Vehicle Charging Socket Support for Rigid Hinge Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of electrical charging sockets on electric or hybrid vehicles is complex due to their bulkiness, the need for significant space for electrical cabling, and the requirement for rigid fastening to withstand numerous connection/disconnection cycles.
Innovation Solution
A support for the vehicle's hinge, comprising a U-shaped structure made from a steel sheet, with centering and positioning means, is used to securely fasten and position the charging socket, utilizing orifices and nuts for retention, and a template for precise alignment, simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the charging socket is rigidly fastened to withstand numerous connection/disconnection cycles, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple functional elements: a main support body, a retention means with orifices and nuts, and a positioning means with circular and oblong holes. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (retention, positioning, alignment) independently, achieving reliable fastening while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning means (circular and oblong holes) and centering means are pre-integrated into the support structure before the actual fastening operation. This preliminary positioning ensures that the charging socket is correctly aligned and secured in the proper location before connection/disconnection cycles begin, preventing misalignment issues and reducing the complexity of installation procedures
2Manufacturing precision
If the charging socket is positioned to satisfy quality requirements, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A template is introduced as an intermediary tool that mediates between the support structure and the charging socket during assembly. The template works with the centering means (orifices) to ensure precise positioning and alignment of the charging socket, achieving high manufacturing precision without requiring complex manufacturing processes for the support itself
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides mechanical retention through orifices and nuts, positioning through circular and oblong holes, and centering through orifices that cooperate with the template. This multi-functionality achieves precise positioning while simplifying manufacture by consolidating multiple features into one universal support piece
Data Source
AI summary
A support is for a hinge of an opening leaf of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle that can be recharged via a charging socket. The support includes structure for retaining the charging socket with respect to the support.