DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A MULTIPORT CHARGER FOR LIGHT ELECTRIC VEHICLES WITH INTEGRATED DOMESTIC POWER SUPPLY

Abstract

Power transfer in Electric Vehicle (EV) systems conventionally includes Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), Grid-toVehicle (G2V), and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) operations. However, this work introduces a novel perspective by utilizing a Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) as a mobile power transport unit for underprivileged and rural households. In this context, a multi-functional converter topology is proposed that enables LEV battery charging from both AC and DC sources, while also facilitating the supply of domestic loads directly from the LEV battery. The proposed system consists of an active-bridge-based single-stage AC/DC converter integrated with an auxiliary DC port. A key advantage of the topology is its reduced switch count while supporting multiple operational functionalities. The single-stage AC/DC conversion minimizes high-frequency switching devices, improving efficiency and reducing system complexity. Additionally, the DC/DC interface reuses partial converter circuitry to perform bidirectional power transfer without requiring extra high-frequency switches The converter operates in three distinct modes: (i) Mode I – LEV battery charging from the AC grid, (ii) Mode II – LEV battery charging from another EV or external DC battery source, and (iii) Mode III – Supplying household appliances from the LEV battery. Each operating mode is analyzed independently to evaluate system performance. The AC/DC interface ensures unity power factor operation and maintains low harmonic distortion. Simulation studies are carried out in the MATLAB/Simulink environment, and experimental validation is performed on a laboratory-scale prototype. The results confirm satisfactory operation in all modes, with grid current Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) maintained within the limits specified by IEC 61000-3-2 standards.