Vehicle Charging Control Device Preventing False Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle-mounted charging apparatuses often unnecessarily stop external charging due to incorrect recognition of the connection state between the charging cable connector and inlet, leading to issues like prolonged charging interruptions and the need for repeated authentication or payment processes.
Innovation Solution
A charging apparatus with a control device that distinguishes between a fully connected and partially connected state, maintaining charging even if the connector is operated by mistake, and a locking mechanism that prevents accidental disconnection, ensuring continuous charging unless the locking device is unlocked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the charging apparatus recognizes the connection state based on the connector connection signal, then the connection state can be detected, but unnecessary charging interruption occurs when the connector is operated by mistake
Solution Approach 1:
The connection state detection is segmented into two independent parts: connector connection signal detection and locking device state detection. The control device evaluates both signals separately and only interrupts charging when both indicate disconnection, preventing false interruptions from connector operation alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device state acts as an intermediary verification signal between the connector operation and charging control. Even if the connector signal indicates disconnection, the charging continues if the locking device remains locked, serving as a mediator that prevents premature charging interruption.
2Ease of operation
If the connector is allowed to be operated freely, then the latching mechanism can be released, but accidental disconnection during charging may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is activated before charging begins and remains engaged throughout the charging process. This preliminary locking action prevents accidental disconnection during charging, allowing the connector to be operated freely only when the locking device is in the unlocked state.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the charging is stopped when the connector is operated, then the safety is improved, but the charging efficiency decreases due to repeated authentication
Solution Approach 1:
The control device continuously monitors both the connector connection signal and the locking device state in real-time. Charging is interrupted only when both signals indicate disconnection, providing accurate feedback-based control that maintains safety while preventing unnecessary interruptions that would reduce charging efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An inlet is configured to connect with a connector of a charging cable. An ECU is configured to switch between (i) a charging permitted state in which external charging is permitted and (ii) a charging non-permitted state in which external charging is not permitted. When the connector is in connection to the inlet, the ECU selects the charging permitted state in which external charging is permitted, even if a connector connection signal indicative of a state of connection between the connector and the inlet indicates a partially-connected state in which the connection between the connector and the inlet is not latched.