Integrated EV Charging Station Column and Foundation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure is hindered by complex and costly installation processes requiring multiple trades, leading to prolonged construction times and increased organizational efforts.
Innovation Solution
A modular charging station design where the distribution grid operator can independently install the station up to the grid connection fuse, with integrated charging electronics housed in a column and floor foundation, allowing for a single assembly and electrical connection, eliminating the need for separate installation of charging electronics by a qualified electrician.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the charging station is installed using multiple trades (electrician, civil engineer, fitter), then the installation is completed with proper specialization, but the construction process is lengthened and costs are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the charging station column and floor foundation into a single pre-assembled unit that can be installed by one trade (the distribution grid operator) rather than requiring multiple specialized trades. The integrated design allows the column to be directly placed on the foundation without separate installation steps, reducing construction time while maintaining installation quality through standardized assembly procedures.
2Reliability
If the charging station is installed using multiple trades, then each component can be installed by specialists, but the organizational effort is considerably increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the floor foundation and charging station column into a single installable unit, eliminating the need for multiple trades and reducing organizational complexity. The distribution grid operator can independently complete the entire installation process without coordinating with electricians, civil engineers, or fitters, thereby simplifying project management while maintaining installation quality through standardized procedures.
3Ease of manufacture
If the charging station is made available as a complete assembly, then the installation process is simplified and costs are reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the charging station into modular components (column, floor foundation, charging electronics) that are pre-assembled in a controlled manufacturing environment. This allows for standardized production of individual modules that can be easily combined during installation, reducing on-site complexity while managing manufacturing complexity through modular design and standardized interfaces.
4Ease of manufacture
If the opening in the column is provided for charging electronics, then the charging electronics can be easily installed, but the structural integrity of the column may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing openings in specific locations on the column where charging electronics need to be accessed, while maintaining the overall structural integrity of the column through strategic placement and sizing of openings. The column design incorporates reinforcement around opening areas to ensure strength is not compromised, allowing easy electronics installation while preserving structural requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a charging station (2) for electric vehicles, comprising a ground foundation (6) and a column (4) which is arranged above the ground foundation (6) and holds an electronic charger (10), the ground foundation (6) and the column (4) being integrally formed. The invention further relates to a method for constructing a charging station (2).