Flush Roadside EV Access Connectors for Safe Distributed Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of unobtrusive, spatially distributed, and safe infrastructure for connecting electric vehicles to an electrical network, with existing charging stations being obstructive, limited in capacity, and lacking user flexibility in selection and control over charging parameters.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising access connectors integrated into roadside infrastructure, such as pedestrian walkways, with a locking mechanism and RFID technology for secure connection, and a control and distribution module for centralized power management, allowing users to select and control charging parameters via a remote interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional charging stations are used, then electric vehicles can be charged, but the charging stations are obstructive and create trip hazards with trailing connection leads
Solution Approach 1:
The charging infrastructure is moved from above-ground conventional stations to underground access points integrated into the road surface. The connection leads are routed through the road structure rather than trailing on the surface, eliminating trip hazards while maintaining charging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate connector module serves as a mediator between the vehicle and the fixed charging infrastructure. This module can be connected to multiple access points and includes a retractable cable that reduces to minimal length when not in use, eliminating the trailing lead problem.
2Reliability
If conventional charging stations are used, then charging is provided, but they require significant space and are limited to serving only one or a small number of vehicles at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The charging infrastructure is segmented into multiple distributed access points embedded along the road, each capable of serving vehicles independently. This replaces the centralized station model with a distributed network that serves multiple vehicles simultaneously across different locations.
Solution Approach 2:
Charging access points are integrated into the road surface itself, utilizing the vertical space within the road structure rather than requiring surface area. This allows the infrastructure to serve multiple vehicles along the road without increasing footprint.
3Device complexity
If charging stations are located at specific centralized points, then power distribution is simplified, but user selection and control over charging parameters is limited and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate connector module is designed as a universal interface that can connect to multiple different access points along the road. It provides users with flexibility to choose from multiple locations and charging parameters while the centralized control system manages power distribution across all access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates user feedback mechanisms through the intermediate connector module and control system, allowing users to select charging parameters, monitor charging status, and control the charging process remotely, thereby providing flexibility without compromising power distribution efficiency.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If access connectors are integrated into the road surface, then the infrastructure becomes unobtrusive and safe, but the connection mechanism must be secure and reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and secure the intermediate connector module to the access point before charging begins. This preliminary securing action ensures reliable connection without requiring exposed mechanical components that would compromise safety or aesthetics.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate connector module acts as a secure intermediary that interfaces with the embedded access point through a controlled connection mechanism. This mediator provides both security for the embedded infrastructure and safety for the vehicle connection, with the retractable cable minimizing exposure.
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
Provides a discreet and safe method for connecting multiple electric vehicles to an electrical network, enabling flexible charging and discharging options, reducing congestion, and enhancing user control over charging parameters.
Implementation Method 1
RFID technology for secure connection
Data Source
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AI summary
An access connector, system and methods for accessing an electrical network are described. The access connector comprises a body portion configured to be installed in roadside infrastructure such that the access connector is substantially flush with an outer surface of the of the roadside infrastructure. The access connector provides a mechanical and electrical connection point for an electrical vehicle connector. The system comprises a plurality of access connectors.