DPDT Relay Redundant Power for Dual EVSE
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) shuts down completely when AC power is removed from one input, posing safety hazards for service personnel and disrupting charging operations, as the low-voltage direct current (LVDC) circuit is not redundantly powered.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a double pole, double throw (DPDT) AC relay to switch AC power from one AC voltage input to another in case of power loss, ensuring continuous operation of the LVDC circuit and user interface, thereby creating a redundantly controlled dual EVSE.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the LVDC circuit is powered from a single AC voltage input, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates because the dual EVSE shuts down completely when one AC input loses power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines both AC voltage inputs into a common LVDC power supply system using a DPDT relay. The relay merges the power paths from both AC inputs so that either input can supply power to the LVDC circuit, creating a unified redundant power architecture that maintains operation even when one input fails.
Solution Approach 2:
The DPDT relay is configured to automatically switch power sources in advance before a complete shutdown occurs. When the primary AC input fails, the relay预先 (in advance) switches to the secondary AC input, cushioning against the potential shutdown and maintaining continuous power to the LVDC circuit and control systems.
2Ease of operation
If the LVDC circuit is powered from a single AC voltage input, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety deteriorates because service personnel may assume the equipment is completely shut down while AC power remains on the other input
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback through the user interface that reflects the actual operational status of the dual EVSE. When one AC input fails and the system switches to the other input, the feedback mechanism ensures service personnel are aware that the equipment is still partially operational, preventing the harmful assumption that the entire system is shut down.
Solution Approach 2:
The DPDT relay acts as an intermediary that manages the power switching between AC inputs and the LVDC circuit. This intermediary component enables the system to maintain controlled operation on one input while managing the transition, providing a buffer that allows safe operation and clear status indication to service personnel.
3Reliability
If a DPDT AC relay is added to switch AC power to the LVDC circuit from either AC voltage input, then the reliability is improved through redundant power supply, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The DPDT relay is configured to perform multiple functions: it switches power from either AC input to the LVDC circuit, provides automatic failover capability, and enables the system to operate in redundant mode. This multi-functional component achieves reliability improvement without requiring separate complex switching mechanisms for each function.
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
Ensures uninterrupted operation of the dual EVSE and enhances safety by maintaining power to the control circuits and user interface even if one AC input fails, preventing accidental work on partially powered equipment and minimizing charging disruptions.
Implementation Method 1
a double pole, double throw (DPDT) AC relay provided at an input of the LVDC circuit, wherein the DPDT AC relay is configured to switch the AC power to the LVDC circuit from either the first AC voltage input or the second ACV input
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method is provided for creating a redundantly controlled dual electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). A double pole, double throw (DPDT) AC relay is provided on a power input to a low-voltage direct current (LVDC) circuit. The DPDT AC relay switches the AC power to the LVDC circuit automatically from either a LEFT ACV input or RIGHT ACV input such that operation of LVDC circuit remains uninterrupted.