Single Converter Charging Multiple EV Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging systems operate unidirectionally, requiring multiple converters to charge multiple batteries, which increases spatial constraints and costs, especially in large cities or densely populated areas.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus that uses a single converter unit with a battery management system, magnetic switches, and a bi-directional converter to charge multiple batteries simultaneously by voltage and current control, with safety features like DC and AC circuit breakers to prevent overcurrent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple converters are used to charge multiple batteries, then charging capability is improved, but spatial constraints and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple converter functions into a single converter unit that can simultaneously charge multiple batteries. The converter unit includes a controller that manages power distribution to multiple batteries connected through magnetic switches, eliminating the need for separate converters for each battery and reducing spatial requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single converter unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can charge multiple batteries simultaneously, switch between different charging modes (voltage control and current control), and manage power flow bidirectionally. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized converters.
2Productivity
If multiple converters are used to charge multiple batteries, then charging capability is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple converter units into a single integrated converter that serves multiple batteries. This consolidation reduces the total number of components needed, lowering manufacturing costs, installation expenses, and maintenance requirements while maintaining the ability to charge multiple batteries simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter unit is designed as a universal charging device that can handle multiple batteries with different states of charge and requirements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for purchasing and installing separate converters for each battery, significantly reducing system costs.
3Area of stationary object
If a single converter charges multiple batteries simultaneously, then spatial efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the charging process into distinct control modes (voltage control mode and current control mode) and uses magnetic switches to segment the connection between the converter and individual batteries. The controller manages these segments independently, allowing complex multi-battery charging to be broken down into simpler, manageable control tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the single converter unit and multiple batteries, managing all control decisions. It monitors battery states, determines appropriate charging modes, and controls magnetic switches to connect or disconnect batteries as needed, simplifying the overall control architecture despite the multiple batteries involved.
4Speed
If voltage control is used to charge batteries, then charging speed is improved, but battery safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between voltage control mode and current control mode based on real-time battery state monitoring. The controller transitions from voltage control (faster charging) to current control (safer charging near full charge) automatically, optimizing both charging speed and battery safety throughout the charging process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors battery voltage, current, and state of charge, providing feedback to the controller. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts the charging mode and parameters in real-time, preventing overcharging and ensuring battery safety while maintaining optimal charging speed when conditions permit.
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 efficient simultaneous charging of multiple batteries, reducing spatial constraints and costs by utilizing a single converter unit while ensuring safe and controlled charging processes.
Implementation Method 1
a converter unit configured to convert AC voltage applied from a power system into DC voltage to supply it to the batteries
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of magnetic switches each connected to the respective plurality of batteries
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an apparatus for controlling an electric vehicle charging system. The apparatus charges each of a plurality of batteries up to a first preset voltage lower than a full charge voltage by voltage control, charges the plurality of batteries up to a predetermined percentage of a second preset voltage that is the full charge voltage by current control, and charges the plurality of batteries up to the second preset voltage by the voltage control.