Hybrid Vehicle Charging Interface Merging Cable and Inlet
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid vehicles require significant circuit changes to accommodate multiple charging means, complicating the configuration and operation of charging systems.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle design incorporating a charging interface unit with an adjustable wire extension and a cable reel, allowing for seamless integration of multiple charging modes using either an onboard cable or a charging cable, with automatic detachment/attachment mechanisms to prevent unnecessary circuit activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple charging means (power cable and inlet) are provided in a hybrid vehicle, then charging versatility is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for relay control circuits to manage switching between charging methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power cable and inlet into a single integrated charging interface. The power cable is stored within the inlet housing, and the charging connector is integrated into the inlet structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate relay control circuits to switch between charging methods, as only one charging interface needs to be managed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining charging versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The inlet is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the charging port and the storage housing for the power cable. The inlet can receive external charging cables while also containing the onboard power cable. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and control circuits needed, simplifying the overall system while providing versatile charging options.
2Reliability
If relay control is implemented to switch between power cable and inlet charging, then proper circuit activation is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to automated control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the power cable and inlet into a single integrated system, the patent eliminates the need for relay control to switch between separate charging methods. The user simply connects to the inlet, which automatically manages the charging connection, removing automated control requirements while maintaining proper circuit activation through the integrated design.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A hybrid vehicle includes: a battery (20); a charging unit (31) and an onboard cable (96) for feeding electric power to the battery (20) from a power supply located externally to the vehicle; an inner lid operated for a charging operation by means of the charging unit (31); and a harness (43) mechanically coupled to the inner lid for making an electrical connection between the battery (20) and the onboard cable (96). The harness (43) is configured so that the electrical connection made by the harness (43) between the battery (20) and the onboard cable (96) is severed in response to displacement of the inner lid (61) that is caused when the lid is operated. Accordingly, the vehicle having a simple configuration and including a plurality of charging means for charging the power storage device can be provided.