Software lock for securing the EVSE to EV charging connector

Abstract

The present invention discloses a software lock for protecting the charging connection of an EVSE to an EV. A connector of a software lock socket includes a controller and a memory electrically connected to the controller. During the time when a user connects the connector to the socket, the controller generates a stored record and stores the stored record in the memory. During the time when the user attempts to disconnect the connector, the controller generates a re-acquired record. In response to the re-acquired record matching the stored record, the controller unlocks the connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to recharging an electric vehicle (EV) using a detachable charging connector and cable arrangement while the EV is stationary, and more particularly, to systems and methods for preventing unauthorized removal of a charging connector from a charging port on an EV. Background Art

[0002] An electric vehicle (EV), whether implemented as a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), includes a storage device, such as a battery, supercapacitor, or other similar device, that stores electrical energy at a high voltage. When the EV is in operation, the electrical energy storage device is discharged and needs to be recharged. In locations such as a home driveway, a work parking area, or a commercial charging station, where the owner or other authorized personnel may not be able to directly or indirectly control the EV, the electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) system can be used to perform recharging of the EV electrical energy storage device when the EV is stationary.

[0003] An EVSE system typically includes a power supply subsystem electrically connected (e.g., engaged) to a large-scale power grid and a computer-controlled charger (e.g., a power source) electrically engaged to a conductive cable (i.e., conductors, wires, etc.) terminated in a connector (i.e., a plug, a socket, etc.). The connector removably engages (e.g., connects, inserts, hooks, embeds, combines, mates, etc.) a socket (e.g., a port, a charging port, an input, a socket, a connector, etc.) on the EV so that the EV electrical energy storage device can be recharged from the power source. The cable may include electrical conductors to provide two-way electrical communication between the charger controller, the connector, and the EV. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of the communications between the charger controller, the connector, and the EV may be implemented wirelessly through a device such as a remote key, a cell phone, a smart phone, etc.

[0004] Of course, because there are costs associated with providing electricity, there is a need to prevent unauthorized EVSE use. The EVSE system and EV may include a latch device that is used to lock the EVSE connector into the EV socket, and only authorized personnel can perform unlocking. Therefore, some form of authorization is sometimes implemented in one or more steps of the charging process before the EVSE controller will permit the following actions, such as: connecting the EVSE connector to the EV socket, locking the EVSE connector to the EV socket, turning on the power in the EVSE conductors and connectors, unlocking the EVSE connector from the EV socket, thereby allowing the EVSE connector to become released from the EV socket (e.g., disconnected, disengaged, unplugged, unhooked, etc.). However, traditional techniques for preventing unauthorized disconnection of the EVSE connector from the authorized user's EV (such as, mechanical locks actuated by physical keys, electronic remote key signals, etc.) can be inconvenient or cumbersome for authorized users. Summary of the invention

[0005] A method of software locking a connector to a socket on an electric vehicle (EV) includes: during a user connecting the connector to the socket, the socket is electrically connected to a controller, the controller acquires a biometric record from the user, stores the biometric record in a memory as a stored biometric record, and locks the connector to the socket. The method also includes: in response to the user attempting to disconnect the connector, the controller generates a reacquired biometric record; in response to the reacquired biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; in response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the connector remains locked.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method also includes: the memory includes a pre-stored password stored in the memory, in response to the re-acquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the controller generates a re-acquired biometric record for up to X re-acquisition attempts; in response to the re-acquired biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; in response to the re-acquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record after X re-acquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the connector remains locked; the controller requests the user to provide an input password; in response to the input password matching the pre-stored password, the controller unlocks the connector; in response to the input password not matching the pre-stored password after X input attempts, the connector remains locked; the controller requests the user to perform an alternative lock override; and in response to receiving an alternative lock override, the controller unlocks the connector.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the connector further includes: a shell having a biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device mounted on the top of the shell, the biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device communicating with the controller and configured to acquire stored biometric records and retrieved biometric records and provide tactile feedback to the user; a visual indicator mounted on the top of the shell, communicating with the controller and configured to provide visual feedback to the user; and a first keyboard mounted on the side of the shell, communicating with the controller and configured to acquire an input password from the user.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the EV also includes: a door panel outside the EV, a socket installed on the EV and behind the door panel, a second keyboard, which electrically communicates with the socket and electrically communicates with the controller through the electrical connection of the connector to the socket, and is configured to obtain a password input from a user, and the second keyboard is installed in one of the following positions: (i) on the outer surface of the EV and near the socket and (ii) adjacent to the socket and behind the door panel; and the charging station also includes: a third keyboard, which communicates with the controller and is configured to obtain a password input from a user.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the controller indicates to the user that the biometric record has been stored by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record matches the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; when there are less than X re-acquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a first type of negative visual display and a second type of tactile signal; after X or more re-acquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal. the controller indicates to the user that the entered password matches the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal when there are less than X input attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a first type of negative visual display and a second type of tactile signal when there are X or more input attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal when there are X or more input attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal; the controller indicates to the user that an alternative lock override has been received and is successful by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the biometric record includes at least one of a thumbprint, a finger fingerprint, a palm print, a retinal image, a facial image, a voice, and a voice and a code word.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the alternative lock override includes at least one of an electronic remote key fob signal, an override command provided via a testing and diagnostic device, and a physical key actuated by a physical key.

[0012] A connector of a software-locked socket includes: a controller and a memory electrically connected to the controller. During a user engaging the connector to the socket, the controller generates a stored record and stores the stored record in the memory. During a user attempting to disconnect the connector, the controller generates a retrieved record. And in response to the retrieved record matching the stored record, the controller unlocks the connector.

[0013] A software lock system for securing a charging connector to an electric vehicle (EV) includes: a charging station, a cable, and a socket on the EV, wherein the charging station includes a controller electrically connected to a memory and configured to control the system in response to a program stored in the memory and information received from a user, and the cable is electrically connected to the controller and terminates at the connector. The connector is configured to be matingly connected and locked to the socket. During the user's connection, the connector and the socket are electrically connected to the controller, the controller obtains a biometric record from the user and stores the biometric record in the memory as a stored biometric record, and locks the connector into the socket. In response to the user attempting to disconnect the connector, the controller generates a re-acquired biometric record. In response to the re-acquired biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector. In response to the re-acquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the connector remains locked.

[0014] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the memory includes a pre-stored password stored in the memory; in response to a reacquired biometric record not matching a stored biometric record, the controller indicates to a user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the controller generates a reacquired biometric record for up to X reacquisition attempts; in response to the reacquired biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; in response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record after X reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the connector remains locked; the controller requests the user to provide an input password, and in response to the input password matching the pre-stored password, the controller unlocks the connector; in response to the input password not matching the pre-stored password after X input attempts, the connector remains locked; the controller requests the user to perform an alternative lock override; in response to receiving an alternative lock override, the controller unlocks the connector.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the connector also includes: a shell, having a biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device installed on the top of the shell and communicating with the controller, and the biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device is configured to obtain stored biometric records and retrieved biometric records and provide tactile feedback to the user; a visual indicator, installed on the top of the shell, communicating with the controller, and configured to provide visual feedback to the user; a first keyboard, installed on the side of the shell, communicating with the controller, and configured to obtain an input password from the user.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the EV also includes: a door panel located outside the EV and the socket is mounted on the EV and behind the door panel, a second keyboard that electrically communicates with the socket and electrically communicates with the controller through the electrical connection of the connector to the socket, and is configured to obtain a password entered from a user, the second keyboard being mounted at one of the following locations: (i) on the outer surface of the EV and near the socket and (ii) adjacent to the socket and behind the door panel; the charging station also includes a third keyboard that communicates with the controller and is configured to obtain a password entered from a user.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the controller indicates to the user that the biometric record has been stored by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record matches the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; when there are less than X re-acquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a first type of negative visual display and a second type of tactile signal; after X or more re-acquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the re-acquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal. the biometric record does not match the stored biometric record; the controller indicates to the user that the entered password matches the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; when there are less than X input attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a first type of negative visual display and a second type of tactile signal; when there are X or more input attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal; the controller indicates to the user that an alternative lock override has been received and is successful by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the biometric record includes at least one of a thumbprint, a finger fingerprint, a palm print, a retinal image, a facial image, a voice, and a voice and a code word.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the alternative lock override includes at least one of an electronic remote key fob signal, an override command provided via a testing and diagnostic device, and a physical key-actuated mechanical lock. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1is a schematic diagram showing an isometric view of the left, rear, and top of an electric vehicle charging system according to one or more embodiments, the electric vehicle charging system including an electric vehicle having a charging port and a power supply subsystem having a cable having an electrical plug connected to the electric vehicle;

[0021] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a left side view of a charging port on an electric vehicle and a left side view of an electrical plug having a latch mechanism at the terminal, a biometric sensor and visual display at the top, and a keypad at the side according to one or more embodiments;

[0022] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an implementation of an electrical plug according to one or more embodiments, the electrical plug connected to an electric vehicle, wherein the electrical plug has a keypad on the left side and includes a biometric sensor and a visual display on the top;

[0023] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an implementation of a keypad on a vehicle panel and near a charging port according to one or more embodiments;

[0024] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an implementation of a keyboard near a charging port according to one or more embodiments;

[0025] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method of preventing unauthorized disengagement between an electrical plug and a charging port on an electric vehicle according to one or more embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] As required, specific embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present invention and that the present invention may be implemented in various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale; some features may be exaggerated or reduced to show details of particular components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to utilize the present invention in various ways.

[0027] The present disclosure is directed to embodiments of a system and method for a software lock for securing a charging connector on an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) subsystem to a socket on an electric vehicle (EV). As detailed below and shown in the accompanying drawings, the embodiments generally provide improved technical effects related to securing a charging connector on an EVSE subsystem to a socket on an EV by reducing or preventing unauthorized disengagement of the connector from the socket.

[0028] Elements of embodiments of the systems and subsystems of the present disclosure may include (but are not necessarily included in all embodiments) and are not limited to:

[0029] 100: Software lock system for securing the EVSE charging connector to the EV;

[0030] 102: An electric vehicle (EV) having an outer surface (e.g., an exterior) and an interior defined within the outer surface;

[0031] 104: Not used;

[0032] 106: Not used;

[0033] 108: Not used;

[0034] 110: body panel opening on the exterior of EV 102;

[0035] 112: Door panel on the outside of EV 102;

[0036] 114: a first (or EV body) touchpad / keyboard device (i.e., a first I / O device);

[0037] 116: Not used;

[0038] 118: Not used;

[0039] 120: charging (or charging) socket (i.e., port, socket, etc.);

[0040] 122: Not used;

[0041] 124: Not used;

[0042] 126: Charging input module;

[0043] 128: Electrical energy storage devices (e.g., batteries, supercapacitors, etc.);

[0044] 130: Vehicle Control Unit (VCU);

[0045] 132: a first (or first I / O device to charging input module) electrical interconnection cable (eg, wire, conductor, etc.) (ie, first cable);

[0046] 134: Second (or socket to charging input module) electrical interconnect cable (ie, second cable);

[0047] 136: a third (or electrical energy storage device to charging input module) electrical interconnection cable (i.e., a third cable);

[0048] 138: fourth (or VCU to charging input module) electrical interconnection cable (ie, fourth cable);

[0049] 140: Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) (e.g., power supply) subsystem;

[0050] 142: Charging station;

[0051] 144: Power charging connector (e.g., plug);

[0052] 148: fifth (or charging connector to charging station) electrical interconnection cable (i.e., fifth cable or charging cable);

[0053] 150: Power supply;

[0054] 152: controller;

[0055] 154: Computer memory;

[0056] 156: Not used;

[0057] 158: Not used;

[0058] 160: housing (of the connector 144);

[0059] 162: handle area (of connector 144);

[0060] 164: nose portion (of the connector 144);

[0061] 166: latch arm (of connector 144);

[0062] 168: a release lever (eg, a trigger, a lever, etc.) (of the connector 144);

[0063] 170: Not used;

[0064] 172: Not used;

[0065] 174: finger / thumb button / biometric sensor (reader) input / tactile feedback output device (i.e., second I / O device);

[0066] 176: visual display / indicator (i.e., third I / O device);

[0067] 178: a second (or charging connector) keyboard / touchpad device (i.e., a fourth I / O device);

[0068] 180: a sixth (or second I / O device to charging station) electrical interconnection cable (ie, sixth cable);

[0069] 182: Not used;

[0070] 184: Not used;

[0071] 186: a seventh (or third I / O device to charging station) electrical interconnect cable (ie, seventh cable); and

[0072] 188: an eighth (or fourth I / O device to charging station) electrical interconnection cable (ie, an eighth cable);

[0073] 189–299: Not used.

[0074] Elements of embodiments of the methods (e.g., processes, steps, routines, etc.) of the present disclosure may include (but are not necessarily included in all embodiments) and are not limited to:

[0075] 300: A software lock method for fixing the charging connector of the EVSE to the EV;

[0076] 310: Step-Insert the connector into the EV socket;

[0077] 320: Step - Obtain and store biometric record, issue positive visual / tactile feedback;

[0078] 330: Step - Re-acquiring biometric records and comparing with stored biometric records;

[0079] 340: Step - Mating, positive visual display / tactile feedback, connector unlocked and can be removed from EV;

[0080] 350: Step - No match, locked, issued negative feedback, connector remains locked, request to re-acquire biometric record up to X times;

[0081] 360: Step – In response to X unmatched attempts, issue negative feedback and request password entry;

[0082] 370: Step – receiving the input password and comparing it with the pre-stored password;

[0083] 372: Step – Match, Override Lock, Jump to step 340;

[0084] 374: Step – No match, issue negative feedback, lock hold, request password up to X times;

[0085] 376: Step - In response to X mismatch attempts, give negative feedback and request an alternative lock override;

[0086] 378 : Step – Receive valid alternative lock override, jump to step 372 .

[0087] A user (e.g., a driver, operator, owner, lessee, chauffeur, etc.) typically uses the software lock method 300 to operate the software lock system 100. The user is typically an authorized person who has a biometric feature (e.g., at least one of a thumbprint, fingerprint, palm print, retinal image, facial image, voice, speech, and password word, etc.) and knows one or more previously approved unique alphanumeric character passwords for identification and operation of the system 100. In a system such as the system 100 described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings, the input, approval, authorization, storage, retrieval, etc. of such biometric features and unique access passwords may be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0088] Furthermore, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a software lock is a lock that has the ability to unlock a device without the use of physical hardware (such as a mechanical key and lock device). Software lock mechanisms may include, but are not limited to: biometric sensors, scanners, readers, input and / or output (I / O) devices (e.g., thumbprint / fingerprint / palmprint scanners, facial recognition scanners, retinal image scanners, voice recognition and password word sensors, etc.); keys or touch keyboards for entering a unique access password (e.g., 3, 4, 5, or 6 digits / characters); feedback devices such as visual displays and tactile devices; and similar devices implemented by operating and control processing implemented using an appropriate controller (e.g., controller 152). As used throughout this document, the term I / O device applies to devices that can be implemented to perform input, output, or input and output functions, and this usage will be understood by those skilled in the art based on the context of the described implementation and configuration. In addition, when the visual display and tactile device provide feedback to the user, the feedback is typically presented and lasts for a limited time interval (e.g., two to ten seconds); however, those skilled in the art will understand, based on the context of the described implementations and configurations, that the feedback may be presented and last for shorter or longer time intervals.

[0089] With respect to the issued patents and published patent applications (if any) incorporated herein by reference, those skilled in the art will understand that such references are included only in part as examples of the types of technology that may be implemented in accordance with the referenced content and are not intended as limitations or mandates on the disclosed embodiments.

[0090] Reference Figure 1 , a schematic diagram showing a software lock system 100, an electric vehicle (EV) 102 (shown in phantom for clarity of other components), and an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) subsystem 140 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments. Figure 1Examples of components, relationships, and positions of components are shown. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, alternative components, relationships, positions, and features may be implemented within the scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0091] The electric vehicle (EV) 102 may be implemented as a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The exterior of the EV 102 includes a body panel opening 110 and a door panel 112. The door panel 112 is typically implemented to close the body panel opening 110 (for clarity of the drawing, the closed position of the door panel is not shown).

[0092] EV 102 also includes a touchpad / keyboard (first I / O) device 114, a charging socket 120, a charging input module 126, a power storage device (battery) 128, a vehicle control unit (VCU) 130, a first electrical interconnection cable (first cable) 132, a second electrical interconnection cable (second cable) 134, a third electrical interconnection cable (third cable) 136, and a fourth electrical interconnection cable (fourth cable) 138. Although the power storage device 128 can be implemented as any suitable power storage device or medium (e.g., one or more batteries, battery cells, battery packs, supercapacitors, etc.) for convenience, the term battery 128 is generally used here, but this use is not a limitation of the energy storage device that can be implemented in the embodiment. In addition, as those skilled in the art understand, the battery 128 is generally electrically coupled (connected) to one or more electric motors to provide traction propulsion to the EV 102, and is electrically coupled (connected) to other electric drive devices (not shown for clarity).

[0093] The first I / O device 114 is typically accessible and operable by a user from the outside of the EV 102. The first I / O device 114 may be implemented as a keyboard having three to six input keys (buttons). The first I / O device 114 is typically placed (e.g., mounted, positioned, etc.) on an outer surface of the EV 102 and close to the body panel opening 110 (i.e., close to the body panel opening 110, adjacent to the body panel opening 110, close to the body panel opening 110, within easy access to the body panel opening 110, etc. as understood by those skilled in the art) to be accessible during the recharging process steps (specifically, as described below with reference to Figure 6 The user is provided with easy (e.g., ready, unobstructed, direct, etc.) access to the touchpad / keyboard device 114 during step 360 of the method 300 discussed. The location of the first I / O device 114 is typically less than 0.5 m from the body panel opening 110, and more often less than 0.25 m. Although the body panel opening 110, the door panel 112, and the first I / O device 114 are shown as being placed in the left rear area of ​​the EV 102, embodiments are not limited to being arranged only in this location. As described below with reference to Figure 5As discussed, in an embodiment the first I / O device 114 may be placed on the EV 102 and in proximity to the outlet 120 .

[0094] The charging receptacle 120 is typically placed (e.g., mounted, positioned, etc.) within the EV 102 and inside the body panel opening 110 (i.e., below the exterior surface of the EV 102). When the door panel 112 is in the open position, the charging receptacle 120 is typically accessible to the user from the exterior of the EV 102. The first cable 132, the second cable 134, the third cable 136, and the fourth cable 138 are typically placed inside the exterior surface of the EV 102. As described below with reference to Figure 2 As discussed, the receptacle 120 is sized and shaped to mechanically and electrically engage (eg, mate, connect, etc.) with the plug 144 .

[0095] The touchpad / keyboard (first I / O) device 114 is in electrical communication (i.e., electrically connected) with the charging input module 126 via a first electrical interconnect cable (first cable) 132. The charging socket 120 is in electrical communication (i.e., electrically connected) with the charging input module 126 via a second electrical interconnect cable (second cable) 134. The charging input module 126 is also in electrical communication with the battery 128 via a third cable 136, and is in electrical communication with the VCU 130 via a fourth electrical interconnect cable (fourth cable) 138. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the socket 120 may be directly electrically connected to the battery 128. Electrical communication generally includes communication and transmission of signals and power, and may include wires of various situations within the cable (e.g., a wire bundle with multiple branches).

[0096] EVSE 140 includes a charging station 142, a power charging connector 144, and a fifth electrical interconnect cable (fifth or charging cable) 148. Charging station 142 is in electrical communication (i.e., electrically connected) with power charging connector 144 via fifth cable 148. That is, fifth cable 148 terminates at connector 144. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, charging station 142 is also typically in electrical communication (i.e., electrically connected) with a power source (not shown for clarity) such as a power grid, a solar cell array, a wind turbine array, etc.

[0097] The charging station 142 includes a power source 150 and a controller 152 connected by a second cable 134, the controller 152 including (i.e., typically directly electrically connected internally) a memory 154. The controller 152 is electrically connected to the memory 154, and the controller 152 is typically configured to control the operation of the software lock security system 100 through a computer program (e.g., executable instructions) and instructions from a user. The second cable 134 is electrically connected between the power source 150 and the controller 152 and the memory 154, and typically provides electrical communication between the charging input module 126 and the controller 152 and the memory 154.

[0098] In an embodiment, the charging station 142 may also include a second keyboard / touchpad (ie, fourth I / O) device 178 and an implementation of an eighth cable 188 (described below with reference to FIG. Figure 2 100). An eighth cable 188 is typically electrically connected between the fourth I / O device 178 and the controller 152. The keyboard 114 and keyboard 178 (regardless of where they are located) are typically configured to provide a user with the ability to input information into the system 100. Embodiments may include multiple location instances of the keyboard 114 and keyboard 178 to provide ease of use to the user.

[0099] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the controller 152 (e.g., processor) disclosed herein generally includes one or more of the following: a programmable (e.g., programmed) computer processing unit (i.e., CPU, microprocessor, etc.); a memory 154 capable of reading (retrieval) and writing (storage), wherein the memory 154 may be any physical manufactured product including an independent memory device, and may include partitions, wherein the data, information, programs, records, files, etc. stored in the partitions are non-transitory (permanent) and alternatively temporary (non-persistent); analog and digital input and output (i.e., interface, I / O, etc.) devices; firmware; logic circuits; and software (i.e., programs). The power electronic devices including the controller 152 and the memory 154 generally communicate electrically with each other (e.g., electrically connected by wires, or alternatively connected wirelessly) and with peripheral devices and equipment (e.g., sensors, actuators, I / O devices, etc.) external to the processor (e.g., electrically connected by wires, or alternatively connected wirelessly). The controller 152 typically performs operations (e.g., methods, routines, steps, processes, controls, etc.) in accordance with instructions provided in a program (e.g., a program for control, executable instructions, etc.) and instructions manually provided by a user. The operations performed by the controller 152 and related devices, assemblies, components, components, etc. may be illustrated and described in the form of text, flow charts, graphics (e.g., diagrams, drawings, etc.), tables, etc., and any combination thereof. The controller 152 may be implemented as a stand-alone unit or alternatively as a distributed component. The configuration of the controller 152 and related devices is typically appropriately selected (selected, obtained, adjusted, modified, etc.) according to the design criteria of a particular implementation that will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

[0100] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the controller features of the charge input module 126 and the VCU 130 may be implemented similarly to the controller 152. The charge input module 126 may include additional components and features that provide step-up / step-down, electrical isolation, filtering, electrical communications, switching, buffering, etc. The VCU 130 may include additional components and features that provide control, monitoring, sensor input and actuator output processing, communication, etc. functionality associated with additional components, assemblies, components, etc. implemented in the EV 102.

[0101] Reference Figure 2 , a schematic diagram showing a left view of the charging port 120 on the EV 102 and a left view of the electrical plug 144 according to one or more embodiments is shown. The connector 144 generally includes a housing 160, a second cable 134, a sixth cable 180, a seventh cable 186, an eighth cable 188, a latch arm 166, a release lever 168, a finger / thumb button / biometric sensor (reader) input / tactile feedback output (i.e., a second I / O) device 174, a visual display / indicator (i.e., a third I / O) device 176, and a second keyboard / touchpad (i.e., a fourth I / O) device 178.

[0102] The housing 160 also includes and is generally configured to mechanically define and position the handle area 162, the nose portion 164; and mechanically retain and position the latch arm 166, the release lever 168, the finger / thumb keyboard / biometric sensor (reader) input / tactile feedback output (i.e., second I / O) device 174, the visual display / indicator (i.e., third I / O) device 176, and the second keyboard / touchpad (i.e., fourth I / O) device 178. The housing 160 is also generally configured to cover and protect the second cable 134, the sixth cable 180, the seventh cable 186, and the eighth cable 188. The rear portion of the housing 160 provides a mechanical interface between the connector 144 and the cable 148. The second cable 134, the sixth cable 180, the seventh cable 186, and the eighth cable 188 extend through the housing 160 via the cable 148 and are electrically connected to the charging station 142 (and thus to the controller 152).

[0103] The handle area 162 of the housing 160 generally provides an area for a user to grasp and manipulate the plug 144. The nose portion 164 includes connector terminals (not shown for clarity) and is sized and shaped to mechanically and electrically engage the charging port 120 when the user engages the connector 144 with the receptacle 120. The latch arm 166 is sized and shaped to mechanically engage the charging port 120 and lock the connector 144 to the receptacle 120. The mechanical and electrical engagement between the receptacle 120 and the plug 144 and some details of the latch may be implemented in a manner similar to that shown and described, for example, in the EV connector and receptacle mechanism connection shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 8,075,329, issued on December 13, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Likewise, in another embodiment, some details of the mechanical and electrical engagement and latching between the receptacle 120 and the plug 144 may be implemented in a manner similar to the EV connector and receptacle mechanism connection shown and described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 8,932,072, issued Jan. 13, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Although shown as a hook handle that locks to the latch arm 166 of the receptacle 120, in an alternative embodiment (not shown), the latch mechanism between the charging connector 144 and the EV 102 may be implemented with any other physical security lock mechanism controlled by the controller 152, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0104] A release lever (trigger) 168 is located at the bottom of the housing 160, forward of the handle region 162, to provide a user with a thumb or finger grip (see also Figure 3 ) is convenient to use. Under appropriate conditions (see below Figure 5 As described in method 300 , compressing the trigger 168 inwardly (rotating as shown in dashed lines) may unlock the connector 144 from the receptacle 120 so that the connector 144 may be disengaged from the receptacle 120 and removed from the receptacle 120 .

[0105] A second I / O device 174 is disposed on top of the housing 160 to provide a user with a thumb or finger for manipulation (see also Figure 3 ) for convenient use. Embodiments may include a second I / O device 174, which is implemented as a combined keyboard, biometric sensor / reader, and tactile feedback device. The second I / O device 174 may be implemented as a combined keyboard / tactile feedback device, such as shown and described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2009 / 0207129 published on August 20, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The second I / O device 174 may be implemented as a combined keyboard / tactile feedback device, such as shown and described in U.S. Patent Application No. 9,352,652 issued on May 31, 2016 (specifically in Figure 4and Column 6, Line 61 to Column 7, Line 9) shown and described herein. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the second I / O device 174 may be implemented with any suitable biometric sensor / reader device.

[0106] A visual display / indicator (third I / O device) 176 may also be located on the top of the housing 160 to provide a user with convenient visualization. The third I / O device 176 may be implemented as an LED, a bulb, a light bar, a light panel, or any other suitable visual indicator.

[0107] The second (or charging connector) keyboard / touchpad device (i.e., the fourth I / O device) 178 is typically located on the left side of the connector housing 160 to provide a user with convenient finger-operated use. However, the fourth I / O device 178 can be located in other locations, such as the right side of the connector housing 160 or on the charging station 142 (e.g., Figure 1 100 ). The fourth I / O device 178 may be implemented as a keyboard having three to six input keys (buttons). The keyboard 114 and keyboard 178 are generally configured to provide the user with the ability to input information into the system 100 regardless of location.

[0108] The second electrical cable 134 may provide electrical communication between the charging input module 126 and the controller 152 via an electrical connection established when the plug 144 is mated with the receptacle 120 .

[0109] The sixth cable 180 is generally electrically connected between the second I / O device 174 and the controller 152 through the fifth cable 148. The seventh cable 186 is generally electrically connected between the third I / O device 176 and the controller 152 through the fifth cable 148. The eighth cable 188 is generally electrically connected between the fourth I / O device 178 and the controller 152 through the fifth cable 148.

[0110] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that while the controller 152 may be described as controlling the system 100 in response to data and / or programs stored in a non-transitory area of ​​the memory 154, data and / or programs stored in a temporary area of ​​the memory 154, and instructions received from a user, since the system 100 is an interconnected system, signals, data, information, instructions, etc. related to the operation and control of the system 100 may be shared and communicated between any of the controllers 126, 130, and 152 and related components via interconnecting cables 132, 134, 136, 138, 148, 180, 186, and 188, or alternatively wirelessly. For example, electrical communications for monitoring and control may be accomplished via a controller area network (CAN) bus system as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0111] Reference Figure 3 , a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an electrical plug 144 connected to a charging port 120 of an EV 102, typically held by a user, is shown. According to one or more embodiments, the electrical plug 144 includes a second keypad (e.g., a fourth I / O device) 178 on the left side, and also includes a biometric sensor (e.g., a second I / O device) 174 and a visual display (e.g., a third I / O device) 176 on the top.

[0112] Reference Figure 4 , a schematic diagram of an implementation of a first I / O device (e.g., a first keyboard) 114 is shown. According to one or more embodiments, the first I / O device 114 is shown mounted on an exterior surface of the EV 102 and adjacent to the body panel opening 110. The door panel 112 is in an open position and provides access to the receptacle 120 through the body panel opening 110.

[0113] Reference Figure 5 , a schematic diagram of an implementation of a first I / O device (e.g., a first keypad) 114 is shown. According to one or more embodiments, the first I / O device 114 is shown mounted next to (i.e., near, proximate, adjacent to, or adjacent to) the charging port 120, below the exterior surface of the EV 102, and behind the door panel 112 in a closed position. For clarity, the door panel 112 is shown in an open position and provides a user with access to the receptacle 120 and the keypad 114 through the body panel opening 110.

[0114] Overall reference Figures 1 to 5 , the receptacle 120 is configured to matingly receive the connector 144. Insertion of the nose portion 164 of the connector 144 into the receptacle 120 (e.g., step 310 of the method 300) is typically performed by a user and, under the control of the controller 152, typically results in the connector 144 being locked into the receptacle 120 via the latch arm 166. Insertion of the connector 144 into the receptacle 120 typically provides electrical communication between the charging input module 126, the VCU 130, and the charging station 142 (e.g., the controller 152), and completes direct-connect electrical communication through the system 100.

[0115] Reference Figure 6, a flowchart of a software lock method 300 for preventing unauthorized disconnection between an electric plug 144 and a charging port 120 on an electric vehicle 102 is shown according to one or more embodiments. The software lock method 300 generally includes steps (e.g., boxes, operations, etc.) 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370, 372, 374, 376, and 378, which are generally executed by software (programs) stored in a non-transitory manner in the memory 154 under the control of the controller 152. However, some steps of the method 300 can be performed according to information (e.g., data, records, etc.) stored in a temporary area of ​​the memory 154 and retrieved from the temporary area. In addition, some steps of the method 300 can be performed according to instructions and information (e.g., data, records, etc.) obtained from a user.

[0116] Prior to executing the software lock method 300, the user typically has stored one or more valid passwords (e.g., pre-stored passwords including alphanumeric characters, etc.) in the memory 154, which may provide an alternative technique for unlocking the connector 144 from the socket 120 to override (e.g., disable, deactivate, etc.) a lock condition (e.g., a condition in which the software lock system 100 prevents the connector 144 from being unlocked from the socket 120). In addition, embodiments of the software lock system 100 may implement alternative activities to unlock the connector 144 from the socket 120, such as unlocking by a valid signal provided by an electronic remote control key, a telephone, a test diagnostic and repair instrument, etc., or by a mechanical key and lock device (e.g., a hardware lock).

[0117] When a user wishes to recharge the battery 128, the user typically plugs the charging connector 144 into the receptacle 120 (e.g., step 310). Figures 1 to 5 As noted, under the control of the controller 152 (eg, in response to a program, instructions, etc. stored in the memory 154 ), the connector 144 becomes locked into the receptacle 120 .

[0118] Next, the method 300 proceeds to step 320, where the system 100 acquires, generates, and stores a biometric record from the user (e.g., a stored biometric record, a record of biometric information such as a scan of a fingerprint). In embodiments where the second I / O device 174 is implemented as a combined button / fingerprint scanner / tactile feedback device, the process of acquiring, generating, and storing the stored biometric record from the user is typically performed via the user pressing a finger (e.g., a finger or thumb) for scanning by the second I / O device 174, and electrically storing the biometric record for future retrieval (e.g., retrieval in memory 154 by the controller 152). The third I / O (visual indicator) device 176 presents a positive visual display to the user (e.g., a continuously lit green light), and the second I / O device 174 may emit a first type of tactile signal to the user (e.g., a continuous vibration (e.g., a "buzzing")) to indicate that the stored biometric record has been acquired and stored. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in alternative embodiments, the second I / O device 174 may be implemented as other biometric parameter sensors / readers. In this case, the user will take appropriate actions to enter the required information to generate a stored biometric record.

[0119] When the user wishes to attempt to disengage the connector 144 from the receptacle 120 (e.g., when the battery 128 is fully charged, or the user wishes to drive the EV 102 away even if the battery 128 is not fully charged), the method transitions to step 330. Under the control of the controller 152, in response to the user pressing a finger on the second I / O device 174 for scanning (the finger having been previously presented for acquisition and storage of stored biometric records), the second I / O device 174 scans the finger, reacquires the biometric record (e.g., the reacquired biometric record); and the controller 152 compares the reacquired biometric record with the stored biometric record (e.g., the biometric record read from the memory 154).

[0120] In response to the controller 152 determining that the retrieved biometric record matches the stored biometric record, under the control of the controller 152, the method 300 proceeds to step 340; that is, the third I / O (visual indicator) device 176 presents a positive visual display to the user, and the connector 144 is unlocked. The second I / O device 174 may also send a first type of tactile signal (e.g., continuous vibration) to the user. The user typically removes (releases) the connector 144 from the socket 120.

[0121] In response to the controller 152 determining that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, under the control of the controller 152, the method 300 proceeds to step 350, i.e., the system 100 applies a locking condition (e.g., state, mode, etc.). The connector 144 remains locked in the socket 120. In addition, the system 100 requests (prompts) the user (typically by the third I / O (visual indicator) device 176 presenting a first type of negative visual display (e.g., a continuously lit red light) to the user) to attempt to provide a reacquired biometric record that matches the stored biometric record up to X reacquisition attempts (i.e., X attempts or fewer), where X is typically a number not exceeding three (3), but can be set by the user to any desired number of attempts. The second I / O device 174 can also present a second type of tactile signal (e.g., a slow pulse vibration) to the user.

[0122] In response to the controller 152 determining that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record after X or more reacquisition attempts, under the control of the controller 152, the method 300 proceeds to step 360, i.e., the connector 144 remains locked in the socket 120, and the system 100 requests the user (usually by the third I / O (visual indicator) device 176 presenting a second type of negative visual display (e.g., a flashing red light) to the user) to provide (i.e., enter) an input password (e.g., an input password that matches a pre-stored password that was previously authorized and stored in the memory 154), wherein the input is typically through the first keyboard (first I / O) device 114 or the second keyboard (fourth I / O) device 178. The second I / O device 174 may also present a third type of tactile signal (e.g., a rapid pulse vibration) to the user.

[0123] The method 300 proceeds to step 370. Under the control of the controller 152, the system 100 receives an input password, which is compared to a pre-stored password. In response to the controller 152 determining that the input password matches the pre-stored password, under the control of the controller 152, the method 300 proceeds to step 372, i.e., the system 100 overrides the lock. The method 300 proceeds to step 340, and the third I / O (visual indicator) device 176 presents a positive visual display (e.g., a continuously lit green light) to the user to indicate that the connector 144 can be released (removed, unplugged, etc.) from the socket 120, and the connector 144 is unlocked. The second I / O device 174 can also present a first type of tactile signal to the user. The user typically removes (releases) the connector 144 from the socket 120.

[0124] In response to the controller 152 determining that the password entered at step 370 does not match the pre-stored password, under the control of the controller 152, the method 300 proceeds to step 374, i.e., maintaining the locked condition in the system 100. The connector 144 remains locked in the socket 120. In addition, the system 100 requests (prompts) the user (usually by presenting a first type of negative visual display (e.g., a continuously lit red light) to the user by the third I / O (visual indicator) device 176) to attempt to provide an input password that matches the pre-stored password for up to X input attempts. The second I / O device 174 may also send a second type of tactile signal (e.g., a slow pulse vibration) to the user.

[0125] The method 300 proceeds to step 376. In response to the controller 152 determining that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password after X or more attempts, the connector 144 remains locked in the receptacle 120 under the control of the controller 152, and the system 100 requests the user (typically by presenting a second type of negative visual display (e.g., a flashing red light) to the user through the third I / O (visual indicator) device 176) to add an alternative lock override. The second I / O device 174 may also present a third type of tactile signal (e.g., a rapid pulse vibration) to the user. The alternative lock override may include an electronic remote key signal, an override command given by a test and diagnostic device, and a mechanical lock actuated by a physical key, etc.

[0126] Under the control of the controller 152, the method 300 proceeds to step 378. In response to the system 100 receiving the alternative lock override, under the control of the controller 152, the method proceeds to step 372. The controller 152 unlocks the connector 144 and indicates to the user that the alternative override has been received and is successful. That is, under the control of the controller 152, the third I / O (visual indicator) device 176 presents a positive visual display (e.g., a continuously lit green light) to the user to indicate that the connector 144 can be released (removed, unplugged, etc.) from the receptacle 120. The second I / O device 174 can also present the first type tactile signal to the user. Otherwise, the system 100 generally maintains the locked condition, i.e., the connector 144 generally remains locked in the connector 120.

[0127] Although exemplary embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms of the present invention. More specifically, the words used in the specification are descriptive words rather than restrictive words, and it should be understood that various changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, the features of the various embodiments of implementation can be combined to form further embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method of locking a connector to a socket on an electric vehicle, comprising: During connection of the connector to the receptacle by a user, the receptacle being electrically connected to a controller, the controller acquiring a biometric record from the user, storing the acquired biometric record as a stored biometric record in a memory, and locking the connector into the receptacle, wherein the memory includes a pre-stored password stored in the memory; In response to a user attempting to disconnect the connector, the controller generates a recaptured biometric record; In response to the retrieved biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; In response to the retrieved biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the connector remains locked; in response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the controller indicating to a user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the controller generating the reacquired biometric record for up to X reacquisition attempts; In response to the retrieved biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; In response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record after X reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to a user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record and the connector remains locked; The controller requests the user to provide an input password; In response to the entered password matching a pre-stored password, the controller unlocks the connector; In response to the password entered not matching the pre-stored password after X number of entry attempts, the connector remains locked; the controller requests a user to perform an alternate lock override; and In response to receiving an alternate lock override, the controller unlocks the connector.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein: The connector further comprises: a housing having a biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device mounted on a top portion of the housing, the biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device being in communication with the controller and configured to: retrieve stored biometric records and retrieved biometric records and provide tactile feedback to a user; a visual indicator mounted on a top portion of the housing, in communication with the controller, and configured to provide visual feedback to a user; and A first keyboard, mounted on a side of the housing, communicates with the controller and is configured to obtain a password input from a user.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the electric vehicle further comprises: a door panel, located on the exterior of the electric vehicle, a socket mounted on the electric vehicle and behind the door panel, a second keypad in electrical communication with the receptacle and in electrical communication with the controller through an electrical connection of the connector to the receptacle and configured to obtain an inputted password from a user, the second keypad being mounted in one of the following locations: (i) on an exterior surface of the electric vehicle and proximate to the receptacle and (ii) adjacent to the receptacle and behind the door panel; and, The charging station also includes a third keyboard in communication with the controller and configured to obtain a password input from a user.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein: the controller indicating to the user that the biometric record has been stored by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; the controller indicating to a user that the retrieved biometric record matches the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; Upon fewer than X reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the reacquisition biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a first type of negative visual display and a second type of tactile signal; After X or more reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the reacquisition biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal; the controller indicating to the user that the entered password matches the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; Upon less than X number of input attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the input password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a first type negative visual display and a second type tactile signal; Upon X or more entry attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal; The controller indicates to the user that the alternative lock override has been received and is successful by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type tactile signal.

5. A locking socket connector, comprising: Controller; a memory electrically connected to the controller, wherein during a user connection of the connector to the receptacle, the controller generates a stored record and stores the stored record in the memory, and during a user attempt to disconnect the connector, the controller generates a retrieved record, wherein in response to the retrieved record matching the stored record, the controller unlocks the connector, The controller is configured to: control the socket in response to a program stored in the memory and information received from a user, The connector is configured to matingly connect and lock to the socket, During connection of the connector to the socket by a user, the socket is electrically connected to the controller, and the controller locks the connector into the socket, the stored record is a stored biometric record and the retrieved record is a retrieved biometric record, the memory includes a pre-stored password stored in the memory, wherein, in response to the controller determining that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the connector remains locked; in response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the controller indicating to a user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the controller generating the reacquired biometric record for up to X reacquisition attempts; In response to the retrieved biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; In response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record after X reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to a user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record and the connector remains locked; The controller requests a user to provide an input password and compares the input password to a pre-stored password for up to X input attempts; In response to the entered password matching a pre-stored password, the controller unlocks the connector; In response to the password entered not matching the pre-stored password after X number of entry attempts, the connector remains locked; the controller requests a user to perform an alternate lock override; and In response to receiving an alternate lock override, the controller unlocks the connector.

6. The connector according to claim 5, wherein: The socket is installed on the electric vehicle; The controller is a component of the charging station; the charging station component also includes a cable electrically connected to the controller and terminated in the connector.

7. The connector according to claim 5, wherein: The connector further comprises: a housing having a biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device mounted on a top portion of the housing, the biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device being in communication with the controller and configured to: retrieve stored biometric records and retrieved biometric records and provide tactile feedback to a user; a visual indicator mounted on a top portion of the housing, in communication with the controller, and configured to provide visual feedback to a user; A first keyboard, mounted on a side of the housing, communicates with the controller and is configured to obtain a password input from a user.

8. The connector according to claim 6, wherein: The electric vehicle further comprises a door panel located outside the electric vehicle, and the socket is mounted on the electric vehicle and behind the door panel, a second keypad in electrical communication with the receptacle and in electrical communication with the controller through an electrical connection of the connector to the receptacle and configured to obtain an input password from a user, and the second keypad is mounted at one of: (i) an exterior surface of the electric vehicle and proximate to the receptacle and (ii) adjacent to the receptacle and behind the door panel; The charging station further includes a third keyboard in communication with the controller and configured to obtain a password input from a user.

9. The connector according to claim 8, wherein: the controller indicating to the user that the stored biometric record has been stored by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; the controller indicating to a user that the retrieved biometric record matches the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; Upon fewer than X reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the reacquisition biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a first type of negative visual display and a second type of tactile signal; After X or more reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the reacquisition biometric record does not match the stored biometric record by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal; the controller indicating to the user that the entered password matches the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type of tactile signal; Upon less than X number of input attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the input password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a first type negative visual display and a second type tactile signal; Upon X or more entry attempts, the controller indicates to the user that the entered password does not match the pre-stored password by issuing at least one of a second type of negative visual display and a third type of tactile signal; The controller indicates to the user that the alternative lock override has been received and is successful by issuing at least one of an affirmative visual display and a first type tactile signal.

10. A lock system for securing a charging connector to an electric vehicle, comprising: a charging station including a controller electrically connected to a memory and configured to control the system in response to a program stored in the memory and information received from a user, wherein the memory includes a pre-stored password stored in the memory; a cable electrically connected to the controller and terminating at the charging connector; a socket located on the electric vehicle, wherein the connector is configured to be matingly connected and locked to the socket; wherein, during connection by a user, the connector connected to the socket is electrically connected to the controller, the controller acquires a biometric record from the user and stores the acquired biometric record in the memory as a stored biometric record, and locks the connector into the socket; wherein, in response to a user attempting to disconnect the connector, the controller generates a recaptured biometric record; wherein, in response to the retrieved biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; wherein, in response to the retrieved biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the connector remains locked; in response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record, the controller indicating to a user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record, and the controller generating the reacquired biometric record for up to X reacquisition attempts; In response to the retrieved biometric record matching the stored biometric record, the controller unlocks the connector; In response to the reacquired biometric record not matching the stored biometric record after X reacquisition attempts, the controller indicates to a user that the reacquired biometric record does not match the stored biometric record and the connector remains locked; The controller requests the user to provide an input password, In response to the entered password matching a pre-stored password, the controller unlocks the connector; In response to the password entered not matching the pre-stored password after X number of entry attempts, the connector remains locked; the controller requests a user to execute an alternate lock override; In response to receiving an alternate lock override, the controller unlocks the connector.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein: The connector further comprises: a housing having a biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device mounted on a top portion of the housing and in communication with the controller, and the biometric sensor input / tactile feedback output device is configured to: acquire stored biometric records and retrieved biometric records, and provide tactile feedback to a user; a visual indicator mounted on a top portion of the housing, in communication with the controller, and configured to provide visual feedback to a user; A first keyboard, mounted on a side of the housing, communicates with the controller and is configured to obtain a password input from a user.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein: The electric vehicle further comprises: a door panel located outside the electric vehicle, and the socket is mounted on the electric vehicle behind the door panel, a second keypad in electrical communication with the receptacle and in electrical communication with the controller through an electrical connection of the connector to the receptacle and configured to obtain an inputted password from a user, the second keypad being mounted in one of the following locations: (i) on an exterior surface of the electric vehicle and proximate to the receptacle and (ii) adjacent to the receptacle and behind the door panel; The charging station also includes a third keyboard in communication with the controller and configured to obtain a password input from a user.

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