EV Charging Cable Retrieval System with Dynamic Force Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable retrieving systems for electric vehicle charging stations often damage the electric vehicle's surface or charging station components due to improper cable retrieval, especially in harsh winter conditions where visibility is reduced, and existing systems lack effective control over retrieval force.
Innovation Solution
A cable retrieving system with a mechanical wire secured to the electric cable and a pulling mechanism within an enclosure, featuring a weight member and a blocking mechanism that adjusts the pulling force based on the connection status between the plug and the vehicle, using an electromagnet or friction elements to control the tension and prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retrieving system is provided on a charging station not directly facing the outlet of the electric vehicle, then the cable can be retrieved, but the retrieving force may cause damage to the plug of the electric vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a dynamic blocking mechanism that transitions between motion-restricted and motion-unrestricted states based on connection status. When the plug is connected to the vehicle, the blocking mechanism restricts weight member movement, reducing pulling force to zero or near-zero to prevent damage to the vehicle body surface. When disconnected, the blocking mechanism allows the weight member to move freely, enabling full pulling force for effective cable retrieval. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between reliable retrieval and preventing harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pulling force parameter dynamically based on connection status. By detecting whether the plug is connected to the vehicle, the system adjusts the pulling force from a high value (when disconnected) to a low or zero value (when connected). This parameter change ensures that cable retrieval is effective when needed while preventing damage to the electric vehicle body surface when the plug is in use.
2Ease of operation
If the cable is disposed on the ground after charging, then the cable is accessible, but it may be damaged by snow scrapers or drivers in harsh winter conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by automatically retrieving the cable and plug to the charging station enclosure when the charging session ends and the plug is disconnected from the vehicle. The blocking mechanism transitions to the motion-unrestricted state, allowing the weight member to pull the cable back before harsh winter conditions (snow, ice) can affect it. This preliminary retrieval action protects the cable and plug from damage by snow scrapers and drivers while maintaining accessibility during active charging.
3Illumination intensity
If the cable is disposed on the ground for visibility, then it can be seen by snow scrapers, but it may still be damaged or destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback from the connection status detection to control the blocking mechanism. When the system detects that the plug is disconnected from the vehicle, it sends a signal to the blocking mechanism to transition to the motion-unrestricted state, initiating cable retrieval. This feedback loop ensures that the cable is automatically retrieved when no longer in use, making it invisible to snow scrapers while preventing damage. The system continuously monitors connection status and adjusts cable position accordingly.
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
The system effectively retrieves the electric cable and plug without damaging the vehicle or charging station, ensuring safe and efficient retraction by dynamically controlling the pulling force based on the connection status, thus reducing the risk of damage during cable management.
Implementation Method 1
the blocking mechanism comprises an electromagnet electrically connected to a power source; a control unit operatively coupled to the electromagnet
Implementation Method 2
a weight member located in the enclosure and mounted on a portion of the mechanical wire to thereby create a pulling force on the mechanical wire to thereby pull the electric cable towards the charging station
Implementation Method 3
the weight member comprises a moveable counterweight and at least one pulley secured on the moveable counterweight and the mechanical wire is engaged on the at least one pulley of the weight member
Data Source
AI summary
A cable retrieving system is disclosed for a charging station adapted for recharging an electric vehicle, the charging station comprising an electric cable and a plug for enabling an electrical connection with the electric vehicle, the system comprising a mechanical wire having a first end secured to the electric cable and a second end; an enclosure comprising an opening suitable for the mechanical wire and a pulling mechanism located in the enclosure, the pulling mechanism comprising a weight member located in the enclosure and mounted on a portion of the mechanical wire to thereby create a pulling force on the mechanical wire to thereby pull the electric cable towards the charging station.