Electric Vehicle Charging Path Segmentation for Switch Power Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging systems face inefficiencies due to high power consumption in switches during external charging, and lack a configuration to ensure operation of auxiliary load systems while maintaining charging efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The electric vehicle system incorporates a charging connector, power converter, first and second switches, and an auxiliary load system, with a control unit that manages switch states to reduce power consumption by using lower-capacity switches for auxiliary loads and a third switch with higher capacity for motor power, allowing independent operation of the auxiliary load system during charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a single high-capacity switch is used to control the charging path from external power source to power storage device, then the charging function can be implemented, but the power consumption of the switch increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the charging system into two separate paths: one path for charging the power storage device (with lower-capacity switches) and another path for supplying auxiliary loads (with lower-capacity switches). This segmentation allows each switch to operate at lower capacity, reducing power consumption while maintaining overall charging functionality.
2Loss of energy
If the charging path is separated from the motor power path, then charging efficiency is improved, but the auxiliary load system cannot operate during charging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates three distinct electrical paths: (1) charging path from external power source to power storage device, (2) auxiliary load path powered by power storage device, and (3) motor power path. This segmentation enables independent operation of each path, allowing auxiliary loads to function during charging while maintaining high charging efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The power storage device serves multiple functions: it acts as a charge storage medium during external charging, simultaneously functions as a power source for auxiliary loads, and later serves as the primary power source for motor operation. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between charging efficiency and auxiliary load operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If lower-capacity switches are used to reduce power consumption, then switch power consumption decreases, but the ability to handle high charging current is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the current paths so that lower-capacity switches handle only the auxiliary load current, while the charging current flows through the charging path with appropriate higher-capacity switching elements. This allows optimization of switch capacity for each specific function, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining adequate current handling capability.
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 configuration achieves improved charging efficiency and ensures operation of the auxiliary load system by reducing power consumption in switches during external charging, while maintaining efficient charging of the power storage device.
Implementation Method 1
a power converter which converts the supplied electric power into charging power
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A path for charging a main battery (10) from an external power source (400) is established by turning on a first relay (150A) and a second relay (150B). This charging path is provided independently of an electric path between a motor generator (30) for generating a vehicle driving force and the main battery (10) established by turning on a third relay (150C). Further, an auxiliary load system including an auxiliary battery (70) is not connected to the above-mentioned electric path, but receives operating power through a power line (151) between the second relay (150B) and a power converter (110) so as to be operable even with the third relay (150C) turned off.