Kerb-Embedded EV Charging Layout for Narrow Pavements
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of electronic vehicle charging infrastructure in urban areas is hindered by the need for large, unsightly charging stations that require significant excavation and space, often obstructing foot traffic and posing challenges in narrow pavements with complex underground cabling arrangements.
Innovation Solution
An electronic vehicle charging system is mounted into a kerb, utilizing an angled cavity within the kerb to access underground space efficiently, with a tubular casing and housing portions that provide easy maintenance and protection against water and collisions, and include sensors for detecting nearby objects to optimize installation and usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional charging stations are installed in urban areas, then charging functionality is provided, but they become large, unsightly and obstructive to foot traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system transitions from a surface-mounted structure to a subsurface embedded installation. The charging unit is positioned within the kerb structure, with the majority of components located below ground level, thereby reducing the above-ground footprint to minimal essential elements while maintaining full charging functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging unit components are nested within the kerb structure. The housing is embedded in the kerb, with electrical ports and drainage ports integrated into the kerb surface, and internal components arranged in a compact nested configuration within the housing to minimize space occupation.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional charging stations are installed, then charging service is provided, but significant excavation and material removal are required
Solution Approach 1:
The charging unit installation is merged with the existing kerb structure. Rather than creating a separate foundation or excavation, the charging unit is integrated directly into the kerb, utilizing the kerb's existing structural space and eliminating the need for separate excavation and material disposal processes.
3Ease of operation
If charging stations are installed in narrow pavements, then charging access is provided, but foot traffic is significantly impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The charging infrastructure is moved from the horizontal plane to the vertical subsurface dimension. The kerb-embedded design allows charging ports to be accessible at ground level while the bulk of the structure occupies vertical space below ground, thereby maintaining pedestrian pathway width and avoiding horizontal obstruction.
4Volume of stationary object
If underground space is utilized for charging systems, then space efficiency is improved, but access for maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The charging unit is divided into modular segments including removable panels and accessible ports. The housing can be opened to expose internal components, and specific parts such as the electrical port assembly and drainage port can be accessed and maintained without requiring complete disassembly or complex excavation procedures.
5Ease of operation
If electrical ports are exposed for easy access, then user convenience is improved, but water and liquid ingress risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
A removable panel acts as an intermediary between the electrical port and the external environment. The panel can be removed to provide access for charging connections and then replaced to seal and protect the port from water and liquid ingress, thereby mediating between accessibility requirements and protection requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The drainage port is designed to automatically drain water and condensation from the housing interior without requiring external intervention. This self-draining capability actively removes harmful liquid accumulation, reducing the risk of water damage to internal components while maintaining port accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an electric vehicle charging system, an electric vehicle charging system mounted in a kerb and an electric vehicle charging arrangement comprising an electric vehicle charging system and a kerb block.