Optimized waveform charger module for smaller, efficient PHEVs
This technology is a smarter control method for the chargers used in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) that allows electricity to flow both into and out of the battery. It uses a specific pulse-width modulation waveform pattern that turns off part of the converter circuit during moments when no power is being delivered, eliminating a wasteful and damaging type of switching behavior called hard switching. The practical result is that the charger runs more efficiently and requires a much smaller — and cheaper — capacitor at the core of the circuit. Smaller capacitors mean smaller, lighter, and less expensive onboard charger hardware.
What you could build
A licensed onboard bidirectional charger module for PHEV and EV platforms that is physically smaller and more efficient than current designs; primary buyers would be Tier 1 automotive power electronics suppliers and EV OEM powertrain teams.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based defense and government fleet electrification programs, or Tier 1 automotive suppliers with regional engineering centers, would have practical interest in more efficient bidirectional charging hardware.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Lingxiao Xue, Paolo Mattavelli, Dushan Boroyevich
- Granted
- April 2, 2019
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 10250053
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.