Rotating Multi-Charging Connector for CCS and NACS Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is inconvenient due to the lack of standardization between Combined Charging System (CCS) and North American Charging Standard (NACS) methods, requiring conversion adapters for charging, which limits the flexibility and convenience of charging experiences.
Innovation Solution
A multi-charging connector that integrates both CCS and NACS standards, featuring a first and second connector unit, a rotation driver unit, and a controller to automatically or manually select and rotate the appropriate connector based on vehicle inlet recognition, using sensors and user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single charging connector supports multiple charging standards (CCS and NACS), then compatibility and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connector is divided into multiple independent connector units (first connector unit for CCS standard, second connector unit for NACS standard), each capable of functioning independently. This segmentation allows the system to support multiple charging standards while maintaining the simplicity and reliability of individual connector designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging connector is designed as a universal device that can perform multiple functions by supporting both CCS and NACS charging standards. The connector body integrates multiple connector units that can be selectively used based on the vehicle type, making a single device capable of charging different vehicle standards without requiring separate connectors.
2Ease of operation
If automatic inlet shape recognition is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging connector system performs automatic inlet shape recognition and autonomously selects the appropriate connector unit without requiring user intervention. The control unit automatically detects the vehicle inlet shape through the sensor unit and rotates the connector body to position the correct connector unit, enabling the system to serve itself and eliminate manual selection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical selection process is replaced with an automated system combining sensor units for detecting inlet shapes and a rotation driver unit for automatically positioning the correct connector. This substitution of mechanical user operation with sensor-based detection and automated actuation improves ease of operation while managing complexity through integrated control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connector units are integrated in one body, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process benefits from segmentation as each connector unit (CCS and NACS) can be manufactured as separate standardized components using established manufacturing processes. This allows each connector unit to be produced independently with optimized manufacturing techniques, then assembled into the integrated connector body, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to creating a completely new multi-standard connector design.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple connector units are nested within a single connector body structure, with each connector unit housed in its own compartment or housing within the main body. This nesting arrangement allows compact integration of multiple connector types while maintaining their individual structural integrity and facilitating modular assembly during manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-charging connector includes a first connector unit connected to a charging unit of an electric vehicle, a second connector unit connected to the charging unit of the electric vehicle and having a different charging standard from the first connector unit, a rotation driver unit that rotates the first connector unit and the second connector unit, and a controller that controls the driving of the rotation driver unit.