EV Charging Submetering for Accurate Session Energy Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved methods, devices, and systems to facilitate submetering of electric vehicle (EV) charging sessions, as users want to monitor and potentially reimburse for the energy used during charging, which current technologies do not adequately address.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a controller with connectors for EV chargers and vehicles, and a communication interface that detects the start and end of charging sessions, monitors current and voltage, calculates energy transferred, and transmits this data to a remote device, using various network standards like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks, allowing for reimbursement and energy tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If home-based EV chargers draw large amounts of energy for convenient charging, then charging convenience is improved, but energy cost and the need for submetering increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the energy measurement function by introducing a separate submetering device that independently measures EV charging energy consumption. This submetering device includes its own controller and measurement circuitry, separating the energy measurement function from the main EV charger system, enabling precise tracking of energy usage for reimbursement purposes while maintaining charging convenience.
2Measurement precision
If submetering functionality is added to track energy usage, then energy tracking accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a submetering device as an intermediary component between the EV charger and the EV. This intermediary device specifically handles the energy measurement and data transmission functions, allowing the main EV charger to remain relatively simple while achieving precise energy tracking through the dedicated submetering intermediary.
3Measurement precision
If real-time monitoring of charging current and voltage is implemented, then energy data accuracy is improved, but processing requirements and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The submetering device performs self-service by autonomously monitoring its own operating parameters (charging current and voltage) and calculating energy consumption. The controller within the submetering device automatically reads sensor data, performs calculations, and transmits results, eliminating the need for complex external processing systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods, devices, and systems for providing submetering of electric vehicle (EV) charging sessions. According to one embodiment, an apparatus includes a first connector configured for coupling with an EV charger, a second connector configured for coupling with a charging port of an EV, a communication interface, and a controller electrically coupled with the first connector. The controller is configured for detecting a beginning of the EV charging session, monitoring EV charging current and EV charging voltage during the EV charging session, detecting an end of the EV charging session, determining an amount of energy transferred during the EV charging session, and transmitting to a remote device a value representing the amount of energy transferred during the EV charging session.