Remote Locking of EV Charging Cable Terminal via Vehicle-Station Signals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing electric vehicle charging cables at stations are impractical due to the need for multiple keys or codes for various users and operators, making unauthorized removal a concern.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allow remote locking or unlocking of the charging cable terminal at the charging station using signals transmitted between the electric vehicle and the charging station, eliminating the need for physical keys or codes, utilizing a lockable mechanical coupling and various communication methods such as PLC, pilot pin, or radio transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If keys or numerical codes are used for locking the charging cable terminal at the charging station, then security against unauthorized removal is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need to issue multiple keys or codes for various users and operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical key-based locking systems with an electronic control system that uses communication signals between the vehicle and charging station to lock and unlock the charging cable terminal. The locking mechanism is controlled electronically through data transmission rather than physical keys, eliminating the need for multiple keys while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a communication system as an intermediary between the vehicle and charging station to manage the locking mechanism. Instead of direct key interaction, the locking control is mediated through electronic communication channels that transmit authentication and control signals, simplifying the user interface while maintaining security control.
2Reliability
If keys or numerical codes are used for locking the charging cable terminal, then security is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to the need for multiple authentication methods for different users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual key insertion or code entry operations with automated electronic signaling. The vehicle's communication system automatically transmits locking commands to the charging station, eliminating the need for users to physically handle keys or enter codes, thereby greatly simplifying the operation while maintaining security through electronic authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the vehicle itself to perform the locking operation automatically through its own communication system. The vehicle transmits the locking signal to the charging station without requiring external intervention or user manipulation of locking mechanisms, making the operation as simple as connecting the vehicle to the charging station.
3Ease of operation
If remote locking via vehicle-to-station communication is implemented, then ease of operation is improved by eliminating keys and codes, but device complexity increases due to communication system requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes existing communication infrastructure and protocols that are already part of the vehicle-to-charging-station interface. The communication system serves multiple functions including authentication, charging control, and locking/unlocking operations, thereby avoiding the need for separate dedicated communication hardware and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the locking control function with the existing vehicle-to-charging-station communication protocol. Instead of adding a separate communication system, the locking signals are integrated into the standard communication channels already used for charging authentication and control, merging multiple functions into a unified system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for communicating between an electric vehicle and a charging station for electrically charging at least one energy storage device of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle is connected to the charging station during the charging process by a lockable mechanical coupling between a terminal of charging cable connected to the vehicle and a terminal of the charging station. Charging current is fed from the charging station through the charging cable. Information is transferred in the course of the charging process based on a communication between the electric vehicle and the charging station. The information includes a signal transmitted from the electric vehicle to the charging station for locking and/or unlocking the mechanical coupling. The signal triggers the locking and/or unlocking of the mechanical coupling between the terminal of the charging cable and the terminal at the charging station.