Breakway device for electric vehicles charging

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a breakway device (102) enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging. Device (102) comprise at least one charging head (106) coupled to housing (102), and configured to enable locking mechanism ensuring secure attachment between at least one charging head and inlet unit (120) of EV (118). The locking mechanism comprises a locking status and unlocking status. The at least one charging head (106) is configured to receive one or more user instructions pertaining to a disconnection of charging process based on occurrence of one or more emergency situation. Further, activate a breaking mechanism to enable the unlocking status to facilitate a controlled separation of the at least one charging head (106) from the inlet of the EV (118).

Description

BREAKWAY DEVICE FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES CHARGINGTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of Electric Vehicles (EVs). More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging in emergency situations.BACKGROUND

[0002] The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] The rapid increase in worldwide integration of electric vehicles (EVs) has significantly transformed the automotive sector, ushering in a paradigm shift towards environmentally conscious modes of transportation. The integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into our everyday routines is significantly influenced by the charging infrastructure that facilitates this transition. The increasing worldwide trend towards environmentally friendly modes of transportation underscores the criticality of implementing strong and all- encompassing safety protocols in the realm of electric vehicles.

[0004] Traditional charging systems inactivate the engine while it is being charged, while specific convenience functions, including the entertainment system and air conditioning, remain operational throughout the charging procedure. The prevailing method entails deactivating the drive system of the vehicle while it is connected to a charging station, thereby impeding its ability to shift gears or be moved. The inert state of a vehicle in this condition may ensnare both occupants and drivers, hindering their capacity to promptly evacuate and flee perilous circumstances.

[0005] The absence of a comprehensive safety mechanism hinders electric vehicle (EV) operators from promptly evacuating perilous circumstances while their vehicle is plugged into a charging station. Engaging in vehicle motion while an electric vehicle is connected to a charging station presents hazards such as accidents, potential harm to the charging infrastructure, and compromises the safety of both the driver and passengers.

[0006] When no automated safety solution is available, drivers are obligated to manually disconnect the charging cable in order to regain control of the vehicle in the eventof a hazardous situation. Unexpected or sudden motion of a vehicle can cause harm to both the electric vehicle and the infrastructure of the charging station, requiring expensive repairs.

[0007] The current deficiencies in safety protocols emphasize the critical need for a sophisticated, integrated safety function that can selectively activate vital vehicle functions while maintaining access to essential comfort features. There is, therefore, a need to provide a device designed to enhance safety by providing a quick disconnection mechanism in emergencies.OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0008] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide breakway device (102) enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a device for EV charging to facilitate immediate and secure disconnection of the charging cable in emergency situations.

[0010] The objective of the present disclosure is to facilitate rapid and remote disconnection of the charging cable, empowering drivers to swiftly maneuver their vehicles during threatening situations without the need to exit the car in emergency scenarios.

[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to incorporate a breakaway design that ensures a controlled separation of the charging cable, safeguarding both the vehicle's charging port and the charging head from potential damage.

[0012] An object of the present disclosure is to enable retrofit existing EV charging stations with the proposed device seamlessly, requiring no modification to the current charging infrastructure.SUMMARY

[0013] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of Electric Vehicles (EVs). More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging in emergency situations.

[0014] In an aspect, the present disclosure describes a breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging. The device comprising a housing configured to detect a locking mechanism, at least one charging head. The at least one charging head coupled to the housing, and configured to enable the locking mechanism ensuring a secure attachment between the at least one charging head and an inlet of an electric vehicle (EV). The locking mechanism comprises at least one of a locking status and an unlocking status. The at least one charging head can be configured to receive one or moreuser instructions from the at least one user. The one or more user instructions pertains to a disconnection of charging process based on occurrence of one or more emergency situation. Further, the controller can be configured to activate a breaking mechanism based on the one or more user instructions, and enable the unlocking status to facilitate a controlled separation of the at least one charging head from the inlet of the EV.

[0015] In an aspect, the device includes a mechanical latching element coupled to the housing, and configured to execute the breaking mechanism by automatically disengaging based on activation.

[0016] In an aspect, the one or more emergency situation comprises at least one of an electrical fault, an overheating, and a power outage.

[0017] In an aspect, the locking mechanism comprises actuated locking element for securing the housing to the at least one charging head.

[0018] In an aspect, the device comprises a female adapter comprising at least two rings, and configured affix the device to the charging station. Further, the device comprises a male adapter comprising at least one ring, and configured to affix the device to the inlet of the EV and enable charging of the EV (118).

[0019] In an aspect, the device is configured to execute disengagement of the female adapter and the male adapter based on occurrence of the one or more emergency situation.

[0020] In an aspect, the device comprises a power source coupled to the housing, and configured to enable the one or more operations by supplying electricity to the device.

[0021] In an aspect, the disconnection of charging process pertains to executing one or more operations and enable driving, wherein the one or more operations comprises at least a stop charge, and a drive mode on.

[0022] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrate exemplary block diagram of a proposed breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIGs. 2A-2D illustrates different views of the proposed breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.

[0027] Embodiments explained herein relate to the field of Electric Vehicles (EVs). More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging in emergency situations.

[0028] In an aspect, the present disclosure describes a breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging. The device comprising a housing, at least one charging head. The at least one charging head coupled to the housing, and configured to enable a locking mechanism ensuring a secure attachment between the at least one charging head and an inlet of an electric vehicle (EV). The locking mechanism comprises at least one of a locking status and an unlocking status. The at least one charging head can be configured to receive one or more user instructions from the at least one user. The one or more user instructions pertains to a disconnection of charging process based on occurrence of one or more emergency situation. Further, the controller can be configured to activate a breaking mechanism based on the one or more user instructions, and enable the unlocking status to facilitate a controlled separation of the at least one charging head from the inlet of the EV.

[0029] FIG. 1 illustrate exemplary block diagram 100 of a proposed a breakway device 102 for enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) 118, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] With reference to FIG. 1, the present disclosure discloses a breakway device 102 enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging. The device 102comprising a housing 104, at least one charging head 106, a female adapter 108, a male adapter 110, a mechanical latching element 112, and a power source 114. The device 102 can be coupled to at least one Electric Vehicles (EV) 118 (also known as the EV, herein). The EV 118 comprises an inlet unit 120, and a control unit 122. The housing 104 of the device 102 may be constructed from durable and weather-resistant materials. The said construction ensures the device's resilience to outdoor conditions, making it suitable for usage in various environments. The durable construction enhances the longevity and reliability of the device, contributing to its overall effectiveness.

[0031] In an embodiment, the at least one charging head 106 coupled to the housing 104, and may be configured to enable a locking mechanism and ensuring a secure attachment between the at least one charging head 106 and an inlet unit 120 of the EV 118. The locking mechanism comprises at least one of a locking status and an unlocking status.

[0032] In an embodiment, the device 102 may include the male adapter 110, and the female adapter 108. The female adapter 108 can include at least two rings, and configured affix the device 102 to the charging station. The male adapter 110 includes at least one ring, and configured to affix the device 102 to the inlet of the EV 118 and enable charging of the EV 118.

[0033] In an embodiment, the device can be configured to execute disengagement of the female adapter and the male adapter based on occurrence of the one or more emergency situation.

[0034] In an embodiment, the disconnection of charging process pertains to executing one or more operations and enable driving, wherein the one or more operations comprises at least a stop charge, and a drive mode on.

[0035] In an embodiment, the device 102 may incorporate the breaking mechanism within the housing 104 is configured to facilitate a controlled separation of the charging head 106 from the inlet unit 120 during emergency disconnection. The said controlled release mechanism prevents damage to both the charging head and the vehicle, ensuring a safe disconnection process.

[0036] In an example, users attach the adapter to the charging head 106 during the charging process. In the event of an emergency, drivers can actuate the unlock charge port button on the touchscreen. The said signal transfers to the adapter, enabling it to disconnect the charger adaptor from the car. The vehicle can be shifted into drive immediately, and the adapter separates to protect both the vehicle's charging port and the charger's head as it falls.

[0037] In an embodiment, the mechanical latching element 112 coupled to the housing 104, and may be configured to execute the breaking mechanism by automatically disengaging based on activation.

[0038] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism of the device 102 may include the mechanical latching element 112 which may be actuated. The mechanical latching element 112 ensures secure attachment of the housing 104 to the charging head 106. In regular charging operations, the magnetic force maintains a stable connection. When an emergency arises, the user can activate the designated disconnection process, causing the magnets to release. The magnetic adaptor offers a robust and reliable solution, leveraging the power of magnetism for both security and swift disengagement.

[0039] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism of the device 102 may include a mechanical latch as part of the locking mechanism which automatically disengages upon activation. The said mechanical design offers a robust and straightforward solution, ensuring a quick and efficient release during emergency disconnection scenarios. However, in emergency situations, user-initiated actions or signals trigger the release, allowing for a swift disconnection. This embodiment combines simplicity with effectiveness, ensuring a quick response when needed.

[0040] In another example, the device 102 may include split design that allows the device to separate into distinct parts during an emergency disconnect. The separation serves a dual purpose: protecting both the vehicle's charging port and the charging head 106 from potential damage. User-triggered actions or signals initiate the splitting mechanism, ensuring a controlled disconnection.

[0041] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism includes an actuated locking element for securing the housing 104 to the at least one charging head 106 of the device 102.

[0042] In an embodiment, the device 102 can be configured to monitor a current battery level of the EV based on a predefined threshold, and enable one or more actions. The predefined threshold comprises at least one of a maximum charge level, and a minimum charge level. The one or more actions can include, but not limited to: a continued charging state, a reduced charging state, a stop charging state, and the like. Further, the device 102 can be configured to notify a charging status to the user by using a notification system. The charging status can be displayed on a user interface which includes, but not limited to: the charging station, the EV, a mobile application, and the like.

[0043] In an example, consider an electric vehicle (EV) owner arriving at a charging station, plugging in the charging cable to the vehicle's charging port. During this routinecharging process, the EV owner securely attaches the device 102 to the inlet unit 120 of the EV 118, ensuring a reliable connection. The EV 118 continues to charge normally.

[0044] However, in an unexpected turn of events, an emergency situation arises, demanding a swift evacuation, which could be due to a fire near the charging station or any imminent threat that requires the EV owner to leave promptly. To facilitate a quick and safe escape, the EV owner accesses the vehicle's touchscreen interface.

[0045] On the touchscreen, the EV owner locates and presses the “Unlock Charge Port” button, initiating a signal that swiftly transfers to the device. The device, equipped with an emergency disconnection mechanism, interprets the user instructions and engages the breaking mechanism. The action leads to a controlled separation of the charging head 106 from the inlet unit 120. With the charging cable now detached, the EV owner can instantly shift the vehicle into drive mode. As the device 102 disconnects, a protective separation, safeguarding both the vehicle's charging port and the charging head, which falls away harmlessly. Now free from the charging station, the EV owner can drive away swiftly and safely, escaping the emergency without any hindrance.

[0046] This example scenario illustrates the practical application of the Emergency Disconnect Adapter, demonstrating its pivotal role in facilitating a rapid and controlled disconnection during emergency situations. The proposed device 102 prioritizes the safety and quick mobility of the EV owner, showcasing the device's effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

[0047] In an embodiment, the power source 114 can be coupled to the housing 104, and may be configured to enable the one or more operations by supplying electricity to the device 102. The versatile power source 114 enhances the sustainability and autonomy of the device, ensuring continuous and reliable operation even in diverse charging station environments.

[0048] FIGs. 2A-2D illustrates different views 200 of the proposed breakway device 102 enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] In an embodiment, FIG. 2A depicts a front view of the device 102. FIG. 2B and FIG.2D depicts a side view of the device 102. FIG. 2A depicts an isometric view of the device 102 comprising a male adapter 110, and a female adapter 108. The female adapter 108 can include at least two rings, and configured affix the device 102 to the charging station. The male adapter 110 includes at least one ring, and configured to affix the device 102 to the inlet of the EV 118 and enable charging of the EV 118.

[0050] In an embodiment, the device 102 can be configured to execute disengagement of the female adapter 108 and the male adapter 110 based on occurrence of the one or more emergency situation.

[0051] For instance, the driver must now engage a specific button, such as 'Stop Charging,' on the car's screen before being able to shift into drive mode. Furthermore, the current situation w / o the device 102 even when in drive mode, the driver will be unable to disengage from the situation. In this case, the implementation of our breakaway device 102 ensures the safety of both the male 110 and female adaptors 108, and prevents any damage to the charging unit and the EV 118, while facilitating the driver’s ability to navigate and escape unexpected situations without getting out of the EV.

[0052] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the present disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0053] The present disclosure provides a breakway device enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging.

[0054] The present disclosure provides a device for EV charging to facilitate immediate and secure disconnection of the charging cable in emergency situations.

[0055] The present disclosure facilitates rapid and remote disconnection of the charging cable, empowering drivers to swiftly maneuver their vehicles during threatening situations without the need to exit the car in emergency scenarios.

[0056] The present disclosure incorporates a breakaway design that ensures a controlled separation of the charging cable, safeguarding both the vehicle's charging port and the charging head from potential damage.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A breakway device (102) enabling automatic disconnection of Electric Vehicles (EV) charging, the device (102) comprising: a housing (104) configured to detect a locking mechanism; at least one charging head (106) coupled to the housing (102), and configured to enable the locking mechanism ensuring a secure attachment between the at least one charging head and an inlet unit (120) of an electric vehicle (EV) (118), wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one of a locking status and a unlocking status, wherein at least one charging head (106) is configured to: receive one or more user instructions from the at least one user, wherein the one or more user instructions pertains to a disconnection of charging process based on occurrence of one or more emergency situation; and activate a breaking mechanism based on the one or more user instructions, and enable the unlocking status to facilitate a controlled separation of the at least one charging head (106) from the inlet of the EV (118).

2. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (102) comprises: a mechanical latching element (112) coupled to the housing (104), and configured to execute the breaking mechanism by automatically disengaging based on activation.

3. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more emergency situation comprises at least one of an electrical fault, an overheating, and a power outage.

4. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises an actuated locking element for securing the housing (104) to the at least one charging head (106).

5. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (102) comprises: a female adapter (108) comprising at least two rings, and configured affix the device (102) to the charging station; and a male adapter (110) comprising at least one ring, and configured to affix the device (102) to the inlet of the EV (118) and enable charging of the EV (118).

6. The device (102) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the device (102) is configured to execute disengagement of the female adapter (108) and the male adapter (110) based on occurrence of the one or more emergency situation.

7. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (102) comprises: a power source (114) coupled to the housing (104), and configured to enable the one or more operations by supplying electricity to the device (102).

8. The device (102) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the disconnection of charging process pertains to executing one or more operations and enable driving, wherein the one or more operations comprises at least a stop charge, and a drive mode on.

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