Heated EV Charging Connection Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connection arrangements for vehicle battery charging systems face challenges in reliability and handleability, particularly at low temperatures, where batteries can freeze and connections become difficult to manage, posing safety risks.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a heating element into the connection elements of the charging system, allowing for targeted heating of the connection points to prevent freezing and ensure smooth operation, including the use of electrical heating elements connected through the charging cable or the vehicle's battery, with optional activation via a switch or trigger signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If heating is applied to the battery or charging cable at low temperatures, then the handleability and charging capability are improved, but the energy consumption and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element contains an integrated heating element that can autonomously generate heat when electrical current flows through it during charging, eliminating the need for separate external heating systems and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to prevent freezing in adverse conditions
2Ease of operation
If a separate DC power source is used to heat the charging cable, then the ability to handle the cable at low temperatures is improved, but the device complexity and operational procedures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The heating function is merged with the connection element itself by integrating a heating element directly into the connection element structure, combining the charging connection and heating functions into a single integrated component, thereby simplifying the overall charging system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connection for charging and simultaneously contains a heating element that can be activated to prevent freezing, making the connection element a multi-functional component that addresses both charging and temperature management needs
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 solution enhances the reliability and safety of the charging process by maintaining connection functionality in adverse conditions, preventing freezing, and ensuring secure handling without gloves, thus improving user safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one heating element is integrated into the first connection element and/or into the second connection element
Data Source
AI summary
Electrical connection arrangement (32) for a charging system (10), especially for charging a vehicle battery (14) of a motor vehicle (12), comprising a first connecting element (28) that can be connected to a charging station (20) and that can establish electrical charging contact with the second connecting element (30) which is supported on a mobile platform (12). At least one heating element (40) is integrated into the first connecting element and/or into the second connecting element.