into a single integrated charging unit. The system merges the power input circuits, control systems, and user interfaces into one unified platform that can handle both AC and DC voltage types. This consolidation reduces the number of separate charging stations needed, optimizes space utilization, and simplifies the overall charging infrastructure while maintaining the reliability of both charging modes through shared high-quality components and unified control logic.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible charging by supporting both AC and DC voltage types, optimizing charging efficiency and compatibility with various vehicles, and ensuring safe and reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to detect: (a) the DC or the AC voltage from the charging station
Implementation Method 2
an on-board charger configured to: convert the received alternating current AC voltage to direct current (DC) voltage
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, apparatus, articles of manufacture, and methods are disclosed to charge an energy storage device on a vehicle. The system includes instructions to detect direct current or alternating current on or at an input terminal of a vehicle electrical system, the input terminal to receive electrical energy to charge the energy storage device on the vehicle; based on detection of direct current, generate a first pilot signal that includes a first pulse width modulated signal associated with a first mode including a first duty cycle range; based on detection of alternating current, generate a second pilot signal that includes a second pulse width modulated signal associated with a second mode including a second duty cycle range, wherein the first duty cycle range is lower than the second duty cycle range; and charge the energy storage device based on detection of the first pilot signal or the second pilot signal.


