Swiveling Charging Cable Boom for Cleaner, Safer EV Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Charging cables for electric vehicles often lie loose on the ground during charging, posing tripping hazards and risking damage from dirt and debris, especially when the vehicle owner is not present to monitor the process.
Innovation Solution
A charging station with a horizontal swiveling boom that houses a charging cable conduit, allowing the cable to be secured and protected, with a swivel mechanism that can be locked in place to direct the cable towards the vehicle, minimizing exposure and using a movable cover to keep the cable clean and secure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the charging cable is placed freely accessible at user height, then ease of operation is improved, but safety deteriorates due to tripping hazards and cable damage risks
Solution Approach 1:
The charging cable is moved from horizontal ground level to vertical suspension above ground, changing the spatial dimension. The cable hangs from the boom structure at a height that eliminates tripping hazards while remaining accessible to users for connection and disconnection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The boom structure serves as an intermediary carrier that holds and positions the charging cable. Instead of the cable lying directly on the ground or being held entirely by the user, the boom acts as a mechanical intermediary that supports the cable in a safe, elevated position during the charging process.
2Ease of operation
If the charging cable lies loose on the ground during charging, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to cable damage and fouling
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is elevated from ground level to suspended position above ground, removing it from the contaminated environment. This vertical displacement protects the cable from dirt, grime, and physical damage while keeping it accessible for operational purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The boom structure, which could be seen as adding complexity, actually provides dual benefits: it elevates the cable for protection while simultaneously organizing and managing the cable routing, converting a potential harm (cable exposure) into a benefit (protected, organized cable management).
Data Source
AI summary
A system for a charging station having an integrated swiveling charging cable conduit and a method for its operation.