Dynamic EV Charging Rate Adjustment Based on User Proximity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle charging systems face safety issues due to the risk of arc flashing and other undesirable effects when high amperage charging occurs near users, who may inadvertently disconnect the charge cord during the charging process.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that adjust the charging rate of an electric vehicle based on the proximity of the user, using a user location system and processor to determine the user's location and adjust the charging rate from a high amperage to a lower safe threshold when the user is nearby, and automatically unlock or relock the charge cord accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high amperage charging rate is used to reduce charging time, then productivity is improved, but safety deteriorates due to risk of arc flashing when user is nearby
Solution Approach 1:
The charging rate is made dynamic by continuously monitoring user proximity and automatically adjusting the charging amperage accordingly. When the user is detected within a predetermined distance, the system reduces the charging rate from high amperage to a safe level, eliminating arc flashing risks while maintaining fast charging capability when the user is absent
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the user location system continuously provides proximity information to the charging control system, which then adjusts the charging rate in real-time. This closed-loop control ensures safety by responding to user presence while maximizing charging efficiency when safe
2Object-affected harmful factors
If charging rate is reduced to prevent arc flashing, then safety is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to longer charging time
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than maintaining a fixed reduced charging rate, the system dynamically adjusts the charging rate based on real-time user proximity detection. The charging operates at high amperage (fast charging) when the user is away, and automatically reduces to safe levels only when the user approaches, thus maintaining overall charging productivity while ensuring safety when needed
3Object-affected harmful factors
If charge cord is locked during charging to prevent disconnection, then safety is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The charge cord locking mechanism is made dynamic, automatically locking when the user is away to prevent accidental disconnection and arc flashing, and automatically unlocking when the user approaches. This eliminates the need for manual locking/unlocking operations while maintaining safety and user convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic locking and unlocking of the charge cord based on user proximity detection, eliminating the need for manual user intervention. The charging system serves itself by autonomously managing the cord lock state according to safety conditions, improving both safety and ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle, and a system and method for charging the electric vehicle. The system includes a user locating system and a processor. The user locating system is configured to determine a location of the user. The processor is configured to charge the vehicle at a first charging rate and determine a location of a user of the vehicle with respect to the vehicle. The processor adjusts the charging of the vehicle from the first charging rate to a second charging rate when the location of the user is within a selected distance from the vehicle.