EV Charging Module Grouping for Main-Charger-Free Power Allocation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing centralized charging method for electric vehicles faces issues such as power shortages, high installation and maintenance costs, and communication challenges between sub-chargers, leading to inefficient power distribution and reliability concerns.

Innovation Solution

A method that groups multiple charging modules connected to the same power source to share power information, allowing each module to determine and supply the appropriate power amount based on mutual information sharing, eliminating the need for a main charger to dictate power distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a centralized charging method with main charger and sub-chargers is used, then power distribution control is centralized, but system reliability deteriorates because if the main charger fails, all sub-chargers cannot operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distribution controlVSAvoidsystem operation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the centralized charging system into multiple independent charging modules, each capable of autonomous operation. Instead of relying on a single main charger to control all sub-chargers, the system segments the charging functionality so that each module can independently manage its own charging operations and communicate directly with the power source, eliminating the single point of failure represented by the main charger.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each charging module is equipped with autonomous control capabilities, allowing it to independently determine power requirements, communicate with the power source, and manage its own charging operations without requiring control from a central main charger. This self-service approach enables each module to function independently, improving system reliability while maintaining operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If a main charger controls all sub-chargers, then communication is centralized, but communication efficiency deteriorates because sub-chargers cannot communicate directly with each other

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication controlVSAvoidcommunication time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The communication architecture is segmented from a centralized hierarchy to a distributed network where each charging module can communicate directly with the power source and potentially with other modules. This eliminates the need for all communications to route through the main charger, reducing communication overhead and time delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Power

If infrastructure is added to increase power reception capacity, then charging capability is improved, but power shortage for residents worsens due to excessive power demand

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower reception capacityVSAvoidresident power supply stability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where charging modules continuously monitor power consumption and communicate with the power source to adjust charging rates dynamically. This feedback loop enables the system to balance the power demand from multiple charging modules against the available power capacity, preventing excessive power consumption that would affect resident supply while still providing adequate charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The charging system transitions from a static power allocation model to a dynamic one where power distribution can be adjusted in real-time based on current power availability, charging priorities, and demand conditions. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize power usage and prevent power shortages for residents while maintaining charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of operation

If a main charger is installed to manage multiple sub-chargers, then charging coordination is improved, but installation and maintenance costs worsen due to the complexity of the main charger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging coordinationVSAvoidinstallation and maintenance cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates the need for a complex main charger by segmenting the control functionality into simpler, distributed charging modules. Each module has its own control capabilities, removing the requirement for a centralized control unit with complex installation and maintenance requirements. This segmentation simplifies the overall system architecture and reduces costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using a unique, complex main charger, the system employs multiple identical or similar charging modules that can be mass-produced and installed in standard configurations. This copying approach allows for standardized manufacturing, easier installation, and simpler maintenance since replacement modules are interchangeable and do not require specialized technical knowledge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS12145465B2Method, apparatus and computer program for supplying power through grouping of charging module for electric vehicle
Publication Date: 2024.11.19 EVAR INC
  • US12145465B2 patent drawing
  • US12145465B2 patent drawing
  • US12145465B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, apparatus and computer program for supplying power through grouping of charging modules for electric vehicle are provided. A method for supplying power through grouping of charging modules for electric vehicle according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the method being performed by a computing apparatus, the method includes outputting a first signal in response to receiving power from a power source; collecting a plurality of second signals output in response to each of external plurality of charging modules receiving power; and selecting at least one charging module from among the plurality of charging modules using a parameter of the first signal and the plurality of second signals, and grouping into one group with the selected at least one charging module.