Modular EV Charging Plug with Key-Locked Segmented Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing electrical connection plugs for electric or hybrid vehicles are incompatible with various power outlet standards across different countries and domains, leading to reduced recharging possibilities when traveling, and existing adapter solutions are not secure enough to be widely accepted.

Innovation Solution

A modular electrical plug with interchangeable parts and secure locking mechanisms that can only be deactivated with a key, ensuring a secure connection to different socket standards and preventing unauthorized disconnection or incorrect usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an adapter is used to connect the electrical plug to different power outlets, then compatibility with various power outlet standards is improved, but the connection security deteriorates because the adapter connection is not sufficiently secure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with power outlet standardsVSAvoidconnection security

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical plug is divided into a fixed first element and a detachable second element that can be separated and replaced. The first element contains electrical contacts and housing, while the second element contains output contacts and locking means. This segmentation allows the second element to be changed according to different power outlet standards while maintaining a secure, locked connection through the locking mechanism with key-operated deactivation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plug incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states. The locking means include a movable lock that engages with a recess to secure the connection, and can only be deactivated by inserting and operating a key. This dynamic system ensures connection security during use while allowing authorized changes when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the locking means are made accessible during connection, then ease of operation is improved, but safety deteriorates because unauthorized disconnection or incorrect usage may occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccessibility of locking meansVSAvoidunauthorized disconnection or incorrect usage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A key serves as an intermediary tool between the user and the locking means. The key must be inserted into a key reception element to activate or deactivate the locking mechanism. This intermediary device ensures that only authorized persons with the correct key can operate the locking means, preventing unauthorized disconnection or incorrect usage while maintaining ease of operation for authorized users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2555340B1Modular electrical connection plug, electrical element for such a plug, set of electrical elements and electric vehicle comprising such a plug

Publication Date: 2015.09.02 RENAULT SA

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AI summary

The invention relates to a modular electrical plug (100) for connection to an electrical device, comprising: - a first element (110) including first electrical contacts (111), - a second element (120) comprising, separately, on the one hand, intermediate electrical contacts (121) adapted to be connected to said first electrical contacts (111), and, on the other hand, output electrical contacts (122) intended to be connected to the electrical terminals of a power outlet, - means for assembling the first and second elements together. According to the invention, the plug includes locking means (150) for the assembly of the first and second elements, separate from said assembly means.