Electric Bus Charge Controller Voltage Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for electric vehicles lack efficient and safe methods for managing the charging and discharging of energy storage devices, particularly in transit vehicles, which can lead to inefficiencies and safety concerns during rapid charging and power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A charge management system comprising a power supply line, charge controller, and communication subsystem that monitors and controls the charge current based on state parameters, allowing for safe and efficient charging and power distribution by managing the connection of energy storage devices in parallel and modulating currents to optimize voltage matching and minimize voltage spikes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If rapid charging is performed to extend vehicle range and maintain operation, then charging speed is improved, but voltage spikes and inrush currents occur causing safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary voltage matching by monitoring the voltage of each battery pack before connection and pre-selecting compatible packs to connect to the bus. This preliminary action prevents voltage spikes and inrush currents by ensuring voltage compatibility before the actual charging connection is made, thereby enabling rapid charging while maintaining safety.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple battery packs are connected in parallel to increase power capacity, then energy storage capacity is improved, but voltage mismatches and inrush currents occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by individually monitoring and evaluating the voltage characteristics of each battery pack before connection. By assessing each pack's voltage locally and selecting only those that match the bus voltage within a predetermined range, the system enables parallel connection of multiple packs to increase capacity while avoiding voltage mismatches and harmful inrush currents.
3Reliability
If battery voltage is monitored to prevent overcharging, then charging safety is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage monitoring system serves multiple functions: it monitors battery pack voltage for safety, identifies compatible packs for parallel connection, and prevents overcharging. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating monitoring tasks into a single integrated system rather than requiring separate systems for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
An onboard charging system for an electric vehicle is configured to communicate with a power supply through exchange of control signals on a power supply line by modulating a charging current being supplied to the charging system. The charging system is capable of communicating fault and battery parameter data to the power supply, as well as a requested charging current used to regulate the power supply output. The power supply may convert high voltage AC power into a controllable DC output supplied directly to the electric vehicle, thereby providing a convenient means for the vehicle to initiate charging during operations. Connection between the electric vehicle and the power supply may be effected using an extendible and retractable electrical connection, such as a mechanical pantograph.