Current Collector Four-Bar Linkage Kinematics for EV Charging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rapid charging systems for electric vehicles require precise alignment and vehicle stoppage, limiting compatibility with different charging station shapes and resulting in short charging times, especially when vehicles are tilted or moving.
Innovation Solution
A current collector with a kinematic mechanism based on a four-bar linkage, featuring a drive arm, upper arm, and tension rod, along with a lifting and lowering actuator, centering spring, and compression spring, allowing continuous current flow and extended charging duration even when the vehicle is tilted or moving, by forming an electrically conductive connection with the charging station.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the current collector uses a rigid fixed-position contact device, then the alignment precision with charging station is high, but the adaptability to different charging station shapes and vehicle positions is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the rigid fixed-position contact device into a dynamic articulated arm system with multiple degrees of freedom. The articulated arm can rotate and extend to adapt to different charging station positions and orientations, while the contact head maintains precise alignment through active positioning mechanisms. This resolves the contradiction by making the system dynamically adjustable rather than statically fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arm system with multiple degrees of freedom serves multiple functions: positioning the contact head, adapting to different charging station shapes, compensating for vehicle tilt, and maintaining electrical connection. This multi-functional design allows a single device to handle various charging station configurations, resolving the adaptability issue.
2Measurement precision
If the vehicle must stop completely for charging, then the alignment precision with charging station is improved, but the charging time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables charging during vehicle movement by using the articulated arm's dynamic positioning capabilities to maintain electrical connection despite vehicle motion. The active positioning system continuously adjusts the contact head position to preserve alignment precision without requiring vehicle stoppage, thereby improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arm system maintains continuous electrical connection during vehicle movement, eliminating the interruption caused by complete vehicle stoppage. The charging process can start before the vehicle stops and continue during movement, ensuring uninterrupted current flow and improving overall charging efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If the current collector arm is extended to reach the charging station, then the charging connection is established, but the system complexity and device structure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated arm with multiple degrees of freedom provides dynamic adaptability to reach different charging station positions without requiring an overly complex fixed structure. The mechanical articulation naturally accommodates position variations, simplifying the overall system design compared to a fully fixed and heavily braced structure.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a current collector for rapid charging systems for urban and suburban buses or heavy vehicles that utilize an electric or a hybrid drive. The articulated connection of an upper arm (13), a tension rod (20) and a drive arm (12) forms a kinematics based on the four-bar linkage, wherein the upper arm (13) is connected to a head (14) that is guided to a charging channel of a stationary charging station located at bus stops or end stations.