Floating Armature Assembly for Electric Vehicle Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric and hybrid-electric vehicles are limited by traditional design and infrastructure, failing to fully leverage new technologies and power sources, and lack efficient charging solutions that enable seamless operation and autonomous functionality.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electric vehicle system that incorporates advanced charging technologies, including roadway charging systems, robotic charging units, overhead charging systems, and aerial charging, allowing for autonomous operation and efficient energy transfer while enabling vehicles to operate in various environments and charging modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional vehicle design and infrastructure are used, then manufacturing and operational simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to new technologies and charging modes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The armature assembly is designed with multi-functionality to perform both propulsion and charging functions. The same armature structure that drives the vehicle also enables engagement with overhead charging conductors, allowing the vehicle to operate in multiple modes (autonomous, semi-autonomous, manual) and access various charging infrastructure types, thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The armature assembly incorporates movable and adjustable components that can dynamically change configuration. The armature can be positioned at different angles and heights to engage with overhead conductors at varying positions, and the assembly can be deployed or retracted as needed. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different charging scenarios and environmental conditions
2Productivity
If conventional charging solutions are implemented, then infrastructure requirements are minimized, but operational efficiency and charging speed are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead charging system enables continuous energy transfer to the vehicle during operation. Rather than requiring the vehicle to stop at charging stations, the armature assembly maintains continuous electrical contact with overhead conductors, allowing the vehicle to charge while moving, thereby significantly improving operational efficiency and charging speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional mechanical plug-and-socket charging connections with an overhead conductor-based electrical contact system. This substitution eliminates the need for physical plugging and unplugging operations, enabling faster and more efficient energy transfer while reducing mechanical wear and operational complexity
3Extent of automation
If autonomous operation is enabled, then operational independence is improved, but system complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle system incorporates self-service capabilities where the armature assembly automatically engages with overhead conductors and the vehicle autonomously navigates to charging zones without external intervention. The system can independently manage its own charging process, positioning, and energy transfer, thereby improving autonomous operation while keeping control requirements manageable through self-regulation
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
Enables efficient and flexible charging of electric vehicles in diverse settings, supporting autonomous operation and reducing the limitations of traditional vehicle design and infrastructure, enhancing operational efficiency and environmental adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
a floating armature assembly in communication with the charge receiver panel, the floating armature assembly configured to engage an overhead conductor during a charging operation
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and systems are provided to isolate and/or reduce vibration from a charging panel. A system for reducing vibration between a charging panel of an electric vehicle and the electric vehicle may include a charging panel, an armature coupled to the charging panel, and a floating section, wherein the armature is between the floating section and the charging panel.