eVTOL Charging Pad Cable Layout With On-Site Energy Buffering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern electric aircraft, such as eVTOLs, are limited by battery capacity and require rapid charging, but existing charging stations strain electric power grids and cannot reliably deliver power.
Innovation Solution
A recharging station with an elevated landing pad, a rechargeable component featuring a cable module located beneath the surface, and a power delivery unit that connects to a power supply unit, including a solar inverter for on-site power generation, to efficiently and quickly charge electric aircraft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing charging stations are used to charge electric aircraft, then charging capability is provided, but strain on electric power grids increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary energy storage system (batteries or capacitors) between the power grid and the charging station. This intermediary stores energy during low-demand periods and releases it during charging operations, thereby providing reliable charging power without directly straining the electric power grid.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary energy storage by charging batteries or capacitors in advance during periods of low power demand. This preliminary action ensures that sufficient energy is available for rapid charging when needed, improving reliability while avoiding peak grid strain.
2Productivity
If rapid charging is implemented for electric aircraft, then charging speed increases, but strain on power supply systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses energy storage devices (batteries or capacitors) as intermediaries to decouple the rapid charging process from the power grid. The storage system absorbs the high power delivery demand during charging while drawing power from the grid at lower, more manageable rates, thereby enabling rapid charging without proportionally increasing grid strain.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-charges energy storage devices during off-peak periods, building up energy reserves in advance. This preliminary action allows the system to deliver rapid charging power when needed without requiring proportional instantaneous power from the grid.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If cable module is placed beneath landing pad surface, then aesthetic appearance and safety are improved, but cable access complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic cable access mechanisms such as retractable cables or rotating connectors that automatically extend or rotate into position when an aircraft is properly docked. This dynamic behavior allows the cable module to remain concealed beneath the landing pad for safety and aesthetics while providing reliable electrical connection during charging operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-aligning or self-activating cable connection mechanisms that automatically engage when the aircraft is correctly positioned on the landing pad. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex manual operation while maintaining safe concealed storage of cables when not in use.
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 system enables rapid and reliable charging of electric aircraft, reducing strain on power grids and providing a sustainable power solution through on-site energy generation.
Implementation Method 1
including a solar inverter for on-site power generation
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for a recharging station including a landing pad, a rechargeable component coupled to the landing pad, a power delivery unit configured to deliver power from a power supply unit or power storage unit to the recharging component, and a support component coupled to the bottom of the landing pad.