Power Connector Interlock for Door-Open Arc Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift devices face challenges in safely and efficiently charging their energy storage systems, particularly due to the risk of electrical arcing when the door is open.
Innovation Solution
A power connector interlock system is implemented, which includes a door that can move between open and closed positions, a sensor to monitor the door's position, and a controller that limits electrical energy transfer from an external power source to the energy storage system when the door is open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the door is kept open to provide access to the onboard power connector, then ease of operation is improved, but electrical arcing risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an interlock mechanism as an intermediary between the door position and the power transfer process. This mechanism includes a sensor that detects door position and a controller that mediates the power transfer based on the detected position, preventing direct power transfer when the door is open and thus eliminating electrical arcing risk while maintaining ease of operation when the door is closed
2Reliability
If the door is kept closed to prevent electrical arcing, then safety is improved, but access to the power connector deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the power transfer capability conditional on door position. The system dynamically adjusts its operational state based on real-time door position detection: when the door is closed, power transfer is enabled; when the door is open, power transfer is prevented. This dynamic response ensures safety while maintaining operational accessibility
3Object-affected harmful factors
If electrical energy transfer is limited when the door is open, then electrical arcing is prevented, but charging efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by requiring the door to be closed before power transfer can commence. The sensor detects the door position in advance, and the controller prepares the power transfer system accordingly. This preliminary verification ensures that power transfer only occurs under safe conditions (door closed), preventing electrical arcing while maintaining charging efficiency during the actual charging process
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes an energy storage device, a door configured to move between an open position and a closed position relative to the vehicle, an onboard power connector electrically coupled with the energy storage device, and a controller. An external power connector electrically coupled with an external power source is configured to couple with the onboard power connector to facilitate transferring electrical energy from the external power source to the energy storage device. The controller is configured to monitor a position of the door and limit the transfer of electrical energy from the external power source to the energy storage device when (i) the external power connector is coupled with the onboard power connector and (ii) the door is in the open position.