Automated EV Charging Initiation Using Behavioral Pattern Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated charging systems for electric vehicles require manual intervention for plug connection and authentication, lacking a seamless communication link between the charging station and the vehicle, which hinders fully automated charging processes.
Innovation Solution
The method employs behavioral pattern recognition using sensors and image recognition software to determine a charging intention, allowing for automated initiation of the charging process without direct communication between the vehicle and the charging system, enabling semi- or fully automated charging by interpreting user interactions such as opening the charging flap, gestures, or voice inputs, and utilizing automated authentication procedures like Plug&Charge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual authentication and plug connection are required, then system complexity is reduced, but automation extent and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sensors as intermediary devices that detect behavioral patterns (such as driver approaching, opening charging flap, or gestures) and translate them into charging initiation signals. This mediator approach enables automated charging without requiring complex direct communication links between the vehicle and charging system, thus improving automation while managing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for mechanical plug connection and manual authentication with sensor-based behavioral detection. By using optical, capacitive, or other sensors to detect driver actions and automatically initiate charging, the system eliminates the need for physical communication links and manual operations, thereby increasing automation without proportionally increasing communication system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If behavioral pattern recognition is used to determine charging intention, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides behavioral pattern recognition into multiple distinct detectable actions (approaching vehicle, opening charging flap, making gestures, voice commands). Each behavior is detected separately by appropriate sensors, and any one of these segmented behaviors can trigger charging initiation. This segmentation reduces the precision requirement for any single detection while maintaining overall ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multiple types of sensors (optical, capacitive, microphones) that can detect various different user behaviors. This multi-functional sensing approach allows the system to recognize charging intention through multiple different actions, making the system more robust to measurement uncertainties in any single sensor type while improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for initiating a charging process of an electrically drivable vehicle by an automated charging system, wherein the vehicle is parked on a charging space. The method includes determining a charging intention in an automated manner based on performing behavioral pattern recognition, authenticating the charging process and, after the authenticating, initiating the charging process by the automated charging system. Furthermore, a vehicle arrangement is disclosed.