Power Distribution Apparatus for Electric Vehicles with Voltage Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems for eco-friendly vehicles face inefficiencies in heat loss during power conversion when supplying energy to external devices, particularly in fast charging modes, as they directly convert battery-stored power without optimizing voltage conversion.
Innovation Solution
A power distribution apparatus with a processor that selects between fast charging and load power supply modes, using a power converter to step down the voltage of power from a fast charging cable for external devices while routing the remaining power back to the battery, thereby reducing heat generation and loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If power is converted from battery to supply external device, then external device can receive power, but heat loss due to heat generation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of converting battery power to external device voltage (high to low conversion causing heat loss), the patent inverts the approach by using the power converter to convert external power source voltage to battery charging voltage, then using the battery as a power distribution hub. This reverses the conventional power flow direction and eliminates the heat loss associated with direct voltage conversion for external device supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery serves as an intermediary between the power converter and the external device. Rather than directly converting power from the external source to the external device, the system routes power through the battery, which acts as a buffer and distribution point. This intermediary approach allows for more efficient power management and reduces direct conversion losses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If voltage conversion is performed during fast charging, then power can be supplied to external device, but heat generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between fast charging mode and load power supply mode based on operational requirements. The power converter and processor work together to determine the optimal mode, allowing the system to adapt its power conversion strategy and minimize heat generation based on real-time conditions rather than performing voltage conversion continuously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by switching between different modes (fast charging vs. load power supply). In fast charging mode, the power converter optimizes for charging efficiency, while in load power supply mode, it optimizes for external device power delivery. This parameter switching allows the system to maintain versatility while managing heat generation through optimal parameter selection for each operational state.
3Power
If all power from power source is supplied to external device, then external device receives sufficient power, but battery charging is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The power from the external source is segmented into two distinct paths: one path supplies power to the external device through the power converter, while the other path charges the battery. The processor dynamically controls the power distribution ratio between these two paths, ensuring that both external device power delivery and battery charging requirements are met simultaneously through divided power allocation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding excess power from the external source, the system recovers and stores it in the battery. The power converter and processor work together to capture unused or excess power that would otherwise be wasted and channel it into battery charging, thereby improving overall energy utilization and ensuring the battery maintains adequate charge levels while external devices receive sufficient power.
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 reduces heat generation and loss during power supply to external devices, enhancing efficiency and safety by optimizing power distribution between the vehicle's battery and external loads, while also improving user convenience and reducing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
a power converter provided between the fast charger and the power transmitter, and configured to, when transferring the portion of the distributed power to the external device, convert a voltage of the power supplied through the fast charging cable
Data Source
AI summary
A power distribution apparatus includes: a power transmitter to which a power transmission cable for supplying power to an external device is connected; a fast charger to which a fast charging cable for receiving power from a power source is connected; a processor configured to, in response to an execution command of a fast charging mode and a load power supply mode, distribute power supplied through the fast charging cable, transfer a portion of the distributed power to the external device, and transfer a remainder of the distributed power to a battery; and a power converter provided between the fast charger and the power transmitter, and configured to, when transferring the portion of the distributed power to the external device, convert a voltage of the power supplied through the fast charging cable, and transfer the voltage-converted power to the power transmitter.