Charging Control Method Tracking Maximum Efficiency

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional charging systems have low power conversion efficiency during the charging process, which affects the speed and effectiveness of battery charging.

Innovation Solution

A charging control method and system that adjusts DC power and charging power to track maximum power conversion efficiency by dynamically adjusting input, DC, and bus power conversion efficiencies, using a combination of inductive and capacitive switching power converters and a tracking control circuit to optimize power conversion.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If maximum charging current is used to fast charge the battery, then charging speed is improved, but power conversion efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging speedVSAvoidpower conversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the charging current adjustable rather than fixed at maximum. The system dynamically adjusts the charging current based on real-time power conversion efficiency measurements, allowing it to operate at optimal points rather than always at maximum current, thus resolving the contradiction between charging speed and efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by measuring power conversion efficiency in real-time and using this information to adjust the charging current. The system continuously monitors efficiency and adjusts operating parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop control that balances charging speed with power conversion efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Loss of energy

If power conversion efficiency is optimized, then energy loss is reduced, but charging speed may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower conversion efficiencyVSAvoidcharging speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting the charging current as a variable parameter based on measured power conversion efficiency. Instead of using a fixed maximum current, the system changes the current parameter dynamically to maintain optimal efficiency while still achieving fast charging when conditions permit

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The system achieves fast charging with maximum efficiency while minimizing manufacturing costs and maintaining a stable charging voltage and current, thereby prolonging battery life and reducing operational temperatures.

Implementation Method 1

a power delivery unit 21, which is configured to operably convert an input power to a DC power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a charging circuit 25, which is configured to operably convert the bus power to a charging power for charging a battery

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPower conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20220407336A1Charging control method and charging system capable of tracking maximum efficiency
Publication Date: 2022.12.22 RICHTEK TECH
  • US20220407336A1 patent drawing
  • US20220407336A1 patent drawing
  • US20220407336A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A charging control method includes: converting an input power to a DC power; receiving the DC power by a detachable cable to generate a bus power; converting the bus power to a charging power for charging a battery in a charging period; and adjusting the DC power and/or the charging power to track a maximum of a power conversion efficiency; wherein the power conversion efficiency includes one of the following: an input power conversion efficiency, which is a conversion efficiency of converting the input power to the charging power; a DC power conversion efficiency, which is a conversion efficiency of converting the DC power to the charging power; or a bus power conversion efficiency, which is a conversion efficiency of converting the bus power to the charging power.