EV Charging Connector Lock Release via Guided Actuating Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing emergency systems for retracting the locking pin in electric vehicle charging systems are difficult to access due to their enclosed nature, making it challenging to manually unlock the pin when it malfunctions and becomes stuck in the locked position.
Innovation Solution
An electric charging system that uses an actuating arm, which is inserted through guide means to push a lever mechanically linked to the locking pin, allowing for the retraction of the pin and disconnection of the charging member from the connector, thereby addressing accessibility issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking pin mechanism is used to secure the electric connector during charging, then the reliability of the charging connection is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates when the locking pin malfunctions and becomes inaccessible for manual retraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary tool (actuating arm with T-shaped handle) that mediates between the user and the inaccessible locking pin mechanism. This tool transmits force through guide means to actuate the locking pin, allowing users to unlock the connector even when the emergency release lever is inaccessible, thereby resolving the contradiction between secure locking and ease of emergency operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to the unlocking operation by introducing guide means that direct the actuating arm along a specific path (through opening 31 in partition 310). This dimensional guidance allows the tool to reach the locking pin mechanism from an accessible external location, transforming the inaccessibility problem into a solvable spatial navigation task
Data Source
AI summary
An electric charging system of a vehicle intended to receive at least one electric charging member includes at least one connector, a connector support intended to be rigidly connected to the vehicle, and an actuator including a locking pin intended to lock the electric charging member in relation to the connector. The connector support includes a guide to receive an actuating arm intended to unlock the locking pin.