EVSE Connector Soft Lock Using Biometric Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for preventing unauthorized disconnection of electric vehicle (EV) charging connectors from the vehicle are inconvenient for authorized users, as they often rely on physical keys or electronic signals that can be bothersome to use.
Innovation Solution
A soft lock system that uses biometric authentication, where a controller on the EVSE system obtains and stores a biometric record from the user during coupling and unlocks the connector only when the re-obtained biometric record matches the stored record, ensuring secure disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional physical key or electronic key fob locking mechanisms are used to prevent unauthorized disconnection of the EVSE connector, then security against unauthorized use is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to inconvenience and bother to the authorized user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical key-based locking systems with a biometric authentication system. The controller captures biometric data (fingerprint, facial recognition, or iris scan) from the user and uses this biological information to control the locking mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for physical keys or electronic fobs, providing both high security through unique biometric identification and convenience since users simply present their biological trait rather than manually operating a key or device.
Solution Approach 2:
The biometric authentication system enables self-service operation where the user's own biological characteristics serve as the authentication credential. The system automatically captures and verifies biometric data without requiring the user to manually input credentials or interact with complex locking mechanisms. The controller autonomously compares the captured biometric data against stored templates and automatically engages or disengages the locking mechanism based on verification results.
2Reliability
If a latching apparatus is implemented to lock the EVSE connector into the EV receptacle, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical key-operated latching apparatus with an electronically controlled locking mechanism driven by biometric authentication. Instead of multiple mechanical components including keys, tumblers, and linkages, the system uses a simple electric motor or actuator controlled by a microcontroller that reads biometric data. This substitution maintains security functionality while dramatically reducing mechanical complexity and improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The biometric authentication system serves multiple functions: it authenticates the user, controls the locking mechanism, and manages the charging session. The same biometric sensor and controller that verify user identity also directly control the engagement and disengagement of the locking apparatus. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate authentication and locking mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector to a soft lock receptacle includes a controller and a memory electrically coupled to the controller. During a user coupling the connector to the receptacle, the controller generates and stores a stored record in the memory. During the user attempting uncoupling the connector, the controller generates a re-obtained record. Responsive to the re-obtained record matching the stored record, the controller unlocks the connector.