Charging Cable Control Module for Utility Rate Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging cables lack the ability to automatically adjust charging schedules based on utility rates, leading to missed opportunities for reduced costs due to user forgetfulness or timing issues.
Innovation Solution
A charging cable equipped with a control module that communicates with both the vehicle and utility power source to determine optimal charging times based on utility rates, power usage data, and vehicle data, allowing for automatic connection or disconnection to minimize charging costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a user waits to plug in the vehicle until utility rates are reduced, then charging costs are reduced, but the vehicle may not be charged when the user forgets or is unable to plug in at the appropriate time
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable system autonomously monitors utility rates and automatically connects the vehicle to the power source during low-rate periods without requiring user intervention. The control module independently makes charging decisions based on pre-programmed rate thresholds, enabling the system to serve itself and eliminate human error in timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously receives feedback from the utility company about current and forecasted power rates. This feedback loop allows the control module to dynamically adjust charging schedules, connecting the vehicle when rates are low and disconnecting when rates increase, ensuring optimal cost performance while reliably completing charging.
2Extent of automation
If a charging cable automatically controls electrical coupling based on utility data and vehicle data, then charging cost is reduced and charging reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable integrates multiple functions into a single device: it serves as a power transmission medium, a communication interface with the utility company, a data processing unit for analyzing rates and vehicle needs, and an automatic control switch for electrical coupling. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems while achieving high automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module merges the utility rate monitoring, vehicle data analysis, and electrical coupling control functions into a single integrated unit within the charging cable. By combining these previously separate functions, the system achieves sophisticated automation without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle charging cable is disclosed configured to charge a vehicle battery on a vehicle from a utility power source, the cable comprising: a vehicle connector and a control module. The vehicle connector is connected to a power cable configured to supply power for charging the vehicle battery. The vehicle connector is configured to connect to a charging port on the vehicle. The control module is connected to the power cable. The control module is configured to receive utility data from the utility power source and to receive vehicle data from the vehicle, and to adjust the power supplied to the vehicle battery based on the utility data and the vehicle data.