EV Charging Port Lock Using Electromagnetic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric vehicle charging systems lack a mechanism to prevent unauthorized unplugging of charging cords, leading to incomplete battery charging when the owner returns.
Innovation Solution
An electric vehicle charging port lock system that locks the charging connector into the port based on battery charge level or owner authentication, using mechanical, magnetic, or fingerprint recognition mechanisms, and can be controlled via a mobile app or key fob signal, ensuring the connector remains locked until the battery is fully charged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a charging port lock mechanism is implemented, then security against unauthorized unplugging is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking systems with electromagnetic actuators that can be controlled electronically. The electromagnetic actuator uses magnetic fields to engage and disengage the locking mechanism, reducing the number of moving parts and mechanical components while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that includes a microcontroller and sensor network to manage the locking mechanism. This intermediary layer processes authentication signals and coordinates the actuator operation, allowing the system to maintain security while reducing direct mechanical complexity through intelligent control.
2Reliability
If authentication mechanisms are added to control charging port locking, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service authentication using biometric sensors (fingerprint recognition) that automatically verify user identity without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously compares the scanned biometric data against stored templates and automatically engages or disengages the locking mechanism based on authentication results, eliminating the need for users to manually operate complex authentication interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary authentication actions by pre-registering user biometric data and system credentials before actual charging sessions. The system pre-configures authorized user profiles and stores biometric templates in advance, so that during charging operations, authentication occurs rapidly through simple biometric scanning rather than requiring complex real-time verification procedures.
3Reliability
If the charging port remains locked until full charge, then battery charging completeness is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking system that automatically adjusts its state based on real-time charging status monitoring. The microcontroller continuously monitors battery charge levels and automatically disengages the electromagnetic actuator when the battery reaches full charge or when unauthorized removal is detected, allowing the system to maintain security during charging while enabling easy operation when charging is complete.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through sensors that monitor charging status, connector position, and battery state. This feedback is continuously fed to the control system, which automatically adjusts the locking mechanism's engagement state accordingly - maintaining lock during active charging and automatically releasing when charging completes, thus resolving the contradiction between security and operational ease.
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
Prevents unauthorized disconnection of the charging cord, ensuring the battery is fully charged when the owner returns, enhancing security and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic actuator to lock or unlock the charging connector
Implementation Method 2
a fingerprint sensor to detect a fingerprint
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for locking a charging connector inserted into a charging port is disclosed. The insertion of the charging connector into the charging port is identified. The charging port or charging connector may be placed into a locked state such that the charging connector cannot be disconnected from the charging port. The charging port or charging connector may be placed into an unlocked state in response to a battery charge level or an owner signal.