Mixed-Level EVSE Charging Logic for Level 1 and Level 2 Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) units are limited in versatility and intelligent charging capabilities, forcing users to choose between faster but less versatile Level 2 units or slower but more versatile Level 1 units, and neither provides significant intelligent charging solutions for various electric vehicles and non-electric vehicle devices.
Innovation Solution
A mixed-level EVSE unit that combines components and capabilities of both Level 1 and Level 2 EVSE units, including a Level 2 charge handle and a Level 1 outlet, equipped with power meters, a charging logic and relay section, and RFID readers to intelligently manage charging based on heuristics and situational information, allowing simultaneous charging of multiple devices with varying power requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If Level 2 EVSE units are used, then charging speed is improved, but versatility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The EVSE unit is designed to provide multiple charging levels (Level 1 and Level 2) simultaneously through a single device. The system includes both a Level 2 charge handle with receptacle and a Level 1 outlet, enabling it to serve different vehicle types with different charging requirements. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by making the EVSE unit universally compatible while maintaining fast charging capability through the Level 2 component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If Level 1 EVSE units are used, then versatility is improved, but charging speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines Level 1 and Level 2 charging capabilities into a single EVSE unit. The system merges the slow but versatile Level 1 outlet with the fast but specialized Level 2 charge handle, allowing users to access both charging modes from one device. This combination resolves the contradiction by providing fast charging when needed while maintaining versatility for different vehicle types.
3Device complexity
If conventional EVSE units are used, then device complexity is reduced, but intelligent charging capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The EVSE unit incorporates RFID readers that detect vehicle identifiers and provide feedback to the charging logic section. This feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically determine the appropriate charging level and parameters based on the connected vehicle type. The feedback loop resolves the contradiction by adding intelligent automation without significantly increasing user-facing complexity, as the system autonomously manages the charging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system performs self-service by automatically selecting charging parameters based on RFID detection. The charging logic section autonomously determines whether to activate Level 1 or Level 2 charging without user intervention. This self-service capability resolves the contradiction by providing intelligent charging management while maintaining simple operation for the end user.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include a multi-level electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) unit. The multi-level EVSE unit can include a Level 2 charge handle, a receptacle configured to receive the Level 2 charge handle, and a Level 1 outlet including one or more plug outlets configured to receive one or more corresponding Level 1 plugs. The Level 2 charge handle can be permanently attached to the multi-level EVSE unit via a cable. The Level 1 outlet can temporarily receive the one or more corresponding Level 1 plugs. A first power meter associated with the Level 2 charge handle can meter power delivered via the Level 2 charge handle. A second power meter associated with the Level 1 outlet can meter power delivered via the Level 1 outlet. A charging logic and relay section can intelligently allocate power between the Level 2 handle and the Level 1 outlet according to charging rules.