Universal AC/DC Converter Switching for Multi-Phase Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing AC/DC converters for on-board chargers in eco-friendly vehicles are limited by their inability to handle both three-phase and single-phase power sources, requiring separate manufacturing for different power types and failing to adapt to varying power sources across countries.
Innovation Solution
An AC/DC converter design featuring a power unit with multiple input lines, a main bridge circuit, and a control unit that utilizes a relay or switch to selectively connect power input lines based on the type of input power, allowing for interchangeable operation with three-phase, two-phase, or single-phase power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate circuits are manufactured for three-phase and single-phase power, then circuit reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal AC/DC converter circuit that can handle both three-phase and single-phase power inputs through a unified topology. The main bridge circuit is designed to accept multiple input configurations, and the control unit dynamically adjusts operation modes based on input detection, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each power type while maintaining reliability through adaptive control.
2Reliability
If dedicated on-board chargers are manufactured for different power types, then charging reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and inventory complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The AC/DC converter is designed as a universal charging device that can operate with various power sources (three-phase, single-phase, different frequencies) through a single unified circuit design. The control unit detects input power characteristics and automatically adjusts operating parameters, allowing one charger model to serve multiple markets and power infrastructures, thereby reducing manufacturing variants and inventory complexity.
3Device complexity
If a unified AC/DC converter circuit is used for both three-phase and single-phase power, then device complexity is reduced, but power efficiency may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control strategies where the control unit continuously monitors input power characteristics and adjusts switching patterns, pulse widths, and operating frequencies in real-time. This dynamic adaptation allows the unified circuit to optimize power conversion efficiency for each specific input type (three-phase or single-phase), preventing efficiency deterioration despite the simplified unified topology.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit modifies operational parameters such as switching frequency, duty cycle, and bridge circuit configuration based on the detected input power type. By dynamically changing these parameters, the unified AC/DC converter maintains high power efficiency across different input conditions, compensating for any potential efficiency losses from using a single circuit design for multiple power types.
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 efficient charging with various power forms without additional manipulation or devices, reducing model and inventory management complexity, achieving high power efficiency, and enabling the production of lightweight, cost-effective products.
Implementation Method 1
a relay connected in parallel to both ends of any one of the power input lines; and a control unit controlling the opening/closing of the relay on the basis of the type of the input power
Implementation Method 2
a main bridge circuit into which input power is being inputted via the power unit
Data Source
AI summary
The AC/DC converter according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a power unit comprising a plurality of power input lines; a main bridge circuit into which input power is input via the power unit; a relay connected in parallel to both ends of any one of the power input lines; and a control unit for controlling the opening/closing of the relay on the basis of the type of input power.