Coiled retractable ev cable

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and method for charging an electronic vehicle including a coiled retractable charging cable connected at a proximal end to a power source, and to a charging head configured for connection to the electronic vehicle at a distal end, and a guide cable from which the charging cable is suspended by a plurality of guide rings.

Description

[0001] COILED RETRACTABLE EV CABLE

[0002] RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 522,183 filed 21 June 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention in some embodiments thereof relates to a coiled retractable EV cable and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a coiled retractable EV cable.

[0006] The exponential growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market in the most recent years is well-documented. Concurrent with this growth is the diversification of charging environments created by an ever-broader client base. EV buyers today bring with them the demands of diverse charging environments for their vehicles. The luxury of installing a charging station in a private garage or driveway a hand’s-length from the vehicle is not available to many EV owners. Many may require a lengthy charging cable to reach the vehicle due to distance, or due to the need to provide the charging capability to more than one location. Sometimes this will be a public charging area where not all individuals using the service operate with the same level of responsibility when returning the charging cable to its place.

[0007] Once a lengthy charging cable is involved, the problems multiply. For example, the cable may be left on the ground, becoming increasingly dirty and dirtying the hands and / or clothes of the users (including auto grease and other substances that are not easily removed from clothing and hands). Additionally, a cable left on the ground may be run over by vehicle tires, causing cumulative damage to the cable wires and / or the insulation, and potentially resulting in a short circuit, power outage, fire, and / or electrical hazard. Further, there are instances when legal considerations preclude the option of letting the cable run along the ground, for example when the cable is crosses across a public sidewalk or other public area. An EV charge cable may contain multiple thick high-current conductor wires. The cable may be heavy and stiff and difficult to reel in with a conventional reel. Common cable-reeling processes may result in twisting and / or tangling the cable. A solution is needed which may address some or all of these issues.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a retractable EV cable which prevents the cable from dragging on the ground and retracts easily and quickly once detached from the electric vehicle.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a system for charging an electronic vehicle including: a power source; a charging head configured for connection to the electronic vehicle a charging cable connected at a proximal end to the power source, and connected at distal end to the charging head; and a guide cable; a plurality of guide rings connecting between the charging cable and the guide cable.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging head has a drawn-out position distanced from the power source and a retracted position nearer to power source and wherein moving the charging head from the retracted position causes the charging cable to coil automatically.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a distal stop on the guide cable retaining the plurality of rings on the guide cable proximal to the distal stop.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a retractor for the guide cable configured for retracting the guide cable when the charging head is brought close to the power source.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the invention, a distal end of the guide cable is connected to a distal portion of the charging cable.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the invention, a distal ring of the plurality of rings is inhibited from moving distally along the guide cable past a determined position on a distal portion of the guide cable.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the invention, the distal ring is fixed on a distal portion of the charging cable. According to some embodiments of the invention, a proximal ring of the plurality of guide rings moves along the guide cable.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to the proximal ring.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the invention, the proximal ring moves along the guide cable.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the invention, the proximal ring is fixed on charging cable.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to the proximal ring.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging cable is configured to be fully or partially drawn out when in use.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the invention, that retraction mechanism includes a reel and the guide cable is wound onto the reel.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the invention, the reel is self-reeling.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a ratchet limiting the self-reeling.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the invention, the rings are fixed longitudinally, and are configured to rotate with respect to charging cable.

[0026] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method for charging an electronic vehicle, the method including: drawing out a charging head away from a power source for connection to the electronic vehicle, wherein the charging head is connected to a distal end of a charging cable, and wherein the charging cable is connected at a proximal end to the power source; extending a guide cable along with the charging head; and; suspending the charging cable from the guide cable.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes: inserting the charging head into a charging outlet of the electric vehicle.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the invention, the suspending is from a plurality of rings. According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes inhibiting movement of a distal ring of the plurality of rings, distally beyond a fixed point on the guide cable.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention, the distal ring is fixed to the fixed point.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the invention, the drawing out of the charging cable includes stretching a coil of the charging cable.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes withdrawing the charging head from the electric vehicle towards the power source after the charging.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes withdrawing a distal end of charging cable to a fixed position on or in a vicinity of the power source.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging head is hung on a hanger in the fixed position.

[0034] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging head is hung from a distal ring in the fixed position.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes reeling in the guide cable during the withdrawing.

[0036] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes unlocking a ratchet to facilitate retracting the guide cable before the withdrawing.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method according further includes recoiling coils of the charging cable during the withdrawing.

[0038] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes stretching coils of the charging cable during drawn-out the drawing out and preserving a number of coils in the charging cable during the withdrawing.

[0039] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a system for a retractable charging cable: a charging cable connected at a proximal end to a power source, and connected at distal end to a charging head; and a guide cable; a plurality of guide rings connecting between the charging cable and the guide cable. According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a distal stop on the guide cable retaining the plurality of rings on the guide cable proximal to the distal stop.

[0040] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a retractor for the guide cable configured for retracting the guide cable when the charging head is brought close to the power source.

[0041] According to some embodiments of the invention, a distal end of the guide cable is connected to a distal portion of the charging cable.

[0042] According to some embodiments of the invention, a distal ring of the plurality of rings is inhibited from moving distally along the guide cable past a determined position on a distal portion of the guide cable.

[0043] According to some embodiments of the invention, the distal ring is fixed on a distal portion of the charging cable.

[0044] According to some embodiments of the invention, a proximal ring of the plurality of guide rings moves along the guide cable.

[0045] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to the proximal ring.

[0046] According to some embodiments of the invention, the proximal ring moves along the guide cable.

[0047] According to some embodiments of the invention, the proximal ring is fixed on charging cable.

[0048] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to the proximal ring.

[0049] According to some embodiments of the invention, the charging cable is configured to be fully or partially drawn out when in use.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the invention, that retraction mechanism includes a reel and the guide cable is wound onto the reel.

[0051] According to some embodiments of the invention, the reel is self-reeling.

[0052] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a ratchet limiting self-reeling.

[0053] According to some embodiments of the invention, the rings are fixed longitudinally, and are configured to rotate with respect to charging cable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0055] In the drawings:

[0056] FIGS. 1A-B: Schematic illustrations illustrating a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0057] FIG. 2: Schematic illustration illustrating a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0058] FIGS. 3A-C: Flow charts of various methods of use of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

[0059] FIG. 4: Block diagram of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0060] FIGS. 5A-C: Exemplary images of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

[0061] FIG. 6: Exemplary image of various power assemblies, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

[0062] FIG. 7: Exemplary image of a cable ring, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention.

[0063] FIG. 8: Exemplary image of various components of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0064] FIG. 9: Block diagram of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0065] DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION The present invention in some embodiments thereof relates to a coiled retractable EV cable and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a coiled retractable EV cable with an extendable and retractable guide cable. The guide cable may include various kinds of cords and / or cables (e.g., string, metal cable, rope, nylon, monofilament string, multifilament string etc.)

[0066] Overview

[0067] An aspect of some embodiments of the current invention relates to a device which may enable a coiled EV charging cable to be draw out and withdrawn, as desired. Optionally, the cable may be flexible. In some embodiments the charging cable itself may be straight and / or without self-coiling properties. In some embodiments, the cord may be fixed to guides that hold the cord in a twisted and / or coiled configuration. Alternatively or additionally, the charging cable may be coiled in a manner similar to a spring and / or the charging cable may be coiled in a manner of a traditional telephone handset cord. Optionally, the charging cable may be connected to a guide cable. Optionally, the cable may include multiple

[0068] In some embodiments, the charging cable may be connected at its proximal end to a power source. Optionally, the power source may be free standing and / or connected to a structure, e.g., wall, floor, roof, pillar, etc. Optionally, the power source may provide AC current. Optionally, the power source may provide AC current with a voltage ranging between about 100 V to about 200 V, and / or between about 200 V to about 300 V, and / or between about 300 V to about 500 V. Optionally, the power source may provide DC current. Optionally, the power source may provide DC current with a voltage ranging between about 100 V to about 400 V, and / or between about 400 V to about 800 V. Optionally, the power source may be 2 phase, and / or 3 phase, and / or more phase. For example, the charging cable may include a bundle of smaller wires. For example, the wires may be 6 AWG (American Wire Gauge) and / or 12 AWG

[0069] In some embodiments, the charging cable may be connected at its distal end to the charging phases head. Optionally, the charging head may be locked to the power assembly and / or to a fixed support. Optionally, the charging head may be hung on a hanger attached to and / or near the power assembly and / or a fixed support. Optionally, the charging head may hang freely from a distal ring connected to a guide cable. In some embodiments, the charging cable may be extendable. Optionally, the charging cable may be drawn out by uncoiling (e.g., twisting the cable and / or reducing the number of coils of) the cable. Alternatively or additionally, the charging cable may be drawn out by stretching out the coils of the charging cable (e.g., retaining the number of coils) without uncoiling the cable. Alternatively or additionally, the charging cable may be drawn out and / or returned without twisting the charging cable without uncoiling the cable. Optionally, at the distal end there may be a connector which may connect two or more charging cables. Optionally, the charging cable may be locked in its coiled form. Optionally the gauge of the charging cable may be 12-gauge, and / or 14-gauge and / or 16-gauge. Optionally, the charging cable, when fully drawn out, may have a length ranging between 0.5 m to 1.5 m and / or 1.5 m to about 5 m, and / or between about 5 m to about 15 m, and / or between about 15 m to about 25 m. Optionally, the charging cable may be fully drawn out and / or drawn out when in use.

[0070] In some embodiments, the guide cable may be connected to a reel. Optionally, the cable guide may be extended from the reel. Optionally, the cable guide may be extended manually by the user. Optionally, the reel may manually reel in the cable guide. Optionally, the cable guide may be connected to a ratchet. Optionally, the reel and / or ratchet may be lockable. Optionally, the reel and / or ratchet may include a release switch. Optionally, the reel and / or ratchet may release when pulled slightly. Optionally, the reel may be self-reeling. Optionally, the reel and / or ratchet may automatically be reeled in when pulled slightly and released (e.g., similarly to a self-reeling power cord of a vacuum cleaner). Optionally, the reel may automatically reel in the cable guide, e.g., when the charging head is released from the vehicle. Optionally, the cable guide may have a gauge ranging between about 1 mm to about 2 mm, and / or between about 2 mm to about 3 mm, between about 3 mm to about 5 mm. Optionally, the spring constant for the retractable cable guide may range between about 2 N / mm to about 5 N / mm, and / between about 5 N / mm to about 15 N / mm, and / or between about 15 N / mm to about 25 N / mm. In some embodiments the guide cable may include on or more strain relief swivels.

[0071] In some embodiments, the charging Alternatively, head at the distal end of the cable may be drawn towards the vehicle, the guide cable may be extended with it. Optionally, the guide cable may be uncoiled from the reel as the coiled charging cable is lengthened. Optionally, the guide cable may preserve sufficient tension to maintain the charging cable above the floor.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the charging cable may be suspended from the guide cable via a plurality of linking guide rings. Optionally, the rings may be fixed to the charging cable. Optionally, the rings may be free to slide along the charging cable. Optionally, the rings may maintain their position vis a vis the charging cable while sliding along the length of the guide cable, as needed. Optionally, the rings may be fixed longitudinally, but may be configured to rotate with respect to charging cable. Optionally, the rings may be fixed rotationally, but may be configured to rotate with respect to charging cable. Optionally, the rings may be fixed longitudinally, but may be configured to rotate with respect to guide cable. Optionally, the rings may be fixed rotationally, but may be configured to rotate with respect to guide cable. Optionally, the rings may connect to each other and / or the power source when reeled in. Optionally, the rings may be distanced from each other and / or the power source when extended. Optionally, the rings may attach to each other magnetically.

[0073] According to some embodiments, one or more proximal rings may slide freely with respect to the guide cable. According to some embodiments, a distal ring may be fixed to the guide cable.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the charging cable may be fixed onto the guide rings, e.g., the charging cable may not slide and / or twist with respect to the guide rings. Optionally, the charging cable may be maintained kink-free. Optionally, the charging cable and / or guide rings may be configured to coil the charging cable back to the same number of coils each time it is drawn out and / or withdrawn. Optionally, a distal portion of the charging cable may not be attached to the guide cable. Optionally, the distal portion of the charging cable not attached to the guide cable may range between about 5 to about 20 cm, and / or between about 20 cm to about 50 cm, and / or between about 50 cm to about 100 cm, and / or between about 100 cm to about 200 cm, and / or between about 20 cm to about 150 cm.

[0075] According to some embodiments, the distal guide ring (i.e., the ring closest to the charging head) may be fixed close to the end of the guide cable. Optionally, the distal guide ring may be fixed at a distance from the end of the guide cable ranging between about 1 cm to about 5 cm, and / or between about 5 cm to about 10 cm, and / or between about 10 cm to about 20 cm.

[0076] In some embodiments, at the end of the charging process, the user may return the charger to its initial position. Optionally, the reel may automatically “reel in” the guide cable, which may facilitate recoiling of the charging cable. Optionally, the charging cable may be recoiled and / or the cable coils may be contracted.

[0077] Specific Embodiments

[0078] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0079] Reference is made to the figures:

[0080] FIGS. 1A-B are schematic illustrations illustrating a retractable EV cable system in a retracted position, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration illustrating a retractable EV cable system in a drawn-out position, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0081] For example, system 100 may include a power source 101 for charging an electric vehicle (EV) via a charging cable 102. Charging cable 102 may be connected at a proximal end to the power source 101. Charging cable 102 may be coiled in a retracted configuration (e.g., FIGS. 1A and IB) and / or uncoiled in a drawn-out configuration (e.g., FIG. 2). Charging cable 102 may include a charging head 103 at its distal end for connection to an electric vehicle. Charging cable 102 may be suspended from a guide cable 104 by a plurality of guide rings 105 and / or a cable connector 106. Cable connector 106 (e.g., a distal guide ring) may be located at the distal end and may connect the two cables 102 and 104. The guide rings 105 may maintain their position vis a vis the charging cable while sliding along the length of the guide cable as needed. Optionally, the manner of operation of the guide rings may be similar to shower curtain rings. Optionally, the guide cable 104 may be attached to a reel 107. Optionally, reel 107 may be self-reeling. In some embodiments, the charging power cable may be coiled and / or selfcoiling. The charging power cable may extend to a length ranging between about 10 m to about 15 m, and / or between about 15 meters to about 25 m. Optionally, a distal portion of the charging cable may extend past the connector 106. The distal portion of charging cable may range between about 10 cm to about 50 cm, and / or about 50 cm to about 1 m, and / or between about 1 m to about 3 m.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the system may be compatible with standard cable types and plugs (for example: Type 1, Type 2, CHAdeMO, CCS Combo, Tesla, etc.). Optionally, the cable may be available in various standard configurations (for example: single phase, three phase, 16A, 32A, between 0.1 A to 5A between 5 A to 25A between 35 A to 100A and / or between 100 to 500 A etc.).

[0083] According to some embodiments, one or more rings may be fixed to the charging cable. Alternatively or additionally, one or more rings may be fixed longitudinally, but may be configured to rotate with respect to charging cable. Alternatively or additionally, one or more rings may be fixed rotationally, but may be configured to slide longitudinally with respect to charging cable. Alternatively or additionally, one or more rings may be fixed longitudinally, but may be configured to rotate with respect to guide cable. Optionally, the rings may be free to rotate and / or slide with respect to guide cable. Optionally, the rings may connect to each other and / or the power source when reeled in. Optionally, the rings may disconnect from each other and / or the power source when extended. Optionally, the rings may attach to each other magnetically.

[0084] According to some embodiments, the charging head at the distal end of the charging cable may be drawn towards the electric cable together with the guide cable from which it may be suspended. Optionally, the guide cable may be unrolled from the reel as the coiled charging cable is stretched and / or lengthened and / or uncoiled. Optionally, after charging, the user may return the charging head to its initial position. Optionally, the reel may “reel in” the guide cable. Optionally, the reel may be under constant tension and may reel in the guide cable automatically when the counterforce is released. Alternatively, or additionally, the reel may be operated manually by the user. Optionally, when the guide cable is reeled in, the tension on the charging cable may be released, and it may recoil itself automatically. Optionally, the guide cable may remain at sufficient tension to maintain the charging cable above the floor while in operation. Alternatively, or additionally, the guide cable may be suspended from supports via additional guide rings. For example: a support extending from the power source and / or from the reel assembly and / or from the roof. Optionally, the cables may remain suspended at a desired height via the use of these supports.

[0085] FIGS. 3 A-C are flow charts of various methods of use of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, in FIG. 3 A, in method 200, a user may draw 201 the charging head to the charging outlet of the vehicle. In the process extending both the coiled charging cable (which may uncoil and / or lengthen its coils) and the guide cable (which may extend from the reel). The charging head may be inserted 202 into the charging outlet of the vehicle for the duration of the charging process. The vehicle is optionally charged 203. The user optionally removes 204 the charging head from the vehicle (e.g., when the charging process is complete). In some embodiments, the charging head is returned 205 to its original position near the power source. Optionally, the guide cable may be reeled in automatically (e.g., the reel may be maintained under tension). Alternatively, or additionally, the guide cable may be reeled in manually. In some embodiments, the charging cable concurrently returns to its coiled state without needing intervention.

[0086] FIG. 3B illustrates extending a coil, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 300, a user may draw 301 the charging head to the charging outlet of the vehicle. Distal end of charging cable drawn 302 to vehicle. Distal ring drawn 303 with distal end of charging cable. In the process extending 304 both the coiled charging cable the coils stretch (alternatively or additionally the charging cord uncoils), and the guide cable which extends 305 from the reel. Optionally, a ratchet locks the guide cable in the extended position. Proximal rings slide and / or redistribute 306 along guide cable. The charging head may be inserted 307 into the charging outlet of the vehicle for the duration of the charging process.

[0087] FIG. 3C illustrates retracting the coil, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 400, a user may withdraw 401, the charging head from the vehicle. The distal end of charging cable is drawn 402 toward the charger station. Optionally, a ratchet is released facilitating reeling in 404 of the guide cable. For example, the ratchet may be released by a slight tug. Alternatively or additionally, reeling up 404 may be activated by a switch which may release a ratchet and / or activate automatic reeling in 404 of the guide cable. Alternatively or additionally, there may be a crank and / or another manual reel up mechanism.

[0088] In some embodiments, a cable connector (e.g., a distal ring) is drawn 403 along with the distal end of the charging cable. Optionally, as guide cable is reeled in 404, charging cable withdrawn 405. For example, withdrawing 405 the charging cable may include recoiling the charging cable and / or contracting the coils of the charging cable. Proximal rings optionally slide along and / or redistribute 406 along guide cable. The charging head is optionally returned 407 to its original position on charger station. Optionally, charging head may hang on hanger and / or hang freely from distal ring.

[0089] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, the system 500 may possess a coiled charging cable 504. Additionally, the system may possess a guide cable 501. The charging cable may be attached to (e.g., be in electrical contact with) power source 505 at its proximal end and to a charging head 506 at its distal end. The charging cable may be suspended from the guide cable 501. For example, guide rings 503 may hold the charging cable 504 and / or the guide rings may hang from the guide cable 51. Optionally the guide cable 501 freely slides and / or rotates within the rings. Optionally, the charging cable is fixed to the rings longitudinally and / or rotationally. The guide cable 501 is optionally attached to a reel 502 from which it may be extended (“unreeled”) and / or retracted (“reeled in”). Optionally, there may be a cable connector. Optionally, the connector may connect a distal portion (e.g., the distal end) of the guide cable 502 to a distal portion of the charging cable 504. For example, the distal connector may be fixed to both the guide cable 501 and the charging cable 504. Optionally, the distal connector includes the distal of the guide rings 503. The connector may be attached at a distance ranging between about 50 cm to about 1 m, and / or between about 1 m to about 3 m from the distal end of the charging cable and / or the guide cable. The connector may connect the two cables so that they may be extended and / or retracted together. Optionally, the connector will have a length of between 1 mm to 10 cm and / or between 10 cm to 50 cm.

[0090] FIG. 5 A is an image of a retractable EV cable system, in retracted configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, a power source 601 may be connected to the distal end of a charging cable 602. Optionally, the charging cable 602 may be suspended by a plurality of (e.g., two) rings 606a, 606b from a guide cable 605. The charging cable 602 (e.g., the distal end thereof) is optionally connected to a charging head 603. Optionally, in the retracted position, the charging head 603 may be hung from a hanger 604. A connector may connect between a distal portion of the charging cable 602 and a distal portion (e.g., distal end) of the guide cable 605. Optionally, the connector includes the distal ring 606b. Optionally, the connector is fixed to the distal portion of the charging cable 602 between 20 to 100 cm from the charging head 603 and / or between 100 to 200 cm from the charging head 603 and / or between 0 to 20 cm from the charging head 603. Optionally the connector is fixed to a distal end of the guide cable. Alternatively or additionally, the connector may move (e.g., slide freely) along the guide cable, but be inhibited from passing distally beyond a point on the guide cable. For example, there may be a distal stop on the guide cable and / or the connector (e.g., the distal ring) may be prevented from passing the stop. Optionally, a power cord 610 connects the power source 601 to a power supply (e.g., a 210V AC home electrical outlet 611 and / or a three-phase power supply and / or an industrial power supply and / or an urban power grid and / or a dedicated power supply.

[0091] FIG. 5B is an image of a retractable EV cable system, in partially retracted configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, the charging head 603 is drawn away from the power source 601, the connector (e.g., distal ring 606b) may extend the distal end of the guide cord 605 away from a take up reel (e.g., the take up reel may be built into the power source 601).

[0092] FIG. 5C is an image of a retractable EV cable system, in an extended configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. In some embodiments, as the charging head 603 is drawn away from the power source 601 and / or the guide cord 605 is extended away from the reel and / or power source 601, a proximal ring 606a slides along the guide cord 605 away from the distal ring 606b. Optionally, the proximal ring 606a is fixed to an intermediate location on the charging cable 602. For example, the proximal ring 606a supports and intermediate portion of the charging cable 602 from the guide cable 605.

[0093] FIG. 6 is an exemplary image of a modular EV charger station, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the power source 631 may configured to be attached to a free-standing mounting pillar 632 and / or to be wall mounted. Optionally, the power source 631 may be attached to 1, 2, 4, etc. charging cords. Optionally, the mounting pillar 632 may hold 1, 2, 4 etc. power sources and / or have openings 633a, 633b and / or hangers for 1, 2, 3, 4, etc. charger cords (e.g., opening 633a) and / or guide cable (e.g., opening 633b). A take up reel for a guide cable may be included in the power source 631 and or and / or pillar 632. The system may include one or more integral and / or modular units. Optionally, the power source 631 may provide AC current. Optionally, the power source 631 may provide AC current with a voltage ranging between 10 V to 50 V, and / or between about 50 V to 300 V, and / or between about 300 V to about 1000 V. Optionally, the power source 631 may provide DC current. Optionally, the power source 631 may provide DC current with a voltage ranging between about 10 V to about 50 V, and / or between 50 to 400V and / or about 400 V to about 1000 V. Optionally, the power source 631 may be single phase and / or 2 phase and / or 3 phase, and / or more phase.

[0094] FIG. 7 is an exemplary image of a cable guide ring 703, in accordance with some embodiments of the current invention. For example, the charging cable 701 may be suspended by a plurality of guide rings 703 from a cable guide 702. Optionally, charging cable 701 may be fixed to guide rings 703 and / or the guide rings 703 may slide freely on the guide cable. For example, the rings 703 may be suspended from the guide cable 702 by a guide cable hole 704 large enough for the guide cable 702 to slide therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, the ring 703 may include a clamp to hold the charging cable 701. For example, the charging cable 701 may fit through a charging cable hole 705. For example, the ring 703 may include a hinge that facilitates opening and / or resizing the charging cable hole 705. For example, the charging cable hole 705 may be opened (e.g. by swiveling on a hinge 706), the charging cable 701 inserted therein and the charging cable hole 705 may be closed and / or clamped to the charging cable 701 (for example, using a tightener for example a screw 707). Optionally, clamping the charging cable 701 to the ring 703 may inhibit twisting of the charger coil and / or preserve the number of coils in the charger coils as the charging cable is drawn out (away from the power source) and / or withdrawn (towards the power source).

[0095] FIG. 8 is an exemplary image of various components of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, the charging cable 804 may be suspended by a plurality of guide rings 803 from a cable guide 802. Optionally, charging cable 804 may be composed of a multi -stranded cable 801. Optionally, the cable guide 802 may be connected to a retractor and / or a ratchet 805.

[0096] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a retractable EV cable system, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in system 900, the charging cable 904 may be suspended by a plurality of guide rings 901 from a cable guide 902. Optionally, the rings 901 may connect to each other and / or to the power supply 903 magnetically. Optionally, the cable guide 902 may be connected to a retractor and / or a ratchet 906. Charging cable 904 may be connected to a charging head 905.

[0097] General

[0098] It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methodologies, computer user interfaces, image capture devices will be developed and the scope of the terms for design elements, analysis routines, user devices is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

[0099] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0100] As used herein the term “about” refers to ± 10%

[0101] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".

[0102] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

[0103] The term "consisting essentially of' means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0104] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0105] As used herein, the term “plurality” may relate to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 1,000 or more, and any sub-value therebetween.

[0106] As used herein, the term “proximal” may refer to the end of the charging cable fixed to the power assembly (e.g., the power source). As used herein, the term “distal” may refer to the end of the charging cable with the EV connector (e.g., charging head).

[0107] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0108] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0109] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0110] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0111] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0112] Implementation of the method and / or system of embodiments of the invention can involve performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of embodiments of the method and / or system of the invention, several selected tasks may be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware or by a combination thereof using an operating system.

[0113] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more tasks according to exemplary embodiments of method and / or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic harddisk and / or removable media, for storing instructions and / or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and / or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally, provided as well.

[0114] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for charging an electronic vehicle comprising: a power source; a charging head configured for connection to the electronic vehicle a charging cable connected at a proximal end to said power source, and connected at distal end to said charging head; and a guide cable; a plurality of guide rings connecting between the charging cable and the guide cable.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the charging head has a drawn-out position distanced from the power source and a retracted position nearer to power source and wherein moving the charging head from the retracted position causes the charging cable to coil automatically.

3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a distal stop on said guide cable retaining said plurality of rings on said guide cable proximal to the distal stop.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a retractor for said guide cable configured for retracting said guide cable when said charging head is brought close to said power source.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein a distal end of the guide cable is connected to a distal portion of the charging cable.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein a distal ring of said plurality of rings is inhibited from moving distally along said guide cable past a determined position on a distal portion of said guide cable.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein said distal ring is fixed on a distal portion of said charging cable.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein a proximal ring of said plurality of guide rings moves along said guide cable.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein said charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to said proximal ring.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein said proximal ring moves along said guide cable.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein said proximal ring is fixed on charging cable.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein said charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to said proximal ring.

13. The system according to claim 1, wherein the charging cable is configured to be fully or partially drawn out when in use.

14. The system of claim 4, wherein that retraction mechanism includes a reel and said guide cable is wound onto said reel.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the reel is self-reeling.

16. The system according to claim 15, further comprising a ratchet limiting said selfreeling.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein the rings are fixed longitudinally, and are configured to rotate with respect to charging cable.

18. A method for charging an electronic vehicle, the method comprising: drawing out a charging head away from a power source for connection to the electronic vehicle, wherein the charging head is connected to a distal end of a charging cable, and wherein the charging cable is connected at a proximal end to the power source; extending a guide cable along with the charging head; and; suspending the charging cable from the guide cable.

19. The method of claim 18 further comprising: inserting the charging head into a charging outlet of the electric vehicle.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein said suspending is from a plurality of rings.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising inhibiting movement of a distal ring of said plurality of rings, distally beyond a fixed point on said guide cable.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein said distal ring is fixed to said fixed point.

23. The method of claim 18, wherein said drawing out of the charging cable includes stretching a coil of the charging cable.

24. The method according to claim 19, further comprising withdrawing the charging head from the electric vehicle towards the power source after said charging.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising withdrawing a distal end of charging cable to a fixed position on or in a vicinity of the power source.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the charging head is hung on a hanger in said fixed position.

27. The method according to claim 25, wherein the charging head is hung from a distal ring in said fixed position.

28. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 27, further comprising reeling in the guide cable during said withdrawing.

29. The method according to claim 28, further comprising unlocking a ratchet to facilitate retracting the guide cable before said withdrawing.

30. The method according claim 24, further comprising recoiling coils of the charging cable during said withdrawing.

31. The method according to claim 24, further comprising stretching coils of the charging cable during drawn-out said drawing out and preserving a number of coils in said charging cable during said withdrawing.

32. A system for a retractable charging cable: a charging cable connected at a proximal end to a power source, and connected at distal end to a charging head; and a guide cable;a plurality of guide rings connecting between the charging cable and the guide cable.

33. The system of claim 32, further comprising a distal stop on said guide cable retaining said plurality of rings on said guide cable proximal to the distal stop.

34. The system of claim 32, further comprising a retractor for said guide cable configured for retracting said guide cable when said charging head is brought close to said power source.

35. The system of claim 34, wherein a distal end of the guide cable is connected to a distal portion of the charging cable.

36. The system of claim 32, wherein a distal ring of said plurality of rings is inhibited from moving distally along said guide cable past a determined position on a distal portion of said guide cable.

37. The system of claim 36, wherein said distal ring is fixed on a distal portion of said charging cable.

38. The system of claim 37, wherein a proximal ring of said plurality of guide rings moves along said guide cable.

39. The system of claim 38, wherein said charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to said proximal ring.

40. The system of claim 38, wherein said proximal ring moves along said guide cable.

41. The system of claim 40, wherein said proximal ring is fixed on charging cable.

42. The system of claim 41, wherein said charging cable is inhibited from twisting with respect to said proximal ring.

43. The system according to claim 32, wherein the charging cable is configured to be fully or partially drawn out when in use.

44. The system of claim 34, wherein that retraction mechanism includes a reel and said guide cable is wound onto said reel.

45. The system according to claim 44, wherein the reel is self-reeling.

46. The system according to claim 45, further comprising a ratchet limiting selfreeling.

47. The system according to claim 32, wherein the rings are fixed longitudinally, and are configured to rotate with respect to charging cable.

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