EV Charging Cable Retainer with Automatic Rewind and Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging systems face challenges in efficient storage and handling of charging cables, particularly in transitioning between AC and DC charging modes, with existing solutions lacking flexibility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A charging cable system with a connector device and retainer housing that allows for easy stowage and detachment, featuring a cable reel and tensioning device for automatic cable rewind, and a locking mechanism for safety, enabling seamless switching between AC and DC charging programs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connector device is permanently fixed to the charging cable, then connection reliability is improved, but flexibility in switching between AC and DC charging modes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is divided into separate functional modules: a connector device for AC charging and a socket portion for DC charging. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling flexible switching between charging modes by selecting which module to use.
2Ease of manufacture
If the charging cable is stored in a fixed location within the cabin, then storage organization is improved, but ease of access and handling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable storage system transitions from a fixed static storage location to a dynamic retractable design. The cable can be automatically retracted into or extended from a storage compartment, providing both organized storage when not in use and easy access when needed, eliminating the trade-off between organization and accessibility.
3Ease of operation
If the connector device is designed to be easily detachable, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of unintended movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
A locking mechanism is implemented that automatically engages when the connector device is properly inserted into the socket portion. This preliminary locking action ensures that the connection is secured against unintended movement, while still allowing easy detachment when intentionally activated by the user.
4Ease of operation
If a retractable charging cable design is implemented, then ease of handling is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable charging cable system incorporates an automatic rewind mechanism that uses the cable's own weight and tension to retract it into the storage compartment without requiring external power or complex control systems. This self-service approach provides the ease of handling of a retractable design while minimizing the addition of complex mechanical or electronic components.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle charging cable system is provided. The system includes a charging cable assembly having an electric cable and a connector device coupled thereto. The connector device includes a connector housing and a first electric contact arrangement therein. A cable storage device stores the electric cable, and a retainer device includes a retainer housing having a first receiving opening for receiving the connector device and a socket portion arranged adjacent to the first receiving opening for receiving a DC-charging plug of a charging plug. The first receiving opening defines a cross-section corresponding to an outer contact surface of the connector housing. The connector device is positionable in a stowage position in which the connector housing is received within the first receiving opening, and in a detached position to clear the first receiving opening. The socket portion defines a second receiving opening which accommodates a second electric contact arrangement.