Movable Magnetic Charging Connector for Precise Vehicle Outlet Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated charging systems for electric and hybrid vehicles face challenges in achieving precise and forceful connection between power connectors and vehicle electrical outlets, especially when multiple vehicles are charged in close proximity, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a power connector with movable magnetization surfaces that establish magnetic contact with complementary surfaces on the electrical outlet, allowing for effortless and precise engagement without external force, using drive systems to align and secure the connection, and repulsion systems for disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a long movable arm (1.5 to 2 meters) is used to place the power connector in a vertical position for charging multiple vehicles, then the system can charge several vehicles placed next to each other, but it becomes difficult to engage the power connector into the vehicle's electrical outlet with enough force and precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical force application system with a magnetic field-based system. Instead of relying on the movable arm to exert mechanical force to push the connector into the outlet, the invention uses magnetic attraction between complementary magnetization surfaces to automatically pull the connector into precise engagement with the outlet, eliminating the need for high-precision mechanical force application from the long arm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the power connector and the electrical outlet. The complementary magnetization surfaces on both the connector and outlet create a magnetic bridge that automatically guides and secures the connection, serving as a mediator that overcomes the limitations of direct mechanical engagement from a long arm.
2Ease of operation
If the movable arm exerts force along its longitudinal axis for connection, then the system is simple to operate, but the connection force is insufficient when the arm is positioned vertically for multiple vehicle charging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical force transmission system with a magnetic force system. The magnetic attraction between complementary magnetization surfaces provides the necessary connection force without requiring the movable arm to exert mechanical pressure, maintaining ease of operation while significantly increasing connection force capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of force application from mechanical contact force to magnetic field force. This parameter change allows the system to maintain operational simplicity while achieving much higher connection forces, as magnetic forces can be significantly stronger than what a long movable arm can mechanically apply.
3Productivity
If the connector is not fully and precisely engaged in the electrical outlet, then the connection process is faster and less forceful, but the vehicle's battery may not be charged and the electrical outlet or connector could be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action through magnetic attraction that begins guiding the connector toward the outlet before physical contact is made. The magnetic fields are activated in advance to create an attraction force that automatically pulls the connector into precise engagement, ensuring proper alignment and full contact before charging begins, thus maintaining both speed and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic interaction provides continuous feedback during the connection process. As the connector approaches the outlet, the magnetic attraction force increases, providing automatic feedback that guides the connector into the correct position. This feedback mechanism ensures precise engagement without requiring excessive force or time, maintaining both productivity and reliability.
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
Enables easy, precise, and efficient connection and disconnection of power connectors to vehicle electrical outlets, reducing the need for external force and minimizing the risk of damage, while ensuring optimal charging alignment and safety.
Implementation Method 1
bring said at least one first movable magnetization surface of the connector into magnetic contact with at least one first complementary magnetization surface of the electrical socket
Implementation Method 2
contact between the connector and the socket is maintained until a force greater than the magnetization force separates the two surfaces
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for connecting a power supply connector (20) to an electrical outlet (1) of a vehicle comprising an electrically rechargeable battery, the power connector (20) comprising a body (22) and at least one first magnetisation surface (34a) which is movable relative to the body (22), the method comprising at least the steps of: - bringing the at least one first movable magnetisation surface (34a) of the connector (20) into magnetic contact with at least one first complementary magnetisation surface of the electrical outlet (1) by moving the at least one movable magnetisation surface (34a) relative to the body (22), - engaging the connector (20) in the electrical outlet (1) by moving the body (22) relative to the first movable magnetisation surface (34a) so as to bring the connector (20) into electrical contact with the electrical outlet (1).