EV Charger Switch Network for Single-Phase and Multi-Phase AC Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing charging apparatuses for electric vehicles require a large on-board charger (OBC) to handle various types of AC power, leading to increased size and production costs, and longer charging times due to the need for higher capacity batteries to accommodate different AC power types.
Innovation Solution
A charging apparatus with a reduced-sized and simplified structure, featuring an AC power input terminal, power factor corrector, link capacitor, switch network, and controller that can receive and process single-phase and multi-phase AC power, allowing for efficient charging across different AC power types without the need for extensive OBC capacity increases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the OBC capacity is increased to handle various types of AC power and charge large-capacity batteries, then the charging capability and adaptability are improved, but the size of constituent elements and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the switch network configurable and adaptable to different AC power types (single-phase, three-phase, four-wire) through controller-directed switching operations. The system dynamically reconfigures the circuit topology based on the detected power source type, allowing a single OBC unit to handle multiple charging scenarios without requiring multiple dedicated circuits, thus avoiding size increase while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a single OBC system that can charge batteries from various AC power sources (single-phase, three-phase, four-wire) using one unified circuit configuration. The switch network and controller work together to make the same hardware components serve multiple functions depending on the power source type, eliminating the need for separate charging circuits for different power types and thereby reducing overall system size and cost.
2Productivity
If the OBC capacity is increased to reduce charging time for large-capacity batteries, then the charging speed is improved, but the size of constituent elements and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the OBC to dynamically adapt its operating parameters and circuit configuration based on the detected AC power type and battery charging state. The controller adjusts switching patterns and power conversion parameters in real-time to optimize charging speed for the specific power source being used, allowing high charging speeds to be achieved through intelligent control rather than simply increasing hardware capacity.
3Device complexity
If a simplified charging apparatus structure is used, then the production costs and size are reduced, but the ability to handle various types of AC power is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a controller that automatically detects the type of AC power source (single-phase, three-phase, four-wire) and dynamically reconfigures the switch network accordingly. This dynamic adaptation allows a single, relatively simple OBC structure to handle multiple power source types by changing its internal circuit topology through switching operations, rather than requiring multiple dedicated circuits for each power type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by equipping the OBC with automatic detection and self-configuring capabilities. The controller autonomously identifies the connected power source type and automatically adjusts the switch network configuration without requiring manual intervention or complex external control systems. This self-service approach allows the simplified structure to adaptively handle various AC power types through intelligent autonomous operation.
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 efficient charging of electric vehicle batteries with various AC power sources, reducing the size and production costs of the charging apparatus while maintaining charging efficiency and adaptability to different AC power types.
Implementation Method 1
a power factor corrector having a plurality of full bridge circuits configured to receive the AC input power via the AC power input terminal
Data Source
AI summary
A charging apparatus for an electric vehicle is provided. The apparatus includes an AC power input terminal receiving one AC input power from among single-phase AC power and multi-phase AC power. A power factor corrector having full bridge circuits receives the AC input power through the AC power input terminal. A link capacitor is charged through the power factor corrector. A first switch connects any one of an AC power input line and a neutral line of the AC power input terminal to the power factor corrector and a second switch selectively connects the AC power input terminal to the power factor corrector, or the link capacitor. The power factor corrector and the switch network operate based on a condition of received AC input power. The second switch includes a third switch and a fourth switch that connect each full bridge circuit to a positive battery electrode.