Modular EV Charging Docking Lock for Fast Field Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is complex and costly to install and maintain, requiring specialized personnel and involving intricate steps, which hinders the widespread adoption of electro mobility due to the need for extensive and rapid installation of charging columns.
Innovation Solution
A modular charging device comprising a docking station and a charging unit with a locking mechanism that allows easy attachment and detachment, enabling laypersons to install and maintain the charging technology without tools, decoupling the connection to the power supply and simplifying the process through a snapping mechanism for secure fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If charging columns are installed extensively and rapidly, then the charging infrastructure expands quickly, but the installation complexity and cost increase due to specialized personnel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station is divided into two main modules: a docking station (base unit) and a charging unit (attachable module). This segmentation allows the charging unit to be pre-assembled and tested independently, then quickly attached to the docking station using the simple locking mechanism, enabling rapid deployment without complex on-site assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be operable by laypersons without specialized training or tools. The simple snap-in/snap-out design with visual indicators allows end-users or installers to perform installation, maintenance, and replacement operations independently, eliminating the need for specialized personnel
2Reliability
If charging columns are designed with integrated electronics, then functionality is complete, but maintenance and replacement become complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The charging unit containing all electronics is separated from the docking station. This allows the charging unit to be removed and replaced as a complete module without affecting the docking station or requiring complex electrical disassembly, significantly simplifying maintenance and technology updates
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing the charging unit to be easily detached and replaced. This dynamic design enables quick technology updates and maintenance operations without permanent installations or complex wiring changes
3Loss of time
If manual operations are reduced, then installation time decreases, but the locking mechanism must be simplified for layperson operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates visual indicators and intuitive design elements that guide laypersons through the attachment process without requiring manual instructions or specialized knowledge. The snap-in/snap-out action is self-explanatory and can be performed by anyone with basic dexterity
Solution Approach 2:
Complex manual fastening operations (screws, bolts, welding) are replaced with a simple mechanical snap-fit locking mechanism. This substitution reduces the number of manual steps required while maintaining secure connection, enabling rapid installation by non-specialists
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
Facilitates rapid, cost-effective, and user-friendly installation and maintenance of charging stations, allowing for widespread deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure by enabling single-person installation and reducing the need for specialized labor.
Implementation Method 1
The locking module (5) is movable at least between a locked position and an open position. The charging unit (6) comprises a plurality of bars (18) insertable into recesses (16) of the docking station (4) in the open position of the locking module (5). The bars (18) comprise each at least one first locking element (21, 23). The locking module (5) comprises a plurality of second locking elements (13) corresponding to the first locking elements (21, 23).
Data Source
AI summary
A charging device for electric vehicles, comprising at least one docking station, at least one charging unit attachable to the docking station. The docking station has plurality of recesses. The charging unit has a plurality of bars insertable into the docking station recesses, each of which comprises at least one first locking element, at least one locking module movable between a locking position and an open position which has a plurality of second locking elements corresponding to the first locking elements. In the open position of the locking module, the bars are insertable into the recesses in such a way that the bars are movable into a snapping position, In the snapping position, the locking module is movable from the open position into the closed position such that the bars are positively fixable to the docking station by an interaction of the second locking elements with the first locking elements.