EV Charger Lock Mechanism Using NFC and Wireless Authentication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electrified vehicles face the issue of charge plug theft during charging, as existing systems lack a secure mechanism to prevent unauthorized removal of the charge connector, leading to potential monetary loss and inconvenience for vehicle owners.
Innovation Solution
A system equipped with a wireless transceiver and near-field communication (NFC) transceiver that secures the charge plug and sends unlock requests to the vehicle owner via cellular modem or NFC, ensuring only the owner can disconnect the plug, with automatic re-locking if the plug is not removed within a predetermined time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock mechanism is used to secure the charge plug, then security against theft is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking systems with an electromagnetic lock mechanism controlled by a controller that receives signals from NFC transceivers and wireless transceivers. This substitution maintains security functionality while reducing mechanical complexity and improving reliability through electronic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary controller that manages the lock mechanism based on authentication signals from NFC and wireless transceivers. This intermediary component coordinates between the communication interfaces and the lock mechanism, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining security.
2Ease of operation
If remote unlock capability is added via wireless transceiver, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a wireless transceiver that serves multiple functions: receiving unlock commands, communicating with remote devices, and coordinating with the NFC system. This multi-functionality approach adds remote operation capability while minimizing additional hardware complexity by consolidating communication functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the vehicle owner can remotely unlock the charge plug through a wireless transceiver without requiring physical presence or assistance from charging station operators. The controller automatically processes unlock commands and coordinates the lock mechanism response.
3Reliability
If automatic re-locking is implemented after unlock request, then security is improved, but loss of time occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic re-locking as a preliminary action that automatically engages the lock mechanism after a predetermined time period following an unlock request. This ensures security is restored without requiring manual intervention, balancing security maintenance with minimal time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the NFC transceiver and wireless transceiver to monitor the charging status and automatically re-engage the lock mechanism when appropriate. The controller receives status information and automatically adjusts the lock state based on whether the charge plug is still connected or has been removed.
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
This solution effectively prevents charge plug theft by ensuring only the vehicle owner can disconnect the plug, enhancing security and convenience while allowing plug sharing and efficient charging station usage.
Implementation Method 1
A vehicle includes a wireless transceiver and a near field communication (NFC) transceiver
Implementation Method 2
transmit an unlock request to a vehicle owner via the wireless transceiver
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle charging system includes a locking mechanism to secure a charge plug to a charge port of a vehicle. The system includes a wireless transceiver and a near field communication transceiver. The system further includes a controller programmed to, responsive to receiving a request to disengage the locking mechanism during charging, send the request to a vehicle owner via the wireless transceiver, and, responsive to receiving an unlock command via the wireless transceiver, disengage the locking mechanism.