EV Charging Socket Latch Feedback Loop for Lock Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging systems lack a reliable and cost-effective method to ensure that the charging plug is securely locked to the socket, often leading to false positives in locking confirmation and potential mechanical failure, which can result in unsafe charging conditions.
Innovation Solution
An electrically conducting latch that forms part of an electric feedback loop, ensuring secure locking by verifying contact with a contact member, and a controller to confirm the loop's closure before initiating charging, with options for conductive and non-conductive materials to enhance durability and design flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art switching solutions are used to detect latch position, then the system can determine locking status, but the system becomes complex, expensive and prone to wear and mechanical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The latch structure is merged with the electrical contact function. The electrically conducting latch itself serves as both the mechanical locking element and the signal generation element. When the latch engages with the contact member, it directly closes the feedback loop circuit, eliminating the need for separate switches or sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch performs multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical locking of the charging plug and electrical signal generation for locking confirmation. The single component serves both structural and sensing purposes, reducing overall system complexity while improving reliability.
2Reliability
If prior art switching solutions are used to detect latch position, then the system can determine locking status, but the system becomes expensive and prone to wear and mechanical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The latch structure is merged with the electrical contact function. The electrically conducting latch itself serves as both the mechanical locking element and the signal generation element. When the latch engages with the contact member, it directly closes the feedback loop circuit, eliminating the need for separate switches or sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical switches and sensors are replaced with a simplified electrical contact system. The feedback loop uses basic electrical conductivity detection rather than complex mechanical switching mechanisms, reducing wear, failure points, and manufacturing costs.
3Reliability
If the latch is made entirely electrically conducting to form the feedback loop, then the feedback loop can be reliably closed, but the manufacturing cost and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
Only the critical contact regions of the latch are made electrically conducting, not the entire component. The latch can be made of non-conductive material with localized conductive coatings or inserts at the contact surfaces, reducing material usage while maintaining feedback loop functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch utilizes composite construction combining non-conductive base material with localized conductive elements. This allows the latch to maintain its primary mechanical function while providing necessary electrical contact properties only where required for the feedback loop.
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
Provides a safe and reliable method to confirm plug locking, preventing charging if the latch is damaged, reducing theft risk, and offering cost-effective, durable solutions adaptable to various designs.
Implementation Method 1
The latch and the contact member are at least partially electrically conducting and form part of an electric feedback loop in the lock position
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An electric vehicle charging socket (1) for receiving a charging plug (50), the charging socket (1) comprising - a latch (10) for locking the charging plug (50) to the charging socket (1), the latch (10) being movable between a release position (10R) and a lock position (10L), and - a contact member (20) arranged to be contacted by the latch (10) in the lock position (10L), wherein the latch (10) and the contact member (20) are at least partially electrically conducting and form part of an electric feedback loop (30) in the lock position (10L).