Bidirectional EV Charger Power Transfer for Non-Charging Site Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backup generator systems are expensive, require regular maintenance, and have limited power output, making them impractical for most sites without significant infrastructure changes.
Innovation Solution
The system enables charge transfers between electric vehicle chargers and local non-charging loads at a charging site, using bidirectional inverters and system controllers to convert DC power from vehicle chargers' batteries into AC power for non-charging loads during grid disruptions or high demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional backup generator systems are installed to provide backup power during grid disruptions, then power reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station battery system is designed to perform multiple functions: charging electric vehicles during normal operation and providing backup power to non-charging loads during grid disruptions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated backup power systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining power reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging station's battery system serves itself by automatically switching between charging vehicles and providing backup power to the facility. The system controller autonomously manages the transition between these modes without requiring external backup generator systems, thereby reducing device complexity while ensuring continuous power supply.
2Reliability
If traditional backup generator systems are installed to ensure continuous power supply, then power availability is improved, but cost increases due to equipment and infrastructure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station battery system is designed to perform multiple functions: charging electric vehicles during normal operation and providing backup power to non-charging loads during grid disruptions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated backup power systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining power reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging station's battery system serves itself by automatically switching between charging vehicles and providing backup power to the facility. The system controller autonomously manages the transition between these modes without requiring external backup generator systems, thereby reducing device complexity while ensuring continuous power supply.
3Quantity of substance
If charging stations store considerable electrical energy for vehicle charging, then charging capability is improved, but the potential to provide backup power to non-charging loads is not utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the function of the stored electrical energy based on real-time conditions. During normal grid operation, energy is stored for vehicle charging. During grid disruptions, the system automatically redirects this stored energy to power non-charging loads. This dynamic adaptability maximizes the utility of the stored energy while maintaining charging capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging station battery system is designed to perform multiple functions: charging electric vehicles during normal operation and providing backup power to non-charging loads during grid disruptions. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated backup power systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining power reliability.
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 provides a cost-effective and efficient means to supply backup power to non-charging loads, reducing the need for traditional backup generators and minimizing infrastructure changes required at most sites.
Implementation Method 1
converting the input electric power into a direct current (DC) energy storage current by a bidirectional inverter of the vehicle charging system
Data Source
AI summary
In order to provide power for non-charging loads located at charging sites, the systems and methods disclosed herein provide for controlling electric vehicle charging stations to provide alternating current (AC) power to the non-charging loads from power stored in their batteries. One or more charging stations are configured to charge their batteries from an AC power source that also powers a non-charging load at the charging site. Each charging station includes a battery, a bidirectional inverter, and a system controller configured to determine occurrence of a triggering condition associated with availability of the AC power source and to control the bidirectional inverter to convert a direct current (DC) power from the battery into an AC output current to provide to the non-charging load via a local AC circuit at the charging site. The non-charging load may thus be powered without drawing power from the AC power source.