Latching Solenoid Connector Locking Control Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric power control devices for electric vehicles lack a simple and reliable mechanism for locking and unlocking connector connections, which is crucial for safe operation and efficient power transfer.
Innovation Solution
An electric power control device with a latching solenoid that switches between locked and unlocked states using predetermined voltages, integrated with a control circuit to manage the connector connection, ensuring safe and reliable locking and unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-latching solenoid is used to lock the connector connection, then the connector remains locked during power transfer, but the configuration becomes more complex and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional non-latching solenoid approach by using a latching solenoid that maintains its locked state without continuous power supply. The solenoid is energized only momentarily to switch states, and the latch mechanism maintains the locked position mechanically, reversing the traditional continuous-power approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching solenoid mechanism is self-maintaining through its inherent latch design. Once activated by a momentary voltage pulse, the solenoid mechanically latches into position and maintains the locked state without requiring continuous external power or control signals, making the system self-sustaining during operation.
2Ease of operation
If a latching solenoid with polarity-reversal voltage is used, then locking and unlocking are achieved with simple voltage control, but the control circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameter approach by using polarity-reversal voltage control. Instead of using two separate voltage levels or complex switching circuits, the system simply reverses the polarity of the applied voltage to the operating coil to switch between locked and unlocked states, making control straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with an electromagnetic latching solenoid system. The mechanical locking action is achieved through electromagnetic actuation of the solenoid, which uses magnetic fields generated by the operating coil to move the armature and engage/disengage the latch, substituting electromagnetic control for purely mechanical systems.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If connector locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental disconnection, then operator safety improves, but the device configuration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The latching solenoid acts as an intermediary mechanism between the control circuit and the connector locking function. It provides a controlled interface that mediates the locking and unlocking actions, ensuring that connector state changes occur only when properly commanded, thereby protecting operators while maintaining system integrity.
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 provides a simple and reliable mechanism for locking and unlocking connector connections, enhancing operator safety and efficiency in power transfer operations.
Implementation Method 1
a latching solenoid that switches connector connection between a locked state and an unlocked state... outputs a predetermined first voltage to an operating coil inside the latching solenoid
Data Source
AI summary
An electric power control device has a first connector connected to a second connector provided in a second appliance, and a control circuit provided within a first appliance that exchanges electric power with the second appliance via a harness and connected to the first connector via the harness. The first connector includes a latching solenoid that switches connector connection, i.e., connection between the first and second connectors, between a locked state and an unlocked state. The control circuit outputs a first or second voltage to an operating coil inside the latching solenoid to bring the connector connection into the locked or unlocked state, respectively.