Shared AC-DC Converter for Wired and Wireless EV Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrified vehicles face challenges in incorporating both wired and wireless charging systems due to component count, packing, and cost issues, necessitating an improved on-board charging apparatus that can efficiently handle both modes.
Innovation Solution
An on-board charging apparatus with a wired power circuit and a wireless power circuit, featuring a converter that converts AC power from both sources into DC power, and switch mechanisms to selectively interrupt electrical communication between circuits, allowing both wired and wireless charging modes with shared AC-DC conversion hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If both wired and wireless charging systems are incorporated into a vehicle, then charging versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal AC-DC converter that can process power from both wired (AC inlet) and wireless (inductive charging coil) sources. The converter is designed with switching mechanisms that allow it to selectively connect to either power source and perform AC-DC conversion for both charging modes, eliminating the need for separate conversion circuits and reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If both wired and wireless charging hardware are incorporated into a vehicle, then charging versatility is improved, but packaging space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the AC-DC conversion functionality into a single shared converter unit that serves both wired and wireless charging systems. By combining what would traditionally be separate conversion circuits into one unified device, the overall volume required for power conversion hardware is reduced, allowing both charging modes to coexist within limited vehicle packaging space.
3Adaptability or versatility
If both wired and wireless charging systems are incorporated into a vehicle, then charging versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal AC-DC converter that performs the same power conversion function for both wired and wireless charging modes, eliminating the need to manufacture and install separate conversion circuits. This multi-functional approach reduces component count, simplifies assembly processes, and lowers overall manufacturing costs while maintaining support for both charging technologies.
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
Enables flexible charging options, reduces component count and packaging, and lowers costs by leveraging shared hardware for both charging modes, enhancing user convenience and automation.
Implementation Method 1
a wired power circuit configured to be conductively coupled to an external power source and receive AC power therefrom
Implementation Method 2
a wireless power circuit including a plurality of receiving coils configured to be electromagnetically coupled to a three-phase transmitting coil of a three-phase external inductive charger and receive three-phase AC power therefrom
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
An on-board charging apparatus for charging a battery of an electrified vehicle includes a wired power circuit configured to be conductively coupled to an external power source and receive AC power. The on-board charging apparatus also includes a wireless power circuit including a plurality of receiving coils configured to be electromagnetically coupled to a transmitting coil of an external inductive charger and receive three-phase AC power therefrom. The on-board charging apparatus further includes a converter coupled to the wired power circuit and the plurality of receiving coils of the wireless power circuit. The converter converts the AC power from the wired power circuit and the plurality of receiving coils into DC power to supply the DC power to the battery of the electrified vehicle.