EV Charging Station Docking Management with Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
User inattentiveness and misuse of electric charging stations lead to docking failures, resulting in damage to charging interfaces due to exposure to the environment and risk of being run over, as users often fail to properly return the charging interface to the base station.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of intelligent electric charging stations equipped with proximity sensors, such as RFID, BLE, ultrasonic, and photosensors, that detect docking events and failures by applying logical docking rulesets, which include time-based and orientation criteria, and execute remediating actions like alert messages and vehicle control to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the charging interface is left on the ground near the base station, then the user can easily access it, but the charging interface is subject to being run over or otherwise damaged by a vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a docking station as an intermediary structure between the charging interface and the ground. The docking station provides a designated docking area with visual indicators that guide users to place the charging interface in a safe, elevated position rather than directly on the ground, thereby reducing damage risk while maintaining accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements visual indicators (lights, markings) on the docking station that prepare and guide users in advance about where to dock the charging interface. This preliminary guidance ensures users place the interface in the correct safe position before any potential vehicle movement occurs
2Ease of operation
If the charging interface is exposed to the ambient environment, then it remains accessible, but it results in damage to the charging interface due to exposure to elements such as water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a docking station structure that provides a protected environment for the charging interface when docked. The docking station acts as a protective enclosure or shelter that shields the interface from environmental elements like water while keeping it accessible during charging operations
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station serves as an intermediary protective structure between the charging interface and the ambient environment. It provides a controlled micro-environment that protects the interface from water and other elements while maintaining functionality
3Device complexity
If users are not monitored for proper docking, then the system remains simple, but docking failures occur resulting in damage to the charging interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a monitoring system with visual indicators (LED lights) that provide immediate feedback to users about docking status. The system detects whether the charging interface is properly docked through sensors and communicates this information through colored lights or displays, enabling users to correct improper docking before damage occurs
Solution Approach 2:
The docking station performs self-monitoring and provides automated guidance through visual indicators. The system independently detects docking status and communicates requirements to users without needing complex external monitoring, allowing the system to protect itself through automated feedback mechanisms
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
The solution effectively reduces docking failures by ensuring proper return of the charging interface to the base station, preventing damage and ensuring user awareness through alert messages and vehicle control, thereby extending the lifespan of charging station components and enhancing safety.
Implementation Method 1
proximity sensors, such as RFID
Implementation Method 2
proximity sensors, such as RFID, BLE
Implementation Method 3
proximity sensors, such as RFID, BLE, ultrasonic
Implementation Method 4
proximity sensors, such as RFID, BLE, ultrasonic, and photosensors
Data Source
AI summary
Electric charging stations with docking management and methods of use are disclosed herein. An example system can include a base station providing electrical power, a charging interface configured to couple with a charging port of a vehicle and a cradle of the base station, a controller associated with at least one of the base station, the charging interface, or combinations thereof, the controller configured to execute a docking ruleset to determine when a docking failure occurs between the charging interface and the cradle of the base station and execute a remediating action in response to the docking failure.