EV Charging Socket Lock With External Emergency Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging devices require complex and effort-intensive emergency unlocking mechanisms that are not easily adaptable to various tools and cannot be performed externally, posing challenges in flexibility and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a U-shaped actuating element with variable bearing points that are fixed during normal operation but can be released manually for emergency unlocking, allowing the locking element to be transferred to an unlocked position using a tool, with a return spring ensuring the mechanism returns to its normal position automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a complex traction mechanism (cable, Bowden cable, rod, or lever) is used for emergency release, then the locking element can be moved from locked to unlocked position, but the structural complexity increases and the emergency release can only be performed from the vehicle interior
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the emergency release function from the complex interior-mounted traction mechanism and relocates it to a simple external actuating element. The actuating element with bearing point detachment mechanism allows emergency release to be performed from outside the vehicle using basic tools, eliminating the need for complex cables and interior access.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism where the actuating element temporarily detaches bearing points from the drive component. This intermediary approach allows force application from outside the vehicle to be transmitted to the locking element through a simplified path, avoiding the need for complex interior traction mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a guide and separating layer are provided for tool insertion, then the tool can be directed towards the actuating element, but the design effort increases and universal adaptability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal emergency release system where the actuating element can be operated by various common tools (screwdrivers, coins, keys) without requiring specific guides or separating layers. The open bearing point design allows multiple tool types to apply force effectively, making the system adaptable to different situations and tools available at the scene.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the specialized guide and separating layer components from the design. Instead of constraining tool insertion through complex guiding structures, the invention allows direct access to the actuating element, enabling versatile tool usage while reducing design complexity and manufacturing effort.
3Ease of operation
If variable bearing points are used that can be detached for emergency release, then the actuating element can indirectly act on the locking element, but the mechanism becomes more complex during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a dynamic bearing point system where the bearing points can transition between engaged and detached states. During normal operation, the bearing points are engaged to transmit drive forces. During emergency release, the actuating element detaches the bearing points, allowing the locking element to be moved without resistance from the drive mechanism. This dynamic adaptability reduces the force required for emergency release while maintaining structural integrity during normal use.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies emergency unlocking, reducing the force required and design complexity, enabling flexible and easy unlocking with various tools without damaging the housing, and minimizing post-unlocking costs.
Implementation Method 1
with a return spring ensuring the mechanism returns to its normal position automatically
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to an electric charging device for a motor vehicle (1), in particular an electric or hybrid motor vehicle. Said electric charging device comprises, for this purpose, a charging socket (2) mounted on the motor vehicle side and a charging plug (3) mounted on the charging column side, or vice versa. The electric charging device also comprises a motorised locking element (4) which can be moved by a drive (5, 6) for releasably locking the charging plug (3) in the charging socket (2). An actuating element (7) which can be manually actuated, for example with the aid of a tool (8), is also provided for unlocking the locking element (4) in the event of an emergency. According to the invention, the actuating element (7) fixes a bearing of the drive (5, 6) in normal operation and releases this bearing to unlock the locking element (4) in the event of an emergency.