Deployable Vehicle Charging Point Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle charge sockets are often positioned in a way that compromises between ergonomics and structural mounting points, leading to exposure to weather and debris, and the charging cable can become a trip hazard or be damaged.
Innovation Solution
A deployable charging point assembly with a connecting part that can move between a retracted and deployed position, allowing for a secure and ergonomic electrical connection to the vehicle's electrical system, while minimizing exposure to the environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the charge socket is positioned at a fixed location on the vehicle body, then it provides structural stability and ease of mounting, but it exposes the socket to weather and debris and compromises ergonomic accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The charge socket is made movable between a deployed position (protruding outwardly from the vehicle body) and a retracted position (recessed into the vehicle body). This dynamic positioning allows the socket to be accessible when needed while protected when not in use, resolving the contradiction between ergonomic accessibility and protection from environmental harm.
2Ease of operation
If the charging cable is positioned externally for easy access, then it improves ease of operation, but it creates trip hazards and increases risk of damage
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable is stored within the connecting part housing when not in use, nested inside the protective structure. When charging is needed, the connecting part protrudes outwardly providing cable access. This nesting approach eliminates trip hazards and protects the cable from damage while maintaining ease of operation during charging.
3Ease of operation
If the connecting part protrudes outwardly for ergonomic access, then it improves ease of operation, but it increases exposure to harmful environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting part is designed to be movable between deployed and retracted positions. When deployed, it protrudes outwardly for ergonomic accessibility during charging. When retracted, it is recessed into the vehicle body for protection against weather and debris. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt its position based on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and protection.
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable charging point assembly for a vehicle includes a connecting part for connecting to a supply of electrical power separate from the vehicle. The connecting part is mountable on the vehicle, such that the connecting part is movable relative to a body of the vehicle between a first position and a second position. The charging point assembly is configured to establish an electrical connection between the supply of electrical power and an electrical system of the vehicle when the connecting part is in one or more predetermined positions between the first and second positions.