EV Charging Port Ejector With Retractable Connector Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric vehicle (EV) charging systems require manual removal of the charging connector, which can be inconvenient and pose safety risks, especially in adverse weather conditions or remote locations where drivers may be unable to safely exit the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
An automatic ejector mechanism is integrated into the EV's charging port, allowing the charging connector to be automatically pushed out upon command, eliminating the need for manual removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual removal of charging connector is required, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates and safety risks increase in adverse conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connector automatically ejects itself from the charging port using an integrated pusher assembly that is selectively actuated. The system monitors charging status and automatically performs the ejection function without requiring manual intervention, allowing the connector to serve itself in the removal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical removal operation with an automated mechanical ejection system. A pusher assembly driven by a motor or actuator mechanism substitutes for human hand operations, enabling automatic connector removal while maintaining mechanical reliability.
2Reliability
If driver must exit vehicle to remove connector, then ease of operation is maintained, but safety deteriorates in remote or dangerous locations
Solution Approach 1:
The ejection system enables the charging port to automatically complete the connector removal function, eliminating the need for driver intervention. The system monitors charging completion and autonomously executes the ejection sequence, ensuring driver safety while maintaining operational convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The pusher assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the charging port and the connector. It provides a controlled automatic ejection function that mediates the interaction between the system and the connector, enabling safe automatic removal without direct driver involvement in hazardous environments.
3Ease of operation
If automatic ejection mechanism is added, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ejection system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a pusher assembly for ejection, a retracting assembly for resetting, and a locking assembly for position retention. This segmentation allows each subsystem to be independently designed and controlled, managing overall system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The retracting assembly预先 retracts the pusher into a retracted position before charging begins, and the locking assembly预先 locks the pusher in place during charging. These preliminary actions prepare the system for automatic ejection while maintaining structural integrity and managing complexity through pre-positioning mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An ejector for electric vehicle charging connectors is provided. An ejector can be configured to be secured on the inside of the charging port of an EV and to automatically eject or push the charging connector from the charging port. The ejector may include a pusher assembly that can be selectively retracted to allow a charging connector to be plugged into the charging port and can be selectively released to eject the charging connector from the charging port. The ejector can include a retracting assembly for selectively retracting the pusher assembly and a locking assembly for retaining the pusher assembly in the retracted position until it is desired to eject the charging connector.