Docked Charge Interlock Relay for Drive Disable During Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In amusement parks, managing battery-operated ride features or show features during charging is challenging, as users may inadvertently move them while connected to charging stations, leading to potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A charge interlock system with a relay and controller that disables the drive system when the electric feature is charging, using sensors and a controller to monitor the charging status and prevent movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the electric feature is connected to a charging station for charging, then the battery can be recharged, but the user may inadvertently move the feature causing potential damage to the feature or charging station
Solution Approach 1:
The relay is configured to automatically open and disable the drive system before charging begins, preventing any possibility of movement during charging. This preliminary protective action eliminates the risk of damage to the electric feature or charging station by ensuring the drive system is disabled in advance of any charging operation.
2Reliability
If a relay is used to disable the drive system during charging, then movement is prevented, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The relay is automatically controlled by the charging station through a simple electrical signal, eliminating the need for complex control systems, sensors, or user intervention. The relay self-activates based on the charging connection status, providing automatic protection while maintaining system simplicity. The drive system disables itself through the relay mechanism without requiring additional complex control electronics.
Data Source
AI summary
A charge interlock system of an electronic device includes a drive system, a relay coupled to the drive system, and a controller. The controller receives an indication that the electric device is in a charging mode. The controller also transmits signals to open the relay. Moreover, the controller determines that the drive system is disabled based at least in part on the open relay.