Charging Inlet Locking Rod Structure for Secure Connector Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle charging systems require complex structures for locking the charging connector to the inlet, complicating the operation and potentially leading to unintentional separation during charging.
Innovation Solution
A simplified locking mechanism using a rectilinearly movable locking rod operated by an actuator, which locks the charging connector by inserting an end into a locking groove in the connector, utilizing a combination of plastic and steel components for enhanced rigidity and modular design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rod and locker structure is used to lock the charging connector, then the charging connector can be restrained from separating, but the structure becomes complicated due to requiring separate operation of the rod and locker
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rod and locker into a single integrated locking rod component. The locking rod combines the functions of both the rod (for actuation) and the locker (for engagement with the charging connector), eliminating the need for separate components and their coordinated operation. This integration maintains reliable locking while significantly simplifying the overall structure.
2Reliability
If multiple components are used for the locking mechanism, then the locking function can be achieved, but the manufacturing and assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple components (rod and locker) into a single locking rod, the patent reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces assembly steps while maintaining the complete locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking rod is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both actuation and locking engagement functions. This universal design allows a single component to replace multiple specialized components, thereby simplifying manufacturing and assembly operations.
Data Source
AI summary
For a vehicle charging inlet with a charging connector locking function, the vehicle charging inlet can include a casing, an actuator installed in the casing, and a locking rod having a first length, installed in the casing, and configured to be rectilinearly moved by an operation of the actuator, and the vehicle charging inlet is configured such that based on a charging connector being inserted into the vehicle charging inlet, the actuator moves the locking rod toward the charging connector, an end of the locking rod can be inserted into the charging connector, and the charging connector can be locked.