Modular EV Charging System with Dynamic Power Transformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric vehicle charging systems are not cost-effective for commercial EVs, require excessively long charging times, and lack standardization, making them incompatible with varying voltage requirements and charging circuitry, especially in settings like shipping ports where infrastructure is limited.
Innovation Solution
A modular and high-speed electric vehicle charging system that includes a power transformation module, power distribution module, and charge transfer devices, capable of dynamically determining charging requirements and providing power to both stationary and moving vehicles, with a central monitoring and control system for safety checks and data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional charging systems are used for commercial EVs, then charging infrastructure is simpler, but charging time becomes excessively long and cost-effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is divided into modular components: power transformation modules, power distribution modules, and charge transfer devices. Each module can be independently configured and deployed, allowing for scalable high-speed charging infrastructure that reduces overall charging time while maintaining system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system is designed to serve multiple functions: it can charge both stationary and moving vehicles, accommodate different voltage requirements, and provide power at various locations including shipping ports. This multi-functionality increases productivity across different commercial EV applications without proportionally increasing complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If charging systems are standardized, then compatibility with varying voltage requirements improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates power transformation modules that can dynamically adjust electrical parameters (voltage, current) to match the specific requirements of different EVs. This allows a single standardized charging infrastructure to serve vehicles with varying voltage needs without requiring multiple specialized charging systems
Solution Approach 2:
The charge transfer device acts as an intermediary between the standardized power distribution network and the vehicle-specific charging requirements. It receives standardized power input and conditions it to match the vehicle's needs, thereby decoupling infrastructure standardization from vehicle-specific complexity
3Ease of operation
If off-shift charging is used, then infrastructure cost is reduced, but availability at operating locations like shipping ports deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is designed to be dynamically deployable to various locations including shipping ports and other vehicle operating sites. Mobile charge transfer devices can be positioned where vehicles need charging, providing on-demand availability without requiring permanent fixed infrastructure at every location
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
The system enables efficient, standardized, and cost-effective charging of electric vehicles, accommodating varying voltage requirements and allowing for both static and dynamic charging, thereby addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The AC/DC transformers may be configured to: transform electrical power supplied by the power supply to the appropriate current and voltage for distribution over one or more power distribution lines
Data Source
AI summary
Various systems are provided for charging electric vehicles. The systems may include a power transformation module in electrical communication with a power supply, any number of charge nodes in electrical communication with the power transformation module via one or more power distribution lines, and any number of charge transfer devices, each in electrical communication with a power system of an electric vehicle. A charge node of a charge pad may be connected to a contact pad of a charge transfer device to transfer power from the charge node, through the charge transfer device, to the vehicle power system to thereby charge the vehicle.