Smart Charging Module for PEV Cost Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSEs) lack smart charging capabilities, leading to substantial cost savings losses for users and utilities, as they cannot optimize charging to minimize electricity costs or participate in smart grid programs.
Innovation Solution
A smart charging system for PEVs, comprising an EVSE with a smart charging module that includes electronic circuitry with a processor to measure and control charging parameters, such as charge status, rate, and connectivity, and communicates with an external monitor for remote control and participation in smart grid programs, using couplers compatible with existing PEV and EVSE standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional PEV and EVSE are used without smart charging capabilities, then the system is simple and compatible with existing standards, but substantial cost savings are lost and smart grid program participation is impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a smart charging module as an intermediary device that interfaces between the conventional EVSE and the PEV. This module contains electronic circuitry with a processor that measures charging parameters and controls charging sessions, enabling smart charging capabilities without modifying the existing EVSE or PEV. The module acts as a mediator that adds intelligence to the charging system while maintaining compatibility with conventional infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If smart charging module is integrated into EVSE, then smart grid program participation is enabled and charging optimization is achieved, but device complexity and integration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the smart charging functionality into a separate, standalone module that can be integrated into the EVSE. Rather than redesigning the entire EVSE system, the smart charging module is designed as an independent unit with its own electronic circuitry, processor, and measurement capabilities. This segmentation allows the EVSE to maintain its original simple structure while gaining smart grid capabilities through the addition of the modular component.
3Productivity
If charging parameters are measured and controlled in real-time, then energy optimization and cost reduction are achieved, but measurement and control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The smart charging module employs self-service principles by automatically measuring charging parameters such as charge status, rate, and connectivity using its integrated electronic circuitry and processor. The system autonomously controls charging sessions based on measured parameters without requiring external intervention or complex external measurement systems. This self-service capability simplifies the overall measurement and control architecture while achieving real-time optimization.
Data Source
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AI summary
A smart charging system for charging a plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) includes an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) configured to supply electrical power to the PEV through a smart charging module coupled to the EVSE. The smart charging module comprises an electronic circuitry which includes a processor. The electronic circuitry includes electronic components structured to receive electrical power from the EVSE, and supply the electrical power to the PEV. The electronic circuitry is configured to measure a charging parameter of the PEV. The electronic circuitry is further structured to emulate a pulse width modulated signal generated by the EVSE. The smart charging module can also include a first coupler structured to be removably couple to the EVSE and a second coupler structured to be removably coupled to the PEV.