EV Charging Cable Adapter With Automatic Anti-Theft Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Charging cables for electric vehicles face security issues in public areas, where adapter assemblies can be stolen or tampered with, leading to unauthorized charging or disconnection, and existing security measures like manual locks are cumbersome and inconvenient, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A charging cable with an adapter assembly that automatically locks the first and second adapter elements together in response to a charging process event, such as connection to a vehicle or initiation of charging, using a locking device that can be electrically adjusted and remotely activated, ensuring secure connection without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual locks are used to secure the adapter assembly, then security against theft and unauthorized access is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional manual effort and time required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device automatically locks the adapter elements to each other without requiring manual intervention. The system performs the locking function on its own by detecting the connected state and activating the locking mechanism, thereby eliminating the need for users to manually secure the adapter assembly while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical locking operations with an automated system that uses electrical or electronic actuation. The locking device is activated automatically through electrical signals or detection mechanisms, substituting the need for manual mechanical manipulation with an automated control system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the adapter assembly is made detachable for flexibility, then adaptability to different connectors is improved, but security against unauthorized disconnection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device automatically engages when the adapter elements are connected, detecting the connected state and activating the locking mechanism without user intervention. This automatic self-locking maintains security while preserving the detachable design for flexibility and adaptability.
3Reliability
If manual locking operations are required, then security control is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to additional time required for locking and unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device performs the locking function automatically by detecting the connected state and activating without user input. This eliminates the time-consuming manual locking and unlocking operations while maintaining security control, thereby improving productivity during charging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is activated automatically upon detection of the connected state, performing the security function before any potential unauthorized access can occur. This preliminary automatic action eliminates delays and ensures security is established immediately upon connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging cable (2) according to the invention for charging an electric vehicle (4) comprises a supply-grid-side first connector (6), a load-side second connection (10), and an adapter assemble (12) between the first and the second connection (6, 10). The adapter assembly (12) comprises a first and a second adapter element (14, 16) which are detachably connected, and a locking device (26) which is designed to automatically lock the first and the second adapter element (14, 16) together when connected.