Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to Solid-State Transformer-Based Fast Charging System with Adaptive Energy Management and Fault-Tolerant Control for Electric Vehicles
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The increasing adoption of EVs is driving the demand for fast, efficient, and reliable charging infrastructure. Traditional EV charging stations are founded on large transformers and passive filtering elements, which:
• Have lower efficiency and cause increased power losses.
•Don't have fault-tolerant mechanisms and so are susceptible to failures.
• Do not permit dynamic energy management, which reduces grid integration efficiency.
Solid-state transformers (SSTs) utilize high-frequency switching, space efficiency, and improved power quality, which are ideally suited for next-generation EV charging terminals. Nevertheless, existing SSTs do not typically incorporate adaptive energy management and fault-tolerant control, which are required to facilitate extensive EV integration and grid stability.
The primary objective of the present invention is to develop a high-efficiency Solid-State Transformer (SST)-based fast charging system for electric vehicles (EVs) with bidirectional power flow capabilities, enabling both grid-to-vehicle (G2V) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) operations. The system incorporates a multi-level modular SST architecture with soft-switching techniques (ZVS/ZCS) to reduce switching losses, enhance power quality, and improve overall efficiency. To ensure continuous and reliable operation, the invention features a fault-tolerant control module with redundant SST units and predictive fault detection algorithms, preventing downtime during component failures. Additionally, the system includes an adaptive energy management system (EMS) that dynamically optimizes power distribution from the grid, renewable sources, and energy storage systems, based on real-time factors such as EV State of Charge (SoC), load demand, and dynamic pricing. The invention also aims to enhance grid stability by reducing voltage fluctuations and harmonic distortion through dynamic power flow management. Its compact and scalable design makes it suitable for large-scale EV charging infrastructure, promoting energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reliable grid interaction.
Aspect Previous Problem Suggested Solution
Efficiency Limited optimization of power conversion stages and lack of use of high-efficiency materials in switching devices (US20190372465A1) Use wide bandgap semiconductors (SiC/GaN) for reduced switching losses; apply optimized power routing and thermal management strategies
Size and Weight Use of conventional transformer-based architectures without SST integration increases overall system size and limits modularity (JP2012080628A) Replace with compact solid-state transformers (SSTs); implement high-frequency designs and thermal optimization for reduced form factor
Fault Tolerance Heavy reliance on external fault detectors; lacks in-built diagnosis or redundancy for critical faults (JP2012080628A) Integrate AI/ML-based fault prediction and self-healing algorithms; embed modular fault-isolation circuits within each subsystem
Energy Management Absence of adaptive energy optimization or real-time load coordination strategies (US20190372465A1) Implement dynamic energy management using predictive algorithms and grid-responsive scheduling
Power Flow Communication-based EVSE coordination causes latency and desynchronization, affecting balanced power delivery (WO2022125492A1) Use time-sensitive networking protocols; adopt decentralized/localized control strategies to ensure consistent power flow management
Grid Stability Sudden high-current switching through solid-state devices can introduce grid transients and harmonics (US11884177B2) Apply soft-start and active damping controls; implement grid-friendly modulation techniques

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The proposed Solid-State Transformer-Based Fast Charging System with Adaptive Energy Management and Fault-Tolerant Control offers a high-efficiency, scalable, and grid-supportive solution for next-generation EV charging infrastructure. This invention addresses the key challenges of current EV charging stations by providing:
• Enhanced efficiency through SST technology.
• Grid stability with V2G operations.
• Fault-tolerant architecture for reliable performance.
• Optimized energy flow through adaptive EMS.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
FIGURE 1: SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE
FIGURE 2: OPERATIONAL WORKFLOW
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a",” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", “third”, and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The present invention relates to a Solid-State Transformer (SST)-Based Fast Charging System for electric vehicles (EVs), designed to deliver high efficiency, enhanced reliability, and bidirectional power flow for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and grid-to-vehicle (G2V) operations. Unlike conventional EV chargers, which rely on bulky transformers with limited fault tolerance, the proposed system features a multi-level modular SST architecture with soft-switching techniques (ZVS/ZCS), reducing switching losses and improving overall power quality. The invention incorporates an adaptive energy management system (EMS) that dynamically optimizes power distribution from the grid, renewable sources, and energy storage systems, ensuring efficient and flexible charging. The fault-tolerant control module uses redundant SST units and predictive fault detection algorithms to guarantee uninterrupted operation during component failures. Additionally, the system supports bidirectional power flow, providing grid stabilization by injecting power during low demand and charging EVs during off-peak hours. The compact and scalable design, combined with dynamic energy pricing optimization, makes the system ideal for large-scale EV charging infrastructure while enhancing grid stability and reducing harmonic distortion.
1. System Architecture:
The Solid-State Transformer (SST)-Based Fast Charging System for EVs combines medium-voltage AC input, multi-level modular SST conversion, and bidirectional power flow for G2V and V2G operation. Adaptive energy management system (EMS) dynamically optimizes power distribution, and fault-tolerant control module ensures fault-free operation with redundant SST units. The system improves charging efficiency, grid stability, and overall reliability.
The proposed system consists of the following components:
a) Multi-level modular SST:
• Transforms DC to low-voltage AC and medium-voltage AC to DC for charging EVs.
• Offers modular power stages for redundancy and scalability.
• Enables high-frequency operation for small size.
b) Adaptive Energy Management System (EMS):
• Balances power sharing between grid, renewables, and energy storage.
• Loads prediction algorithms and dynamic energy pricing optimization.
c) Fault-Tolerant Control Module:
• Contains redundant SST modules to avoid operational failure.
• Utilizes predictive fault detection algorithms.
• Offers continuous charging with self-healing modules.
d) Bidirectional Power Flow:
• Both G2V and V2G operations are supported.
• Increases the grid stability by pumping power back into the grid during low demand.
e) Soft-Switching Techniques:
• Zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and zero-current switching (ZCS) reduce switching losses very efficiently.
• Improves efficiency and prolongs component life.
2. Operational Workflow:
• The power conversion unit employs multi-level SST modules for high efficiency and miniaturization.
• The soft-switching methods (ZVS/ZCS) reduce switching losses, increase system efficiency, and extend the life of components.
• The Adaptive EMS dispatches energy in real-time from the grid, renewables, and storage assets, optimally charging for maximum demand-based and EV SoC.
• The fault-tolerant control module guarantees reliability by activating redundant SST modules during component failures.
• Two-way power flow facilitates V2G capability, with EVs feeding power back into the grid during low-demand periods, improving grid stability.
• Feedback and real-time monitoring ensure constant performance optimization by monitoring power quality, current, and voltage.
The detailed explanation related to the flowchart is presented below.
a) Power Conversion:
• The renewable source/grid supplies the SST with medium-voltage AC.
• The SST does AC to DC conversion, followed by a DC-AC conversion for the EV charger.
b) Adaptive Energy Distribution:
• The EMS dynamically regulates power flow in accordance with EV SoC, grid conditions, and energy prices.
• It emphasizes renewable energy and reduces grid reliance.
c) Fault-Tolerant Control:
• The system will transition automatically to redundant SST modules in the event of module failure to ensure uninterrupted operation.
• Self-healing algorithms identify and encapsulate faults.
d) Bidirectional Power Flow:
• Allows V2G during grid requires excess powers, providing stability.
• G2V mode charges EVs during low grid demand.
NOVELTY:
a) Modular SST using Multi-Level Architecture: A Multi-Level Solid-State Transformer (SST) with modular architecture enhances power conversion system efficiency and scalability tremendously. The modular architecture facilitates easier maintenance and expansion, while the multi-level architecture minimizes voltage stress and harmonics, resulting in enhanced power quality. Additionally, the architecture minimizes switching losses and enhances the overall system reliability.
b) Bidirectional Power Flow: The new power systems must handle energy in flexible manners, and bidirectional power flow can enable both Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Grid-to-Vehicle (G2V) operations.
c) Adaptive Energy Management System (EMS): Adaptive EMS adjusts power distribution dynamically based on real-time conditions. It helps in load balancing, efficient power supply to different loads, and maximum energy utilization. Dynamic energy pricing, where electricity prices change based on demand and supply, to the benefit of both consumers and grid operators, is also part of it.
d) Fault-Tolerant Control: For uninterrupted operation, power electronics systems employ a fault-tolerant control technique. With redundant modules, the system will continue to operate even if one module fails. This technique enhances the reliability and lifespan of the power conversion system and is appropriate for mission-critical applications such as smart grids and renewable energy systems.
e) Soft-Switching Techniques: Soft-switching techniques, including Zero-Voltage Switching (ZVS) and Zero-Current Switching (ZCS), assist in reducing the switching losses of power converters. Soft-switching techniques minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and heat dissipation, thus optimizing overall efficiency and the life cycle of power electronic devices. Smooth switching transitions, ensured by soft-switching, greatly enhance high-frequency converter performance.
, Claims:1. A Solid-State Transformer (SST)-Based Fast Charging System for electric vehicles (EVs), comprising: Multilevel modular SST, Adaptive Energy Management System (EMS), Fault-Tolerant Control Module, Bidirectional Power Flow and Soft-Switching Techniques.
2. The system as claimed as claim 1, wherein the system designed to deliver high efficiency, enhanced reliability, and bidirectional power flow for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and grid-to-vehicle (G2V) operations.
3. The system as claimed as claim 1, wherein the system features a multi-level modular SST architecture with soft-switching techniques (ZVS/ZCS), reducing switching losses and improving overall power quality.
4. The system as claimed as claim 1, wherein the system incorporates an adaptive energy management system (EMS) that dynamically optimizes power distribution from the grid, renewable sources, and energy storage systems, ensuring efficient and flexible charging.
5. The system as claimed as claim 1, wherein the system supports bidirectional power flow, providing grid stabilization by injecting power during low demand and charging EVs during off-peak hours.
6. The system as claimed as claim 1, wherein the Soft-switching techniques including Zero-Voltage Switching (ZVS) and Zero-Current Switching (ZCS), assist in reducing the switching losses of power converters.
7. The system as claimed as claim 1, wherein the adaptive EMS dispatches energy in real-time from the grid, renewables, and storage assets, optimally charging for maximum demand-based and EV SoC.