Autonomous EV Charging Vehicle for On-Road Range Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicles (EVs) face delays and inconveniences when running low on battery power and unable to reach nearby charging stations, leading to safety risks and discomfort for occupants, especially in adverse weather conditions, due to the inefficiencies of conventional tow truck dispatching methods.
Innovation Solution
An Autonomous Charging Vehicle (ACV) provides a small charge to EVs to enable them to reach the nearest charging station by calculating the necessary power based on battery data, weather, and load conditions, and can charge EVs wirelessly or using a magnet system while moving alongside them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tow truck is dispatched to tow the EV to a charging station, then the EV can be transported to a charging station, but significant delays occur and EV occupants experience inconvenience and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by proactively monitoring the EV's battery state of charge and automatically dispatching a charging vehicle before the EV completely depletes its battery. This prevents the EV from becoming stranded and eliminates the need for occupants to wait for tow truck arrival, thereby resolving the time loss and inconvenience issues while ensuring reliable transport to a charging station.
2Reliability
If a tow truck is used to transport the EV, then the EV can reach a charging station, but the process is inefficient and causes hardship for EV occupants in extreme weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the EV to automatically monitor its own battery state of charge and trigger the dispatch of a charging vehicle when needed. The EV occupants do not need to manually call for assistance or wait in extreme weather conditions, as the system autonomously handles the recharging arrangement, thereby improving convenience and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If conventional tow truck dispatching methods are used, then EVs can receive roadside services, but the methods result in significant delays and inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the EV's battery state of charge and using this real-time data to automatically determine when dispatching a charging vehicle is necessary. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to respond promptly to battery depletion risks, significantly improving the speed and productivity of roadside service delivery compared to conventional tow truck dispatching methods.
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
This solution reduces delays and inconveniences by enabling EVs to reach charging stations safely and efficiently, even in adverse weather, by providing a temporary charge to extend their range and allowing them to travel to a charging station without the need for towing.
Implementation Method 1
The ACV may use a magnet system to connect behind the EV and supply charge
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for charging an electric vehicle (EV) are described herein. An EV may require additional battery power to reach a charging station. A remote server in communication with the EV or an on-board computer or mobile device in the EV may obtain data to determine a location for the EV to meet a charging vehicle. The charging vehicle may be dispatched to meet the EV and deliver power to it, enabling the EV to reach a charging station or other destination. In some examples, the charging vehicle may deliver power to the EV while both vehicles are stationary. In other examples, the charging vehicle may couple to the EV while both vehicles are in motion.