Vehicle Charging Socket Locking Unit With Slotted-Link Release
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional charging socket locking mechanisms are cumbersome to assemble and disassemble, often requiring screw connections that are difficult to access and time-consuming, especially in vehicles with complex chassis configurations, and lack easy release options.
Innovation Solution
A charging socket device with a translationally movable locking pin and a slotted link mechanism that allows for easy assembly and disassembly by engaging slotted link elements, eliminating the need for screws or additional force-transmitting mechanisms, and enabling quick release through a simple carriage movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional screw connections are used to secure the locking mechanism, then the locking mechanism provides secure and reliable operation, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separable components that can be quickly assembled and disassembled without screws. The locking unit can be detached from the charging socket housing as a complete module, enabling rapid replacement and maintenance without time-consuming fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static screwed connection to a dynamic, movable locking unit that can be easily inserted and removed. The locking element can move between locked and unlocked positions, and the entire locking unit can be detached for maintenance or replacement.
2Manufacturing precision
If the locking mechanism is screwed into position, then precise positioning is achieved, but accessing the screw elements requires time-consuming dismantling of the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into a removable locking unit that can be accessed and operated independently from the main charging socket housing. This modular design allows technicians to access the locking mechanism without dismantling surrounding vehicle components.
Solution Approach 2:
A carriage element acts as an intermediary component that translates user input (button activation) into mechanical motion of the locking element. This intermediate mechanism simplifies the user interface while maintaining precise control over the locking action.
3Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used, then secure locking is provided, but fast release of the charging socket is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be translationally movable between locked and unlocked positions. When the carriage element moves in the release direction, the locking element automatically transitions to the unlocked position, enabling rapid release of the charging plug without manual intervention on the locking mechanism itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically unlock and release the charging plug when the carriage element is moved in the release direction. The system performs the unlocking action automatically without requiring the user to manually manipulate the locking element, thereby speeding up the release process.
4Device complexity
If the locking mechanism is integrated into the charging socket unit, then a compact design is achieved, but removing the locking mechanism requires removal of the entire charging socket unit
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented as a separate, removable locking unit that can be detached from the charging socket housing. This modular design maintains the integrated appearance during normal operation but allows independent removal of the locking unit for repair or replacement without affecting the rest of the charging socket assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging socket device for a vehicle includes a locking unit with a locking element, a carriage, and a plug-receiving unit. The locking element is movable between a locking position in which it projects transversely from a housing of the locking unit and a release position. The carriage includes a first slotted link element translationally mounted on a locking unit along the longitudinal direction between a disassembly position and an assembly position. The plug receiving unit includes a second slotted link element. One of the slotted link elements is a slotted link inclined relative to the longitudinal direction such that a movement of the carriage along the longitudinal direction causes a movement of the locking unit along a vertical direction of the charging socket device, and the other is a link pin. A slotted link mechanism of the charging socket device is formed by the slotted link elements.