Nested EV Charging Adapter Holster for Automatic Connector Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicle charging systems lack efficient and user-friendly mechanisms for adapting between different charging connector types, leading to confusion and inconvenience during charging operations.
Innovation Solution
An electric vehicle charging connector adapter nested within the EVSE, which automatically locks and unlocks based on the vehicle's inlet type, using mechanisms such as spring-loaded latches, electromagnets, and ball-lock quick releases, controlled by sensors and communication systems to ensure compatibility and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standalone adapters are used to adapt between different connector types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to user confusion and manual handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects the vehicle's inlet type using sensors and communication systems, then autonomously selects and deploys the appropriate adapter from the holster, eliminating the need for user intervention in adapter selection and attachment
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple adapters for different connector types are pre-loaded into the holster before the charging operation begins, so that when a vehicle approaches, the system can immediately deploy the correct adapter without requiring the user to search for or select from multiple standalone adapters
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple standalone adapters are provided for different connector types, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components to manage
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple adapters for different connector types are integrated into a single unified holster structure, consolidating what would otherwise be separate standalone components into one organized assembly that is automatically managed by the EVSE system
Solution Approach 2:
The holster serves multiple functions: it stores multiple different adapter types, provides automatic selection based on vehicle detection, and acts as an integrated delivery mechanism that attaches the correct adapter to the charging cable, eliminating the need for users to manage multiple separate adapter components
3Ease of operation
If automatic adapter selection is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors and communication systems continuously monitor the vehicle's inlet type and provide feedback to the control system, which then automatically adjusts the adapter selection and deployment process to match the detected connector type
Solution Approach 2:
The holster acts as an intermediary mechanism between the control system and the physical adapters, receiving electronic commands from the control system and mechanically executing the deployment of the correct adapter to the charging cable, thereby simplifying the control system's interface requirements
4Ease of operation
If adapters are stored in a holster, then ease of operation is improved through organized storage, but device complexity increases due to the holster mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The adapters are nested within the holster structure in a compact arrangement, with each adapter stored in its own designated compartment or slot within the holster body, allowing organized storage of multiple different adapter types in a single integrated unit
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
Facilitates seamless charging by automatically adapting to the correct connector type, enhancing user convenience and reducing errors, while ensuring secure storage and preventing unauthorized use.
Implementation Method 1
The adapter is nested within the EVSE and can be locked to the EVSE and unlocked from the EVSE. In an embodiment, the EVSE includes an electromagnet that is configured to lock the adapter to the EVSE and unlock the adapter from the EVSE.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging connector adapter is nested within a holster of an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). In an idle state, the adapter is locked to a charging connector of a charging cable. If the adapter is to be used, the EVSE automatically unlocks the adapter from the holster thereby allowing the charging cable with the adapter to be removed from the holster and used for connecting the adapter to an inlet of an electric vehicle. When the charging connector is inserted back into the holster, the EVSE locks the charging connector to the holster. If the adapter is not to be used, the EVSE unlocks the charging connector from the adapter thereby allowing the charging connector to be removed from the adapter and used for connecting to an inlet of an electric vehicle. The EVSE locks the charging connector to the adapter when inserted back into the adapter.