EV Charging Connector Indicator for Precise Front-Rear Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is an accuracy issue in the front-rear positioning of electric vehicles relative to energy supply devices during charging, which can lead to damage to the charging device or the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
An energy supply device with a push button and indicator that changes color or size based on the vehicle's proximity, providing visual feedback for accurate positioning, and a control device that calculates and adjusts the vehicle's position using environment recognition data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vehicle positioning in the front-rear direction is not performed correctly, then the charging device or vehicle may be damaged, but implementing precise positioning requires additional measurement and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color changes in the display bar of the indicator to represent different distance ranges between the vehicle and charging device. The display bar changes from green to yellow to red as the vehicle approaches, providing intuitive visual feedback for positioning without requiring complex measurement systems. This resolves the contradiction by achieving reliable positioning through a simple, visually effective mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning systems with a visual indicator system that uses color changes and display bar adjustments. Instead of relying on precise mechanical sensors and actuators, the system uses optical visual feedback that is easier to implement and maintain, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining positioning reliability.
2Measurement precision
If the vehicle stops too far away from the charging device, then the charging plug is too far away to allow for charging, but stopping closer increases the risk of bumping into the wall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the indicator continuously displays the distance between the vehicle and charging device through color changes and display bar adjustments. This real-time feedback allows the driver to adjust the vehicle position to achieve optimal alignment without being too far or too close, thereby improving measurement precision while minimizing the risk of damage through continuous visual guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides preliminary positioning guidance before the actual charging connection is made. The indicator shows the correct stopping position in advance, allowing the driver to position the vehicle properly before extending the charging plug. This preliminary action prevents both excessive distance and potential collision damage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a camera-based positioning marker recognition system is used, then right-left positioning is achieved, but front-rear positioning accuracy remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the positioning function into two parts: right-left positioning handled by the existing camera-based marker recognition system, and front-rear positioning handled by the new indicator system with push button mechanism. This segmentation allows each subsystem to specialize in its respective direction, with the indicator providing precise front-rear distance measurement that complements the camera system's lateral positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator system serves multiple functions: it provides distance measurement, visual feedback for positioning, and guidance for optimal stopping position. By making the indicator multi-functional, the system achieves both adaptability (working with existing camera system) and precision (providing accurate front-rear positioning) without requiring a complete redesign of the positioning infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
An energy supply device for a moving body and a control device of the moving body are provided. The energy supply device includes a supply connector, connected to a supply plug extending from the moving body; a push button, mounted to protrude in a protruding direction toward the moving body; and an indicator, having a display bar that changes according to a movement distance of the push button in a direction opposite to the protruding direction.