Tilting Plug Coupling Device for Compact Underbody Energy Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for motor vehicles require a large structural height due to linear shifting mechanisms, restricting their application under the vehicle and limiting the shifting mechanism and plug height, especially when producing and separating energy-transferring plug-in connections.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a plug that can be tilted or pivoted during decoupling, utilizing a push-pull chain drive and diverting device to shift the plug from a tilted position to a linear plug-in position, allowing for a reduced structural height and enabling compact design for underbody applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a linear shifting mechanism is used to shift the plug in the plug-in direction, then the plug can be inserted into the plug receptacle, but the structural height of the coupling device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is allowed to tilt or pivot during the coupling and decoupling process, transforming the motion from purely linear to a combination of linear and rotational movement. This dimensional change enables the plug to clear the receptacle opening more effectively while reducing the required structural height of the coupling device.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device incorporates a dynamic tilting mechanism that allows the plug to change its orientation during operation. The plug can tilt forward during insertion and tilt backward during separation, enabling automatic coupling and decoupling without requiring excessive linear travel distance, thus reducing the overall structural height.
2Ease of operation
If the plug protrudes completely from the mechanism for correct insertion, then the plug can be inserted into the plug receptacle, but the structural height of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing a tilting dimension to the plug movement, the mechanism achieves complete plug protrusion and accurate insertion without requiring the plug to extend fully in the linear plug-in direction. The tilt allows the plug to clear the receptacle opening while maintaining a compact linear profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is tilted forward in advance before linear insertion begins, ensuring that the plug head and contact elements are properly positioned and protruding from the mechanism. This preliminary tilting action enables correct insertion geometry without requiring excessive linear extension of the plug.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling device is designed for use under the motor vehicle, then the application is enabled, but the height limitation becomes very restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device utilizes a tilting mechanism that allows the plug to clear the receptacle opening without requiring excessive linear height. This dimensional change in motion trajectory enables the device to fit within the restrictive height constraints of underbody applications while maintaining full insertion capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic tilting capability allows the coupling device to adapt its geometry during operation, enabling it to function effectively in the constrained space under the motor vehicle. The plug can tilt to clear obstacles and achieve proper engagement without requiring a fixed, extended linear path that would exceed height limitations.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device for producing and separating an energy-transferring plug-in connection, having a plug that can be shifted along a plug-in direction for insertion into a corresponding plug receptacle, and having a drive device, which is operatively connected to the plug for the shifting thereof. In a decoupled state of the coupling device, the plug can be arranged in a position of rest at a tilt with respect to the plug-in direction.