Locking system and mechanism for electric vehicle charger socket

Abstract

The invention discloses a locking system and mechanism for an electric vehicle charger socket. The locking system comprises a plunger, one or more springs and an electric control actuator. The plunger contacts a lockable portion of an electric vehicle charger inserted in a channel of the electric vehicle charging socket. When not compressed, one or more springs position the tip of the plunger in a return position within the passage bore or above the bore. When compressed, the one or more springs exert a force in the second direction, returning the tip to the return position. When activated, the actuator applies a mechanical force to the plunger in a first direction, passing the tip through the bore and positioning the tip in a locked position in the channel to contact the lockable portion. When the operation is stopped, the actuator removes the mechanical force from the plunger, allowing the plunger to return to the return position by the one or more springs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to a locking mechanism in an electric vehicle (EV) charging socket. More specifically, the teachings herein relate to an apparatus and method for automatically locking an EV charger in an EV charging socket. This application is based on the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 516539 filed on February 29, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0002] There have been numerous reports of EV chargers falling off or becoming detached from the charging socket while charging. There have also been reports of EV chargers becoming stuck in the charging socket or blocking the charging socket after charging is complete.

[0003] EV charger disengagement is a significant issue as EVs take a long time to charge and EV chargers are often left unattended due to the long charging times. Therefore, any EV charger disengaging from the charging socket can cause significant delays in EV charging.

[0004] EV charger interference is also a significant issue because it reduces the availability of an already limited number of EV chargers. A clogged EV charger connection not only inconveniences those currently charging, but also prevents others from using that EV charger.

[0005] There are many different reasons an EV charger may disengage or jam. For example, an EV charger may become loose in the socket due to normal wear and tear. As a result, the charger or its locking mechanism may no longer fit and connect properly with the socket. Alternatively, a loose fit may misalign the charger, causing it to get stuck or jammed in the socket.

[0006] User error can also cause the EV charger to disengage or jam the socket. The user may not properly insert and align the EV charger into the socket. As a result, the EV charger may disengage from the socket or even fall off during the charging process. Alternatively, the user may apply too much pressure to the misaligned engagement, causing the EV charger to jam.

[0007] The charger's environment can also cause an EV charger to become disengaged or jammed. In certain climates, the charger may be exposed to excessive moisture, dust, or corrosive materials. This can cause the charger or its components to change shape, causing connection issues with the socket or causing the charger to become stuck in the socket.

[0008] Finally, EV chargers come in all shapes and sizes. Some have long cables, and some have short cables. Some have thick cables, and some have thin cables. These different characteristics can cause EV chargers to disengage or jam. For example, a connector with a long, thick cable may exert more force on the connection between the EV charger and the outlet, causing the EV charger to disengage or jam.

[0009] Therefore, there is an unmet need for systems and methods that can prevent an electric vehicle charger from becoming disengaged from a receptacle during charging and from becoming jammed or stuck in a receptacle after charging. Summary of the invention

[0010] In view of this, the present invention proposes a locking system and mechanism for an electric vehicle charger socket, aiming to achieve reliable locking of the electric vehicle charger and the socket, and ensure the safety and stability of the charging process.

[0011] In one aspect, the present invention provides a locking system for an electric vehicle charger socket, comprising:

[0012] a plunger for physically contacting a lockable portion of an electric vehicle charger inserted into an electric vehicle charging receptacle, the lockable portion including a notch;

[0013] one or more springs that, when uncompressed, position the tip of the plunger in a return position within or above the aperture of the receptacle passage and, when compressed, exert a force in a second direction to return the tip to the return position; the tip being angled to prevent parallel surface contact between the tip and a lockable portion of the charger;

[0014] An electrically controlled actuator, when activated, applies a mechanical force to a plunger in a first direction opposite to a second direction, so that the top end moves through the hole and positions the top end in a locked position in the channel to contact the lockable part of the charger, and when deactivated, removes the mechanical force from the plunger, allowing the plunger to return to the return position through one or more springs; the electrically controlled actuator includes a solenoid or a rotary motor, and receives an electrical signal for activation and an electrical signal for deactivation from a circuit, the circuit including one or more processors; when the circuit detects that the charger is charging the socket, it receives an electrical signal to be activated, and when the circuit detects that the charger is not charging the socket, it receives an electrical signal for deactivation; the plunger, one or more springs and the electrically controlled actuator are enclosed in a housing connected to the socket.

[0015] The electrically controlled actuator is a solenoid;

[0016] The electrically controlled actuator is a rotary motor;

[0017] The circuit also includes a memory in communication with the one or more processors for storing information related to the charger lock status;

[0018] Also included is a sensor disposed in the socket channel for detecting the position of the plunger tip and sending the detection result to the circuit;

[0019] The housing is a waterproof housing to prevent moisture from entering and affecting the normal operation of the locking system.

[0020] On the other hand, the present application also provides a locking mechanism for an electric vehicle charger socket, comprising:

[0021] receiving an electrical signal for activation using an electrically controlled actuator;

[0022] Using an electrically controlled actuator to apply a mechanical force in a first direction to the plunger, so that the tip of the plunger moves through the hole in the channel of the electric vehicle charging socket, so that the tip is located in a locked position in the channel to contact a lockable portion of an electric vehicle charger inserted into the channel, the lockable portion including a notch; the tip is angled to prevent parallel surface contact between the tip and the lockable portion of the charger;

[0023] one or more springs that, when uncompressed, position the tip of the plunger to a return position within or above the hole in the passageway and, when compressed, exert a force in a first direction to return the tip to the return position;

[0024] receiving an electrical signal and deactivating the electronically controlled actuator;

[0025] An electrically controlled actuator is used to remove mechanical force from the plunger, allowing the plunger to return to a return position via one or more springs; the electrically controlled actuator includes a solenoid or a rotary motor, and receives an electrical signal to activate and an electrical signal to deactivate from a circuit including one or more processors; the electrical signal to activate is received when the circuit detects that the charger is charging the socket, and the electrical signal to deactivate is received when the circuit detects that the charger is not charging the socket; the plunger, one or more springs, and the electrically controlled actuator are enclosed in a housing connected to the socket.

[0026] The method also includes a step of controlling the indicator light to display the locked or unlocked state through the circuit during the locking or unlocking process.

[0027] There is further a step of sending an alarm signal through the circuit when locking or unlocking fails.

[0028] Furthermore, during the charging process, the circuit is used to periodically detect whether the locking state is normal, and corresponding processing is performed when it is abnormal.

[0029] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: the present invention realizes the locking and unlocking of the plunger through the electric-controlled actuator, ensures the reliable connection between the charger and the socket during the charging process, and prevents the safety hazard caused by the accidental unplugging of the charger. Compared with the traditional mechanical locking method, the electric-controlled actuator can control the locking and unlocking process more accurately, improving the safety and reliability of the system. The locking system of the present invention controls the activation and deactivation of the electric-controlled actuator through the circuit, and can automatically perform locking and unlocking operations according to the charging status. When the circuit detects that the charger is charging the socket, the electric-controlled actuator is automatically activated to lock; when it is detected that the charger is not charging the socket, the electric-controlled actuator is automatically deactivated to unlock. This intelligent control method reduces the complexity and error rate of manual operation and improves the degree of automation of the charging process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art by reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

[0031] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system upon which embodiments of the present teachings may be implemented.

[0032] Figure 2 is an exemplary three-dimensional diagram showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism housing may be connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle according to various embodiments.

[0033] Figure 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism may be internally connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle according to various embodiments.

[0034] Figure 4 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle can lock an electric vehicle charger during charging according to various embodiments.

[0035] Figure 5 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle unlocks an electric vehicle charger after charging according to various embodiments.

[0036] Figure 6 is a series of exemplary cross-sectional views showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle prevents an electric vehicle charger from becoming stuck in an electric vehicle charging receptacle when attempting to remove the electric vehicle charger before the electrically controlled locking mechanism is fully disengaged after charging, according to various embodiments.

[0037] Figure 7is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including an actuator driven by a rotary motor may be internally connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle according to various embodiments.

[0038] Figure 8 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including an actuator driven by a rotary motor and connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle can lock an electric vehicle charger during charging according to various embodiments.

[0039] Fig. 9 is an exemplary cross-sectional view showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including an actuator driven by a rotary motor and connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle unlocks an electric vehicle charger after charging, according to various embodiments.

[0040] Fig.10 is a series of exemplary cross-sectional views showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including a rotary motor driven actuator and connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle can prevent an electric vehicle charger from becoming stuck in an electric vehicle charging receptacle when an attempt is made to remove the electric vehicle charger before the electrically controlled locking mechanism is fully disengaged, according to various embodiments.

[0041] Fig.11 is an exemplary flow chart illustrating a method of locking an EV charger in an EV charging receptacle according to various embodiments.

[0042] Before describing one or more embodiments of the present technology in detail, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present technology is not limited in its application to the details of structure, the arrangement of components, and the arrangement of steps described in the following detailed description or shown in the accompanying drawings. In addition, it should be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be regarded as limiting. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Computer execution system

[0044] Figure 11 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 100 upon which embodiments of the present teachings may be implemented. The computer system 100 includes a bus 102 or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a processor 104 coupled to the bus 102 for processing information. The computer system 100 also includes a memory 106, which may be a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, coupled to the bus 102 to store instructions to be executed by the processor 104. The memory 106 may also be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions to be executed by the processor 104. The computer system 100 also includes a read-only memory (ROM) 108 or other static storage device coupled to the bus 102 for storing static information and instructions for the processor 104. A storage device 110, such as a magnetic disk or optical disk, is provided and coupled to the bus 102 to store information and instructions.

[0045] The computer system 100 may be coupled via the bus 102 to a display 112, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT) or liquid crystal display (LCD), for displaying information to a computer user. An input device 114, including alphanumeric and other keys, is coupled to the bus 102 for communicating information and command selections to the processor 104. Another type of user input device is a cursor control 116, such as a mouse, trackball, or cursor direction keys, for communicating direction information and command selections to the processor 104 and for controlling cursor movement on the display 112.

[0046] The computer system can perform the present teachings. Consistent with certain implementations of the present specification, results are provided by the computer system 100 in response to the processor 104 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions contained in the memory 106. These instructions may be read into the memory 106 from another computer-readable medium, such as the storage device 110. Execution of the sequences of instructions contained in the memory 106 causes the processor 104 to perform the processes described herein.

[0047] Alternatively, hardwired circuits may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the present teachings. For example, the present teachings may also be implemented with a programmable artificial intelligence (AI) chip, with only the encoder neural network being programmed - allowing for increased performance and reduced cost. Thus, implementation of the present teachings is not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0048] As used herein, the terms "computer-readable medium" or "computer program product" refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to processor 104 for execution. The terms "computer-readable medium" and "computer program product" may be used interchangeably in this written description. Such media may take a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media and volatile media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 110. Volatile media include dynamic memory, such as memory 106.

[0049] Common forms of computer readable media include, for example, floppy disks, diskettes, hard disks, magnetic tapes or any other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, Digital Video Discs (DVDs), Blu-ray Discs, any other optical media, thumb drives, memory cards, RAM, PROMs and EPROMs, FLASH-EPROMs, any other memory chip or cartridge, or any other tangible medium from which a computer can read.

[0050] Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in transmitting one or more sequences of one or more instructions to processor 104 for execution. For example, the instructions may initially be stored on a disk of a remote computer. The remote computer may load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send the instructions over a telephone line using a modem. The modem of the local computer system 100 may receive the data on the telephone line and convert the data into an infrared signal using an infrared transmitter. An infrared detector coupled to bus 102 may receive the data carried in the infrared signal and place the data on bus 102. Bus 102 transmits the data to memory 106, from which processor 104 retrieves and executes the instructions. The instructions received by memory 106 may optionally be stored on storage device 110 before or after execution by processor 104.

[0051] According to various embodiments, instructions configured to be executed by a processor to perform a method are stored on a computer-readable medium. A computer-readable medium may be a device that stores digital information. The computer-readable medium is accessed by a processor adapted to execute the instructions configured to be executed.

[0052] The following description of various implementations of the present teachings is presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not exhaustive and does not limit the present teachings to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations may be made in accordance with the above teachings or may be obtained by practicing the present teachings. In addition, the described embodiments include software, but the present specification may be implemented as a combination of hardware and software or in hardware alone. The present teachings may be implemented with object-oriented and non-object-oriented programming systems.

[0053] Electronically controlled electric vehicle charger lock

[0054] As mentioned above, there have been many reports of EV chargers falling off or becoming detached from the charging socket while charging. There have also been reports of EV chargers becoming stuck on or blocking the charging socket after charging is complete.

[0055] EV charger disengagement is a significant issue as EVs take a long time to charge and EV chargers are often left unattended due to the long charging times. Therefore, any EV charger disengaging from the charging socket can cause significant delays in EV charging.

[0056] EV charger interference is also a significant issue because it reduces the availability of an already limited number of EV chargers. A clogged EV charger connection not only inconveniences those currently charging, but also prevents others from using that EV charger.

[0057] EV charger disengagement or interference may occur for many different reasons, including but not limited to normal wear and tear, user error, environmental factors, and various characteristics of the EV charger.

[0058] In various embodiments, the electric vehicle charger is prevented from disengaging or tampering by modifying the electric vehicle charging socket to include an automatic locking mechanism for locking the inserted electric vehicle charger to the electric vehicle charging socket. The locking mechanism is automatic under electrical control. The automatic or electrically controlled locking mechanism is less susceptible to disengagement or tampering of the electric vehicle charger. This is because the automatic or electrically controlled locking mechanism is less susceptible to factors such as normal wear and tear, user error, environmental factors, and varying characteristics of electric vehicle chargers.

[0059] Figure 2 is an exemplary three-dimensional diagram 200 showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism housing may be connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle according to various embodiments. Figure 2 , an electrically controlled locking mechanism housing 220 is shown connected to the electric vehicle charging receptacle 210 outside the opening of the electric vehicle charging receptacle 210 so as to be able to engage a lockable portion (not shown) of an inserted electric vehicle charger.

[0060] Figure 3 is an exemplary cross-sectional view 300 showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism may be internally connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle according to various embodiments. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the electric control locking mechanism housing 220 is connected to the outside of the electric vehicle charging socket 210. The electric control locking mechanism housing 220 includes an electric control locking mechanism.

[0061] The electrically controlled locking mechanism includes an electrically controlled actuator 221, a plunger or locking pin 222, and one or more springs 223. For example, the electrically controlled actuator 221 is an electromagnetic actuator or a solenoid.

[0062] The electric vehicle charging socket 210 includes a hole 211 leading to a passage 212. The hole 211 is located on the wall of the passage 212, and an electric vehicle charger can be inserted outside the opening 213. The electric control locking mechanism is located above the hole 211, so that the plunger 222 can extend through the hole 211 to the passage 212 of the electric vehicle charging socket 210.

[0063] In various embodiments, the plunger 222 is not always connected to the shaft 224 of the actuator 221. For example, the shaft 224 may only be physically connected to the plunger 222 when the actuator 221 is activated. Figure 3 As shown, actuator 221 is not activated. Therefore, plunger 222 is not in contact with shaft 224, and one or more springs 223 hold plunger 222 upward through hole 211 so that plunger 222 does not interfere with inserting or removing the EV charger into channel 212.

[0064] In various embodiments, the electronically controlled actuator 221 is activated or deactivated using the circuit 240. The circuit 240 detects whether the EV charger is charging or not charging. For example, the circuit 240 may be electrically connected to the terminals of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, and thus may determine whether power is supplied to the terminals of the electric vehicle charging socket 210.

[0065] In various embodiments, the circuit 240 may include one or more processors. The one or more processors may be, but are not limited to, a controller, a computer, a microprocessor, a computer system, such as Figure 1 Computer system, or any device capable of sending and receiving control signals or data and analyzing data. In other words, the electronically controlled actuator 221 can be activated or deactivated by receiving controlled signals from one or more processors.

[0066] Figure 4 FIG. 4 is an exemplary cross-sectional view 400 showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle can lock an electric vehicle charger during charging, according to various embodiments. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the electric vehicle charger 230 has been inserted into the passage of the electric vehicle charging socket 210. The electric vehicle charger 230 includes a lockable portion or groove 231.

[0067] In order to lock the electric vehicle charger 230 onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210 or to lock it onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210, the electric control actuator 221 of the electric control locking mechanism is activated. This causes the electric control actuator 221 to extend the shaft 224 downward, contact the plunger 222 and push the plunger 222 downward. The downward movement of the plunger 222 causes one or more springs 223 to be compressed. The plunger 222 is moved downward through the hole 211 of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, engages with the notch 231 of the electric vehicle charger 230, and locks the electric vehicle charger 230 onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210. Note that the actuator 221 remains activated throughout the charging process to keep the electric vehicle charger 230 locked onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210.

[0068] Figure 5 FIG. 5 is an exemplary cross-sectional view 500 showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle unlocks an electric vehicle charger after charging, according to various embodiments. Figure 5 In order to unlock the electric vehicle charger 230 , the electric control actuator 221 has been deactivated.

[0069] The deactivation of the actuator 221 causes the shaft 224 to move upward and remove the pressure on the plunger 222. In turn, one or more springs 223 cause the plunger 222 to also move upward and out of the notch 231 of the electric vehicle charger 230. The plunger 222 moves upward through the hole 211 and out of the passage of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, unlocking the electric vehicle charger 230 from the electric vehicle charging socket 210 and allowing the electric vehicle charger 230 to be removed from the socket 210.

[0070] Figure 6 600 is an exemplary cross-sectional view of a series of electric vehicle chargers, showing how an electric vehicle charger connected to an electric vehicle charger socket prevents the electric vehicle charger from being stuck in the electric vehicle charger socket when attempting to remove the electric vehicle charger before the electric vehicle charger is fully disengaged after charging, according to various embodiments. In Figure 610, charging is completed and the electric actuator 221 has been deactivated, causing the shaft 224 to move upward and away from the plunger 222. However, before the plunger 222 is fully disengaged from the groove 231, the user attempts to remove the electric vehicle charger 230 from the electric vehicle charger socket 210. Typically, such an attempt would cause a traffic jam.

[0071] However, in various embodiments, the tip or pin portion 225 of the plunger 222 that contacts the notch 231 is chamfered or angled to prevent jamming. The reason for preventing jamming is that when the electric vehicle charger 230 is pulled out of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, the edge of the notch 231 contacts the angled tip 225, causing the plunger 222 to move upward. In other words, if the edge of the notch 231 and the tip of the plunger 222 are parallel planes, when attempting to remove the electric vehicle charger 230, a jam may occur when the parallel surfaces come together. The force applied to the parallel surfaces by removing the EV charger 230 can generate sufficient vertical friction between the parallel surfaces to offset the upward force generated by one or more springs 223 on the plunger 222.

[0072] However, because the plunger 222 includes an angled tip 225, less vertical friction is generated when the flat edge of the notch 231 contacts the angled tip 225. Thus, the upward force generated by the one or more springs 223 on the plunger 222 can overcome the friction that moves the angled tip 225 upward.

[0073] In Figure 620, the upward force generated by the one or more springs 223 on the plunger 222 has completely overcome the friction generated between the flat edge of the notch 231 and the angled tip 225. Therefore, the plunger 222 has been completely removed from the passage of the electric vehicle charging socket 210. Therefore, the electric vehicle charger 230 can be freely moved out of the electric vehicle charging socket 210. Therefore, the combination of the one or more springs 223 and the angled tip 225 provides an automatic return function for the plunger 222 and prevents possible jamming.

[0074] Rotary motor driven actuator

[0075] In various embodiments, Figure 6 The actuator 221 in FIG. 2 is an actuator driven by a rotary motor.

[0076] Figure 7 is an exemplary cross-sectional view 700 showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including a rotary motor driven actuator may be internally connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle according to various embodiments. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the electric control locking mechanism housing 220 is connected to the outside of the electric vehicle charging socket 210. The electric control locking mechanism housing 220 includes an electric control locking mechanism.

[0077] The electrically controlled locking mechanism comprises an electrically controlled actuator 221 , a plunger or locking pin 222 and one or more springs 223 . The electrically controlled actuator 221 comprises a rotary motor 721 .

[0078] The electric vehicle charging socket 210 includes a hole 211 leading to a passage 212. The hole 211 is located on a wall of the passage 212. An electric-controlled locking mechanism is located above the hole 211, so that the plunger 222 can extend through the hole 211 to the passage 212 of the electric vehicle charging socket 210.

[0079] In various embodiments, the plunger 222 is connected to the actuator 221. Figure 7 As shown, the actuator 221 is not activated. When the actuator 221 is activated, the rotary motor 721 will move the actuator 221 downward, thereby moving the plunger 222 downward through the hole 211 and into the channel 212. When the actuator 221 is not activated, one or more springs 223 maintain the position of the actuator 221 above the electric vehicle charging socket 210, and in turn maintain the plunger 222 above the channel 212.

[0080] In various embodiments, a circuit (not shown) is used to activate or deactivate the electronically controlled actuator 221. The circuit detects whether the EV charger is charging or not charging. For example, the circuit can be electrically connected to the terminals of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, so it can determine whether power is supplied to the terminals of the electric vehicle charging socket 210.

[0081] In various embodiments, the circuit 240 may include one or more processors. The one or more processors may be, but are not limited to, a controller, a computer, a microprocessor, a computer system, such as Figure 1 Computer system, or any device capable of sending and receiving control signals or data and analyzing data. In other words, the electronically controlled actuator 221 can be activated or deactivated by receiving controlled signals from one or more processors.

[0082] Figure 8 FIG. 8 is an exemplary cross-sectional view 800 showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including an actuator driven by a rotary motor and connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle can lock an electric vehicle charger during charging, according to various embodiments. Figure 8 In the embodiment, the electric vehicle charger or charging gun 230 has been inserted into the channel 212 of the electric vehicle charging socket 210. The electric vehicle charger 230 includes a lockable portion or groove 231.

[0083] In order to lock the electric vehicle charger 230 onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210 or to lock it onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210, the electric control actuator 221 of the electric control locking mechanism is activated. This causes the rotary motor 721 to rotate downward to move the actuator 221, and in turn, the plunger 222 also rotates downward. For example, the rotary motor 721 moves clockwise to move the actuator 221 downward. The downward movement of the plunger 222 causes one or more springs 223 to be compressed. The plunger 222 is moved downward through the hole 211 of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, engages with the notch 231 of the electric vehicle charger 230, and locks the electric vehicle charger 230 onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210. Note that the actuator 221 remains activated throughout the charging process to keep the electric vehicle charger 230 locked onto the electric vehicle charging socket 210.

[0084] Fig. 9 FIG. 9 is an exemplary cross-sectional view 900 showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including a rotary motor driven actuator and connected to an electric vehicle charging receptacle unlocks an electric vehicle charger after charging, according to various embodiments. Fig. 9 In order to unlock the electric vehicle charger 230, the electric control actuator 221 has been deactivated. The deactivation causes the rotary motor 721 to move counterclockwise.

[0085] Deactivation of the actuator 221 allows one or more springs 223 to move the actuator 221, and in turn, the plunger 222 moves upward and out of the recess 231 of the EV charger 230. The plunger 222 moves upward through the hole 211 and out of the passage of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, unlocking the electric vehicle charger 230 from the electric vehicle charging socket 210 and allowing the electric vehicle charger 230 to be removed from the socket 210.

[0086] Fig.10 1000 series of exemplary cross-sectional views showing how an electrically controlled locking mechanism including an actuator driven by a rotary motor and connected to an electric vehicle charging socket can prevent an electric vehicle charger from getting stuck in an electric vehicle charging socket when an attempt is made to remove the electric vehicle charger before the electrically controlled locking mechanism is fully disengaged according to various embodiments. In FIG. 1010 , charging has not yet been completed. However, a user attempts to remove the electric vehicle charger 230 from the electric vehicle charging socket 210 before the plunger 222 is disengaged from the notch 231. This causes the plunger 222 to contact the notch 231. After charging is completed, this contact may cause a jam due to the contact between the plunger 222 and the notch 231.

[0087] Figure 1020 shows that after charging, the contact between the plunger 222 and the notch 231 can cause a jam. The contact between the plunger 222 and the notch 231 generates enough friction to offset the pressure generated by the one or more springs 223. In other words, the one or more springs 223 cannot move the plunger 222 upward.

[0088] Additionally, if the rotary motor 721 is left in the activated position, it can also create additional pressure that prevents the blockage from being cleared. However, in various embodiments, to allow the user to clear the blockage, the rotary motor 721 is moved counterclockwise back to the deactivated position as shown in FIG. 1020. This relieves the additional pressure on the rotary motor 721. The user can now clear the blockage by simply moving the electric vehicle charger 230 forward. This releases the pressure, and one or more springs 223 are able to move the plunger 222 upward and out of the electric vehicle charging socket 210, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 shown.

[0089] Locking system

[0090] Back to Figure 4 , the electric vehicle charger locking system includes a plunger 222, one or more springs 223, and an electric actuator 221. The plunger 222 physically contacts a lockable portion 231 of an electric vehicle charger 230 inserted into a passage of an electric vehicle charging socket 210. When uncompressed, the one or more springs 223 place a tip 225 of the plunger 222 in a reset position or a position within or above a hole in the passage 211 of the socket 210. When compressed, the one or more springs 223 exert a force in a second direction to return the tip 225 to the return position.

[0091] When activated, the electrically controlled actuator 221 applies a mechanical force to the plunger 222 in a first direction opposite to the second direction, causing the tip 225 to move through the hole 211 and to locate the tip 225 in a locked position in the channel to contact the lockable portion 231 of the charger 230. When deactivated, the electrically controlled actuator 221 removes the mechanical force from the plunger 222, allowing the plunger 222 to return to the return position via one or more springs 223.

[0092] In various embodiments, the tip 225 is angled to prevent parallel surface contact between the tip 225 and the lockable portion 231 of the charger 230 .

[0093] In various embodiments, the lockable portion 231 includes a notch or a slit.

[0094] In various embodiments, the plunger 222 , one or more springs 223 , and the electrically controlled actuator 221 are enclosed in a housing 220 that is connected to the socket 210 .

[0095] In various embodiments, the electrically controlled actuator 221 includes a solenoid or a rotary motor.

[0096] In various embodiments, the electronically controlled actuator 221 receives an electrical signal for activation and an electrical signal for deactivation from the circuit 240 .

[0097] In various embodiments, circuitry 240 includes one or more processors.

[0098] In various embodiments, the circuit 240 receives an electrical signal to activate when it detects that the charger 230 is charging the socket 210 .

[0099] In various embodiments, the electrical signal to deactivate is received when the circuit 240 detects that the charger 230 is not charging the socket 210 .

[0100] Locking method

[0101] Fig.11 is an exemplary flow chart illustrating a method 1100 of locking an EV charger in an EV charging receptacle according to various embodiments.

[0102] In step 1110 of method 1100 , an electrical signal is received to activate an electrically controlled actuator.

[0103] In step 1120, an electrically controlled actuator is used to apply mechanical force to the plunger in a first direction to move the tip of the plunger through the hole in the electric vehicle charging socket channel so that the tip is located in a locked position in the channel to contact a lockable portion of the electric vehicle charger inserted into the channel.

[0104] Although the present teachings are described with various embodiments, it is not intended that the present teachings be limited to such embodiments. On the contrary, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the present description encompasses various alternatives, modifications and equivalents.

[0105] In addition, when describing various embodiments, the specification may represent the method and / or process as a specific sequence of steps. However, to the extent that the method or process does not rely on the specific order of the steps described herein, the method or process should not be limited to the specific order of the steps. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, other orders of steps are possible. Therefore, the specific order of the steps specified in the specification should not be interpreted as a limitation on the claims. In addition, the claims for the method and / or process should not be limited to performing their steps in the order written, and those skilled in the art can easily understand that the order can be changed and still remain within the spirit and scope of the various embodiments.

Claims

1. A locking system for an electric vehicle charger socket, comprising: a plunger for physically contacting a lockable portion of an electric vehicle charger inserted into an electric vehicle charging receptacle, the lockable portion including a notch; one or more springs that, when uncompressed, position the tip of the plunger in a return position within or above the bore of the socket passage and, when compressed, exert a force in a second direction to return the tip to the return position; The tip is angled to prevent parallel surface contact between the tip and the lockable portion of the charger; an electrically controlled actuator that, when activated, applies a mechanical force to the plunger in a first direction opposite to a second direction to move the tip through the aperture and position the tip in a locked position in the passage to contact a lockable portion of the charger, and, when deactivated, removes the mechanical force from the plunger to allow the plunger to return to a return position via one or more springs; The electrically controlled actuator includes a solenoid or a rotary motor and receives an electrical signal for activation and an electrical signal for deactivation from a circuit, the circuit including one or more processors; when the circuit detects that the charger is charging the socket, the electrical signal for activation is received, and when the circuit detects that the charger is not charging the socket, the electrical signal for deactivation is received; The plunger, one or more springs, and an electrically controlled actuator are enclosed in a housing that is connected to the socket.

2. The locking system for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electrically controlled actuator is a solenoid.

3. The locking system for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electrically controlled actuator is a rotary motor.

4. The locking system for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 1, characterized in that: The circuit also includes a memory in communication with the one or more processors for storing information related to the charger lock status.

5. The locking system for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 1, characterized in that: A sensor is also included, which is disposed in the socket channel and is used to detect the position of the plunger tip and send the detection result to the circuit.

6. The locking system for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 1, characterized in that: The housing is a waterproof housing to prevent moisture from entering and affecting the normal operation of the locking system.

7. A locking mechanism for an electric vehicle charger socket, comprising: receiving an electrical signal for activation using an electrically controlled actuator; Using an electrically controlled actuator to apply a mechanical force in a first direction to the plunger, so that the tip of the plunger moves through the hole in the channel of the electric vehicle charging socket, so that the tip is located in a locked position in the channel to contact a lockable portion of an electric vehicle charger inserted into the channel, the lockable portion including a notch; the tip is angled to prevent parallel surface contact between the tip and the lockable portion of the charger; one or more springs that, when uncompressed, position the tip of the plunger to a return position within or above the hole in the passageway and, when compressed, exert a force in a first direction to return the tip to the return position; receiving an electrical signal and deactivating the electronically controlled actuator; Using an electrically controlled actuator to remove mechanical force from the plunger, allowing the plunger to return to a return position via one or more springs; The electrically controlled actuator comprises a solenoid or a rotary motor and receives an electrical signal to activate and an electrical signal to deactivate from a circuit comprising one or more processors; When the circuit detects that the charger is charging the socket, it receives an electrical signal to activate, and when the circuit detects that the charger is not charging the socket, it receives an electrical signal to deactivate; The plunger, one or more springs, and an electrically controlled actuator are enclosed in a housing that is connected to the socket.

8. The locking mechanism for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 7, characterized in that: The method also includes a step of controlling the indicator light to display the locked or unlocked state through the circuit during the locking or unlocking process.

9. The locking mechanism for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 7, characterized in that: The method also includes the step of sending an alarm signal through the circuit when locking or unlocking fails.

10. The locking mechanism for an electric vehicle charger socket according to claim 7, characterized in that: The method also includes the steps of periodically detecting whether the locking state is normal through the circuit during the charging process, and performing corresponding processing when an abnormality occurs.

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