Retractable Warning Bollard for Charging Cable Trip Protection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Charging stations with integrated cables pose risks of tripping hazards, vandalism, and dirt accumulation due to loose cables, as they are not protected when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A charging station with an integrated and extendable warning bollard that can move between a retracted and extended position, featuring a locking mechanism, cable guide, and warning markings to secure and protect the charging cable, reducing exposure and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the charging cable is freely accessible and lies loose on the ground, then the cable is easily accessible for users, but passers by may trip over the cable or get caught on it
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable is extracted from the ground level and elevated to bridge height by means of a support structure with support elements. This removes the cable from the harmful environment of the ground where it causes tripping hazards, while maintaining its accessibility for charging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging cable is transitioned from a two-dimensional ground surface to a three-dimensional elevated position using vertical support elements. This dimensional change elevates the cable above the ground plane, eliminating tripping hazards while preserving functional accessibility.
2Ease of operation
If the charging cable lies loose on the ground, then the cable is easily accessible, but the cable is exposed to vandalism and theft
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable is extracted from the vulnerable ground level and positioned at bridge height on a support structure. This extraction removes the cable from the harmful environment where vandalism and theft occur, while maintaining accessibility through the elevated positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure with support elements acts as an intermediary between the charging station and the cable. This intermediary structure protects the cable from direct ground contact and associated risks of vandalism and theft, while still allowing the cable to perform its charging function.
3Ease of operation
If the charging cable lies loose on the ground, then the cable is easily accessible, but the cable becomes fouled with dirt and grime
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable is extracted from direct contact with the ground surface and elevated to bridge height. This removes the cable from the contaminating environment of dirt and grime on the ground, while the elevated position maintains accessibility for charging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves as an intermediary that separates the charging cable from the contaminated ground environment. This intermediary positioning protects the cable from dirt and grime accumulation while preserving its functional accessibility.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the warning bollard is extended outside the charging station, then passers by are warned about the charging cable, but the charging station appearance is compromised and space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The warning bollard is designed as a dynamic element that can extend and retract. It extends to provide warning to passers by when needed, and retracts to maintain the charging station's aesthetic appearance when not in use. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between warning function and appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The warning bollard structure serves multiple functions: it provides visual warning to passers by when extended, and can be retracted to maintain aesthetic appearance. The same structure adapts its state based on operational needs, providing both safety warning and aesthetic preservation functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for a charging station having an integrated and extendable warning bollard and a charging cable protector, and a method for its operation.