Relay-Switched AC Charging Inputs for Shared Onboard Chargers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle charging systems are not suitable for multiple charging stations and require modifications to high-volume onboard chargers or electrical architectures, making it difficult to add additional AC inputs efficiently and cost-effectively.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system with a controller that switches relays between different positions based on electrical current and phase values from multiple charging ports, allowing the onboard charger to communicate with either a stationary charger or a wireless charger, or both, to optimize charging configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple charging ports are added to the vehicle, then charging versatility and convenience are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal charging system where a single onboard charger can serve multiple charging ports through relay switching. The relay module enables the charger to be selectively connected to either the first or second charging port, allowing one charger to perform multiple functions and supporting various charging configurations without requiring separate chargers for each port.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic relay switching controlled by a control module that monitors ready signals from multiple charging ports. The relays dynamically reconfigure the electrical connections based on which charging port is active, enabling the system to adapt its topology in real-time rather than maintaining a fixed complex architecture for all possible charging scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If multiple charging ports are added to the vehicle, then charging convenience is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The onboard charger is designed as a universal unit that can charge the vehicle battery through either the first or second charging port via relay switching. This eliminates the need to manufacture and install separate charger units for each port, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the ability to support multiple charging configurations for user convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the charging functionality into a single onboard charger unit that serves multiple ports, rather than having separate chargers for each port. The relay module combines the electrical pathways, allowing one charger to be shared across multiple ports, thereby reducing overall system cost while preserving charging convenience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If relay switching is implemented to enable multiple charging ports, then charging adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module automatically detects ready signals from charging ports and autonomously controls the relay switching without requiring manual intervention or complex external control systems. The system self-manages the configuration by monitoring which port is ready and automatically connecting the onboard charger to the appropriate port, simplifying the overall control architecture despite the presence of multiple relays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback through ready signals from charging ports that inform the control module about the charging status of each port. This feedback mechanism enables the control module to make intelligent relay switching decisions based on real-time conditions, achieving high charging adaptability through a relatively simple feedback-driven control logic rather than complex predetermined control sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
An automotive controller drives a plurality of relays to a first position or a second position depending on which of a first port and second port, that are both arranged to provide electrical power, has greater electrical power such that a traction battery receives current from the one of the first port and second port delivering the greater electrical power but not the other of the first port and second port.