Portable Device Scanning for EV Charging Station Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle charging stations require physical interaction for users to enter and display information, such as payment details, which can be inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A portable communication device that scans an optical machine-readable code associated with the charging station, determines an identification number, and initiates communication through a network to display user interfaces for control and content, including payment and advertising, thereby streamlining the charging process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical interaction is required at the charging station for entering information, then the charging station can directly receive user input, but the user convenience and operational efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a portable communication device (smartphone, tablet, or portable computer) as an intermediary between the user and the charging station. This device communicates with the charging station via wireless network, allowing users to input and retrieve information remotely without physically interacting with the charging station interface, thereby improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical interaction system (buttons, displays, and direct user input at the charging station) with an electronic communication system. Users interact with a graphical user interface on their portable device, which transmits commands and receives data electronically through network communication, eliminating the need for physical presence at the charging station
2Productivity
If users must be physically present at the charging station to access information, then real-time control is possible, but time consumption and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The portable communication device serves as a mediator that enables users to monitor charging status, control charging parameters, and receive notifications remotely. This eliminates the need for users to spend time physically present at the charging station, thereby reducing time loss and improving overall charging efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to pre-configure charging parameters, select charging options, and initiate charging sessions before arriving at the charging station or while approaching it. The portable device communicates these preferences in advance, reducing on-site interaction time and improving operational efficiency
Data Source
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AI summary
Portable communication devices (110) and methods for use in charging an electrically powered vehicle (102) from a charging station (104) are disclosed. One example portable communication device includes a first input device configured to scan an optical machine-readable code (112) associated with the charging station, a display device, and a processor coupled to the first input and display devices and configured to determine an identification number of a charging station based on an optical machine-readable code scanned by the first input device, to initiate communication with the charging station through at least one network (108), and to cause the display device to display a user interface, the user interface including content associated with the charging station.