Smart Power Splitter for Shared 240V EV Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and complexity of installing dedicated 240V outlets for Level II charging of electric vehicles, coupled with the lack of spare outlets and electrical capacity in many homes, hinder mainstream consumer adoption of EVs, especially for renters and those without home ownership.
Innovation Solution
A smart power splitter that intelligently diverts and shares power between existing 220- or 240-volt outlets and connected devices, using a 'soft breaker' system to manage current draw and prevent overloads, allowing simultaneous use of an appliance and an EV charger without additional installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a dedicated 240V outlet is installed for Level II charging, then charging speed and capability are improved, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The power splitter enables a single 240V outlet to serve multiple functions simultaneously - supporting both traditional high-power appliances (dryers, water heaters) and EV charging equipment. The device provides multiple output receptacles that can accommodate different device types, making the outlet universally useful for various power needs without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The power splitter divides the single 240V outlet's power capacity into multiple separate output channels, each capable of delivering appropriate power levels for different devices. The internal circuitry segments the total available amperage across multiple receptacles, allowing independent power delivery to each connected device while maintaining overall circuit integrity and safety.
2Power
If additional electrical capacity is added to support EV charging, then charging capability is improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power splitter features automatic load management that monitors and allocates power across multiple outputs without user intervention. The device self-regulates current distribution based on connected device requirements, eliminating the need for manual electrical panel modifications or professional electrician installation for capacity management. The unit simply plugs into an existing outlet and begins providing segmented power capacity immediately.
3Reliability
If power is allocated to a single dedicated outlet, then charging reliability is improved, but adaptability to share power with other appliances decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power splitter implements dynamic power allocation that automatically adjusts current distribution based on real-time monitoring of connected devices. When a high-power appliance like a dryer is detected, the splitter dynamically reduces power to EV charging outputs. When the dryer is not in use, full power is allocated to charging. This dynamic adjustment maintains reliable power delivery to active devices while enabling flexible sharing across multiple outputs.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates continuous feedback monitoring of current draw and load conditions on each output channel. This feedback information is used by the control system to make real-time decisions about power distribution, ensuring that no single device exceeds safe operational limits while maximizing available power for charging when other appliances are not in use.
4Reliability
If a soft breaker system is implemented to manage current draw, then electrical safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power splitter replaces traditional mechanical circuit breakers with electronic current sensing and control systems. Instead of relying on thermal-magnetic trip mechanisms, the device uses electronic sensors to monitor current draw and solid-state switching to control power delivery. This electronic substitution provides more precise control and faster response times while integrating safety functions directly into the power management circuitry.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for managing power distribution from in-home electrical wiring are disclosed. In one embodiment, a power splitter device includes a an electrical input source connection with a first input line and a second input line for two hot phases of alternating current electricity, a primary electrical output and a secondary electrical output, the primary electrical output having a first primary output line and a second primary output line and the secondary electrical output having a first secondary output line and a second secondary output line, a first, second, third, and fourth current sensor, a first relay and a second relay, and a control logic microprocessor configured to receive measurements of current, determine an overcurrent condition based upon measurements of current over a period of time and disconnect power from the secondary electrical output connection based upon a determined overcurrent condition.