EV Charging Connector Plug Detection via Control Signal Amplitude
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting plug operations in electric vehicle charging systems either increase component complexity or require additional mechanical components, making them inefficient and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
Detecting amplitude changes in control signals on a control line between the charging plug and socket, allowing for plug operation detection without the need for additional components, using existing electrical lines and electronic circuits, and enabling electronic or mechanical locking of the connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sensor (mechanical button or proximity switch) is used to detect plug operation, then plug operation detection is achieved, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical detection methods (mechanical buttons, proximity switches) with an electrical detection method. The plug operation is detected by monitoring amplitude changes of control signals on existing control lines, eliminating the need for additional mechanical sensors and reducing mechanical component complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control lines originally designed for communication purposes are made multi-functional by also using them for plug operation detection. The same control signal lines that transmit control signals between the charging plug and charging socket are utilized to detect plug-in and plug-out operations through amplitude monitoring, eliminating the need for separate detection circuits.
2Reliability
If electrical signal tapping is done at internal resistance of charging plug or socket, then plug operation can be detected electrically, but component complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control lines are designed to serve multiple functions: they transmit control signals for charging operations and simultaneously serve as detection lines for monitoring plug operations. By monitoring the amplitude changes of control signals on these existing lines, the system achieves plug operation detection without requiring separate detection circuits or modifying existing components.
3Reliability
If additional mechanical components are added for detection, then plug operation can be detected, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical detection components (buttons, switches, proximity sensors) and replaces them with an electrical monitoring approach. The plug operation detection is achieved by monitoring electrical signal characteristics on existing control lines, which simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces assembly complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to methods for detecting a plug-in operation of a charging connector in a charging socket of an electrically drivable vehicle, wherein the charging connector has a control signal line for transmitting control signals between the electrically drivable vehicle and a charging station, including: detecting an amplitude change of a control signal on the control signal line in order to detect the plug-in operation.