Dual-Input EV Charger Switching Circuit for Flexible AC Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chargers are not highly convenient for users as they require specific outlet cables for different EVSE modes, limiting their adaptability and user flexibility when charging vehicles with DC inlets.
Innovation Solution
A charger with a casing containing a power conversion circuit and a switching device that can selectively connect either an AC socket or an AC connector to the power conversion circuit, allowing AC power input from both sources to be converted to DC and outputted to a DC connector, facilitating charging without the need for specific outlet cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the charger is designed to work with specific EVSE modes (Mode 2 or Mode 3) using dedicated outlet cables, then the charging function is reliable, but the adaptability and user convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The charger is designed with dual AC input interfaces: an AC socket for EVSE Mode 2 and an AC inlet for EVSE Mode 3. The switching device enables the charger to selectively connect either interface to the power conversion circuit, allowing a single charger to universally work with both EVSE modes without requiring different dedicated chargers for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching device dynamically changes the connection state between AC input interfaces and the power conversion circuit based on which interface is currently connected. When the AC socket is connected, the switching device routes power through that path; when the AC inlet is connected, it routes through that path instead, enabling adaptive operation across different charging scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the charger includes both AC socket and AC inlet with switching device, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charger merges two AC input interfaces (AC socket and AC inlet) into a single unified power conversion circuit. The switching device combines the routing functions for both interfaces, allowing them to share common internal components (power conversion circuit, control unit, DC output terminal) rather than requiring separate independent charging paths, thus reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching device acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the two AC input interfaces and the power conversion circuit. It provides a simple on/off switching mechanism to route power from either interface to the same output path, avoiding the need for complex control logic or multiple power conversion circuits.
3Reliability
If the charger requires outlet cable connection for EVSE Mode 2, then the charging control is reliable, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The charger provides universal compatibility with both EVSE Mode 2 (requiring outlet cable) and EVSE Mode 3 (direct connection) through its dual AC input design. Users can select the simpler direct connection method (Mode 3) when available, improving ease of operation while maintaining the ability to use Mode 2 with outlet cables when needed for reliable controlled charging.
Solution Approach 2:
The switching device dynamically adapts the charging path based on which AC interface is connected. When AC inlet (Mode 3) is connected, it enables direct charging with simpler operation. When AC socket (Mode 2) is connected, it routes through the outlet cable path, maintaining reliable control. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize for ease of operation when possible while preserving reliability when needed.
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
Enables convenient and adaptable charging by allowing AC power from either an AC socket or an AC connector to be converted to DC, reducing the need for multiple cables and enhancing user flexibility, while also allowing the charger to be portable and reducing vehicle weight when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
a power conversion circuit 110 configured to convert, into direct current electric power (DC power), alternating current electric power (AC power) input from the AC port connected by the switching device 120
Data Source
AI summary
A casing of a charger includes a DC port and a plurality of AC ports. The charger includes a switching device configured to connect one of the AC ports selectively to a power conversion circuit. The power conversion circuit is configured to convert, into direct current electric power, alternating current electric power input from the AC port connected by the switching device, and output the direct current electric power to the DC port.