EVSE Adapter for Dynamic Level I II Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The standard 120 volt A/C electricity supply is insufficient for efficient recharging of electric vehicle batteries, leading to prolonged charging times and reduced practicality of electric vehicles, necessitating a solution for connecting high voltage electricity sources to these vehicles.
Innovation Solution
An electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) system that connects electric vehicles to Level I or Level II power sources using standard electrical outlets, incorporating adapters for compatibility and a control system to manage current flow, analyze signals, and provide user interface options for efficient charging, while meeting industry standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If 120 volt A/C electricity supply is used for recharging, then the power source is conveniently available and easy to connect, but the recharging time is excessively long and practical use is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The EVSE system dynamically switches between Level I (120V) and Level II (240V) charging modes based on detected power source characteristics. The system adapts its operating parameters in real-time to optimize charging speed while maintaining compatibility with different electrical infrastructures, resolving the contradiction between convenience and charging time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the voltage parameter from fixed 120V to variable (120V or 240V) by detecting the available power source and adjusting accordingly. This parameter change enables the system to utilize higher voltage when available, dramatically reducing recharging time while maintaining ease of connection to standard outlets.
2Loss of time
If higher voltage electricity supply is used for Level II charging, then the recharging time is greatly reduced, but the complexity of connecting to different power sources increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EVSE system is designed with multi-functionality to accept both Level I (120V) and Level II (240V) power sources through a single device. By integrating universal compatibility into one unit, the system eliminates the need for separate charging devices or complex adapter arrangements, thereby reducing connection complexity while enabling fast charging when 240V is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The EVSE system performs automatic detection of the connected power source type and self-configures its operating parameters without user intervention. This self-service capability simplifies the user experience by eliminating manual configuration or complex connection procedures, allowing the system to automatically optimize charging speed based on the available electrical infrastructure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters and components are provided for Level I and Level II charging, then compatibility with different power sources is achieved, but the cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges Level I and Level II charging capabilities into a single integrated EVSE unit with a unified connector design. By combining what would traditionally require separate systems and multiple adapters into one device, the system achieves full power source compatibility while significantly reducing installation complexity, component duplication, and overall system cost.
4Ease of operation
If standard electrical outlets are used for charging, then the infrastructure is widely available and installation is simplified, but the charging speed is insufficient for practical electric vehicle use
Solution Approach 1:
The EVSE system dynamically adjusts its charging output based on the detected power source capability. When connected to standard 120V outlets, it operates in Level I mode for compatibility. When 240V power is detected, it automatically switches to Level II mode, dynamically increasing charging speed up to 80 amps, thereby achieving fast charging through existing infrastructure without requiring specialized high-voltage installations.
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for connecting an electric vehicle to an electrical socket, comprising a socket connector configured to couple with the electrical socket to receive 220 to 240 volts alternating current; a housing; a power conduit connected to the socket connector and configured to convey a voltage from the electrical socket, the power conduit extending from the socket connector to the housing, through the housing, and out the housing; a power control device comprising a relay to bridge portions of the power conduit arranged in the housing and connected to the power conduit; a current monitor comprising a ground fault interrupter arranged in the housing and connected to the power conduit; a control circuit arranged in the housing and connected to the power conduit and configured to generate signals corresponding to the voltage along the power conduit; a vehicle connecter connected to the power conduit configured to connect to the electric vehicle to deliver the 220 to 240 volts alternating current to the vehicle, the vehicle connector comprising a SAE J1722 connector; a processor arranged in the housing and connected to the control circuit and configured to receive signals from and send signals to the control circuit; and a voltage regulator configured to step up or step down the voltage to provide regulated voltage to the processor.