Auto-Ejecting EV Charging Connector for Faster Station Turnover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing EV charging stations face inefficiencies due to reduced charge rates as batteries near full capacity, leading to longer charging times and reduced profitability, especially when multiple vehicles are waiting to charge.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an auto-ejecting charging connector system that automatically stops charging, unlocks, and ejects the connector when the vehicle reaches a predetermined state of charge, allowing for quicker turnover and efficient use of charging stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the charging station charges EVs to 100% capacity, then the battery is fully charged, but the charging time becomes excessively long and the station throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs partial charging by stopping at a predetermined state of charge (e.g., 80%) rather than charging to 100% capacity. This partial action resolves the contradiction by providing sufficient charging for most user needs while dramatically reducing charging time and increasing station turnover rate.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-determines the optimal state of charge threshold before charging begins, based on historical data, battery health considerations, and throughput optimization. This preliminary action allows the system to automatically stop charging at the optimal point, balancing battery completeness with station productivity without requiring user intervention.
2Ease of operation
If the charging station allows users to control charging duration, then users can charge their vehicles as needed, but the station remains occupied during low-charge-rate periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces user control with automatic control based on predetermined algorithms. The charging station autonomously monitors battery state of charge, charge rate, and time parameters, then automatically terminates charging when optimal conditions are met. This self-service approach eliminates the need for user intervention while optimizing station utilization and reducing occupancy time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors charging parameters including state of charge, charge rate, and time elapsed, using this feedback to automatically determine when to terminate charging. This closed-loop control ensures the station releases connectors at optimal moments, balancing user needs with station throughput requirements.
3Reliability
If the charging connector remains locked during charging, then the vehicle is securely connected, but the connector cannot be quickly released for the next vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic release state automatically when charging terminates. The system maintains secure locking during charging but enables rapid release immediately upon completion, optimizing both connection security and turnover speed through state-dependent behavior.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-preps the release mechanism during charging by keeping it in a ready-to-release state. When the predetermined charge threshold is reached, the connector is already prepared for immediate ejection, eliminating any delay between charging completion and connector release for the next vehicle.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging connector for an electric vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises a power supply electrically connected to the charging connector by a cable. The charging connector is configured to charge the electric vehicle. The charging connector is further configured to eject from the electric vehicle when the electric vehicle reaches a suitable threshold.