EVCS power switching following a catastrophic seismic event

摘要

An EVCS equipped with an accelerometer to detect seismic events. Upon sensing a catastrophic environmental event, the EVCS is automatically disconnected from the main utility power source. A controller powered by a backup or alternate power source inside the EVCS monitors the seismic activity, and upon sensing the seismic event is over, the EVCS automatically performs a startup check. If utility power is present and the self-check passes, the EVCS resets and provides power from the main utility to the charging connector. If the EVCS is operable but utility power is unavailable, the EVCS switches to a generator or a UPS. The EVCS can provide multiple power outlets, including USB outlets, and emergency lighting. The EVCS can also be retrofitted or constructed with a communications interface for communicating status and operational information following a seismic event.

主权项

1. An electric vehicle charging station (EVCS), comprising:
a pedestal including a docking station; an electrical connector assembly adapted to be received in the docking station and to connect a main power source to a rechargeable battery in a vehicle whose driveline is powered at least partially by the battery; an accelerometer configured to sense seismic activity and output an output signal indicative of the seismic activity; a switch configured to switch between the main power source and an alternate power source that is isolated from the main power source; a circuit breaker connected between the main power source and the electrical connector assembly; and a controller coupled to the accelerometer and to the switch, the controller receiving the output signal and being programmed to:
determine, based on at least the output signal, whether a seismic criterion is satisfied;in response to determining that the seismic criterion is satisfied, cause the circuit breaker to disconnect the electrical connector assembly from the main power source;responsive to causing the electrical connector assembly to be disconnected from the main power source, perform a system check of the EVCS to determine whether power can be restored to the EVCS following a catastrophic seismic event;responsive to determining that power can be restored to the EVCS following the catastrophic seismic event, determine whether to connect the EVCS to the main power source or to the alternate power source;responsive to a determination to connect the EVCS to the main power source, instruct the switch to connect the EVCS to the main power source; andresponsive to a determination to connect the EVCS to the alternate power source, instruct the switch to connect the EVCS to the alternate power source.