Overhead Charging Cable Positioning for Tight Vehicle Charging Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in the electrification of commercial vehicles is the difficulty in managing and positioning charging cables without causing damage, especially in tight spaces where conventional charging stations are impractical due to maneuvering risks and cable contamination.
Innovation Solution
A device with a support structure and cable transport system that allows for controlled movement of the charging cable using a cable transport element and operating element, enabling the charging plug to be positioned near the vehicle without manual effort, using adjustable control rods, winches, or pull devices, and wireless control options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the dispenser is installed at a sufficient distance above the roadway, then the risk of damage during maneuvering is reduced, but cable management becomes problematic and the charging cable may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable is made dynamically positionable through a cable transport device that can move the cable between a retracted position (above the roadway, away from damage risks) and an extended position (into the charging zone, for easy connection). This dynamic positioning system includes a cable transport element coupled to the charging cable and controllable via an operating element, allowing the cable to adapt its position based on operational needs.
2Reliability
If the charging cable is positioned outside of the charging zone, then the risk of damage during maneuvering is reduced, but the user must manually position the heavy and contaminated cable
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical effort required to position the heavy charging cable is replaced by an automated cable transport device. This device includes a cable transport element that can automatically move the charging cable into and out of the charging zone, and an operating element that enables control of this transport mechanism, eliminating the need for users to manually handle the heavy and contaminated cable.
3Reliability
If conventional charging stations are firmly anchored in the ground, then stable charging is provided, but they cannot be installed in tight spaces with limited maneuvering room
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of anchoring the charging station firmly to the ground in tight spaces, the support structure is elevated above the roadway, utilizing the vertical dimension. This elevated positioning allows the charging cable to be suspended and transported through space above the roadway, enabling installation in locations with limited ground-level maneuvering room while maintaining charging stability through the supported cable positioning system.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (100) for controlling a charging cable (101) for charging a vehicle (150). The device (100) comprises a support structure (103) arranged at a charging zone (104) for charging a vehicle (150), and a charging cable (101) which can be connected to a power source and has a charging plug (102) for connecting to a vehicle (150) to be charged, wherein the charging cable (101) is attached to the support structure (103). Furthermore, the device comprises a cable transport device (110) with a cable transport element (111) which is coupled to the charging cable (101) such that the charging cable (101) is movable relative to the support structure (103).The cable transport device (110) also has a control element (106) which is coupled to the cable transport element (111) in such a way that control commands for controlling the cable transport element (111) can be entered by a user (109) in order to position the charging plug (102) in the charging zone (104).