Adjustable Charging Connector for Electric Vessels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging devices for electric vessels are difficult and time-consuming to couple and decouple, and their use is challenging or impossible in harsh weather conditions, posing safety risks to personnel.
Innovation Solution
A charging connection device with adjustable and pivotable arms, an electrical connector, and positioning determination means, allowing for easy and reliable connection to electric vessels in harsh weather, using telescopic arms and pivoting mechanisms to compensate for vessel movement and adjust to different connector positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual coupling and decoupling of electrical connectors is used, then the charging device can be simple in structure, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connection device automatically performs coupling and decoupling operations without requiring manual intervention. The device uses sensors to detect the presence and position of the vessel, then autonomously navigates and connects the electrical connector to the counterpart connector on the vessel, eliminating the need for operating personnel to manually couple and decouple connectors.
2Device complexity
If fixed-position electrical connectors are used, then the device structure can be simple, but the charging device cannot adapt to harsh weather conditions with vessel movement
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connection device incorporates dynamic positioning capabilities with multiple degrees of freedom, allowing the electrical connector to move and adjust its position in real-time. The system includes actuators and joints that enable the connector to compensate for vessel movements caused by waves and changes in water level, maintaining proper alignment and connection despite harsh weather conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses sensors and detection means to continuously monitor the position of the vessel and the counterpart electrical connector. This feedback information is used by the control system to adjust the connector's position and orientation, ensuring accurate alignment and maintaining connection stability even when the vessel moves due to weather conditions.
3Ease of operation
If automated coupling mechanisms are implemented, then ease of operation improves, but the device complexity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connection device is divided into multiple independent functional modules, including separate detection means for locating the vessel, positioning systems for adjusting connector location, and control systems for coordinating operations. This modular segmentation allows each subsystem to be optimized independently and simplifies maintenance while maintaining automated operation capabilities.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a charging connection device (100), a charging arrangement and a method for connecting a charging connection device (100) to an electric vessel (204). In the present invention, the position of a counterpart electrical connector (205) mounted on the electric vessel (204) is determined, and based on the determined position, the length of the first arm (101) is adjusted and the electrical connector (108) is pivoted relative to the first arm (101) so that the electrical connector (108) can be connected to the counterpart electrical connector (205).