Retrofit EV Charging Base for Existing Poles
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations on existing poles are costly, logistically challenging, and can compromise safety zones and structural integrity due to dynamic vibrations from wind and other conditions, limiting the expansion of EV charging infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A retrofit EV charging system that includes a custom EV charging station base with a secure, hollow enclosure interposed between the existing pole and its anchor base, allowing for secure attachment and connection of EV charging stations, along with optional features like internet connectivity, payment processing, and advertising displays, while maintaining structural integrity and adhering to safety regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If EV charging stations are bolted to existing poles, then installation cost and complexity are reduced, but structural integrity is compromised due to dynamic vibrations from wind and other conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the EV charging station inside a hollow existing pole structure. The charging station is mounted on a support structure that is nested within the pole's interior space, allowing the charging functionality to be housed within the existing structural element without compromising its load-bearing capacity or resistance to wind vibrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary support structure that mediates between the EV charging station and the existing pole. This intermediate framework provides proper mechanical support and mounting for the charging station while allowing the existing pole to maintain its original structural integrity and vibration resistance properties.
2Productivity
If EV charging stations are installed on existing poles, then infrastructure expansion is accelerated, but safety zones are compromised due to reduced clearance from pedestrian and vehicular traffic
Solution Approach 1:
By nesting the EV charging station within the existing pole structure, the patent eliminates the need for additional external mounting that would encroach on safety zones. The charging station utilizes the interior space of the pole, thereby maintaining the required clearance from pedestrian and vehicular traffic while still enabling infrastructure expansion.
3Ease of manufacture
If EV charging stations are installed without new construction, then installation difficulty and cost are reduced, but structural compatibility issues arise with existing poles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the EV charging station into modular components that can be independently assembled and installed within the existing pole structure. This modular approach allows for easier adaptation to different pole types and sizes, reducing installation complexity while maintaining structural compatibility through standardized mounting interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for retrofitting existing light and other poles to provide additional functionality in the form of one or more electric vehicle charging stations. Exemplary systems include EV charging station bases that are interposable between an existing pole and its associated buried anchor base, and include one or more EV charging stations that may be powered through the existing electrical wiring of the pole to be retrofit. Exemplary systems may offer additional functionality in the form of optional advertising, Internet connectivity, and other features.