Charging Adapter Electronic Switching and Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging adapters for electric vehicles are bulky, costly, and user-unfriendly, with large mechanical switching elements and inadequate protection against unauthorized use of the plug connection.
Innovation Solution
A compact charging adapter with an electronic switching device controlled by a communication module, integrated into a housing with a locking mechanism, enabling user-friendly operation and secure connection management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical key switch is used to control current flow and pilot circuit interruption, then the charging adapter can enable charging connection, but the adapter becomes large in size, costly to manufacture, and difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical key switch with an electronic switching device controlled by a control unit. The control unit receives signals from the charging station and automatically controls the electronic switch to establish or interrupt current flow and pilot circuit, eliminating the need for manual mechanical switching and reducing the adapter's size and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging adapter is designed to automatically control the switching of current flow and pilot circuit based on signals received from the charging station. The control unit autonomously manages the electronic switching device without requiring user intervention, making the system self-serving and eliminating the need for manual key operation.
2Reliability
If a mechanical key switch is used for connection control, then charging can be enabled, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical key switches with more cost-effective electronic switching devices and control units. This substitution reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining or improving the reliability of connection control, as electronic components can be produced more economically and with higher precision.
3Ease of operation
If the plug connection is left unprotected, then the adapter is easy to operate, but unauthorized use and disconnection can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a locking mechanism that automatically engages when the plug connection is established. The control unit activates the locking device to secure the plug against unauthorized removal or manipulation, providing preliminary protection immediately after connection without requiring additional user actions.
4Ease of manufacture
If the adapter is designed with basic switching functionality, then it is simple to manufacture, but it lacks protection against unauthorized use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the control unit manages both the electronic switching device for current flow control and the locking mechanism for connection security. This merging of functions allows the adapter to provide comprehensive protection and control capabilities while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a unified control architecture.
Data Source
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AI summary
The application relates to a charging adapter (200, 300, 400) for a charging station (442), comprising at least one first adapter connection (202, 302) corresponding to a charging port (458) of the charging station (442), at least one second adapter connection (204, 304) corresponding to a household connection (330, 430), at least one electronic switching device (210, 310) configured to allow current flow between the first adapter connection (202, 302) and the second adapter connection (204, 304) during an exchange step, and at least one first communication module (212, 312) coupled to the electronic switching device (210, 310), wherein the first communication module (212, 312) is configured to control the electronic switch (210, 310) depending on receivable switching information, such that a current flow is made possible.