Variable Output Current Battery Charger Optimizing Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging systems for automotive vehicle batteries are inefficient due to varying peak efficiency depending on charger design and additional vehicle subsystems, as well as electrical supply system losses, leading to increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A battery charger system that characterizes and optimizes the charge efficiency profile by adjusting current output based on resistance in the wiring and other system parameters, ensuring charging occurs at peak efficiency while considering constraints like charge duration and available time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If charging is performed at high current to reduce charging time, then productivity is improved, but energy losses increase due to I²R losses in wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system dynamically adjusts the charging current based on real-time efficiency measurements and system conditions. The controller modifies current magnitude during charging operations to optimize the balance between charging speed and energy efficiency, rather than using a fixed high current approach
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the charging current is adjusted based on measured efficiency data. The controller receives feedback about system efficiency at different current levels and uses this information to optimize charging parameters, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to varying conditions
2Loss of energy
If charging is performed at low current to reduce energy losses, then loss of energy is reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to increased charging time
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the charging current based on real-time efficiency measurements and system conditions. The controller modifies current magnitude during charging operations to optimize the balance between charging speed and energy efficiency, rather than using a fixed low current approach
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operating parameters (current magnitude) based on measured efficiency characteristics. By characterizing the efficiency profile at different current levels and adjusting parameters accordingly, the system optimizes the trade-off between energy losses and charging speed for each specific operating condition
3Device complexity
If the charging system operates without efficiency characterization, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of energy increases due to suboptimal charging operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary efficiency characterization during manufacturing or initial operation to establish the efficiency profile before normal charging begins. This advance measurement allows the simple controller to use pre-determined efficiency data to make optimal charging decisions without requiring complex real-time calculations
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system characterizes its own efficiency profile and uses this self-generated information to optimize its operation. The system serves itself by measuring and utilizing its own performance characteristics, eliminating the need for external complex control systems
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
This approach minimizes charging costs by optimizing energy transfer efficiency, ensuring the battery is charged at the most efficient rate within the available time, thereby reducing overall energy losses and operational expenses.
Implementation Method 1
a battery charger system that characterizes and optimizes the charge efficiency profile by adjusting current output based on resistance in the wiring
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a battery charger system arranged to charge a traction battery. The battery charger system receives current from a power distribution system remote from the vehicle and outputs the current to the traction battery at a series of magnitudes to characterize a charge efficiency profile of the battery charger and power distribution systems. The battery charger system then charges the traction battery according to the charge efficiency profile.