Plug Connector Temperature Sensor Using Infrared Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging plugs for electric vehicles face delays in temperature sensing due to embedded temperature sensors, which are not suitable for quick disconnection in case of overheating, as the temperature change is transmitted through an insulating body with a time delay.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating sensor elements that detect infrared radiation emitted by contact elements, allowing for direct and timely temperature increase identification without a significant time delay, using radiation sensors on a printed circuit board arranged to receive infrared radiation from each contact element, and optionally with conducting elements to facilitate radiation conduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If temperature sensors are embedded in an insulating body, then electrical insulation is achieved, but temperature sensing speed deteriorates due to time delay
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure: a radiation-conducting element (such as a metal rod or hollow cylinder) that acts as a mediator between the contact element and the temperature sensor. This intermediary conducts thermal radiation from the contact element to the sensor without requiring direct thermal contact, thus achieving fast temperature sensing while maintaining electrical insulation through the insulating body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical/thermal conduction-based temperature sensing system with a radiation-based system. Instead of relying on thermal conduction through the insulating body (which is slow), the system uses infrared radiation detection to sense temperature changes, achieving rapid response without compromising electrical insulation.
2Measurement precision
If temperature sensors are arranged centrally on insulating body, then overall temperature monitoring is achieved, but localized contact element temperature detection is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the temperature monitoring function into multiple independent sensor elements, each assigned to monitor a specific contact element. This segmentation allows each sensor to detect temperature changes of its associated contact element independently and simultaneously, achieving both localized precision and overall monitoring without time delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces radiation-conducting elements as intermediaries that directly connect each contact element to its corresponding sensor element. These intermediaries conduct thermal radiation from each contact element to its dedicated sensor, enabling rapid localized temperature detection while maintaining the insulating body's electrical insulation function.
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 swift identification of contact element temperature rises, allowing for immediate countermeasures such as cutting off the charging current, thereby preventing potential damage from overheating.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor device configured to record an increase in temperature of the plug connector part, the temperature sensor device comprising at least one sensor element configured to detect infrared radiation emitted by the at least one electrical contact element
Data Source
AI summary
A plug connector part for connection to a mating plug connector part includes: at least one electrical contact element for carrying an electrical current and establishing electrical contact with at least one other contact element of a mating plug connector part; and a temperature sensor device for recording an increase in temperature of the plug connector part, the temperature sensor device including at least one sensor element, which is designed to detect infrared radiation emitted by the at least one electrical contact element.