Central Power Module EV Charger Layout for Space-Saving Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging stations face challenges such as large real estate consumption, inefficiencies, and deployment difficulties due to distributed architectures, which result in high costs and potential power loss, as well as issues with visibility and accessibility of charging capacity, especially when designed for either pull-up or pull-through styles but not both.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic electric vehicle charging station with two EV chargers on either side of a central power module cabinet, allowing for dynamic power distribution and easy access, along with interchangeable panels for configuration between same-side and opposite-side orientations, reducing cabling needs and enhancing visibility of charging status through separate lighting canopies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a distributed architecture is used with separate remote cabinets for power modules, then power conversion and supply capabilities are improved, but real estate consumption increases and deployment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power modules with the customer-facing charging equipment into an integrated unit, eliminating the need for separate remote cabinets. This merging of previously distributed components reduces the total space required while maintaining full power conversion and supply capabilities.
2Power
If a distributed architecture with remote cabinets is used, then power supply capabilities are improved, but cabling requirements increase leading to higher costs and power loss risks
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating power modules directly into the charging equipment, the patent eliminates long cable runs between remote cabinets and dispensers. This reduces cabling complexity, material costs, and the risk of power loss over distance.
3Area of stationary object
If a columnar post design is used for customer-facing equipment, then space efficiency is improved, but visibility of charging capacity is reduced causing customer confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses lighting canopies with different illumination states (e.g., green for available, red for in use) to clearly indicate charging capacity status. This visual signaling system resolves customer confusion while maintaining the space-efficient columnar design.
4Ease of operation
If power modules are located at the perimeter of the EV charger, then accessibility for cable connection is improved, but vulnerability to vehicular impacts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions power modules in a protected location shielded from vehicular impacts, while still providing adequate cable accessibility through strategically placed outlets and cable management systems. This preliminary protective positioning prevents damage from potential vehicle contacts.
5Device complexity
If a monolithic charger design is used, then structural simplicity is improved, but accessibility to internal components for maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monolithic charger into modular segments or compartments, allowing maintenance personnel to access specific internal components without disassembling the entire unit. This segmented design maintains the space-efficient monolithic appearance while improving serviceability.
Data Source
AI summary
In an aspect, a monolithic electric vehicle (EV) charging station is described. The charging station includes a first EV charger at a first side and a second EV charger at a second side. The charging station includes a power module cabinet portion between the first EV charger and the second EV charger, the power module cabinet housing one or more power modules configured to dynamically distribute power to the first EV charger and the second EV charger.