Swappable EV Battery Charging via OBC and Motor Path Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicles face challenges with reduced travel distance range due to battery deterioration and long charging times, and the cost and complexity of establishing infrastructure for swappable batteries.
Innovation Solution
An electric vehicle system that includes a main battery unit and a swappable battery unit, where the swappable battery can be connected to the vehicle without additional voltage boosting means, and a power source management method that allows charging of the main battery from the swappable battery using either an on-board charger or the vehicle's motor, depending on the vehicle state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the size (capacity) of the battery is increased to extend EV mileage, then the travel distance is improved, but the vehicle weight and price are greatly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is divided into two separate units: a main battery unit with fixed battery that provides base power, and a swappable battery unit that can be detached and replaced. This segmentation allows the vehicle to achieve extended mileage through battery replacement rather than carrying a single large-capacity battery, thereby reducing vehicle weight while maintaining travel distance capability.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the size (capacity) of the battery is increased to extend EV mileage, then the travel distance is improved, but the vehicle price is greatly increased
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the battery system into main and swappable units, the vehicle can use smaller, more affordable batteries rather than requiring a single large-capacity battery. This reduces the overall battery cost that accounts for a large proportion of vehicle price.
Solution Approach 2:
The swappable battery unit is designed to be universally compatible and can be used across multiple vehicles of the same model. This multi-functionality allows a single battery unit to serve multiple purposes and vehicles, reducing the total number of batteries needed and thereby lowering overall system cost.
3Loss of time
If dedicated infrastructure is established for battery replacement, then the charging time is reduced, but the infrastructure cost is greatly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The battery replacement process is simplified by segmenting the battery into a detachable swappable unit that can be easily removed and replaced without complex infrastructure. The swappable battery unit includes connection terminals that interface with the vehicle's connector, enabling straightforward exchange operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery replacement system is designed to be simple and intuitive, allowing users to perform battery replacement themselves without requiring sophisticated automated infrastructure. The mechanical connection structures and electrical connectors are designed for easy engagement and disengagement.
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
This solution enables extended travel range without increasing vehicle weight or price, by allowing the use of a swappable battery to charge the main battery, and simplifies the infrastructure requirements for battery replacement.
Implementation Method 1
an on-board charger (OBC) connected between the main battery unit and the inverter, the OBC including a direct current (DC) converter
Implementation Method 2
a motor, an inverter electrically connected to the motor
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle may be equipped with a swappable battery, and a power source management method. The electric vehicle includes a motor, an inverter configured to exchange three-phase power with the motor, a main battery unit which may be electrically connected to the inverter, includes a first battery and a first BMS for controlling the first battery, and may be fixedly disposed in the electric vehicle, an OBC which may be connected between the main battery unit and the inverter and includes a DC converter, and a switch unit configured to selectively connect a connector and the DC converter to each other, or the connector and the motor to each other, in which, when a swappable battery unit including a second battery and a second BMS for controlling the second battery may be connected to the connector, the first BMS acquires second-battery information output by the second BMS.