Description:DESCRIPTION
Technical Field
[01] This disclosure relates generally to Electric Vehicles (EVs), and more particularly to a method and a system for assisting fast charging in EVs.
Background
[02] Electric vehicles (EVs) have been in development and in limited use since the late 19th century. However, their widespread adoption began to gain momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as concerns over environmental sustainability and reliance on fossil fuels increased. The global market for EVs has grown rapidly in recent years. In particular, major advancements in battery technology, improvements in charging infrastructure, and government incentives for adoption of an EV have all contributed to accelerated growth of EV market in recent decades. Further, with the advancement in science and technology, new energy vehicles, particularly the EVs, have emerged as prominent modes of transportation.
[03] An EV is equipped with a charging port and an onboard charger that converts alternative current (AC) to direct current (DC). Further, charging infrastructure for all EVs comes with various types of connectors, depending on maufacturing brand and charging capacity of the battery. However, basic principle of charging the EV remains consistent, that requires connection to an external power source. The external power source could be a power outlet found in households or a dedicated charging station. Additionally, charging of a battery of the EV is further categorized into three levels, i.e., level 1 charging, level 2 charging, and level 3 charging, depending on capacity of flow of electrical energy. These three levels of the EV charging cater to different charging needs and scenarios, providing users with flexibility and convenience based on their requirements for charging speed, availability of charging infrastructure, and travel distance. Further, as the performance requirements of the EVs are higher, it is imperative for the EVs to dynamically adjust to operational requirements, particularly during winters when efficiency of the battery may be compromised, potentially leading to reduced performance or even leaving the battery unusable.
[04] Further, there could be scenarios where the battery of the EV may not be getting charged in spite of being connected to the charger due to certain reasons, like a rise in temperature of the battery, one or more ambient conditions associated with the EV, and the like. For example, the ambient conditions for the EV might include temperature extremes, whether excessively hot or cold, which can significantly impact performance and charging efficiency of the battery. In such scenarios, the charger of the EV does not get connected to the EV, and a driver of the EV is unaware of a reason for this. This is because, existing charging systems used for the EVs lack adequate feedback mechanisms for EV drivers. In case the EV is not getting charged, only a generic message is displayed on the charger indicating the charging is unsuccessful. However, this message fails to provide specific insight into the underlying cause of the charging failure. As a result of this, the drivers of the EVs are left uninformed regarding the reason for an unsuccessful charging attempt and are devoid of guidance on subsequent steps necessary to rectify the charging issue and successfully charge the EVs.
[05] Thus, the techniques in the present state of art fail to address the problem of assisting fast charging in the EVs.
SUMMARY
[06] In one embodiment, a method for assisting fast charging in Electric Vehicles (EVs) is disclosed. In one example, the method may include determining a minimum temperature recorded by a plurality of sensors associated with a battery pack in an EV and a maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors. The method may include comparing the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold. The method may further include generating one of a first signal and a second signal based on comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold. It should be noted that the first signal may correspond to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration and the second signal corresponds to initiating charging of the EV. The method may further include rendering one of the first signal and the second signal generated to a user in the EV.
[07] In another embodiment, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) configured for assisting fast charging in Electric Vehicle (EVs) is disclosed. In one example, the ECU may include a processor and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor. The memory may store processor-executable instructions, which, on execution, may cause the processor to perform operations including determining a minimum temperature recorded by a plurality of sensors associated with a battery pack in an EV and a maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors. The operations may further include comparing the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold. The operations may further include generating one of a first signal and a second signal based on comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold. It should be noted that the first signal may correspond to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration and second signal corresponds to initiating charging of the EV. The operations may further include rendering one of the first signals and the second signal generated to a user in the EV.
[08] In yet another embodiment, a system for assisting fast charging in Electric Vehicles (EVs) is disclosed. In one example, the system may include a processor and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor. The memory may store processor-executable instructions, which, on execution, may cause the processor to determine a minimum temperature recorded by a plurality of sensors associated with a battery pack in an EV and a maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors. The processor-executable instructions, on execution, may further cause the processor to compare the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold. It should be noted that the first signal may correspond to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration and the second signal corresponds to initiating charging of the EV. The processor-executable instructions, on execution, may further cause the processor to render one of the first signal and the second signal generated to a user in the EV.
[09] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[010] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.
[011] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary system for assisting fast charging in Electric Vehicles (EVs), in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[012] FIG. 2 illustrates a functional block diagram of various modules within a memory of a control unit configured to assist fast charging in EVs, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[013] FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary process for assisting fast charging in EVs, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[014] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow diagram of a detailed exemplary process for assisting fast charging in EVs, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[015] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
[016] Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of an exemplary system 100 for assisting fast charging in EVs is illustrated, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. In order to assist fast charging in an EV, the system 100 may include a control unit 102. The control unit 102 may correspond to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). As already known to a person skilled in art, the ECU serves as a centralized computer system responsible for managing and coordinating various electrical and electronic components within the EV. The ECU plays a crucial role in integrating and controlling complex network of subsystems in the EV, facilitating smooth operation, and enhancing overall driving experience. In an embodiment, the control unit 102 may be configured to provide assistance for fast charging in the EV.
[017] In order to provide assistance for fast charging, initially, the control unit 102 may be configured to determine a minimum temperature and a maximum temperature associated with a battery pack in an EV. The minimum temperature and the maximum temperature may be recorded by a plurality of sensors 108. The plurality of sensors 108, for example, may include a sensor 1, a sensor 2, a sensor 3, …., upto a sensor ‘n’. It should be noted that, ‘n’ may be any predefined sensor number associated with the EV. In an embodiment, the plurality of sensors 108 may correspond to battery temperature sensors. Examples of the battery temperature sensors may include, but are not limited to thermocouples, Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs), thermistors, fiber optic temperature sensors, infrared (IR) temperature sensors, and Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors.
[018] Upon determining the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature, the control unit 102 may be configured to compare the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold. Further, based on the comparison, the control unit 102 may generate one of a first signal and a second signal. The first signal may correspond to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration. Further, the second signal may correspond to initiating charging of the EV.
[019] In an embodiment, the first signal may be generated when at least one a first set of conditions is identified. The first set of conditions may be identified based on comparison of the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold. The first set of conditions may include the minimum temperature is below the first threshold and the maximum temperature is above the second threshold. In another embodiment, the second signal may be generated when a second set of conditions is identified. The second set of conditions may be identified based on comparison of the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold. The second set of conditions may include the minimum temperature being greater than equal to the first threshold, and the maximum temperature being less than equal to the second threshold.
[020] Once one of the first signal or the second signal is generated, the control unit 102 may be configured to render the generated signal to a user of the EV. In an embodiment, the first signal or the second signal may be rendered via an EV dashboard 110. To render one of the first signal and the second signal, the control unit 102 may display a first color indication for the first signal and a second color indication for the second signal. The first color indication and the second color indication may be displayed via a signal indicator 112 of the EV dashboard 110. In an embodiment, the signal indicator 112, for example, may correspond to a color-coded indicator (e.g., a Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator light). By way of example, when the first signal is generated, the first color indication displayed to the user via the signal indicator 112 may be, for example, a yellow color indication. By way of another example, when the second signal is generated, the second color indication displayed to the user via the signal indicator 112 may be, for example, a green color indication. As will be appreciated, any pre-defined color indication may be used for displaying the first signal and the second signal to the user.
[021] In some embodiments, the signal indicator 112 used for indication the first signal and the second signal may be an audio indicator (e.g., a sound alert, a tone, or an audio message), a textual indicator, an illuminated icon indicator, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the first signal and the second signal may be rendered to the user via a vehicle connected application (i.e., the application connected to the EV of the user) installed on his user device, e.g., a smartphone. In this case, one of the first signal and the second signal may be transmitted to the user device via a telematics system. This complete method for assisting fast charging in the EVs is further explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 2 – FIG. 4.
[022] In some embodiments, the control unit 102 may include a memory 104 and one or more processors 106. Further, the memory 104 may store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors 106, cause the one or more processors 106 to assist fast charging in the EVs. As will be described in greater detail in conjunction with FIG. 2 to FIG. 4, in order to assist fast charging in the EVs, the processor 106 in conjunction with the memory 104 may perform various functions including determining the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature recorder by the plurality of sensors 108, comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold, generating one of the first signal and the second signal based on the comparing, and rendering one of the first signal and the second signal generated to the user in the EV.
[023] The memory 104 may also store various data (for example, a minimum temperature, a maximum temperature, the first threshold, the second threshold, and the like) that may be captured, processed, and/or required by the control unit 102. The memory 104 may be a non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, Read Only Memory (ROM), Programmable ROM (PROM), Erasable PROM (EPROM), Electrically EPROM (EEPROM) memory, etc.) or a volatile memory (e.g., Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Static Random-Access memory (SRAM), etc.).
[024] In some embodiments, apart from the control unit 102, a system, e.g., a plug and play device, may be configured to assist fast charging in the EVs. The plug and play device may include a memory and a processor that may be configured to perform functions performed by the memory 104 and the processor 106 of the control unit 102. By way of an example, once the plug and play device is connected to an associated port (e.g., a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, a Direct Current (DC) port, and the like) within the EV, then, the plug and play device may interact with the plurality of sensors 108 to determine the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors 108. Further, the plug and play device may generate and render the one of the first signal and the second signal to the user.
[025] Referring now to FIG. 2, a functional block diagram 200 of various modules within the memory 104 of the control unit 102 configured to assist fast charging in EVs is illustrated, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the control unit 102 may correspond to an ECU of the EV. To assist fast charging in the EVs, the memory 104 may include a determining module 202, a comparing module 204, and a generating module 206.
[026] Initially, the determining module 202 may be configured to determine a minimum temperature and a maximum temperature associated with a battery pack in an EV. The minimum temperature and the maximum temperature may be recorded by a plurality of sensors. With reference to FIG. 2, the plurality of sensors may correspond to the plurality of sensors 108. In an embodiment, the plurality of sensors 108 may correspond to battery temperature sensors. Examples of the battery temperature sensors may include, but are not limited to thermocouples, Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs), thermistors, fiber optic temperature sensors, infrared (IR) temperature sensors, and Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors. In addition to the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature, the determining module 202 may be configured to determine at least one ambient condition associated with the EV. The ambient condition may be, for example, a temperature within the EV, or a temperature outside the EV. Further, the determining module 202 may be configured to send the minimum temperature, the maximum temperature, and the at least one ambient condition to the comparing module 204.
[027] Further, upon receiving the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature, the comparing module 204 may be configured to compare the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the first threshold and the second threshold may be pre-defined by a manufacturer of the EV. In an embodiment, the comparing module 204 may perform comparing to identify one of a first set of conditions or a second set of conditions. The first set of conditions may include the minimum temperature is below the first threshold and the maximum temperature is above the second threshold. Further, the second set of conditions may include the minimum temperature being greater than equal to the first threshold and the maximum temperature being less than equal to the second threshold.
[028] Further, the comparing module 204 may be configured to match each of the at least one ambient condition, the minimum temperature, and the maximum temperature with corresponding fields in a mapping table. In an embodiment, the mapping table may include a plurality of time durations mapped to unique combinations of minimum temperatures, maximum temperatures, and ambient conditions. As will be appreciated, the mapping table may be created by gathering real-world EV usage data considering various factors, such as temperatures, ambient conditions, time durations, etc., associated with the EV to perform data analysis and validating the gathered real-world EV usage data. It should be noted that, the mapping table may be updated based on new EV data and insights obtained from ongoing usage of the EVs. Further, based on the matching, the comparing module 204 may be configured to identifying the predetermined time duration. Further, the comparing module 204 may be configured to send the first set of conditions or the second set of conditions identified to the generating module 206. Additionally, the comparing module 204 may send the predetermined time duration to the generating module 206.
[029] The generating module 206 may be configured to generate one of a first signal and a second signal based on comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold. In an embodiment, the first signal may be generated when at least one of the first set of conditions is identified. Further, the second signal may be generated when the second set of conditions is identified. It should be noted that the first signal may correspond to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for the predetermined time duration. Further, the second signal may correspond to initiating charging of the EV.
[030] In an embodiment, when the first signal is generated, the generating module 206 may be configured to determine expiry of the predetermined time duration. Further, upon determining the expiry, the generating module 206 may be configured to initiate the second signal after expiry of the predetermined time duration. In other words, after expiry of the predetermined time duration, the generating module 206 may be configured to generate the second signal. In addition, the generating module 206 may be configured to render one of the first signal or the second signal generated to the user of EV. In other words, the generating module 206 may display a first color indication for the first signal and a second color indication for the second signal via an EV dashboard. With reference to FIG. 1, the EV dashboard may correspond to the EV dashboard 110. In some embodiments, the first signal and the second signal may be rendered to the user via a vehicle connected application (i.e., the application connected to the EV of the user) installed on his user device, e.g., a smartphone.
[031] It should be noted that all such aforementioned modules 202 – 206 may be represented as a single module or a combination of different modules. Further, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, each of the modules 202 – 206 may reside, in whole or in parts, on one device or multiple devices in communication with each other. In some embodiments, each of the modules 202 – 206 may be implemented as dedicated hardware circuit comprising custom application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or gate arrays, off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. Each of the modules 202 – 206 may also be implemented in a programmable hardware device such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable array logic, programmable logic device, and so forth. Alternatively, each of the modules 202 – 206 may be implemented in software for execution by various types of processors (e.g., processor 106). An identified module of executable code may, for instance, include one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, function, or other construct. Nevertheless, the executables of an identified module or component need not be physically located together, but may include disparate instructions stored in different locations which, when joined logically together, include the module and achieve the stated purpose of the module. Indeed, a module of executable code could be a single instruction, or many instructions, and may even be distributed over several different code segments, among different applications, and across several memory devices.
[032] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, a variety of processes may be employed for assisting fast charging in EVs. For example, the exemplary system 100 and the associated control unit 102 may assist fast charging for the EVs by the processes discussed herein. In particular, as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, control logic and/or automated routines for performing the techniques and steps described herein may be implemented by the system 100 and the associated control unit 102 either by hardware, software, or combinations of hardware and software. For example, suitable code may be accessed and executed by the one or more processors on the system 100 to perform some or all of the techniques described herein. Similarly, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) configured to perform some, or all of the processes described herein may be included in the one or more processors on the system 100.
[033] Referring now to FIG. 3, an exemplary process 300 for assisting fast charging in EVs is depicted via a flowchart, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 2. The process 300 may be implemented by the control unit 102 of the system 100.
[034] In order provide assistance for fast charging in an EV, initially, at step 302, a minimum temperature and a maximum temperature associated with a battery pack in an EV may be determined. In an embodiment, the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature may be recorded by a plurality of sensors. With reference to FIG. 2, the plurality of sensors may correspond to the plurality of sensors 108. In an embodiment, the plurality of sensors may correspond to battery temperature sensors. Examples of the battery temperature sensors may include, but are not limited to thermocouples, Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs), thermistors, fiber optic temperature sensors, infrared (IR) temperature sensors, and Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensors. In addition to determination of the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature, in some embodiments, at least one ambient condition associated with the EV may be determined. The at least one ambient condition may include, for example, a temperature within the EV, or a temperature outside the EV.
[035] Further, at step 304, the minimum temperature may be compared with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold. It should be noted that the first threshold and the second threshold may be pre-defined by a manufacturer of the EV. In an embodiment, the comparison may be done to identify one of a first set of conditions or a second set of conditions. The first set of conditions may include the minimum temperature is below the first threshold and the maximum temperature is above the second threshold. Further, the second set of conditions may include the minimum temperature being greater than equal to the first threshold and the maximum temperature being less than equal to the second threshold.
[036] Further, each of the at least one ambient condition, the minimum temperature, and the maximum temperature may be compared with corresponding fields in a mapping table. In an embodiment, the mapping table may include a plurality of time durations mapped to unique combinations of minimum temperatures, maximum temperatures, and ambient conditions. As will be appreciated, the mapping table may be created by gathering real-world EV usage data considering various factors, such as temperatures, ambient conditions, time durations, etc., associated with the EV to perform data analysis and validate the gathered real-world EV usage data. Further, the mapping table may be updated based on new EV data and insights obtained from ongoing usage of the EVs. Further, based on the matching, the predetermined time duration corresponding to the EV may be determined. The predetermined time duration may correspond to a time period for which the EV may not be charged. In other words, the predetermined time duration may correspond to a time period after which the user may be able to charge the EV.
[037] Further, based on the comparison, at step 306, one of a first signal and a second signal may be generated. In an embodiment, the first signal may correspond to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for the predetermined time duration. The second signal corresponds to initiating charging of the EV. Upon generating the first signal or the second signal, at step 308, one of the first signal or the second signal generated may be rendered to a user in the EV. By way of an example, when the first signal is rendered to the user, the user may be restricted from initiating the charging of the EV. Additionally, an instruction, e.g., ‘switching on the EV’ for the predetermined time duration, e.g., ‘30 minutes’ may be rendered to the user. In this case, when the first signal is rendered, then expiry of the predetermined time duration may be determined subsequent to generation of the first signal. Further, upon determining the expiry of the predetermined time duration, the second signal may be initiated. In other words, once the expiry of the predetermined time duration (e.g., 30 minutes) is determined, then the second signal may be generated and rendered to the user. By way of another example, when the second signal is rendered, then the user may be indicated to initiate charging of the EV.
[038] In an embodiment, rendering of the first signal or the second signal to the user includes displaying a first color indication for the first signal and a second color indication for the second signal. With reference to FIG. 1, the first color indication and the second color indication may be displayed via the signal indicator 112 of the EV dashboard 110. In an embodiment, the signal indicator 112, for example, may correspond to a color-coded indicator (e.g., a LED indicator light). In continuation to the above example, where the first signal is generated, the first color indication may be displayed to the user, for example, a yellow color indication. In this example, the yellow color indication displayed to the user may provide information to the user that the charging of the EV cannot be initiated and to initiate the charging, the EV must be switched on for the predetermined time duration (e.g., 30 minutes). In continuation to the above example, where the second signal is generated, the second color indication may be displayed to the user, for example, a green color indication. The green color indication may provide information to the user that the user can initiate charging of the EV. As will be appreciated, any pre-defined color indication may be used for displaying the first signal and the second signal to the user.
[039] In some embodiments, the first signal and the second signal may be an audio indication (e.g., a sound alert, a tone, or an audio message), a textual indication, an illuminated icon indication, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the first signal and the second signal may be rendered to the user via a vehicle connected application (i.e., the application connected to the EV of the user) installed on his user device, e.g., a smartphone. In this case, one of the first signal and the second signal may be transmitted to the user device via a telematics system.
[040] Referring now to Fig. 4, a detailed exemplary process 400 for assisting fast charging for EVs is depicted via a flowchart, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 3. The process 400 may be implemented by the control unit 102 of the system 100.
[041] In order provide assistance for fast charging in the EV, initially, at step 402 the user of the EV may start a fast charge assist mode. In an embodiment, the user may start the fast charge assist mode using a button present on an EV dashboard. With reference to FIG. 1, the EV dashboard may correspond to the EV dashboard 110. Further, the button may be integrated with the signal indicator 112. The user may press the button to start the fast charge assist mode. In some embodiments, the fast charge assist mode may be automatically started when the EV is turned ‘on’. With reference to FIG. 1, in yet another embodiment, the user may connect the plug and play device to the associated port to start the fast charge assist mode.
[042] Once the fast charge assist mode is started, then at step 404, a signal may be sent to an ECU of the EV. The signal may be sent to the ECU to determine the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature associated with the battery pack in the EV. The minimum temperature and the maximum temperature may be recorded by the plurality of sensors. With reference to FIG. 1, the ECU may correspond to the control unit 102. Further, the plurality of sensors may correspond to the plurality of sensors 108. It should be noted that the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature associated with the battery pack may correspond to a Battery Cell Temperature (BCT). As will be appreciated, the BCT is a temperature range between which the battery pack of the EV operates.
[043] Upon determining the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature, at 406, the ECU may check the BCT. In other words, the ECU may compare the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold. In an embodiment, the ECU may perform the comparison to identify one of the first set of conditions or the second set of conditions. The first set of conditions may include the minimum temperature is below the first threshold and the maximum temperature is above the second threshold. Further, the second set of conditions may include the minimum temperature being greater than equal to the first threshold and the maximum temperature being less than equal to the second threshold.
[044] In one embodiment, based on the check performed at step 406, if the first set of conditions are identified as mentioned via step 408, then at step 410, the first signal may be illuminated. In other words, the first signal may be generated and rendered to the user in the EV. It should be noted that the first signal may be generated when at least one of the first set of conditions may be identified. In an embodiment, rendering the first signal to the user includes displaying the first color indication (e.g., the yellow color indication) to the user. The first color indication may be displayed to the user via the signal indicator 112 present on the EV dashboard 110. In an embodiment, the signal indicator 112, for example, may correspond to the color-coded indicator (e.g., the LED indicator light). As will be appreciated, in some embodiments, the LED indicator light may be integrated with the button (configured to start the fast charge assist mode) in a way such that the LED indicator light gets attached to a circumference of the button. Further to display the first signal, the LED indicator light integrated with the button may turn into yellow color to display the yellow color indication to the user in the EV.
[045] The first signal indicated to the user may provide information to the user (i.e., a driver) to keep the EV in ‘switch on’ condition and instruct the user to wait for a pre-defined time period (i.e., the predetermined time duration) until the first signal changes to the second signal as mentioned via step 412. In an embodiment, the predetermined time duration may be identified using the mapping table. In order to identify the predetermined time duration, at least one ambient condition associated with the EV may be determined. The at least one ambient condition may include, for example, the temperature within the EV, or the temperature outside the EV. As will be appreciated, the at least one ambient condition may be determined using one or more temperature sensors integrated within the EV. To identify the predetermined time duration, the at least one ambient condition, the minimum temperature, and the maximum temperature may be compared with the corresponding fields in the mapping table. In an embodiment, the mapping table may include the plurality of time durations mapped to unique combinations of minimum temperatures, maximum temperatures, and ambient conditions. Further, based on the matching, the predetermined time duration corresponding to the EV may be determined. The predetermined time duration may correspond to a time period for which the EV may not be charged.
[046] It should be noted that the first signal may be changed to the second signal after the expiry of the predetermined time duration. In other words, upon determining the expiry of the predetermined time duration, subsequent to the generation of the first signal, the second signal may be illuminated as mentioned via step 414. The second signal may be illuminated to activate charging of the EV. Once the second signal is illuminated, at step 416 the user (i.e., the driver) may be able to initiate charging of the EV.
[047] In another embodiment, based on the check performed at step 406, if the second set of conditions are identified as mentioned via step 418, then at step 420, the second signal may be illuminated to activate charging of the EV. In an embodiment the second signal may be generated when each of the second set of conditions is identified. Once the second signal is illuminated, at step 422, the driver may be able to initiate charging of the EV.
[048] In an embodiment rendering the second signal to the user includes displaying the second color indication (e.g., the green color indication) to the user. The second color indication may be displayed to the user via the signal indicator 112 present on the EV dashboard 110. In other words, the LED indicator light integrated with the button may turn into green color to display the green color indication to the user. As will be appreciated, the second signal indicated to the user may provide information to the user that the user can initiate charging of the EV.
[049] In some embodiments, the first signal and the second signal may be indicated to the user as the audio indication (e.g., a sound alert, a tone, or an audio message), the textual indication, the illuminated icon indication, and the like. In yet another embodiment, the first signal and the second signal may be rendered to the user via the vehicle connected application (i.e., the application connected to the EV of the user) installed on his user device, e.g., a smartphone.
[050] Consider a scenario where the user (i.e., the driver) of the EV may have started the fast charge assist mode for the EV. In this scenario, upon starting the fast charge assist mode, the signal may be sent to the ECU to determine the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature for the battery pack of the EV. Let’s suppose, in one embodiment, the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature associated with the EV were determined to be ‘2 degree’ Celsius and ‘45 degree’ Celsius respectively. Further, suppose the first threshold may be defined as ‘5 degree’ Celsius. In addition, the second threshold may be defined as ’40 degree’ Celsius.
[051] Once the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature are determined, then the ECU may compare the minimum temperature, i.e., ‘2 degree Celsius’ with the first threshold, i.e., ‘5 degree’ Celsius, and the maximum temperature, i.e., ’45 degree’ Celsius with the second threshold, i.e., ’40 degree’ Celsius, respectively. Further, based on the comparison, the first set of conditions may be identified. For example, the minimum temperature ‘2 degree Celsius’ is below the first threshold, i.e., ‘5 degree’ Celsius, and the maximum temperature ’45 degree’ Celsius is above the second threshold ‘40 degree’ Celsius. Since, based on the comparison, each of the first set of conditions are identified, therefore the yellow color indication (i.e., the first signal) may be generated and rendered to the user. The yellow color indication may restrict user from initiating charging of the EV and will instruct the user to switch on the EV for the predetermined time duration (e.g. 30 minutes). In other words, the user may be instructed to keep the EV in ‘switch on’ condition for 30 minutes. As already explained in present FIG. 4, the predetermined time duration may be determined using the mapping table.
[052] In another embodiment, if the minimum temperature associated with the battery pack of the EV was determined to be ‘2 degree’ Celsius. However, the maximum temperature was determined to be the ‘25 degree’ Celsius respectively. In this embodiment, based on the comparison of the minimum temperature, i.e., ‘2 degree Celsius’ with the first threshold, i.e., ‘5 degree’ Celsius, and the maximum temperature, i.e., ’25 degree’ Celsius with the second threshold, i.e., ’40 degree’ Celsius, then the first signal (i.e., the yellow color indication) may be generated and rendered. This is because the first signal is generated when at least one of the first set of conditions is identified. In this embodiment, since the minimum temperature ‘2 degree Celsius’ is below the first threshold, i.e., ‘5 degree’ Celsius, therefore the first signal may be generated. Once the first signal is generated and rendered, then until the first signal changes to the second signal, the charging for the EV may not be initiated. After the expiry of predetermined time duration, i.e., the 30 minutes, the second signal, i.e., the green color indication may be initiated. Further, once the second signal is initiated, the user may start charging the EV.
[053] In yet another embodiment, let’s suppose, the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature associated with the battery pack of the EV were determined to be ‘6 degree’ Celsius and ‘38 degree’ Celsius, respectively. In this embodiment, based on the comparison of the minimum temperature, i.e., ‘6 degree Celsius’ with the first threshold, i.e., ‘5 degree’ Celsius, and the maximum temperature, i.e., ’38 degree’ Celsius with the second threshold, i.e., ’40 degree’ Celsius, respectively, the second set of conditions may be identified. Based on the comparison, since each of the second set of conditions is identified, hence the second signal, i.e., the green color indication may be generated and rendered to the user. The green color indication may indicate to the user that the charging for the EV can be initiated.
[054] As will be also appreciated, the above-described techniques may take the form of computer or controller implemented processes and apparatuses for practicing those processes. The disclosure can also be embodied in the form of computer program code containing instructions embodied in tangible media, such as floppy diskettes, solid state drives, CD-ROMs, hard drives, or any other computer-readable storage medium, wherein, when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by a computer or controller, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the invention. The disclosure may also be embodied in the form of computer program code or signal, for example, whether stored in a storage medium, loaded into and/or executed by a computer or controller, or transmitted over some transmission medium, such as over electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics, or via electromagnetic radiation, wherein, when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the invention. When implemented on a general-purpose microprocessor, the computer program code segments configure the microprocessor to create specific logic circuits.
[055] Various embodiments provide a method and a system for assisting fast charging in EVs. The disclosed method and system may determine a minimum temperature recorded by a plurality of sensors associated with a battery pack in an EV and a maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors. Further, the disclosed method and system may compare the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold. In addition, the disclosed method and system may generate one of a first signal and a second signal based on comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold. The first signal may correspond to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration. The second signal may correspond to initiating charging of the EV. Thereafter, the disclosed method and system may render one of the first signal and the second signal generated to a user in the EV.
[056] Thus, the disclosed method and system try to overcome the technical problem of assisting fast charging in the EVs. The disclosed method and system may reduce risk of overheating or other safety hazards associated with battery packs of the EVs by ensuring that charging of a battery pack of an EV occurs only within safe temperature ranges. Further, the disclosed method and system may facilitate real-time feedback to the user regarding any specific condition that is preventing charging initiation in the EV at any given moment. Furthermore, the disclosed method and system may provide a signal to a user of the EV when they can initiate charging for the EV. This may ensure that charging occurs when the battery pack is within an optimal temperature range, maximizing charging efficiency and reducing overall charging time.
[057] In light of the above-mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the disclosed method and system, the claimed steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Further, the claimed steps clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the device itself as the claimed steps provide a technical solution to a technical problem.
[058] The specification has described a method and a system for assisting fast charging in EVs. The illustrated steps are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Alternatives (including equivalents, extensions, variations, deviations, etc., of those described herein) will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on the teachings contained herein. Such alternatives fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed embodiments.
[059] Furthermore, one or more computer-readable storage media may be utilized in implementing embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. A computer-readable storage medium refers to any type of physical memory on which information or data readable by a processor may be stored. Thus, a computer-readable storage medium may store instructions for execution by one or more processors, including instructions for causing the processor(s) to perform steps or stages consistent with the embodiments described herein. The term “computer-readable medium” should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals, i.e., be non-transitory. Examples include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, hard drives, CD ROMs, DVDs, flash drives, disks, and any other known physical storage media.
[060] It is intended that the disclosure and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of disclosed embodiments being indicated by the following claims.
, Claims:1. A method for assisting fast charging in Electrical Vehicles (EVs), the method comprising:
determining (302), by a control unit (102), a minimum temperature recorded by a plurality of sensors (108) associated with a battery pack in an EV and a maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors (108);
comparing (304), by the control unit (102), the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold;
generating (306), by the control unit (102), one of a first signal and a second signal based on comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold,
wherein the first signal corresponds to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration, and
wherein the second signal corresponds to initiating charging of the EV; and
rendering (308), by the control unit (102), one of the first signal and the second signal generated to a user in the EV.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein comparing (304) comprises identifying one of a first set of conditions, wherein the first set of conditions comprises:
the minimum temperature is below the first threshold; and
the maximum temperature is above the second threshold, wherein the first signal is generated when at least one of the first set of conditions is identified.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein comparing (304) comprises identifying a second set of conditions, wherein the second set of conditions comprises:
the minimum temperature being greater than equal to the first threshold; and
the maximum temperature being less than equal to the second threshold, wherein the second signal is generated when the second set of conditions is identified.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein generating (306) comprises:
determining, subsequent to generation of the first signal, expiry of the predetermined time duration; and
initiating the second signal after expiry of the predetermined time duration.

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the method comprises determining at least one ambient condition associated with EV.

6. The method as claimed in claim 5, wherein comparing (304) comprises:
matching each of the at least one ambient condition, the minimum temperature, and the maximum temperature with corresponding fields in a mapping table, wherein the mapping table comprises a plurality of time durations mapped to unique combinations of minimum temperatures, maximum temperatures, and ambient conditions; and
identifying the predetermined time duration based on the matching.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein rendering (308) comprises displaying, on an EV dashboard (110), a first color indication for the first signal and a second color indication for the second signal.

8. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) comprising:
a processor (106);
a memory (104) storing instructions that, when executed by the processor (106), cause the processor (106) to perform operations comprising:
determining (302) a minimum temperature recorded by a plurality of sensors (108) associated with a battery pack in an EV and a maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors (108);
comparing (304) the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold;
generating (306) one of a first signal and a second signal based on comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold,
wherein the first signal corresponds to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration, and
wherein the second signal corresponds to initiating charging of the EV; and
rendering (308) one of the first signal and the second signal generated to a user in the EV.

9. The ECU as claimed in claim 8, wherein instructions that, when executed by the processor (106), further cause the processor (106) to perform operations comprising:
identifying one of a first set of conditions, wherein the first set of conditions comprises:
the minimum temperature is below the first threshold; and
the maximum temperature is above the second threshold, wherein the first signal is generated when at least one of the first set of conditions is identified.

10. The ECU as claimed in claim 8, wherein instructions that, when executed by the processor (106), further cause the processor (106) to perform operations comprising:
identifying a second set of conditions, wherein the second set of conditions comprises:
the minimum temperature being greater than equal to the first threshold; and
the maximum temperature being less than equal to the second threshold, wherein the second signal is generated when the second set of conditions is identified.

11. A system for assisting fast charging in Electrical Vehicles (EVs), the system comprising:
a processor (106);
a memory (104) storing instructions that, when executed by the processor (106), cause the processor (106) to perform operations comprising:
determining (302) a minimum temperature recorded by a plurality of sensors (108) associated with a battery pack in an EV and a maximum temperature recorded by the plurality of sensors (108);
comparing (304) the minimum temperature with a first threshold and the maximum temperature with a second threshold;
generating (306) one of a first signal and a second signal based on comparing the minimum temperature with the first threshold and the maximum temperature with the second threshold,
wherein the first signal corresponds to deterrence from initiating charging of the EV and switching on the EV for a predetermined time duration, and
wherein the second signal corresponds to initiating charging of the EV; and
rendering (308) one of the first signal and the second signal generated to a user in the EV.