Detachable charging connection assembly and method for carrying out over-temperature protection on charging process by using detachable charging connection assembly

Abstract

The invention discloses a detachable charging connection assembly for connecting a vehicle and power supply equipment, and the assembly comprises a power supply plug which is used for being connected to the power supply equipment; a vehicle plug for connection to a vehicle socket of a vehicle; a cable assembly connecting the power supply plug and the vehicle plug, the cable assembly comprising a power supply control device for confirming the connection of the vehicle plug to the vehicle socket and monitoring and controlling the charging process; and the over-temperature protection unit is configured to trigger the power supply control device to initiate a charging stop process when the temperature of the power supply plug reaches a threshold temperature. The invention further discloses a method for over-temperature protection in the vehicle charging process through the detachable charging connection assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle charging technology, and more specifically, to a detachable charging connection assembly for connecting a vehicle to a power supply device and a method for over-temperature protection during the charging process. Background Technology

[0002] With the advancement of technology and the increasing demand for environmental protection, electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular. The use of electric vehicles is often accompanied by charging needs. To enable rapid charging, the power plugs used for charging electric vehicles are often designed to carry large charging currents. However, because heat loss increases quadratically with the charging current, the power plug may overheat. Furthermore, factors such as component aging, poor contact with the power outlet, and excessively high ambient temperatures can also cause the power plug to overheat. If the vehicle continues to charge under excessively high plug temperatures without taking any action, it could potentially cause a fire, resulting in significant damage to power infrastructure, vehicles, and people.

[0003] In view of this, it is desirable to provide a technical solution for over-temperature protection during vehicle charging. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, some concepts that will be further described in the following detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] This invention provides a technical solution for over-temperature protection during vehicle charging. This solution incorporates a temperature switch in the power connector. The presence or absence of this temperature switch (opening) determines if the power connector is in an over-temperature state (temperature exceeding a preset threshold), and initiates a charging stop process when an over-temperature condition is detected. By configuring the temperature switch so that its opening causes an anomaly in the connection confirmation line (CC line) or control guide line (CP line), the opening of the temperature switch can be detected by detecting anomalies in the CC or CP lines. Furthermore, during the charging stop process, the system instructs the vehicle to actively stop charging and cuts off power to the vehicle, ensuring timely cessation of charging and further enhancing safety.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a detachable charging connection assembly for connecting a vehicle to a power supply device is provided, comprising: a power supply plug for connecting to the power supply device; a vehicle plug for connecting to a vehicle socket; a cable assembly connecting the power supply plug and the vehicle plug, wherein the cable assembly includes a power supply control device for confirming the connection between the vehicle plug and the vehicle socket and for monitoring and controlling the charging process; and an over-temperature protection unit configured to trigger the power supply control device to initiate a charging stop process when the temperature of the power supply plug reaches a threshold temperature.

[0007] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the over-temperature protection unit further includes: a temperature switch disposed in the power supply plug, the temperature switch being configured to disconnect when the sensed temperature exceeds a threshold temperature.

[0008] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a temperature switch is connected between the connection confirmation line and the protective grounding line in the cable assembly, such that when the temperature switch is disconnected, the power supply control device detects an abnormal signal on the connection confirmation line.

[0009] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the detachable charging connection assembly further includes a control guidance circuit, wherein the control guidance circuit includes a resistor R4, a resistor RC and a switch S3 disposed in the vehicle plug, wherein the switch S3 is connected in parallel with the resistor R4, one end of the switch S3 and the resistor R4 is connected to the protective ground wire through a temperature switch, and the other end is connected to the resistor RC, and the other end of the resistor RC is connected to the connection confirmation wire.

[0010] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a temperature switch is connected to a control lead line in a cable assembly such that when the temperature switch is turned off, the power supply control device detects an abnormal signal on the control lead line.

[0011] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the detachable charging connection assembly further includes a control guide circuit, the control guide circuit including a resistor R1 and a switch S1 disposed in the cable assembly, wherein one end of the switch S1 is connected to a power supply control device to switch between a PWM signal output and a static signal output of the power supply control device, one end of the resistor R1 is connected to the other end of the switch S1, and the other end of the resistor R1 is connected to the control guide line via a temperature switch.

[0012] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the charging stop process further includes: instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal; and causing the detachable charging connection component to enter an error state.

[0013] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the detachable charging connection assembly further includes a control guidance circuit, the control guidance circuit including contactors C1 and C2 respectively disposed on the phase line and neutral line in the cable assembly, wherein the charging stop process further includes: waiting for a preset delay time after instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal; and after the preset delay time, disconnecting contactors C1 and C2.

[0014] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the power supply equipment includes a power grid or an energy storage device.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for over-temperature protection during vehicle charging using the aforementioned detachable charging connection assembly is provided, comprising: detecting the temperature in the power supply plug of the detachable charging connection assembly; and triggering a charging stop process by a power supply control device of the detachable charging connection assembly in response to the detected temperature exceeding a threshold temperature.

[0016] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, detecting the temperature in the power supply plug of the charging connection assembly further includes: detecting whether the temperature in the power supply plug exceeds a threshold temperature by means of the on / off state of a temperature switch provided in the power supply plug, wherein the temperature switch is configured to open when the sensed temperature exceeds the threshold temperature.

[0017] According to a further embodiment of the invention, a temperature switch is connected between the connection confirmation wire and the protective ground wire in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection assembly, and the charging stop process is initiated in response to the detection of a signal abnormality in the connection confirmation wire due to the temperature switch being disconnected.

[0018] According to a further embodiment of the invention, a temperature switch is connected to a control guide line in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection assembly, and the initiation of the charging stop process is triggered in response to the detection of a signal abnormality in the control guide line due to the temperature switch being disconnected.

[0019] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the charging stop process further includes: instructing the power supply control device of the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection assembly to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal; and causing the detachable charging connection assembly to enter an error state.

[0020] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the charging stop process further includes: waiting for a preset delay time after instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal; and disconnecting the phase wire and neutral wire in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection component after the preset delay time.

[0021] These and other features and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description and with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are illustrative only and do not limit the scope of the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The features, essence, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent when understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which provide a detailed description. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are consistently used. It should be noted that the described drawings are schematic and non-limiting. Some components in the drawings may be enlarged and are not drawn to scale for illustrative purposes.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system for connecting a vehicle and a power supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention, which illustrates over-temperature protection achieved by interfering with the CC line.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the present invention, showing how over-temperature protection is achieved by interfering with the CP line.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a method for over-temperature protection during vehicle charging using a detachable charging connection assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and its features will become further apparent from the following detailed description. Throughout this specification, the term "vehicle" refers to any type of motor vehicle, including but not limited to cars, vans, trucks, buses, etc. The term "A or B" as used in this specification means "A and B" and "A or B," and does not imply that A and B are exclusive, unless otherwise stated.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram 100 of a system for connecting a vehicle and a power supply device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the detachable charging connection assembly mainly includes a power supply plug 102, a vehicle plug 104, a cable assembly 108, and an over-temperature protection unit 112.

[0030] The power plug 102 is used to connect to the power supply device 114. In this invention, the power supply device 114 may be a power grid or an energy storage device (such as a fixed or portable energy storage device capable of supplying power to external systems).

[0031] Vehicle plug 104 is used to connect to the vehicle socket of the vehicle 106 to be charged. For simplicity, the vehicle socket is not shown in the figure.

[0032] The power plug 102 of the detachable charging connection assembly is matched with the power socket (not shown) of the power supply device 114, enabling the detachable charging connection assembly to be electrically connected to the power supply device 114 to obtain power. Additionally, the vehicle plug 104 of the detachable charging connection assembly is matched with the vehicle socket of the vehicle 106, enabling the detachable charging connection assembly to be electrically connected to the vehicle 106 to be charged, transferring power from the power supply device 114 to the vehicle 106. In this way, a power supply path is formed between the power supply device 114 and the vehicle 106 via the detachable charging connection assembly.

[0033] The detachable charging connection assembly can be detachably connected to the power supply equipment 114 and the vehicle 106, thereby flexibly and conveniently assisting the vehicle 106 in charging.

[0034] The cable assembly 108 connects the power supply plug 102 and the vehicle plug 104.

[0035] The cable assembly 108 includes a cable / wire that connects the power supply plug 102 to the vehicle plug 104, and also includes a power supply control device 110.

[0036] The power supply control device 110 is used to confirm the connection between the vehicle plug and the vehicle socket and to monitor and control the charging process. For example, when the owner of vehicle 106 wants to charge vehicle 106, the power supply control device 110 may allow the charging process to begin only after confirming that the vehicle plug and vehicle socket are successfully connected. If the power supply control device 110 detects that the vehicle plug and vehicle socket are not connected, it may provide relevant prompts and disallow the charging process. During the charging process, the power supply control device 110 can also monitor and control the charging status.

[0037] The over-temperature protection unit 112 is configured to trigger the power supply control device 110 to initiate a charging stop process when the temperature of the power supply plug 102 reaches a threshold temperature.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the over-temperature protection unit 112 further includes a temperature switch disposed in the power supply plug 102. For simplicity, Figure 1 A temperature switch is not shown.

[0039] Figure 1 The over-temperature protection unit 112 is connected to the power plug 102 and the power control device 110 by a dashed line to indicate that the over-temperature protection unit 112 is associated with the power plug 102 and the power control device 110. Although Figure 1For clarity, the over-temperature protection unit 112 is shown separately from the power supply plug 102, but the over-temperature protection unit 112 includes an element (temperature switch) disposed in the power supply plug 102. Additionally, the over-temperature protection unit 112 can communicate with the power supply control device 110 to instruct the power supply control device to initiate a charging stop process. In a specific implementation, the over-temperature protection unit 112 can also be integrated with the power supply control device 110.

[0040] A temperature switch (also known as a temperature control switch or thermal switch) can turn on or off based on changes in temperature. The core component of a temperature switch is a thermistor, which is usually composed of bimetallic strips with different coefficients of thermal expansion.

[0041] Temperature switches can be broadly classified into two categories: normally closed and normally open. For a normally closed temperature switch, when the temperature is below the threshold temperature, the bimetallic strip is in a free state, the contacts are closed, and the temperature switch is closed. When the temperature rises to the threshold temperature, the bimetallic strip generates internal stress due to heat and opens the contacts, thereby cutting off the circuit and opening the temperature switch. Conversely, for a normally open temperature switch, the temperature switch is open when the temperature is below the threshold temperature, and closes when the temperature exceeds the threshold temperature. In the context of this invention, the temperature switch refers to a normally closed temperature switch.

[0042] Threshold temperature (also known as operating temperature) is an important parameter of temperature switches and can be set during production according to actual needs.

[0043] When vehicle 106 needs charging, the power plug 102 of the detachable charging connection assembly can be connected to the power supply device 114, and the vehicle plug 104 of the detachable charging connection assembly can be connected to the vehicle socket of vehicle 106. Charging of vehicle 106 can then begin. For example, the charging process (e.g., start / pause / end charging) can be controlled by the power supply control device 110 of the detachable charging connection assembly.

[0044] If the temperature of the power plug 102 becomes too high before or during charging (e.g., due to abnormal connection between the power plug and the power supply equipment, equipment aging, high ambient temperature, etc.), it can easily cause potential hazards. Therefore, by setting a temperature switch in the power plug 102, the temperature switch will automatically disconnect when the sensed temperature exceeds a threshold temperature, thereby stopping charging in time and avoiding potential hazards.

[0045] Specifically, when the temperature switch is turned off, the over-temperature protection unit 112 can trigger the power supply control device 110 to initiate the charging stop process.

[0046] According to one embodiment of the present invention, over-temperature protection can be achieved by interfering with the CC line. In this embodiment, a temperature switch is connected between the CC line and the PE line of the cable assembly, so that when the temperature switch is open, the power supply control device can detect an abnormal signal on the CC line. The power supply control device can then initiate a charging stop process based on the detected abnormal signal, thereby achieving over-temperature protection.

[0047] In another embodiment of the invention, over-temperature protection can be achieved by interfering with the CP line. In this embodiment, a temperature switch is connected to the CP line of the cable assembly, such that when the temperature switch is open, the power supply control device can detect an abnormal signal on the CP line. The power supply control device can then initiate a charging stop process based on the detected abnormal signal, thereby achieving over-temperature protection.

[0048] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the charging stop process may include: instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM (pulse width modulation) signal to providing a static signal; and causing the detachable charging connection component to enter an error state.

[0049] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the charging stop process may further include: waiting for a preset delay time after instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal; and disconnecting the phase wire (L wire) and neutral wire (N wire) in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection component after the preset delay time.

[0050] The two over-temperature protection methods and the connection method of the temperature switch mentioned above will be combined in the following text. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Further explanation is provided below. The detailed charging shutdown process will be discussed in conjunction with the following text. Figure 4 Further explanation is needed.

[0051] It should be noted that Figure 1 The detachable charging connection assembly shown is merely exemplary and not limiting. In actual implementation, those skilled in the art can implement the detachable charging connection assembly in different ways. For example, the detachable charging connection assembly may include... Figure 1 The more or fewer components / modules shown, or components / modules arranged in different ways.

[0052] This invention achieves over-temperature protection during charging by incorporating a temperature switch in the power plug. In specific implementations, the temperature switch can be configured in different ways to interfere with different circuits to achieve over-temperature protection. See below for reference. Figure 2 and Figure 3 To describe different implementations of the over-temperature protection of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram 200 illustrating over-temperature protection achieved by interfering with the CC line according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Under different standards, vehicles and power supply equipment have different connection methods, and vehicles also have different charging modes when charging.

[0055] Taking the national standard GB / T 18487-2015 "Electric Vehicle Conductive Charging System - Part 1: General Requirements" as an example, it provides multiple charging modes (Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3, Mode 4) and multiple connection methods (Connection Method A, Connection Method B, Connection Method C, Connection Method D).

[0056] For ease of explanation, this section will use the signal transmission / communication circuit between the power supply equipment and the vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the "signal circuit") in the Mode 2 connection method B scenario to explain the principle of over-temperature protection by interfering with the CC line.

[0057] like Figure 2 As shown, the signal circuit of Mode 2 connection method B includes several main modules: function box 204, vehicle plug 206, vehicle socket 208, and vehicle (electric vehicle) 210. Additionally, a power supply plug 202 is shown on the left side of function box 204.

[0058] like Figure 2 As shown, the functional box 204 mainly shows the power supply control device 214, leakage current protector 216, contactors C1 and C2, switch S1, and resistor R1.

[0059] The main components shown in vehicle plug 206 are switch S3, resistor R4, and resistor RC.

[0060] Both the vehicle plug 206 and the vehicle socket 208 include an L terminal, an N terminal, a PE terminal, a CC terminal, and a CP terminal (not shown in the figure for clarity).

[0061] The L-end of vehicle plug 206 and the L-end of vehicle socket 208 are mated at position ① on the L-line and are matched. The N-end of vehicle plug 206 and the N-end of vehicle socket 208 are mated at position ② on the N-line and are matched. The PE-end of vehicle plug 206 and the PE-end of vehicle socket 208 are mated at position ③ on the PE-line and are matched. The CC-end of vehicle plug 206 and the CC-end of vehicle socket 208 are mated at position ④ on the CC-line and are matched. The CP-end of vehicle plug 206 and the CP-end of vehicle socket 208 are mated at position ⑤ on the CP-line and are matched. In this way, vehicle plug 206 and vehicle socket 208 are matched and vehicle plug 206 can be inserted into vehicle socket 208.

[0062] The vehicle 210 mainly shows an on-board charger 218, a vehicle control device 220, a switch S2, a resistor R3, and a resistor R2.

[0063] Figure 2 The diagram also shows multiple lines in the cable assembly, including the phase line (L line), neutral line (N line), protective earth line (PE line), CC line, and CP line.

[0064] As shown in the figure, the L line runs from the power supply plug 202 through contactor C1 in function box 204, vehicle plug 206, and vehicle socket 208 to the on-board charger 218 of vehicle 210. The N line runs from the power supply plug 202 through contactor C2 in function box 204, vehicle plug 206, and vehicle socket 208 to the on-board charger 218 of vehicle 210. The PE line runs from the power supply plug 202 through function box 204, vehicle plug 206, and vehicle socket 208 to ground. The CC line connects the vehicle control device 220 in vehicle 210 to the resistor RC in vehicle plug 206. One end of the CP line is connected to the power supply control device 214 in function box 204, and the other end is connected to the vehicle control device 220, resistor R3, and resistor R2 through diode D1.

[0065] Based on the signal circuit described in the standard, this invention introduces a temperature switch 212 into the power supply plug 202. Simultaneously, a breakpoint is added to the aforementioned signal circuit. Specifically, in the original standard signal circuit, switch S3 in the vehicle plug is connected to the PE line, while this invention disconnects switch S3 from the PE line (shown as a cross in the figure).

[0066] exist Figure 2 In this configuration, a temperature switch 212 is positioned between the PE line and the CC line. Specifically, one end of the temperature switch 212 is connected to the PE line, and the other end is connected to a parallel resistor R4 and a switch S3, and then connected to the CC line via resistor R4, switch S3, and resistor RC. Simultaneously, the end of the temperature switch 212 connected to resistor R4 and switch S3 is also connected to the power supply control device 214. In this way, when the temperature switch 212 is open, the power supply control device 214 can detect an abnormal signal on the CC line.

[0067] As an example, the location where the temperature switch 212 is connected to one end of the CC line can be used as the detection point (e.g., Figure 2 The signal abnormality of the CC line is detected by detecting the voltage at position P1 in the detection point.

[0068] Under normal temperature conditions (not exceeding the threshold temperature), temperature switch 212 closes. Since the voltage on the PE line is 0V, and the resistance of temperature switch 212 when closed is negligible compared to the resistance of R4 and RC, the voltage drop across temperature switch 212 is almost zero. Therefore, the voltage at detection point P1 should be 0V.

[0069] Therefore, when the voltage measured at detection point P1 is 0V, it indicates that the temperature switch 212 is closed. Conversely, when the voltage measured at detection point P1 is not equal to 0V, it indicates that the temperature switch 212 is open. In this way, the openness of the temperature switch can be determined by checking whether the voltage at the detection point is 0V.

[0070] It should be noted that the above detection method is merely an example and not a limitation. In a practical implementation, other locations can also be used as detection points, as long as the voltage at that detection point will show a detectable change due to the temperature switch being open. When this change is detected, it indicates that the temperature switch is open.

[0071] When the power supply control device 214 detects an abnormal signal on the CC line (detects that the voltage of P1 changes from 0V to a value other than 0V), it can determine that the temperature switch 212 is open. In response to determining that the temperature switch 212 is open, the power supply control device 214 can initiate a charging stop process for over-temperature protection.

[0072] In a specific implementation, the power supply plug 202, the function box 204, and the vehicle plug 206 in the above circuit can all be implemented in the detachable charging connection assembly of the present invention. In other words, Figure 2 The component / module on the left side of the dashed line between the vehicle plug 206 and the vehicle socket 208 can be implemented as a detachable charging connection assembly.

[0073] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram 300 illustrating over-temperature protection achieved by interfering with the CP line according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] and Figure 2 similar, Figure 3 The signal circuitry includes a function box 304, a vehicle plug 306, a vehicle socket 308, and a vehicle 310. Additionally, a power plug 302 is shown on the left side of the function box 304. The aforementioned module / unit and its contained components are related to... Figure 2 Similarly, I will not go into details here.

[0075] Based on the aforementioned signal circuit, this invention introduces a temperature switch 312 into the power supply plug 302. Simultaneously, a breakpoint is added to the aforementioned signal circuit. Specifically, in the original standard signal circuit, resistor R1 in function box 304 is connected to the CP line, while this invention disconnects resistor R1 from the CP line (shown with an X in the figure).

[0076] exist Figure 3 In this configuration, temperature switch 312 is located on the CP line. For example... Figure 3 As shown, one end of temperature switch 312 is connected to resistor R1, and then to power supply control device 314 via resistor R1 and switch S1. The other end of temperature switch 312 is connected to the CP line. The end of temperature switch 312 connected to the CP line is also connected to power supply control device 314. In this way, when temperature switch 312 is open, power supply control device 314 can detect an abnormal signal on the CP line.

[0077] As an example, the positions located at both ends of the temperature switch 312 (e.g.) Figure 3 Positions P2 and P3 are used as detection points, and signal abnormalities in the CP line are detected by detecting the voltage at these two detection points.

[0078] Under normal temperature conditions (not exceeding the threshold temperature), temperature switch 312 is closed. Since the voltage drop across temperature switch 312 is almost zero, the measured voltages at P2 and P3 should be the same. However, when the temperature in power plug 302 exceeds the threshold temperature of temperature switch 312, temperature switch 312 opens, and the measured voltages at P2 and P3 will be different.

[0079] Therefore, when the measured voltages at the two detection points P2 and P3 are the same, it indicates that the temperature switch 312 is closed. Conversely, when the measured voltages at the two detection points P2 and P3 are different, it indicates that the temperature switch 312 is open. In this way, the openness of the temperature switch can be determined by checking whether the voltages at the two detection points are different.

[0080] It should be noted that the above detection method is merely an example and not a limitation. In a practical implementation, one or two other locations on the CP line can also be used as detection points, as long as the voltage / voltage difference at the detection point will show a detectable change due to the temperature switch being open. When such a change is detected, it indicates that the temperature switch 312 is open.

[0081] When the power supply control device 314 detects an abnormal signal on the CP line (the voltages at the two detection points P2 and P3 are different), it can determine that the temperature switch 312 is open. In response to determining that the temperature switch 312 is open, the power supply control device 314 can initiate a charging stop process for over-temperature protection.

[0082] Similar to Figure 2 The power supply plug 302, function box 304, and vehicle plug 306 in the above circuit can all be implemented in the detachable charging connection assembly of the present invention. In other words, Figure 3 The component / module on the left side of the dashed line between the vehicle plug 306 and the vehicle socket 308 can be implemented as a detachable charging connection assembly.

[0083] It should be noted that the following is shown Figure 2 and Figure 3 The signal circuits and components / modules shown are only for illustrating the over-temperature protection principle of this application. In a specific implementation, the detachable charging connection assembly may include more, fewer, or different components / modules compared to those shown in the figures. For example, the detachable charging connection assembly may not include leakage current protectors 216 and 316 shown in the figures. Furthermore, in a specific implementation, the power supply control device may be implemented as multiple units. For example, the power supply control device may be implemented as a microprocessor (MCU), a detection unit, and a charging stop unit, wherein the detection unit is used to detect the opening of the temperature switch, the charging stop unit is used to initiate the charging stop process, and the MCU is used to communicate with other units and control the operation of other units.

[0084] from Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen, the over-temperature protection scheme of this application (which achieves over-temperature protection by interfering with the CP line or the CC line) only requires adding a temperature switch and a breakpoint to the original standard circuit. In other words, the over-temperature protection scheme of this application requires very little modification to the standard signal circuit, has little impact on the original circuit components, is easy to implement, and is low in cost.

[0085] Figure 4 This is a method 400 for over-temperature protection during vehicle charging using a detachable charging connection assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Method 400 can be implemented by the detachable charging connection assembly (e.g., a power supply control device for the detachable charging connection assembly).

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown, method 400 begins at step 402. In step 402, the temperature in the power plug of the detachable charging connection assembly is detected.

[0087] In various embodiments of the present invention, it can be achieved by providing a power supply plug (e.g., Figure 1 The temperature switch in the power plug 102 is used to detect the temperature in the power plug.

[0088] During or before charging begins (when the detachable charging connector is connected to the power supply but charging has not yet started), the temperature in the power plug can be detected to monitor the temperature status.

[0089] In step 404, it is determined whether the detected temperature exceeds the threshold temperature of the temperature switch.

[0090] The temperature switch closes when the temperature inside the power plug does not exceed the threshold temperature. The temperature switch opens when the temperature inside the power plug rises and exceeds the threshold temperature.

[0091] If the detected temperature does not exceed the threshold temperature (the result of step 404 is negative (N)), method 400 returns to step 402 and continues to detect the temperature in the power plug. At this time, if charging is in progress, the ongoing charging process can continue. If charging has not yet started, an instruction to allow charging can be given, thereby initiating charging.

[0092] In response to the detected temperature exceeding the threshold temperature (the determination result of step 404 is yes (Y)), method 400 proceeds to step 406. In step 406, the power supply control device of the detachable charging connection component is triggered to initiate a charging stop process.

[0093] In one embodiment of the present invention, an over-temperature protection unit (e.g., an over-temperature protection unit implemented separately from or integrated with the power supply control device) can detect whether the temperature switch is open (i.e., whether the temperature exceeds the threshold temperature), and the over-temperature protection unit can trigger the power supply control device to initiate a charging stop process based on the detection that the temperature switch is open.

[0094] In one embodiment of the invention, the charging stop process further includes performing multiple operational steps. As an example, Figure 4 The diagram shows three steps 408, 410, and 412 of the charging stop process.

[0095] In step 408, the power supply control device of the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection component is instructed to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal.

[0096] According to GB / T 18487-2015, power supply equipment can convey different information to the vehicle by setting the duty cycle of the PWM signal on the CP line. For example, in the case of Mode 2 connection method B, if the duty cycle of the PWM signal is 0% or 100% (i.e., continuous static signal), it indicates that charging is not allowed.

[0097] Therefore, the vehicle can be instructed to stop charging by switching the signal on the CP line from a PWM signal to a static signal.

[0098] Combination Figure 2 The power supply control device 214 can provide PWM signals or static signals. Figure 2 (The signal shown is a +12V static signal). In this application, unless otherwise specified, "PWM signal" refers to a PWM signal with a duty cycle that is not 0% or 100%.

[0099] like Figure 2 As shown, the power supply control device 214 can switch between PWM signal and static signal via switch S1.

[0100] By instructing the power supply control device 214 to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal, the vehicle can know that charging is not allowed and actively stop charging. For example, the vehicle 210 can stop charging by actively disconnecting the switch S2.

[0101] In some cases, when a temperature switch opens due to exceeding a threshold temperature, it may close again shortly if the temperature fluctuates. Even if the switch closes again after opening, the fluctuating temperature could cause it to open again later. If charging is not stopped promptly, excessively high temperatures could lead to damage.

[0102] Therefore, even if the temperature switch opens and then closes again, charging still needs to be stopped to ensure safety. Thus, when the temperature switch is detected to have opened, even if it closes briefly, the power supply control unit is still instructed to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal, thereby notifying the vehicle to actively stop charging. This method prevents potential hazards caused by temperature fluctuations.

[0103] It should be noted that the above signal switching (PWM signal switching to a static signal) is only one example of instructing the vehicle to stop charging. In specific implementations, those skilled in the art can also use other methods to instruct the vehicle to stop charging. For example, the vehicle can be made to stop charging by sending a command / message to stop charging.

[0104] In step 410, after instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal, a preset delay time is waited, and after the preset delay time, the L and N lines in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection component are disconnected.

[0105] The vehicle needs a certain amount of time to detect the switch from the PWM signal to the static signal on the CP line and actively stop charging. Therefore, a delay time (e.g., 5 seconds) can be preset. After instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing the PWM signal to providing the static signal, this delay time can be waited for. After this delay time, the L and N lines in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection component can be disconnected (e.g., by disconnecting contactors C1 and C2 on the L and N lines), thereby cutting off the power supply to the vehicle.

[0106] Therefore, the vehicle can be actively stopped charging within the initial delay period. If the vehicle fails to actively stop charging (e.g., due to the inability to disconnect switch S2, other malfunctions, etc.), the power supply can be cut off after the delay period to passively stop charging. This method provides dual over-temperature protection, further enhancing charging safety.

[0107] In step 412, the detachable charging connection assembly is put into an error state.

[0108] According to one embodiment of the present invention, causing the detachable charging connection component to enter an error state may include: causing the detachable charging connection component to issue a corresponding alarm or error message and prohibiting charging.

[0109] For example, detachable charging connection components can provide alarms or error messages via text and / or sound to notify relevant maintenance personnel for inspection, ensuring the safety of the charging facility. Simultaneously, they can also prevent vehicles from charging, ensuring the safety of vehicles and personnel.

[0110] By following the above steps, charging can be stopped promptly and effectively, preventing damage caused by overheating of the power plug.

[0111] It should be noted that the above steps 408-412 of the charging stop process are merely examples and not limitations. In specific implementations, those skilled in the art can implement the charging stop process in different ways. For example, step 412 may be performed before steps 408 and 410 or simultaneously with one or both of steps 408 and 410.

[0112] While most aspects of this invention are described based on charging mode 2 and connection method B of GB / T 18487, the invention is not limited thereto. In practice, the technical solutions of this invention can be applied to other AC charging modes and connection methods of GB / T 18487. Furthermore, the technical solutions of this invention can also be applied to other charging standards (such as IEC 61851, NACS, etc.). When applied to other charging standards, similar to this invention, the standard circuit can be modified to incorporate a temperature switch in the plug requiring over-temperature protection, so that the opening of the temperature switch causes a signal abnormality in a specific line of the circuit. Thus, the charging stop process can be triggered by detecting the abnormal line signal to provide over-temperature protection.

[0113] The technical solution of this invention stops charging by interfering with the CC or CP line in the standard circuit and utilizing the vehicle's abnormal response to the CC or CP line signal, thereby achieving over-temperature protection. This can be achieved with only minor modifications to the standard circuit, resulting in low cost and good protection. Furthermore, by stopping charging through two methods—the vehicle actively stopping charging and cutting off power to the vehicle after a preset delay—damage that might occur if the vehicle fails to actively stop charging is avoided, further improving safety.

[0114] The detailed description above, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, describes examples but does not represent all examples that can be implemented or fall within the scope of the claims. The terms "example" and "exemplary" are used in this specification to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration" and do not mean "superior to or better than other examples."

[0115] Throughout this specification, the terms "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the use of these phrases may refer to more than one embodiment. Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0116] The preceding description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will readily be understood by those skilled in the art, and the universal principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but are to be granted the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein references to the singular form of an element, unless specifically stated otherwise, are not intended to mean “one and only one,” but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. All structural and functional equivalents of the various aspects of the invention described throughout are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims.

[0117] It should also be noted that these embodiments may be described as processes depicted as flowcharts, flow diagrams, structure diagrams, or block diagrams. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of these operations can be executed in parallel or concurrently. Furthermore, the order of these operations can be rearranged.

[0118] While various embodiments have been described and illustrated, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the precise configurations and components described above. Various modifications, substitutions, and improvements that will be apparent to those skilled in the art can be made to the arrangement, operation, and details of the apparatus disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A detachable charging connection assembly for connecting a vehicle to a power supply device, comprising: A power plug for connecting to the power supply device; A vehicle plug for connecting to a vehicle socket in the vehicle; A cable assembly connecting the power plug and the vehicle plug, wherein the cable assembly includes a power control device for confirming the connection between the vehicle plug and the vehicle socket and for monitoring and controlling the charging process. as well as An over-temperature protection unit is configured to trigger the power supply control device to initiate a charging stop process when the temperature of the power supply plug reaches a threshold temperature.

2. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The over-temperature protection unit further includes: A temperature switch is provided in the power plug, and the temperature switch is configured to disconnect when the sensed temperature exceeds the threshold temperature.

3. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The temperature switch is connected between the connection confirmation line and the protective grounding line in the cable assembly, so that when the temperature switch is disconnected, the power supply control device detects an abnormal signal on the connection confirmation line.

4. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The detachable charging connection assembly further includes a control guidance circuit, wherein the control guidance circuit includes a resistor R4, a resistor RC, and a switch S3 disposed in the vehicle plug, wherein the switch S3 is connected in parallel with the resistor R4, one end of the switch S3 and the resistor R4 is connected to the protective grounding wire through the temperature switch, and the other end is connected to the resistor RC, and the other end of the resistor RC is connected to the connection confirmation wire.

5. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The temperature switch is connected to the control guide line in the cable assembly, such that when the temperature switch is turned off, the power supply control device detects an abnormal signal on the control guide line.

6. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The detachable charging connection assembly further includes a control guide circuit, which includes a resistor R1 and a switch S1 disposed in the cable assembly. One end of the switch S1 is connected to the power supply control device to switch between the PWM signal output and the static signal output of the power supply control device. One end of the resistor R1 is connected to the other end of the switch S1, and the other end of the resistor R1 is connected to the control guide line via the temperature switch.

7. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The charging stop process further includes: The power supply control device is instructed to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal; and This causes the detachable charging connection assembly to enter an error state.

8. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The detachable charging connection assembly further includes a control guidance circuit, the control guidance circuit including contactors C1 and C2 respectively disposed on the phase wire and neutral wire in the cable assembly, wherein the charging stop process further includes: After instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal, wait for a preset delay time; and After the preset delay time, contactors C1 and C2 are disconnected.

9. The detachable charging connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power supply equipment includes a power grid or an energy storage device.

10. A method for over-temperature protection during vehicle charging using the detachable charging connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: Detect the temperature in the power plug of the detachable charging connection assembly; as well as In response to the detected temperature exceeding a threshold temperature, the power supply control device of the detachable charging connection component is triggered to initiate a charging stop process.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Detecting the temperature in the power plug of the charging connection assembly further includes: The temperature in the power plug is detected by setting the on / off state of a temperature switch in the power plug to determine whether the temperature exceeds the threshold temperature, wherein the temperature switch is configured to open when the sensed temperature exceeds the threshold temperature.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The temperature switch is connected between the connection confirmation wire and the protective ground wire in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection assembly, and the charging stop process is initiated in response to the detection of a signal abnormality in the connection confirmation wire caused by the temperature switch being disconnected.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The temperature switch is connected to the control guide line in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection assembly, and the charging stop process is initiated in response to the detection of a signal abnormality in the control guide line caused by the temperature switch being disconnected.

14. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The charging stop process further includes: The power supply control device for instructing the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection component to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal; and This causes the detachable charging connection assembly to enter an error state.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The charging stop process further includes: After instructing the power supply control device to switch from providing a PWM signal to providing a static signal, wait for a preset delay time; and After the preset delay time, disconnect the phase wire and neutral wire in the cable assembly of the detachable charging connection assembly.

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