EV Charging Connector for Fault-Managed Power and Data Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electric vehicle power distribution and data collection face challenges with slow data transfer through traditional methods like Wi-Fi or cellular, and existing systems lack efficient and safe charging solutions that integrate power and communication systems effectively.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a bi-directional power and data connector system within electric vehicles, utilizing Fault Managed Power (FMP) that combines high-power, high-voltage pulse power with data transmission on a single wire pair, enabling secure and rapid charging while integrating power and data communications, and converting FMP into Power over Ethernet for efficient component powering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If traditional Wi-Fi or cellular methods are used for data transfer, then system complexity is reduced, but data transfer speed is slow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidcommunications system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines power transmission and data communication into a single integrated system using Power over Ethernet (POE) technology. The same cable infrastructure that delivers electrical power to the electric vehicle also carries data signals, merging two separate functions into one unified system. This eliminates the need for separate communication hardware and reduces overall system complexity while enabling high-speed data transfer alongside power delivery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If separate power and communication systems are used, then system reliability is improved, but infrastructure cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinfrastructure complexityVSAvoidpower distribution reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal cable system that performs multiple functions simultaneously: it delivers electrical power for charging, transmits high-speed data signals, and provides communication protocols for system control. This multi-functional approach reduces the number of separate infrastructure components needed while maintaining system reliability through integrated error checking and protocol management that ensures safe operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If Power over Ethernet is used to transmit both power and data, then wiring requirements are reduced, but power transmission safety becomes more challenging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewiring complexityVSAvoidpower transmission safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs parameter changes in the electrical signals to encode data transmission within the power delivery system. By modulating voltage levels and timing parameters of the power signal, the system achieves high-speed data communication over the same cables used for power transmission. Additionally, integrated monitoring parameters detect faults and unsafe conditions, adjusting power delivery parameters to maintain safety while reducing wiring complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20230331112A1Power distribution and communications for electric vehicle
Publication Date: 2023.10.19 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US20230331112A1 patent drawing
  • US20230331112A1 patent drawing
  • US20230331112A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In one embodiment, an electric vehicle system includes a power system for charging a battery installed in an electric vehicle and comprising a bi-directional power and data connector for receiving power and data from or transmitting the power and data to an electric vehicle charging device, a communications system comprising a server and configured for receiving power from the power system and receiving data from or transmitting the data to the power system for download or upload at the electric vehicle charging device, and an authentication module for authenticating the electric vehicle charging device. A method is also disclosed herein.