Electric vehicle charging station parking block

Abstract

An electric vehicle charging station parking block. In one aspect, the parking block includes a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is configured to be closer to the ground than the top surface when the parking block is in an installed state. The parking block has a cord channel defined within the parking block at a location between the top surface and the bottom surface. The cord channel is an air gap configured to receive a cord connecting an electric vehicle (EV) charger to an EV charging port configured to physically connect to the EV.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Priority claim This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 485,148, filed February 15, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] This specification relates to improvements to parking blocks for charging stations, such as electronic vehicle (EV) charging stations. An electric vehicle charging station is a device that provides electrical energy to recharge the batteries of an electric vehicle. A charge port physically connects to the car and allows power to flow from the EV charging station to the car via a cord that connects the charge port to the charger at the EV charging station. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In general, one innovative aspect of the subject matter described herein can be embodied in a parking block including a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface is configured to be closer to the ground than the top surface when the parking block is in an installed state. The parking block has a cord channel defined within the parking block at a location between the top surface and the bottom surface. The cord channel is an air gap configured to receive a cord connecting an electric vehicle (EV) charger to an EV charge port configured to physically connect to the EV.

[0004] These and other embodiments may each optionally include one or more of the following features: The code channel may be accessible through the bottom surface of the parking block.

[0005] The code channel can be accessible from an exterior surface of the parking block, which can be a side, end, top, bottom, or another exterior surface.

[0006] The code channel may be accessible from two outer faces of the parking block.

[0007] The two exterior surfaces can include a first exterior surface and a second exterior surface, and the code channel can be defined in and accessible from each of the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface. The code channel can be a continuous void extending through between the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface.

[0008] The first exterior surface and the second exterior surface may meet to form a corner of the parking block.

[0009] The first exterior surface can be an end surface of the parking block having a smaller surface area than the second exterior surface. The code channel can be formed through the second exterior surface in a central one-third section of the second exterior surface.

[0010] The first exterior surface can be an end surface of the parking block having a smaller surface area than the second exterior surface, and the code channel can be formed through the second exterior surface outside a central one-third section of the second exterior surface.

[0011] The first outer surface can be opposite the bottom surface from the second outer surface, and a first distance from an end face of the parking block at which the code channel passes through a first plane of the first outer surface can be different from a second distance from the end face of the parking block at which the code channel passes through a plane of the second outer surface.

[0012] The perimeter of the code channel can be angled. The perimeter of the code channel can be rectangular.

[0013] The circumference of the cord channel can be arcuate or rounded.

[0014] The parking block may include electrical conductors routed through the cord channel and wire harness connectors disposed at one or more ends of the cord channel.

[0015] The parking block can include a connection to a second parking block. The connection to the second parking block can have a length that allows the parking block to be aligned with the second parking block in a stacked formation.

[0016] The electrical connector can be embedded in the parking block before the parking block hardens, and the code channel can be defined by the electrical conductor as the parking block hardens.

[0017] The parking blocks can be one or more of concrete, plastic, or rubber. The cord channel can be defined by an electrical conductor placed within the perimeter of the parking block as the concrete, plastic, or rubber cures.

[0018] The wire harness connector can be disposed at one or more of the inlet or outlet ports of the cord channel of the parking block.

[0019] The wire harness connectors can be positioned at both the inlet and outlet ports of the cord channel of the parking block.

[0020] The connection to the parking block can be a pre-made connection between the parking block and the second parking block in a hardwired manner.

[0021] The connection to the second parking block can be connectorized to allow the connection to the second parking block to be made after the parking block is placed in place.

[0022] Certain embodiments of the subject matter described herein can be implemented to achieve one or more of the following advantages. For example, the subject matter described herein can prevent the cord of an EV charging station (also referred to as a charging station for simplicity) from spreading on the ground, which reduces a tripping hazard for users of the charging station as well as pedestrians walking near the charging station. For example, new parking blocks (also known as bollards) configured to route the cord through the parking block can be used to eliminate the tripping hazard caused by leaving the cord exposed (e.g., laying on the ground). Because parking blocks are already used to mark the edges of parking spaces and prevent cars from colliding with charging stations (or other objects), routing the cord through specially configured parking blocks eliminates the additional tripping hazard that would otherwise be caused by the exposed cord.

[0023] A series of electrically interconnected parking blocks can be used to simplify the installation of parking blocks that reduce trip hazards. For example, the parking blocks can be manufactured with conductors routed through and between the parking blocks. This series of multiple interconnected parking blocks can be transported to the installation site in a "stacked" orientation and then simply unstacked into the appropriate position. Because the parking blocks are already electrically interconnected, they only need to be properly spaced and secured. No electrical work needs to be done. Rather, one of the parking blocks can be connected to an existing power source (e.g., plugged into an EV charging station), and power becomes available at each of the interconnected parking blocks.

[0024] As described in more detail below, the solutions described herein can also be configured with lower profile (e.g., flattened) cords that connect the charger to the charging port at the charging station. These lower profile cords reduce the height of the cord above the ground compared to the higher profile (e.g., rounded) cords traditionally used.

[0025] The details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject matter will become apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a car connected to an EV charging station. [Figure 2A] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2B] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2C] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2D] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2E] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2F] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2G] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2H] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2I] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2J] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 2K] 10A-10C are diagrams illustrating different configurations of code channels formed on parking blocks. [Figure 3A] 1A and 1B illustrate different configurations of code channels. [Figure 3B] 1A and 1B illustrate different configurations of code channels. [Figure 3C] 1A and 1B illustrate different configurations of code channels. [Figure 3D] 1A and 1B illustrate different configurations of code channels. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a diagram of interconnected parking blocks. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 is a diagram of interconnected parking blocks. [Figure 4C] FIG. 1 is a diagram of interconnected parking blocks. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.

[0028] This specification describes systems and methods for implementing parking blocks that reduce trip hazards caused by cords at electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. As described in more detail below, specially configured parking blocks can be used to hide the charging cord that connects the charging station's charger to the charging port (e.g., the plug that connects to the EV). For example, the parking block can be formed with a cord channel (e.g., an air gap) through which the charging cord can pass. By passing the charging cord through the cord channel of the parking block, the cord is no longer exposed and is no longer a trip hazard. In some implementations, the cord channel can be circular or have an arc shape so that a circular charging cable can be routed through it. In some implementations, the cord channel is rectangular to accommodate a flat (e.g., rectangular) cable, such as a ribbon cable. Using a flat cable allows the charging cable to have a lower profile, so that the exposed cable (e.g., between the charging station and the parking block or between the parking block and the charging port) is less of a trip hazard than currently used circular charging cables.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a diagram 100 of an electronic vehicle (EV) 110 connected to an EV charging station 120. As shown, the charging station 120 has a charging cord 130 that connects a charger in the charging station 120 to a charging port 140 in the charging station 120, which physically connects the charging station 120 to the EV 110. Typically, the charging cord 130 is long (e.g., at least the length of the vehicle intended to be charged) so that the charging port 140 at the end of the charging cord 130 can reach a charging receptacle in a vehicle that accepts the charging port 140 in the charging station 120. For example, while the EV 110 is shown with the charging port 140 connected to the end of the EV 110 closest to the charging station 120, the charging cord 130 is generally long enough to reach the opposite end of the EV 110 so that the charging port 140 can be connected to the EV 110 even if that charging receptacle is located at the other end of the EV 110 or if the EV 110 is pulled into a parking space in the opposite direction. Additionally, it is common to use parking blocks 150 to maintain a safe distance between the EV 110 and the charging station 120, which increases the length of the charging cord 130 required to ensure that the charging port 140 can reach the EV 110. This often results in portions of the charging cord 130 being placed on the ground, spread out, or piled up, creating a significant tripping hazard for anyone walking or otherwise traveling near the exposed charging cord 130.

[0030] Parking blocks are generally devices used to indicate appropriate parking spots for vehicles and maintain a safe distance between vehicles and other objects, such as walls, buildings, sidewalks, and charging stations. Parking blocks 150 can be made of concrete, plastic, rubber, or another suitable rigid material and are placed along the edges of parking spaces to physically prevent vehicles from rolling over the curb or into another space. Parking blocks 150 can be secured to the ground using anchor bolts. For example, parking blocks 150 can be drilled and then bolted to the pavement or concrete surface using concrete anchors. The anchors often include threaded rods, typically made of steel, embedded in the concrete, with nuts and washers on the ends to hold the blocks in place. In some cases, adhesives can be used with the anchor bolts to provide additional stability and safety. Once installed, parking blocks 150 are generally not movable, and when charge port 140 is attached to EV 110, charge cord 130 is often rested on top of parking block 150, increasing the trip hazard of charge cord 130 because charge cord 130 is elevated off the ground rather than lying flat.

[0031] The trip hazard caused by a charging cord lying on the ground and / or being elevated off the ground by the parking block can be reduced or eliminated by using specially configured parking blocks through which the charging cord can be threaded. For example, as described further below, the parking block can have a cord channel formed through the body of the parking block, allowing the charging cord to pass through and be hidden by the parking block. The cord channel can take many different forms and can pass through different portions of the parking block depending on the location / arrangement of the charging stations, among other things. Furthermore, as described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4A-4C , a set of multiple parking blocks can be manufactured as a series of electrically connected parking blocks interconnected by a set of conductors (e.g., wires or charging cords). These conductor sets can be flexible so that the parking blocks can be arranged in a "stacked" configuration for transportation and then unstacked / deployed at the desired installation location for ready use.

[0032] FIG. 2A is a diagram 200 of a charging cord 205 being routed through a parking block 210. As shown, the charging cord 205 connects the charging station 120 to a charging port that is physically connected to the EV 110. The charging cord 205 enters the parking block 210 at an entrance port 215, is routed through a cord channel 220 defined in the body of the parking block 210, and exits the parking block 210 at an exit port 225. The parking block 210 of FIG. 2A is configured with the entrance port 215 defined (e.g., created) on a first side 230 of the parking block 210 and the exit port 225 defined on a second side (not visible) of the parking block 210 that is opposite the first side 230.

[0033] As used herein, a side of a parking block refers to a surface of the parking block that (i) is between the top and bottom surfaces of the parking block and (ii) has a greater surface area than an end of the parking block between the side and an opposite side opposite the top and bottom surfaces. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A , a first side 230 is (i) disposed between the top surface 235 and bottom surface (not visible) of parking block 210 and (ii) has a greater surface area than a side 240 between the first side 230 and a second side (not visible) opposite the top and bottom surfaces from the first side. The exterior surfaces of the parking block include the side (e.g., 230), end surface (e.g., 240), top surface (e.g., 235), and bottom surface.

[0034] The top surface 235 of the parking block is generally configured to be away from the ground when the parking block 210 is installed (e.g., in an installed state), and the bottom surface of the parking block 210 is configured to be closer to the ground (e.g., in contact with the ground or one or more materials between the parking block 210 and the ground) when the parking block 210 is installed (e.g., in an installed state). In some implementations, the parking block 210 is considered to be in an installed state when it is bolted, glued, or otherwise secured to the ground (or a surface between the ground and the parking block 210).

[0035] As described above, the cord channel 220 is defined in the body of the parking block 210. In other words, the cord channel 220 is created at a location within the parking block between the top surface 235 and the bottom surface (inclusive). In some implementations, the cord channel can be defined by forming a void in the material of the parking block. The void can be configured (e.g., sized, shaped) to receive the charging cord 205 that connects the EV charging station 120 to the EV 110 (e.g., via a charging port).

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, which illustrate different cord channel configurations, the void defining the cord channel can be created in different ways (e.g., different geometric shapes or locations) to allow the cord channel to be accessed in different ways. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, cord channel 302 is created as a round void formed a specified distance (D) from bottom surface 304 of parking block 306. Configured in this manner, the cord channel is accessible from / through the side or end face of the parking block, but not from / through bottom surface 304 of parking block 306. The round shape of cord channel 302 configures the parking block for use with a round cord (e.g., an EV charging cord or other conductor). In other words, cord channel 302 is configured to accept a round charging cord based on the arcuate / rounded perimeter of the cord channel.

[0037] 3B shows another configuration of cord channel 308. In this configuration, the cord channel is accessible through bottom surface 310 of parking block 312 and is again configured to accept a circular cord, such as a circular charging cord. The void defining cord channel 308 removes a portion of bottom surface 310, so that cord channel 308 is accessible through bottom surface 310 and the cord can be inserted into parking block 312 through an opening in bottom surface 310. The round shape of the void configures cord channel 308 for use with a round conductor.

[0038] 3C shows another configuration of the cord channel 314 accessible through the bottom surface 316 of the parking block 318, such that a cord (e.g., a charging cord) can be inserted into the cord channel 314 from the bottom of the parking block 318. This cord channel 314 is rectangular in shape, thereby configuring it to accept a flat (e.g., rectangular) cord, such as a ribbon cable. Using a flat cord reduces the profile (e.g., height) of the cord, distributing the metal required to achieve a particular electrical rating over a larger area and reducing the cord height, thereby reducing the trip hazard compared to a round cord with a similar electrical rating.

[0039] 3D shows a cord channel 320 being created a distance D from the bottom surface 322 of a parking block 324. As shown, the cord channel is accessible from / through an exterior surface (e.g., a side or end surface) of the parking block 324, but not from / through the bottom surface 322 of the parking block 324. The angled / rectangular shape around the cord channel 320 configures the parking block for use with a flat / rectangular cord, such as a ribbon cable (e.g., an EV charging cord or other conductor). In other words, the cord channel 320 is configured to accept a flat / rectangular charging cord.

[0040] Returning to the description of FIG. 2A , as previously mentioned, the code channel 220 is accessible from two exterior surfaces of the parking block 210: the first side 230 and the second side. The inlet port 215 is created / formed in and accessible from the first side 230; in this particular configuration, the inlet port 215 is formed in the lateral third of the parking block 210. For purposes of explanation, assume that the parking block 210 is divided into equal third sections. Once divided, the location of the inlet port 215 of the code channel 220 is located outside the central third section of the parking block 210, such that the inlet port 215 is necessarily located in one of the side third sections of the parking block 210. Thus, the code channel is formed through the side at a location outside the central third section of the first side 230. Of course, code channel 220, as well as the remaining code channels described herein, can be formed to be accessible from the bottom surface of parking block 210, or can be formed at a specified distance from the bottom surface and / or top surface 235 of parking block 210.

[0041] Cord channel 220 is configured to route charging cord 205 from inlet port 215 near one end 245 of parking block 210 to outlet port 225 defined on a second side that is closer to the opposite end 240 of parking block 210 than inlet port 215. Thus, a first distance from an end face of the parking block where cord channel 220 passes through a plane defined by first side 230 (e.g., at inlet port 215) is different from a distance from an end face where cord channel 220 passes through another plane defined by a second side (e.g., at outlet port 225). In other words, cord 205 enters inlet port 215 at a location that is offset (relative to the end) from outlet port 225 where cord 205 exits the parking block.

[0042] In the particular configuration shown, the exit port 225 of the cord channel 220 is formed on the second side at a location outside the central one-third section of the parking block 210. Thus, the cord channel is defined within and accessible from each of the two exterior surfaces (e.g., the first side 230 and the second side) and is configured as a continuous gap extending through each of the two exterior surfaces. This allows the charging cord 205 to be threaded through the parking block 210, thereby reducing the trip hazard posed by the charging cord 205 by accommodating the portion of the charging cord 205 that would normally lie on the exposed ground. Configuring the cord channel as shown in FIG. 2A allows the charging cord 205 to be safely routed through the parking block 210 to a location closer to the charging port of the EV 110. Other configurations can also be used depending on the item arrangement and / or target application. Some of these configurations are described with reference to FIGS. 2B-2K.

[0043] FIG. 2B shows another configuration of the code channel 220. In this configuration, the code channel 220 still passes through and is accessible from two exterior surfaces of the parking block 210, but rather than being defined on two opposing sides of the parking block 210, the code channel 220 is defined on and accessible from an end 245 and a second side (not visible). For example, as described above with reference to FIG. 2A, the inlet port 215 is located at the end 245, and the outlet port 225 is located in the same section of the parking block 210 (e.g., outside the central one-third section). The inlet port 215 and the outlet port 225 are connected by a continuous void that defines the code channel 220. This causes the portion of the code exiting the outlet port 225 to be offset from the center of the parking block 210.

[0044] In this configuration, the second side and end 245 meet to form a corner of the parking block 210, and the end 245 has a smaller surface area than the second side. Similar to the configuration of FIG. 2A , this configuration allows the charging cord to be routed through the parking block from one end 245 of the parking block 210 to the other end 240 of the parking block 210, which shields the charging cord 205 and reduces the tripping hazard caused by an exposed charging cord lying on the ground.

[0045] FIG. 2C illustrates another configuration of the code channel 220. In this configuration, the code channel 220 still passes through and is accessible from the two exterior surfaces of the parking block 210, and similar to the configuration of FIG. 2A, the code channel 220 is defined on two opposing sides of the parking block 210. Specifically, the code channel 220 is again defined on and accessible from a first side 230 and a second side (not visible). For example, the inlet port 215 is disposed on and formed through the first side 230, and the outlet port 225 is disposed on and formed through a second side (e.g., the vehicle-facing side of the parking block when in the installed state) that is opposite the top surface 235 from the first side 230. The outlet port 225 is within the same section of the parking block 210 (e.g., the outer central one-third section) as described above with reference to FIG. 2A, while the inlet port 215 is within the central one-third section of the parking block 210. Inlet port 215 and outlet port 225 are connected by a continuous air gap that defines cord channel 220. This configuration may be useful, for example, when charging station 120 is positioned such that the central one-third section of parking block 210 is closer to charging station 120 than sections of parking block 210 outside of the central one-third section.

[0046] FIG. 2D shows another configuration of the code channel 220. In this configuration, the code channel 220 still passes through and is accessible from the two exterior surfaces of the parking block 210, and similar to the configuration of FIG. 2A, the code channel 220 is defined on two opposing sides of the parking block 210. Specifically, the code channel 220 is again defined on and accessible from a first side 230 and a second side (not visible). For example, the inlet port 215 is located on and formed through the first side 230, and the outlet port 225 is located on and formed through the second side (e.g., the car-facing side of the parking block when in the installed state) that is opposite the top surface 235 from the first side 230. In this configuration, both the inlet port 215 and the outlet port 225 are located in the central one-third section of the parking block 210. The inlet port 215 and the outlet port 225 are connected by a continuous gap that defines the code channel 220. This configuration may be useful, for example, when charging station 120 is positioned such that the central one-third section of parking block 210 is closer to charging station 120 than sections of parking block 210 outside the central one-third section, as shown by the dotted line, and charging cord 205 is routed under EV 110.

[0047] FIG. 2E illustrates another configuration of the code channel 220. In this configuration, the code channel 220 still passes through and is accessible from the two exterior surfaces of the parking block 210, and similar to the configuration of FIG. 2A, the code channel 220 is defined on two opposing sides of the parking block 210. Specifically, the code channel 220 is again defined on and accessible from a first side 230 and a second side (not visible). For example, the inlet port 215 is located on and formed through the first side 230, and the outlet port 225 is located on and formed through the second side (e.g., the car-facing side of the parking block when in the installed state) that is opposite the top surface 235 from the first side 230. In this configuration, the outlet port 225 is located in the central one-third section of the parking block 210, while the inlet port 215 is located outside the central one-third section of the parking block 210. Inlet port 215 and outlet port 225 are connected by a continuous air gap that defines cord channel 220. This configuration may be useful, for example, when charging station 120 is positioned such that the outer one-third section of parking block 210 is closer to charging station 120 than the central one-third section of parking block 210, as shown by the dotted line, and charging cord 205 is routed under EV 110.

[0048] 2F shows another configuration of code channel 220. In this configuration, code channel 220 still passes through and is accessible from two exterior surfaces of parking block 210, but rather than being defined on two opposing sides of parking block 210, code channel 220 is defined on and accessible from end 245 and a second side (not visible). For example, inlet port 215 is located on end 245, and outlet port 225 is in the central one-third section of parking block 210. End 245 has a smaller surface area than the second side, and a corner of parking block 210 is defined by end 245 and the second side. Inlet port 215 and outlet port 225 are connected by a continuous gap that defines code channel 220. This configuration may be useful, for example, when charging station 120 is positioned such that end 245 of parking block 210 is closest to charging station 120 and charging cord 205 is routed underneath EV 110 (e.g., within the central section of the parking space), as shown by the dotted line.

[0049] FIG. 2G is a side view of parking block 210 showing exit port 225 located outside the central one-third section of parking block 210. In this configuration, exit port 225 of code channel 220 is formed in and accessible from second side 250. FIG. 2G also shows how code channel 220 extends from exit port 225 to entry port 215 formed in end 245 of parking block 210. The textured fill used to depict code channel 220 in these figures indicates that code channel 220 is formed within the body of parking block 210 rather than a visible surface.

[0050] FIG. 2H is a top view of parking block 210, illustrating how cord channel 220, as shown in FIG. 2G, is formed through the body of parking block 210. More specifically, FIG. 2G looks at cord channel 220 through top surface 235, showing how the cord channel is formed from inlet port 215 at end 245 to outlet port 225. In this configuration, the gap defining the cord channel is formed through the central portion of parking block 210 and then has a 90-degree turn toward second side 250. Of course, angles other than a single 90-degree angle (e.g., 45 degrees) can also be used. Also, cord channel 220 may be curved rather than angled. Additionally, the cord channel can be configured to accommodate a flat cord, as described with reference to FIGS. 3C and 3D.

[0051] 2I-2K are different views of the exemplary code channel 220 configured in FIG. 2C. In these views, the inlet port 215 is located in the central one-third section of the parking block 210, and the outlet port 225 is located outside of the central one-third section of the parking block 210. FIG. 2I is a side view of the parking block showing a first side 230. The inlet port 215 is shown formed through the side 230, and the code channel 220 is formed by a void extending through the body of the parking block 210 from the inlet port 215 to the outlet port 225, which is formed on the second side. FIG. 2J is an opposite side view of the parking block 210 showing the second side 250. The outlet port 225 is shown formed through the side 250, and FIG. 2J illustrates the code channel 220 as a void extending through the body of the parking block 210 from the inlet port 215 to the outlet port 225. FIG. 2K is a top view of the parking block 210 showing the path of the cord channel 225 within the body of the parking block 210 and between the inlet port 215 and the outlet port 225.

[0052] 4A is a diagram of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 interconnected by electrical conductors 408 and 410. Parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can be similar to parking block 210 described above. For example, parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can have cord channels 412 defined through their respective bodies, thereby allowing cords (e.g., conductors) to be routed through parking blocks 402, 404, and 406.

[0053] In some implementations, conductors 408 and 410 connecting parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can be a single continuous conductor passing through each of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406. In these implementations, the conductors can carry power, such as power from EV charging station 120 to multiple different electric vehicles. For example, parking block 402 can include a hardware interface for connecting to EV charging station 120. The hardware interface can be, for example, a wire harness or plug that allows a power cord 414 or other conductor to be electrically connected to conductor segments disposed in cord channel 412 of parking block 402. The wire harness can be located at the end of parking block 402 or at various other locations, such as the inlet ports described above.

[0054] Conductor 408 electrically connects the conductor segment within parking block 402 to another conductor segment disposed within parking block 404 (e.g., within code channel 412), such that when parking block 402 is connected to EV charging station 120 or another power source, parking block 404 is also connected to EV charging station 120. Similarly, conductor 410 electrically connects the conductor segment disposed within parking block 404 (e.g., within code channel 412) to yet another conductor segment disposed within parking block 406. In this manner, when parking block 402 is connected to EV charging station 120 or another power source, parking block 406 is also connected to EV charging station 120. In this manner, the interconnected parking blocks form a chain of power source blocks that provide access to the power provided by EV charging station 120.

[0055] For example, as described above, each of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can have an outlet port similar to those described above formed on the exterior surface of the parking block, and a charging cord having a charging port connected to an end thereof can be connected to a conductor segment within the parking block through the outlet port. Alternatively or additionally, the outlet port can have a wire harness or another hardware interface that allows the charging cable to be attached to the outlet port. In this manner, the charging cable can be connected to power from EV charging station 120 passing through conductors disposed within parking blocks 402, 404, and 406.

[0056] In some implementations, parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can be manufactured as a set of prefabricated (e.g., hard-wired) parking blocks, where the set of parking blocks includes two or more parking blocks connected to each other in a prefabricated manner. For example, a single continuous conductor (or multiple pre-connected conductors) can be used to connect parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 as shown in Figures 4A-4C. More specifically, the single continuous conductor (or multiple pre-connected conductors) can pass through cord channel 412 of each of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 and connect these parking blocks in the same manner as conductors 408 and 410.

[0057] In some implementations, parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can be connectorized such that interconnections (e.g., electrical and / or physical interconnections) between parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can be made after construction of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406, such as when parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 are installed. For example, parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can each include connectors (e.g., wire harnesses or other suitable connectors) at respective inlet and outlet ports, and conductors 408 and 410 can each have mating connectors configured to mate (e.g., connect, secure, and / or lock) with the connectors at the inlet and outlet ports. In this example, parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 can be placed in their respective installation locations, and then conductors 408 and 410 can be connected to connectors at the inlet and outlet ports to connect parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 as shown in Figures 4A-4C.

[0058] In some implementations, fewer than all of the inlet or outlet ports (including zero inlet or outlet ports) can have connectors. In these implementations, one type of port (e.g., inlet ports) can be connectorized, while the other type of port (e.g., outlet ports) can be pre-fabricated with conductors (e.g., 408) extending from the parking block. In these implementations, the conductors (e.g., 408) extending from the outlet port of a parking block (e.g., 402) can have a mating connector attached to its end so that the conductors (e.g., 408) can be connected to a connector at the inlet port of another parking block (e.g., 404). Of course, the inlet ports, but not the outlet ports, can be pre-fabricated with conductors extending from the parking block with the outlet ports connectorized.

[0059] The lengths of conductors 408 and 410, or other connections between parking blocks, can be selected to allow the parking blocks to be stacked or otherwise aligned in a stacked manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 4C , parking blocks 404 and 406 are both stacked on top of parking block 402. As can be seen, the interconnections between the parking blocks created by conductors 408 and 410 remain intact even after the parking blocks are stacked. This allows parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 to be easily unstacked at the installation site without requiring electrical work or modification of the parking blocks. As used herein, creating a stacked arrangement does not necessarily require placing parking blocks on top of each other. Rather, parking blocks can be placed in a stacked arrangement by being placed side-by-side in a manner similar to that shown in FIG. 4C , thereby creating a “stacked” arrangement, although the blocks are only supporting their own weight.

[0060] In some implementations, the lengths of conductors 408 and 410 can be chosen based on the size of the parking space in which parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 will be placed and / or the lengths of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406. For example, assume the width of the parking space in which parking blocks 420, 404, and 406 will be installed is 9 feet, and each of the parking blocks is 7 feet long. In this example, there is a 4-foot space between each installed parking block, such that each of conductors 408 and 410 may be 4 feet long.

[0061] In some implementations, the segments of conductors (e.g., electrical conductors) within the code channels 412 of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 are embedded in the parking blocks while they are being manufactured. For example, a segment of conductor (or precast void) can be inserted into each of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 before the parking blocks harden. Once the material used to form parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 hardens, the code channels 412 are defined by the electrical conductors and the segments of conductor are set in place. For example, the parking blocks can be made of concrete, plastic, rubber, or another suitable material, and before the selected material hardens, the electrical conductors can be inserted within the perimeter of the parking block body and left in place until the selected material hardens.

[0062] In some implementations, segments of conductor are added to parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 after the parking blocks have already hardened. In these implementations, code channels 412 can be formed by core drilling, chasing, sawing, or otherwise creating voids in the hardened parking blocks through which conductors can be routed.

[0063] In some implementations, conductors 408 and 410 are ribbon-type (e.g., flat) conductors that are rectangular or otherwise flat or angled compared to the circular conductors traditionally used in EV charging applications. Using ribbon-type conductors to interconnect parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 reduces the profile (e.g., height) of conductors 408 and 410 above ground and reduces the tripping hazard posed by conductors 408 and 410. FIG. 4B shows a top view of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 interconnected using ribbon-type conductors as conductors 408 and 410. As shown, cord channel 412 of each of parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 is rectangular in shape to accommodate the ribbon-type conductors.

[0064] In some implementations, the interconnections between parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 may include reinforcing members that prevent excessive tension on conductors 408 and 410. For example, metal cables, chains, or other devices that limit movement of parking blocks 402, 404, and 408 may be attached between the parking blocks to prevent damage to conductors 408 and 410 prior to installation of parking blocks 402, 404, and 408. Because parking blocks 402, 404, and 406 are held in place using bolts and / or adhesives, the reinforcing members may be removed during or after installation.

[0065] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any invention or what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of a particular invention. Certain features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, while features may be described above as acting in a particular combination and initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination may, in some cases, be cut from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or a variation of the subcombination.

[0066] Similarly, although acts are shown in the figures in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such acts be performed in the particular order shown, or in any sequential order, or that all of the acts shown be performed, to achieve desirable results.

[0067] Thus, specific embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. Moreover, the processes depicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In certain implementations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 110EV 120 EV charging stations 130 charging cord 140 charging port 150 Parking Blocks 205 Charging cord 210 Parking Block 215 Inlet Port 220 Code Channel 225 Exit Port 230 First Side 235 Top 240 End 245 End 250 Second Side 302 Code Channel 304 bottom 306 Parking Block 308 Code Channel 310 bottom 312 Parking Block 314 Code Channel 316 bottom 318 Parking Block 320 Code Channel 322 bottom 324 Parking Block 402, 404, 406 Parking Blocks 408, 410 Electrical conductors 412 Code Channel 414 Power cord

Claims

1. The top surface and a bottom surface, the bottom surface being configured to be closer to the ground than the top surface when the parking block is in an installed state; A parking block comprising: the parking block has a code channel defined within the parking block at a location between the top surface and the bottom surface; the cord channel is an air gap configured to receive a cord connecting an electric vehicle (EV) charger to an EV charge port configured to physically connect to the EV; Parking block.

2. 10. The parking block of claim 1, wherein the code channel is accessible through the bottom surface of the parking block.

3. 10. The parking block of claim 1, wherein the code channel is accessible from an exterior surface of the parking block.

4. 4. The parking block of claim 3, wherein the code channel is accessible from two exterior faces of the parking block.

5. the two outer surfaces include a first outer surface and a second outer surface; the code channel is defined in and accessible from each of the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface; The cord channel is a continuous gap extending through between the first outer surface and the second outer surface.

5. The parking block according to claim 4.

6. 6. The parking block of claim 5, wherein the first exterior surface and the second exterior surface intersect to form a corner of the parking block.

7. the first outer surface is an end surface of the parking block having a smaller surface area than the second outer surface; the cord channel is formed through the second outer surface in a central one-third section of the second outer surface; 6. The parking block according to claim 5.

8. the first outer surface is an end surface of the parking block having a smaller surface area than the second outer surface; the cord channel is formed through the second outer surface outside a central one-third section of the second outer surface; 6. The parking block according to claim 5.

9. the first outer surface is opposite the bottom surface from the second outer surface; a first distance from an end face of the parking block where the code channel passes through a first plane of the first outer surface is different from a second distance from the end face of the parking block where the code channel passes through a plane of the second outer surface; 6. The parking block according to claim 5.

10. The parking block of claim 1 , wherein the periphery of the cord channel is angled.

11. 11. The parking block of claim 10, wherein the perimeter of the code channel is rectangular.

12. 10. The parking block of claim 1, wherein the periphery of the cord channel is arcuate or radiused.

13. an electrical conductor routed through the cord channel; a wire harness connector disposed at one or more ends of the cord channel; The parking block of claim 1 further comprising:

14. a connection to a second parking block, the connection to the second parking block having a length that allows the parking block to be aligned with the second parking block in a stacked configuration; 14. The parking block of claim 13, further comprising:

15. an electrical connector embedded in the parking block before the parking block is cured; the cord channel is defined by the electrical conductor as the parking block hardens; 14. The parking block according to claim 13.

16. the parking blocks are one or more of concrete, plastic, or rubber; the cord channel is defined by the electrical conductor disposed within the perimeter of the parking block as the concrete, plastic, or rubber cures; 16. The parking block according to claim 15.

17. 14. The parking block of claim 13, wherein the wire harness connector is disposed in one or more of an inlet port or an outlet port of the cord channel of the parking block.

18. 18. The parking block of claim 17, wherein the wire harness connector is disposed at both the inlet port and the outlet port of the cord channel of the parking block.

19. 15. The parking block of claim 14, wherein the connection to the parking block is a pre-made connection between the parking block and the second parking block in a hard-wired manner.

20. 15. The parking block of claim 14, wherein the connection to the second parking block is connectorized to allow the connection to the second parking block to be made after the parking block is placed in an installation location.

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