Shared Power Converter for Vehicle Conductive and Inductive Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle power supply systems are bulky and costly due to the presence of separate power converters for conductive and inductive charging, leading to increased weight and complexity, and require user intervention for charging mode selection.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle power supply system that shares a single power conversion unit for both conductive and inductive power transfer, with a control section that automatically switches between charging modes based on detected connections, reducing the need for user selection and simplifying the system's installation and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate power converters are provided for conductive and inductive charging means, then each charging function can be independently implemented, but the system size, weight, and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single power converter that can perform multiple functions: it serves as both the power conversion device for conductive charging and the power conversion device for inductive charging. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate power converters for each charging type, thereby reducing system weight while maintaining full charging versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the previously separate power conversion functions into a single integrated power converter. By combining the power conversion device for conductive charging and the power conversion device for inductive charging into one unit, the system achieves weight reduction while preserving both charging capabilities through coordinated control of the merged components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate power converters are provided for conductive and inductive charging means, then each charging function can be independently implemented, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single power converter that can perform multiple functions: it serves as both the power conversion device for conductive charging and the power conversion device for inductive charging. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate power converters for each charging type, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining full charging versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the previously separate power conversion functions into a single integrated power converter. By combining the power conversion device for conductive charging and the power conversion device for inductive charging into one unit, the system achieves reduced complexity through component consolidation while preserving both charging capabilities through coordinated control of the merged components.
3Ease of operation
If user intervention is required for charging mode selection, then charging mode can be precisely controlled, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the power converter to automatically detect the charging type (conductive or inductive) and autonomously switch between operating modes without requiring user intervention. The system monitors connection status and charging parameters, then self-adjusts its operation mode accordingly, improving ease of operation while maintaining precise control through automated decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the power converter continuously monitors charging parameters and connection status, then uses this information to automatically determine and switch between charging modes. The feedback loop enables the system to respond dynamically to changing conditions, achieving both ease of operation and precise control through automated mode selection based on real-time system state.
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 solution reduces the system's size, weight, and cost while enhancing usability by automatically switching between charging modes and eliminating the need for user intervention, thereby improving installability and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
inductive charging means allows transfer of electrical power between the battery and an inductive charger outside the vehicle, which are in a magnetically connected state
Implementation Method 2
The voltage induced in the port is rectified into DC voltage by a rectifier circuit to charge the battery
Data Source
AI summary
A power supply apparatus for vehicles is provided. This apparatus includes a battery mounted on a vehicle as well as first and second power transferring means and a power conversion unit. The first power transferring means transfers power between the battery and a first power supply section placed outside the vehicle, in a state where the battery is electrically connected to the power supply section. The second power transferring means transfers power between the battery and the power supply section placed outside the vehicle, in a state where the battery is electromagnetically connected to a second power supply section. The power conversion unit is used commonly in both the first and second power transferring means and used for transferring the power between the battery and the first power supply section and for transferring the power between the battery and the second power supply section.