Vehicle Charging Connector Positioning for Inlet Misalignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle charging systems face challenges in properly fitting connectors into vehicle inlets due to variations in parking position and orientation, leading to inefficient charging processes.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle charging device equipped with a connector, support member, connection mechanism, drive mechanisms, and sensors that allow for precise positioning and posture adjustment of the connector to match the inlet, using a controller to calculate and control the position and angle of the connector based on sensor data to ensure proper fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed connector position is used, then the device structure is simple, but the connector cannot be properly fitted into the inlet due to variations in parking position and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is made dynamically adjustable through multiple drive mechanisms. The first drive mechanism adjusts the horizontal position, the second drive mechanism adjusts the vertical position, and the fourth drive mechanism adjusts the angle of the connector. This dynamic positioning system allows the connector to adapt to various parking positions and orientations of the vehicle inlet, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds multiple dimensional adjustment capabilities to the connector positioning system. Besides horizontal and vertical position adjustments, a fourth drive mechanism introduces angular adjustment capability. This multi-dimensional adjustment approach enables the connector to reach the inlet under various parking conditions while maintaining a relatively compact overall structure.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning is used, then the device structure is simple, but the positioning precision is insufficient to accommodate variations in parking position
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor is installed to detect the position of the inlet, and the controller receives this detection information to calculate the precise position of the protrusion. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically controls the first, second, and fourth drive mechanisms to adjust the connector's position and angle. This closed-loop feedback system achieves high positioning precision while automating the process, reducing the need for manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated electromechanical system. The controller, driven by sensor feedback, automatically controls multiple drive mechanisms to position the connector precisely. This substitution of manual operation with automated control systems achieves high positioning accuracy while managing the complexity through integrated control logic.
3Productivity
If the connector position is not adjusted, then the operation is simple, but the charging process is inefficient due to improper fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The charging device performs self-positioning of the connector automatically. The sensor detects the inlet position, the controller calculates the required adjustments, and the drive mechanisms execute the positioning without external intervention. This self-service capability ensures proper connector fitting and maintains high charging efficiency while keeping the operation simple for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection and positioning actions before the actual charging connection. The sensor detects the inlet position in advance, the controller calculates the optimal connector position, and the drive mechanisms adjust the connector to the correct position and angle before engagement. This preliminary action ensures proper fitting and efficient charging operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle charging device includes: a connector that includes a groove part guided by a linear protrusion of an inlet; a support member; a connection mechanism; an arm that includes a first end part connected to the support member and a second end part supported in a rotatable manner; a first drive mechanism that moves the arm in a first direction; a second drive mechanism that moves the arm in a second direction; a third drive mechanism that rotates the arm; a fourth drive mechanism that changes an angle of the connector; a sensor that detects the inlet; and a controller.