Vehicle Battery Charger Time-Delay Control for Peak Load Shifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing power infrastructure is unable to meet the demand for widespread use of rechargeable electric vehicles, leading to strain on community power systems and potential peak demand issues.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle charger system that includes a controller, a display, and user-manipulatable controls, allowing users to schedule charging sessions based on time of day, and communicate with a remote controller to adjust charging rates and states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If electric vehicles are widely adopted and charged during peak hours, then user convenience and battery charging speed are improved, but strain on community power systems and peak demand issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-charging batteries during off-peak hours when power demand is low. Users can schedule charging sessions in advance, and the charger automatically initiates charging during periods of reduced grid strain, thereby preparing the battery for use without impacting peak demand on power systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic action by distributing charging loads across different time periods rather than concentrating them during peak hours. By alternating between charging during off-peak periods and idle during peak periods, the system reduces overall strain on power infrastructure while still meeting user charging needs
2Reliability
If batteries are charged during off-peak hours, then strain on power systems is reduced, but user convenience and access to charged batteries worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where users can monitor battery charge status, scheduled charging times, and power system conditions. The controller receives feedback about charging progress and system state, allowing users to adjust schedules or receive notifications, thereby maintaining convenience while adhering to off-peak charging constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing users to program charging schedules in advance and automatically execute charging without manual intervention. The charger autonomously manages the charging process during scheduled off-peak periods, eliminating the need for users to physically connect or monitor charging in real-time
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle battery charger and a vehicle battery charging system are described and illustrated, and can include a controller enabling a user to enter a time of day at which the vehicle battery charger or system begins and/or ends charging of the vehicle battery. The vehicle battery charger can be separate from the vehicle, can be at least partially integrated into the vehicle, can include a transmitter and/or a receiver capable of communication with a controller that is remote from the vehicle and vehicle charger, and can be controlled by a user or another party (e.g., a power utility) to control battery charging based upon a time of day, cost of power, or other factors.