EVSE Voltage Limiting for Arc-Safe EV Battery Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing EV charging systems face a risk of electrical arcs due to improper connection or wear of connectors, which can cause damage and reduce the service life of charging equipment.
Innovation Solution
Implement a method to limit the charging voltage by an upper voltage limit determined as a function of the EV's present voltage, reducing the potential difference and minimizing the risk of arcs during charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high voltage and current are applied for fast charging, then charging speed is improved, but the risk of electrical arcs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of connector connection status and mechanical locking state before applying high voltage and current for fast charging. This preliminary action ensures the connector is properly connected and locked, preventing electrical arcs during subsequent high-power charging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors connector connection status and mechanical locking state during charging operations. This feedback mechanism allows the system to detect improper connections or unlocking events in real-time and respond by interrupting or adjusting the charging process to prevent electrical arcs.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If connector locking mechanism is added for safety, then arc risk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary mechanical locking mechanism between the connector components to ensure secure connection. This locking mechanism acts as a mediator that physically secures the connector, preventing accidental disconnection and reducing arc risk without requiring complete redesign of the connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates a self-locking mechanism that automatically engages when the connector is properly inserted. This self-service feature provides safety functionality without requiring additional complex external locking devices or manual intervention.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Significantly reduces the occurrence and extent of electrical arcs, thereby protecting the EVSE components and extending their service life.
Implementation Method 1
determining by the EVSE an EV Present Voltage provided by the EV battery at the inlet
Implementation Method 2
the charging includes applying a charging voltage V to the connector
Implementation Method 3
electrical arcs may occur... An electric arc can be harmful and (further) damage electrical contacts of connector and/or of the inlet
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure concerns a method for charging or discharging an EV battery of an electrical vehicle (EV) using an electrical vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). The method comprises electrically coupling an EVSE charging interface conductor of the EVSE to an EV charging interface conductor of the EV. The method further comprises determining an EV present voltage provided by the EV battery at the inlet; and at least one of electrically charging or discharging the EV battery by the EVSE. The charging includes applying a charging voltage to the connector and limiting the charging voltage V by an upper voltage limit and wherein the discharging includes applying a charging voltage to the connector and limiting the charging voltage by a lower voltage limit. The upper voltage limit is determined as a function of the EV present voltage.