Pantograph Charging Alignment Using Optical Vehicle Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle charging systems using pantographs face challenges such as difficulty in aligning the vehicle contact interface with the pantograph due to obstructed views, and inefficiencies in assigning vehicles to available charging spots, leading to reduced throughput and potential damage from improper connections.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising one or more processors connected to an optical sensor that analyzes image data to detect approaching vehicles, generate guidance instructions for alignment, and assign vehicles to available charging spots based on the status of adjacent stalls, thereby improving alignment and operational efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the pantograph is positioned overhead for charging, then the charging connection can be established without plug insertion, but the operator's view of the alignment process is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical sensor and image processing system as an intermediary between the operator and the alignment process. The sensor captures images of the vehicle contact interface and pantograph position, while the processor generates guidance instructions that mediate the alignment operation, allowing the operator to achieve proper alignment despite obstructed direct viewing.
2Productivity
If multiple pantographs are arranged in a row to charge a fleet of vehicles, then charging capacity is increased, but it becomes difficult for operators to determine which pantograph is available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the optical sensor continuously monitors the status of multiple charging spots, and the processor analyzes images to determine which pantographs are available, occupied, or malfunctioning. This information is fed back to guide operators to appropriate available charging spots, enabling efficient utilization of multiple pantographs without information loss.
3Reliability
If the vehicle operator manually aligns the contact interface with the pantograph, then equipment damage can occur due to misalignment, but the alignment process becomes time-consuming and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical alignment process with an automated optical measurement and control system. The optical sensor captures precise positional information of the contact interface and pantograph, the processor analyzes this data to determine alignment status, and guidance instructions are generated to achieve precise alignment, thereby substituting manual mechanical operations with automated optical-mechanical control.
Data Source
AI summary
Vehicle charge assist system and method include receiving image data generated by an optical sensor. The image data depicts at least a portion of a charging device and at least a portion of a vehicle approaching the charging device. The system and method analyze the image data that is received to detect the vehicle, and based on the image data that is analyzed, generate guidance instructions for communication to the vehicle. The guidance instructions are configured to at least one of assist with or control movement of the vehicle such that a vehicle contact interface mounted on the vehicle aligns with the charging device.