Unlockable AC Interface in High-Power DC Charging Stations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging stations for electric vehicles often face limitations in availability, as they are either designed for DC or AC charging, leading to stranded vehicles in case of technical issues or compatibility problems, with no alternative for emergency AC charging.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a remote-controlled AC charging interface into a high-power DC charging station, allowing for emergency AC charging via a secondary charging cable, with a control device communicating with a charging station operator to adapt availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a charging station is designed for DC charging only, then high charging power (at least 150 kW) is achieved, but the station becomes unavailable for AC charging in case of technical problems or compatibility issues
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station is designed to perform multiple functions by integrating both DC charging capability (with high power of at least 150 kW) and AC charging capability through a selectively unlockable second charging interface. This allows the station to serve different vehicle types and emergency charging needs while maintaining high-power DC charging as the primary function.
Solution Approach 2:
The second charging interface for AC charging is implemented with selective accessibility - it can be unlocked or locked based on operational needs. When DC charging is unavailable or incompatible, the interface is unlocked to allow AC charging; otherwise, it remains locked to prevent interference with DC charging operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate charging stations for DC and AC charging are provided, then charging versatility is improved, but the available space at charging parks is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A single charging station structure houses both DC and AC charging interfaces, eliminating the need for separate charging stations. The station can switch between or simultaneously support both charging modes, maximizing space utilization at charging parks while maintaining versatility for different vehicle requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate DC and AC charging functionalities into one integrated charging station. The control system manages both charging interfaces, allowing them to share common infrastructure (power supply, control unit, housing) while providing distinct charging capabilities when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the charging socket for AC charging is always accessible, then ease of operation is improved, but protection against weather influences and unauthorized contact is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cover for the second charging socket is designed to be dynamically controllable - it can be unlocked and opened when AC charging is needed, and locked and closed when DC charging is active or the station is idle. This dynamic behavior balances accessibility with protection, allowing easy operation when required while shielding the socket from environmental damage and unauthorized use during other periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging station (10) is provided for electrical DC charging of an electric vehicle with a charging power of at least 150 kW. The charging station (10) has a charging cable (11) with a charging plug (12), via which an electric vehicle to be charged is able to be coupled to the charging station (10) for the purpose of electrical DC charging. A charging interface (13) for electrical AC charging is integrated into the charging station (10). An electric vehicle to be charged can be coupled to the charging interface via a charging cable of the electric vehicle to be charged.