EV Battery Charging Controller Price-Adaptive Rate Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in efficiently charging rechargeable batteries for plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles using electrical power distribution systems, where energy prices vary throughout the day, necessitating a method to optimize charging times based on price fluctuations to minimize costs.
Innovation Solution
A battery charging apparatus and method that utilizes a controller to access and analyze price information from the electrical power distribution system, determining optimal charging windows and rates to reduce energy costs by charging during low-price periods, while also considering the state of charge, capacity, and user-defined requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If charging is performed continuously without considering price information, then the battery charging completeness is ensured, but the energy cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging rate is dynamically adjusted based on real-time price information. The system transitions from static continuous charging to dynamic variable-rate charging, where the charging power is modulated according to price signals, enabling cost optimization without compromising charging completion
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring price information and adjusting charging operations accordingly. The controller receives price signals and uses them to modify charging behavior, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing economic conditions
2Loss of energy
If charging is delayed to low-price periods, then the energy cost is reduced, but the charging completion time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary charging during high-price periods at reduced rates rather than delaying all charging to low-price periods. This partial advance action ensures some charging progress is made immediately while taking advantage of future low-price periods for additional charging, balancing cost and time considerations
3Loss of time
If the charging rate is increased to complete charging faster, then the charging time is reduced, but the energy cost increases during high-price periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the charging rate parameter dynamically based on price conditions. During high-price periods, the charging rate is reduced; during low-price periods, the rate is increased. This parameter modulation resolves the contradiction by adapting the charging speed to economic conditions rather than maintaining a fixed rate
Data Source
AI summary
Battery charging control methods, electrical vehicle charging methods, battery charging control apparatus, and electrical vehicles are described. In one arrangement, battery charging control methods include accessing price information for electrical energy supplied by an electrical power distribution system and controlling an adjustment of an amount of the electrical energy from the electrical power distribution system used to charge a rechargeable battery at different moments in time using the price information. Other arrangements are described.