Modular Charging Box Plug Interface for User Replacement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging stations require specialist installation and maintenance due to safety and electrical power supply complexities, with non-safety-critical components often needing user intervention for replacement.
Innovation Solution
A charging box unit with a plug connection that allows easy installation and replacement, incorporating control circuits and user interfaces, enabling users to manage charging processes without professional assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If charging box units are made modular and replaceable by users, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for standardized plug connections and modular architecture
Solution Approach 1:
The charging station is divided into modular components, with the charging box unit as a separate replaceable module that interfaces with the main charging station through a standardized plug connection. This segmentation allows users to replace only the faulty charging box unit rather than the entire charging station, significantly improving ease of repair while the standardization of the interface manages the complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized plug connection design enables the charging box unit to be universally compatible with different charging station models and configurations. This universality allows a single charging box unit design to serve multiple functions and be replaced by users without requiring specialized knowledge of the specific charging station model, improving ease of repair while maintaining manageable device complexity through standardization.
2Reliability
If charging box units are permanently mounted to prevent theft and vandalism, then reliability is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates as users cannot easily replace components
Solution Approach 1:
The charging box unit is designed as a nested module that fits within the charging station structure. When installed, it is securely held in place within the charging station housing, providing theft and vandalism protection. However, the nested design includes a standardized plug connection that allows the module to be extracted and replaced by users, thus maintaining ease of repair while achieving reliability through secure installation.
3Reliability
If specialized connections are used for charging box units, then reliability is improved through optimized electrical connections, but ease of operation deteriorates as users cannot easily install or replace units
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized plug connection is designed to enable self-service installation and replacement by end users without requiring specialized electrical knowledge or tools. The connection incorporates keying features and guide elements that ensure proper alignment and secure connection, allowing users to independently install or replace charging box units while maintaining reliable electrical connections through the standardized design.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The subject-matter relates to a charging box unit, comprising a base body, and a plug connection for the connection of one or more inputs and/or outputs, which is characterized in that the plug connection being arranged on an outwardly directed side of a base body of the charging box unit, wherein the plug connection is formed for connection to a corresponding socket connection of a charging station. Furthermore, the subject-matter relates to a charging station comprising an objective charging box unit.