Rotating EV Charging Coupling Interface for Tight Parking Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle charging solutions face challenges such as the need for human intervention, risk of damage to vehicles, and cumbersome handling due to the weight of charging devices, particularly in limited space environments like parking lots.
Innovation Solution
A mobile coupling device with a base, housing, and interfacing module that allows for rotational movement between retracted and deployed positions, facilitating autonomous connection with an electrical energy supply source and vehicle energy storage means, reducing manual handling and risk of damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an autonomous charging robot with magnetic interface box is used, then human intervention is reduced, but the risk of damage to the vehicle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device serves as an intermediary between the autonomous charging robot and the vehicle. It includes a protective housing that absorbs impact forces during coupling operations, preventing direct transmission of harmful forces to the vehicle. The device mediates the interaction by providing a dedicated interface with shock absorption capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing of the coupling device incorporates shock absorption elements that are pre-positioned to cushion impact forces during the coupling operation. This beforehand cushioning prevents excessive forces from reaching the vehicle during the autonomous coupling process, addressing the vehicle damage risk while maintaining automation.
2Extent of automation
If a heavy interface box with magnet is used for autonomous charging, then automation is enabled, but the weight makes manual handling difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is segmented into two parts: a heavy autonomous charging robot that remains stationary or moves autonomously, and a lighter coupling device that can be manually handled. The coupling device housing contains the magnetic interface and electrical connections, separating the heavy battery pack from the handling-critical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device acts as an intermediary that reduces the weight burden on the user. Instead of handling the entire heavy interface box with batteries, users only need to handle the lighter coupling device housing, which contains the magnetic interface and connection elements but not the heavy battery pack.
3Device complexity
If the interface module is fixed in one position, then the structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different coupling scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The interface module is designed with dynamic positioning capability through a pivot connection that allows rotation between retracted and deployed positions. This dynamic adjustment enables the interface module to adapt to different coupling scenarios and orientations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure when in the retracted position.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface module can be rotated into a retracted position where it extends into the cavity of the housing, nesting compactly within the overall device structure. This nesting capability allows the interface module to be deployed when needed while maintaining a compact, simple appearance and structure when not in use.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a coupling device (2) configured to be positioned between an electrical power supply and an electric vehicle to enable the charging of the vehicle's electrical energy storage devices. The coupling device is suitcase-shaped and includes casters (232) to facilitate its movement. The coupling device (2) includes an interface module (22) for connection to the power supply. This interface module (22) is rotatable between a deployed and a retracted position.