Multifunctional Onboard Charger Module for Multi-Mode EV Power Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing onboard charging systems for electric vehicles are bulky and heavy due to the significant space and weight taken up by electronic circuit hardware, which is not efficiently utilized.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional onboard charging system with a bidirectional inverter and DC-DC converter, coupled via multiple switches, allows for various operational modes including vehicle-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-load, and vehicle-to-grid charging, optimizing space and weight by integrating multiple functions into a single module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional onboard charging systems use separate dedicated circuits for AC charging and DC-DC conversion, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the AC charging circuit and DC-DC conversion circuit into a single integrated onboard charging system. The same power conversion components are used for both AC-to-DC conversion and DC-to-DC conversion, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits while maintaining functional reliability through unified control management.
Solution Approach 2:
The onboard charging system is designed to perform multiple functions using the same hardware infrastructure. The power conversion circuit can operate in different modes (AC charging mode and DC-DC conversion mode) depending on the operational requirements, making the system universal and multi-functional rather than requiring specialized separate circuits for each function.
2Reliability
If separate dedicated circuits are used for AC charging and DC-DC conversion, then functional reliability is improved, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the AC charging circuit and DC-DC conversion circuit into one integrated system, sharing common power conversion components and control infrastructure. This consolidation eliminates redundant hardware that would otherwise increase vehicle weight, while the unified control ensures reliable operation for both charging functions.
3Device complexity
If a unified power conversion system is used for both AC charging and DC-DC conversion, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different charging modes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The onboard charging system employs dynamic switching mechanisms that allow the same power conversion circuit to adapt its configuration and operation mode based on the specific charging requirements. The control system dynamically adjusts the circuit operation between AC charging mode and DC-DC conversion mode, enabling the unified system to handle different charging scenarios flexibly without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each mode.
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 efficiently converts and distributes power across different modes, reducing the physical footprint and weight while enhancing charging flexibility and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a bidirectional inverter configured to convert AC power to DC power and to convert DC power to AC power
Implementation Method 2
a DC-DC converter coupled to the DC-AC converter and selectively coupled to the battery
Data Source
AI summary
An onboard charging system for an electric vehicle comprising a charging port configured to receive an alternating current (AC) power, a power outlet, a direct current (DC) battery selectively coupled to the charging port via a first switch and a second switch, a bidirectional inverter selectively coupled to the battery via a third switch, a fourth switch, and a fifth switch, an electric motor coupled to the bidirectional inverter and selectively coupled to the charging port via a sixth switch, a DC-AC converter selectively coupled to the electric motor via a seventh switch and an eighth switch and selectively coupled to the power outlet via a ninth switch, a tenth switch, and an eleventh switch, and a DC-DC converter coupled to the DC-AC converter and selectively coupled to the battery via a twelfth switch and a thirteenth switch, the charging port selectively coupled to the battery.