Vehicle Charging Lock Mechanism and Button Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Charging batteries in vehicles is vulnerable to interference and theft due to the need for prolonged charging times, which can be interrupted by third parties or result in stolen charge cables at common electric charging stations.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle charging device with a locking mechanism for the charge cable and a button-based control system that allows users to set and manage lock states, preventing unauthorized access and theft, while also indicating the lock status through icons.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a battery is charged at a common electric charging station, then the battery can be recharged, but the charging process may be interrupted by third party interference or the charge cable may be stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is activated before charging completes to secure the charge cable to the charge port, preventing theft or interference during the charging process. The system proactively establishes security measures rather than reacting to threats.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism applies a counter-action (locking force) in advance to prevent the harmful action of cable removal or theft. By locking the charge cable to the charge port, the system neutralizes potential interference before it can occur.
2Reliability
If a locking device is added to secure the charge cable, then charging security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is integrated with the charge port assembly, combining the charging function and security function into a single unified structure. This reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate locking and charging components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device operates automatically based on charging state detection, eliminating the need for manual locking operations. The system self-manages the security function through automated control based on charging status.
3Loss of information
If a button with icon is added to indicate lock state, then user awareness of security status is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The icon on the button changes its illuminated state (on/off or different colors) to visually indicate the lock status. This provides clear information feedback to users about the security state without requiring complex displays or interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The button with icon provides immediate visual feedback about the locking state, allowing users to confirm whether the charge cable is secured. This feedback mechanism ensures users are informed of the security status without adding complex communication systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging device for a vehicle includes: a charge port connected to a charge cable and accessible from the outside of the vehicle; a locking device locking the charge cable to the charge port; a battery configured to be charged by electric power supplied from the charge cable; a button including an icon that is turned on according to a lock setting state and accessible from the outside of the vehicle; and a processor configured to change a lock setting state of the charge cable and the charge port according to a user input received through the button, turn on or turn off the icon included in the button according to the lock setting state, and control locking of the locking device according to the lock setting state.