Universal EV Charging Circuit with Adaptive Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost associated with charging electric vehicle energy storage units from diverse electrical networks, due to voltage and current differences, result in congestion and the need for multiple dedicated structures.
Innovation Solution
A universal electrical circuit with interchangeable connectors and adaptive switching cells allows connection to any network type, including DC or AC, single-phase, and three-phase systems, using controllable switches and inductors to manage energy exchange efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated structures (connectors and switching means) are used for each network type, then the vehicle can charge from any electrical network, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector design that can physically connect to different network types (single-phase AC, three-phase AC, DC) without requiring separate dedicated connectors for each network type. This single universal connector performs multiple functions by adapting to different plug configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a universal interface unit that acts as an intermediary between the universal connector and the energy storage unit. This interface unit contains the necessary switching means and control logic to adapt the connection to the appropriate network type, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated switching means in the vehicle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated structures are implemented for each network type, then charging from any network is enabled, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By designing a universal connector that can physically interface with different network types (single-phase AC, three-phase AC, DC) using a single standardized physical design, the patent eliminates the need to manufacture and stock multiple different connector types, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple dedicated connectors and switching means into a single universal interface unit that handles all network types. This consolidation reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and maintained, leading to cost savings.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated structures are used for each network type, then all network types can be supported, but congestion is generated in the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The universal interface unit serves as an intermediary that consolidates all switching means and adaptation logic in a single external unit. This prevents the vehicle's internal electrical system from being congested with multiple dedicated switching mechanisms for each network type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the switching means and network adaptation logic from the vehicle's internal system and places them in the external universal interface unit. This extraction reduces the complexity and congestion within the vehicle while maintaining the ability to support multiple network types.
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 simple, cost-effective, and congestion-free energy exchange between electric vehicles and various electrical networks, reducing losses by adapting voltage and current values for efficient charging.
Implementation Method 1
a switching system (6) comprising a plurality of switching cells (20, 30)
Implementation Method 2
inductors (7)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a method of exchanging electrical energy between an electrical network (4) carrying a direct current and an electrical energy storage unit (10), the storage unit (10) being part of an electrical circuit (2) further comprising a connector (3) intended to be connected to a connector of the electrical network (4), a DC bus (26) interposed between the connector (3) and the electrical energy storage unit (10), and a DC/DC voltage converter (25) interposed between the DC bus (26) and the energy storage unit (10), the method comprising the step in which the DC/DC voltage converter (25) is controlled so as to increase or decrease the voltage value of the DC bus (26) without changing the value of the voltage across the terminals of the energy storage unit (10).