EV Charging Module Retrofit for High-Frequency AC And Bidirectional Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle onboard chargers (OBCs) are limited to receiving standard low-frequency AC power, restricting compatibility with emerging high-frequency AC wireless charging systems and lacking bidirectional power flow capabilities, necessitating hardware modifications or replacements.
Innovation Solution
A charging module and retrofit kit that can be coupled to an existing OBC, enabling bidirectional reception and delivery of both high-frequency AC and DC power, with a high frequency AC interface, DC interface, rectification component, and switching mechanisms to transition between modes, and shared filtration components for harmonics reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional OBCs are designed to receive only standard grid low frequency AC power, then the OBC design is simple and cost-effective, but compatibility with emerging high-frequency AC wireless charging systems is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The charging module is designed to handle multiple charging modes (high-frequency AC, DC, and bidirectional power flow) through a single integrated unit. The module includes a high-frequency AC interface, DC interface, rectification component, and switching mechanisms that enable it to perform various functions including charging and discharging operations across different frequency ranges and power types
Solution Approach 2:
The charging module is divided into distinct functional components including a high-frequency AC interface, DC interface, rectification component, and switching mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system that can be added to existing OBCs without complete replacement
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing OBCs are designed for unidirectional power flow, then the OBC design is simpler, but bidirectional power flow capabilities for V2G, V2H, and V2L functionalities are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The charging module incorporates dynamic switching mechanisms that can change the direction of power flow based on operational requirements. The switching mechanisms enable the system to transition between unidirectional charging mode and bidirectional mode, allowing power to flow from the grid to the vehicle or from the vehicle battery to external loads or the grid, adapting to different operational scenarios in real-time
3Adaptability or versatility
If vehicle owners face significant hardware modifications or complete replacement of OBC hardware to access emerging charging options, then charging compatibility is improved, but manufacturing cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging module serves as an intermediary component that bridges existing OBCs and emerging charging infrastructures. It includes interface components that can connect to both traditional AC charging ports and new high-frequency wireless charging systems, translating between different power types and frequencies to enable compatibility without requiring modification of the original OBC or charging infrastructure
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 EVs to seamlessly adapt to various charging infrastructures, reducing hardware needs, simplifying manufacturing, and allowing bidirectional power flow without replacing the OBC, enhancing versatility and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a rectification component
Implementation Method 2
a first switch configured to switch the charging module between a high frequency AC mode and a DC mode, and a second switch configured to switch between the charging module and the pre-existing OBC
Implementation Method 3
shared filtration components for harmonics reduction
Data Source
AI summary
A charging module for an electric vehicle (EV), the charging module which includes: a high frequency AC interface, configured to receive and externally output AC at a high frequency of 70 kHz-95 kHz in a high frequency AC mode, a DC interface, configured to receive and externally output DC in a DC mode, a rectification component, a first switch configured to switch the charging module between the high frequency AC mode and the DC mode, and optionally, a second switch configured to switch between the existing EV onboard charger and the charging module, wherein the charging module is configured to be coupled to an existing EV onboard charger, to enable the onboard charger to receive and externally output high frequency AC and DC.