Vehicle Charging Indicator Light Proximity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle charging indicator lights can attract unwanted attention when illuminated, and their status may be misleadingly unlit when charging is incomplete, posing security and charging efficiency issues.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system that selectively illuminates the charging indicator light based on the vehicle's location, using sensors and user-defined settings to control its activation, including options for indefinite, timed, or proximity-based illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the charging indicator light is illuminated to indicate battery recharging, then the charging status is clearly communicated, but the vehicle attracts unwanted attention and potential theft
Solution Approach 1:
The charging indicator light transitions from a static always-on state to a dynamic state that changes based on user proximity. When the user approaches the vehicle, the light illuminates to confirm charging status; when the user moves away, the light turns off to reduce visibility and prevent theft. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between needing to indicate charging status and avoiding unwanted attention.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the charging indicator light is turned off to reduce visibility, then vehicle security is improved, but the charging status may be misleadingly indicated as complete
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses proximity sensors to detect user presence and provides feedback by conditionally illuminating the charging indicator light. When a user approaches, the system activates the light to provide accurate charging status information. When no user is present, the light remains off to enhance security. This feedback mechanism ensures information is provided only when needed, resolving the contradiction between security and accurate status indication.
3Loss of information
If the charging indicator light remains on indefinitely, then charging status is always visible, but energy is wasted and security is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous illumination, the charging indicator light operates periodically based on user proximity detection. The light activates only during periods when users are near the vehicle and turns off during periods when no users are present. This periodic operation maintains charging status visibility when needed while significantly reducing energy consumption and security risks associated with continuous illumination.
Data Source
AI summary
A present location of a host vehicle is determined. A processor detects that the host vehicle is connected to a charging station. A predetermined setting associated with the present location is accessed. A charging indicator light that indicates that the vehicle is connected to a charging station in accordance with the predetermined setting is actuated.