EV V2G Grid Code Control Across Changing Locations

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The implementation of electric vehicles as mobile power generators is complicated by the need to comply with location-specific grid codes, which can change, and there is a lack of systems to manage this compliance efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A system onboard the electric vehicle, comprising a memory and processor, manages vehicle-to-grid (V2G) operations by receiving instructions, identifying location, and applying relevant grid codes to enable or disable V2G operation, ensuring compliance with emergency conditions and grid specifications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If electric vehicles are implemented as mobile power generators, then energy storage and grid support capabilities are improved, but compliance with location-specific grid codes becomes complicated and operation becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveV2G operation capabilityVSAvoidCompliance management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a communication system as an intermediary between the EV control component and external authorities. This mediator receives grid code information from external sources, processes it, and transmits appropriate instructions to the EV control component, simplifying the complexity of direct compliance management by the EV system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The control component is designed with multi-functionality to handle both charging operations and V2G discharge operations while automatically adapting to different grid code requirements. The system can switch between operating modes and comply with various location-specific regulations through a single integrated control architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If the EV control component continuously monitors and adapts to changing grid codes, then compliance accuracy is improved, but processing time and computational load increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveGrid code compliance reliabilityVSAvoidProcessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by receiving and storing grid code information from external authorities in advance before actual V2G operations begin. The control component prepares compliance parameters and instructions ahead of time, so when V2G operation is initiated, the system can quickly reference pre-processed information rather than computing compliance requirements in real-time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The communication system establishes a feedback loop where grid code updates and compliance status are continuously monitored and communicated between external authorities and the EV control component. This feedback mechanism ensures the system maintains up-to-date compliance information without requiring continuous complex calculations, as updates are transmitted when changes occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20250323506A1Implementation of grid codes for charging/discharging an electric vehicle
Publication Date: 2025.10.16 VOLVO CAR CORP
  • US20250323506A1 patent drawing
  • US20250323506A1 patent drawing
  • US20250323506A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Operation of an electric vehicle (EV) is monitored and controlled to enable operation in a vehicle to grid (V2G) configuration. During bidirectional power transfer, energy stored in batteries onboard the electric vehicle can be transferred to the grid. During a period of high energy input into the grid, e.g., energy sourced from wind turbines/solar, the energy can be stored in the onboard batteries. During low energy input, the energy stored in the batteries can be transferred to the grid. V2G operation is conducted in accordance with a grid code(s) implemented at the grid. As the EV operates from one location to another, a grid code pertaining to a current location of a V2G operation by the EV can be identified and implemented on the EV. In the event of the grid goes into an emergency condition, the EV can assist in returning the grid to a normal operating condition.