Multi-Input EV Charging Layout for Shorter Charging Time

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The slow charging time of electric vehicles due to the limited availability of charging stations and the need for sequential charging using a single input, which contrasts with the faster refueling of gasoline-powered vehicles.

Innovation Solution

Modifying electric vehicles and charging stations to enable simultaneous charging using multiple charging inputs, including the use of multiple charging station plug-ins, AC and DC chargers, and repositioning of charging connectors to accommodate concurrent charging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If multiple charging inputs are used simultaneously, then charging time is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging timeVSAvoidvehicle charging system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the charging system into multiple independent charging inputs (first charging input, second charging input) that can operate simultaneously. Each input has its own charging connector and control circuitry, allowing parallel charging operations to reduce total charging time while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from single-dimension sequential charging to multi-dimensional parallel charging by adding spatial distribution of multiple charging connectors at different locations on the vehicle. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous charging operations without proportionally increasing control complexity, as each connector operates semi-independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If multiple charging station plug-ins are used, then charging speed increases, but ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging speedVSAvoidcharging operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates automatic detection and selection capabilities where the vehicle's charging system automatically identifies available charging stations and manages the distribution of power across multiple inputs. This self-service functionality allows parallel charging to occur without requiring complex user intervention, maintaining ease of operation while achieving high charging speeds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts charging parameters such as power distribution ratios, voltage levels, and current allocation across multiple charging inputs based on real-time conditions. This automatic parameter optimization enables fast charging while simplifying user interaction, as the system handles complex parameter management without user input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20240253514A1Electronic Vehicle Charging Configuration to Decrease Vehicle Charging Times
Publication Date: 2024.08.01 BOWMAN STEVEN
  • US20240253514A1 patent drawing
  • US20240253514A1 patent drawing
  • US20240253514A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This new application is for using multiple Electric Vehicle Charging stations together with multiple vehicle charger inputs to simultaneously charge an electric vehicle thereby decreasing vehicle charging times.