Bi-Directional EV Charging Circuit for Integrated AC/DC Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicles require separate circuits for AC and DC charging, occupying significant space and necessitating an efficient and compact solution for bi-directional power transfer between vehicles and power grids.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional power transfer system utilizing a rectifier, inverters, and a winding machine that can switch between AC and DC modes, allowing for efficient power transfer through a single circuit configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate circuits are used for AC and DC charging, then charging functionality is provided, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate AC and DC charging circuits into a single integrated circuit that can perform both functions. The power conversion system includes a rectifier, DC-DC converter, and inverter that work together to enable both AC charging (by converting AC to DC for battery charging) and DC charging (by directly converting DC from external sources to battery-compatible voltage levels), eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each charging type.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated power conversion system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can convert AC power to DC for battery charging, convert DC from external sources to appropriate voltage levels, and even discharge the battery back to AC or DC grids. This multi-functional design allows a single circuit to replace what would traditionally require separate AC charging and DC charging circuits, reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate circuits are used for AC and DC charging, then charging functionality is provided, but space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges AC and DC charging circuits into one compact integrated system. By sharing common components such as the rectifier, DC-DC converter, and inverter between AC and DC charging paths, the physical space required for charging circuits is significantly reduced compared to having separate dedicated circuits for each charging type.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal power conversion system performs both AC and DC charging functions within a single integrated package, reducing the total space occupation. The system can switch between different operating modes (AC charging, DC charging, battery discharge) using the same physical hardware, eliminating the need for duplicate circuitry and associated space requirements.
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 compact and efficient power transfer between electric vehicles and power grids, supporting both AC and DC charging without the need for separate circuits, enhancing flexibility and space utilization.
Implementation Method 1
The rectifier makes a conversion between an AC power at the AC port on an external side of the rectifier and a direct current (DC) power at a vehicle side of the rectifier
Implementation Method 2
the first inverter, the winding machine, and the second inverter for AC power transfer wherein the first inverter is one of a two-level inverter and a multi-level rectifier
Implementation Method 3
The winding machine is an electric motor of the vehicle and the method further comprises disengaging the electric motor from the vehicle for power transfer
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle includes a drive system that performs a method of transferring power between a vehicle and an external location. The drive system includes a battery, a rectifier, and a processor. The rectifier is one of a two-level rectifier and a multi-level rectifier. The processor is configured to connect the rectifier between an alternating current (AC) port of an outlet of an external location and the battery. The rectifier is configured to convert between an AC power at the AC port on an external side of the rectifier and a direct current (DC) power at a vehicle side of the rectifier in order to transfer power bi-directionally between the external location and the battery.