Interchangeable EV Charging Cable With Resistance-Based Assembly Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrified-vehicle accessories, such as charging and discharging cables, are designed for single purposes and lack interchangeability, leading to redundant component purchases and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable electrified-vehicle charging/discharging cable featuring a vehicle connector, an interchange connector, and conductors with a proximity pilot conductor that connects with a proximity circuit in the assembly, allowing the cable to be used across various charging and discharging applications by detecting a standardized resistance value in the assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional accessory products are designed for a single purpose with fixed charging cables, then each product can perform its specific function reliably, but consumers are forced to purchase duplicates of multiple components leading to redundancy and increased cost
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly is designed with a universal vehicle connector and an interchange connector that can connect to multiple types of assemblies (charging, discharging, accessory). The proximity circuit uses a standardized resistance value that is recognized by the vehicle's control system across all assembly types, enabling a single cable to reliably perform multiple functions without requiring consumers to purchase duplicate cables for different purposes.
2Reliability
If conventional accessory products use fixed (non-detachable) charging cables, then the cable connection is stable and reliable, but the cable cannot be easily replaced or used with different assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly is segmented into two separate connectors: a vehicle connector that connects to the electrified vehicle and an interchange connector that connects to various assemblies. This segmentation allows the cable to be detached and reconnected with different assemblies while maintaining a stable, reliable connection during use. The proximity circuit is integrated into the cable assembly to ensure proper vehicle recognition across all interchange scenarios.
3Reliability
If consumers purchase multiple conventional accessories for different purposes, then each accessory can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity and cost increase due to redundant components
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly serves as a universal interface that can connect to charging assemblies, discharging assemblies, and accessory assemblies. The vehicle connector and proximity circuit are designed to work with all assembly types, eliminating the need for consumers to purchase and manage multiple specialized cables. This reduces system complexity while maintaining the ability to perform different functions through the same cable infrastructure.
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
Enables a single cable to be used across multiple electrified-vehicle accessories, reducing redundant purchases and facilitating cost-effective replacements.
Implementation Method 1
The proximity circuit includes a predetermined standardized resistance value that identifies the assembly to the charging and discharging control system
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of an interchangeable electrified-vehicle charging/discharging cable are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a cable for an electrified vehicle comprises a vehicle connector that electrically connects with an inlet of an electrified vehicle. The cable also includes an interchange connector that electrically connects with an assembly (e.g., a charger, device, premises, power grid, etc.) detachably. The cable also includes conductors that electrically connect the vehicle connector with the interchange connector. The conductors include a proximity pilot conductor that electrically connects a charging and discharging control system of the electrified vehicle with a proximity circuit of the assembly. The proximity circuit includes a predetermined standardized resistance value that identifies the assembly to the charging and discharging control system of the electrified vehicle.