Loose Plug Detection via Waveform Distortion Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging systems for electric and hybrid vehicles face challenges in detecting loose connections, which can lead to increased electrical resistance and fire hazards, particularly due to the complexity and cost of conventional temperature-sensing cables.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that analyze alternating current waveforms to detect distortions indicative of loose connections, using techniques such as identifying transients, pulses, and frequency components to determine if a connection is faulty, allowing for the detection of loose connections using arbitrary cables and preventing potential hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated cable with an integrated temperature sensor is used for detecting increased temperature, then the detection capability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is extracted from the cable itself and relocated to the charging system's control unit. The cable becomes a simple transmission medium while the control unit performs waveform analysis to detect connection issues, eliminating the need for integrated sensors in the cable.
Solution Approach 2:
The waveform analysis acts as an intermediary method to indirectly detect connection quality. Instead of directly measuring temperature or connection status in the cable, the system analyzes the electrical waveform characteristics as they pass through the connection point to infer connection quality.
2Device complexity
If waveform analysis is used to detect loose connections, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the waveform characteristics by first identifying the fundamental frequency and then comparing subsequent waveforms against this reference. This preliminary establishment of a baseline enables accurate detection of deviations indicating loose connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors waveform characteristics and provides feedback about connection quality. By comparing the current waveform against the fundamental frequency and previously established patterns, the system can detect and report connection issues in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
According to the disclosure there is provided a method for characterizing an electrical connection between an energy storage device of an electrical or hybrid vehicle and an external power supply. The method may include, in the vehicle, receiving an alternating waveform from the power supply, determining a fundamental frequency of the waveform, determining if the waveform is distorted, and, if it is determined that the waveform is distorted, determining if the distortion is an indication of a loose connection between the vehicle and the power supply. There is further provided a charging system for characterizing an electrical connection between an energy storage device of an electrical or hybrid vehicle and an external power supply.