Moveable EV Charging Arm With DC Pulse Fault Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle charging systems often lack efficiency and security, with slow charging rates and inadequate protection against damage to the charging station or electric vehicle.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Fault Managed Power (FMP) systems that utilize direct current (DC) pulse power with safety testing between high voltage pulses, enabling rapid and secure charging while also supporting data communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional charging systems are used, then charging can be performed, but charging speed is slow and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using pulse width modulation (PWM) to deliver charging current in controlled pulses rather than continuous flow. The charging system switches between charging and testing phases periodically, with each pulse followed by a brief testing interval. This periodic operation enables higher peak charging currents while maintaining safety through regular fault detection, thereby increasing charging speed without compromising security.
2Productivity
If higher power charging is implemented, then charging efficiency improves, but safety and security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies continuity of useful action by implementing continuous fault detection and synchronization protocols that operate throughout the entire charging process. The system continuously monitors for faults, maintains synchronization between charging station and vehicle systems, and performs regular testing between power pulses. This continuous safety monitoring enables the system to operate at higher power levels with improved efficiency while maintaining reliability through uninterrupted safety checks.
3Speed
If rapid charging is implemented, then charging speed increases, but risk of damage to charging station or electric vehicle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing authentication, compatibility verification, and fault detection tests before initiating high-power charging. The system establishes communication protocols, verifies system compatibility, and checks for existing faults before delivering rapid charging current. This preliminary preparation ensures that rapid charging can proceed at high speeds while minimizing damage risk through pre-validated system readiness.
4Productivity
If continuous power delivery is used, then charging efficiency is maintained, but fault detection capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction through periodic action by structuring the charging process into alternating phases of power delivery and testing. During charging pulses, power is delivered efficiently to maintain high productivity. Between pulses, brief testing intervals are inserted to detect faults, verify system status, and ensure safety. This periodic alternation between charging and testing enables both continuous overall operation and regular fault detection capability.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a power source and a moveable charging arm coupled to the power source and comprising a charging plate for contact with an electric vehicle contact plate. The charging arm is operable to transmit direct current (DC) pulse power with testing performed between high voltage pulses directly from the charging plate to the electric vehicle contact plate to charge one or more batteries at the electric vehicle. A method for charging the electric vehicle is also disclosed herein.