Inverter DC Interface for EV Charging Beyond Breaker Panel Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing residential power systems face challenges in efficiently managing power distribution, particularly when integrating new loads like EV chargers, which can exceed the capacity of existing breaker panels, leading to the need for costly upgrades.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an inverter subsystem that provides a DC terminal, allowing loads to be powered directly from the DC bus without needing to connect directly to the breaker panel, thereby avoiding the need for upgrades and extending the life of existing infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If loads are connected directly to the breaker panel, then the loads can be powered, but the breaker panel capacity is exceeded requiring costly upgrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an inverter subsystem as an intermediary device between the breaker panel and the load. The inverter subsystem includes a DC terminal that connects to the DC bus and an AC terminal that connects to the load, allowing power to be delivered without directly connecting the load to the breaker panel. This intermediary structure enables the system to power loads exceeding breaker panel capacity without requiring panel upgrades.
2Power
If the breaker panel capacity is increased to accommodate new loads, then more power can be distributed, but the cost of upgrades increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution system into distinct functional modules: the existing breaker panel, the inverter subsystem with DC terminal, and the load. This segmentation allows the power distribution capability to be enhanced by adding the inverter subsystem rather than upgrading the entire breaker panel, thereby reducing installation costs while maintaining the ability to power high-capacity loads.
3Loss of energy
If loads operate on variable DC voltage, then system efficiency improves, but the complexity of power management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inverter subsystem automatically manages the variable DC voltage from the battery and converts it to appropriate AC voltage for the load without requiring external intervention. The system self-regulates the power conversion process, managing the complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to the user, thereby maintaining system efficiency without increasing operational complexity.
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
This solution enables efficient power distribution by allowing loads to operate on a variable DC voltage, reducing the strain on breaker panels and extending their lifespan, while also providing faster charging capabilities and improved system efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an inverter subsystem that provides a DC terminal, allowing loads to be powered directly from the DC bus
Data Source
AI summary
A system that includes a breaker interface to a breaker panel with breakers, a DC bus with a variable voltage, and a bidirectional DC terminal. The bidirectional DC terminal is connected, at least electrically, to the DC bus via a first interface. An EV charger is able to connect, at least electrically, to the bidirectional DC terminal via a second interface. A power storage interface connects to one or more power storage modules. If the EV charger is connected to the bidirectional DC terminal via the second interface, the EV charger is able to be powered at least some of the time by the power storage modules, even if all of the breakers are in use and even if a first load associated with the EV charger and a second load associated with all of the breakers would, if combined, exceed a breaker panel limit.