Vehicle Socket Cover Automation via Speed Threshold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle electric sockets are prone to wear and tear, corrosion, and contamination when not in use, as the covers can remain open, exposing the contacts to dirt and water.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle computer system is programmed to automatically close the electric socket cover when the vehicle exceeds a predetermined speed threshold and the socket is in an electrically disengaged state, using an electric motor and sensor feedback to determine the socket's state and actuate the cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electric socket cover is left open when not in use, then the socket is accessible for connection, but the electric contacts are exposed to wear and tear, corrosion, and dirt
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically closing the cover when the vehicle is parked and the socket is not in use. The computer detects parking status and socket usage state, then proactively closes the cover to protect the contacts before any damage can occur, rather than waiting for wear or corrosion to begin
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors to detect whether the socket is currently being used (plug inserted) or idle. This feedback information is fed back to the computer, which then automatically adjusts the cover position accordingly - keeping it open when needed for connection and closing it when idle to protect the contacts
2Reliability
If the electric socket cover is automatically closed when vehicle speed exceeds threshold, then the socket is protected during motion, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by using the vehicle's existing computer and sensor infrastructure to automatically control the cover without requiring a separate dedicated control system. The vehicle computer leverages data it already collects (speed, parking status) and directly actuates the cover motor, eliminating the need for additional complexity while achieving reliable automatic protection
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Prevents wear and tear, corrosion, and contamination of the electric socket by ensuring the cover is closed when the vehicle is in motion and the socket is unused, maintaining the socket's integrity and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor and sensor feedback to determine the socket's state and actuate the cover
Data Source
AI summary
A computer is programmed to actuate an electric socket mounted to an exterior of a vehicle to close upon determining that the vehicle's speed exceeds a predetermined threshold, that a cover is open, and that the electric socket is in an electrically disengaged state.