Wireless Charging Cable Lock for Shared Electric Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a low-cost, theft-resistant charging and storage solution for electric vehicles that can accommodate various types, particularly for rental services, which are often left in public areas and are prone to theft and vandalism, and require periodic charging that is not conveniently facilitated by existing docking systems.
Innovation Solution
A multi-purpose cable system that integrates both charging and anti-theft functions, using a braided metal cable or rigid metal bar with electrical conducting wires, which can be wirelessly controlled for fastening and detaching electric vehicles from a charging and storage station, allowing for easy charging and secure storage without the need for complex infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a docking station with specific docking mechanisms and geometries is used, then charging functionality is provided, but device complexity and infrastructure cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly serves multiple functions: it provides electrical charging through conductive wires, mechanical fastening through the anti-theft cable, and structural support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate docking mechanisms, reducing both infrastructure cost and device complexity while maintaining charging capability across different vehicle types.
2Ease of operation
If electric vehicles are left in publicly accessible areas for rental, then service availability improves, but vulnerability to theft and vandalism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the charging cable and anti-theft cable into a single integrated cable assembly that performs both functions simultaneously. The anti-theft cable portion mechanically fastens the vehicle to the station, preventing theft and vandalism, while the charging wires provide power. This integration allows vehicles to be securely left in public areas while being charged.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable assembly is designed with inherent anti-theft properties through the anti-theft cable that mechanically secures the vehicle to the station before charging begins. This preliminary securing action prevents theft and vandalism attempts during the charging process, addressing the security concern proactively.
3Ease of operation
If a multi-purpose cable with wireless control is used, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly is designed to be self-securing through automatic locking mechanisms that engage when the cable is inserted into the receptacle. The servo motor automatically fastens the anti-theft cable to the vehicle frame, and the electrical connector automatically establishes charging connection. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical fastening operations with wireless control signals that activate a servo motor. The user simply needs to initiate a wireless command, and the servo motor automatically performs the complex mechanical fastening and electrical connection operations, simplifying user interaction while managing system complexity through automation.
4Reliability
If separate fastening and charging systems are used, then functional reliability improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fastening function and charging function into a single cable assembly where the anti-theft cable provides mechanical security and the integrated charging wires provide electrical power. This unified design maintains reliability by ensuring both functions are performed through one secure connection point, while reducing overall system complexity compared to separate systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric vehicle fastening and charging combined system for a charging and storage station, such as those used for bicycle or scooter sharing programs, where a multi-purpose cable extends between the charging and storage station and the electric vehicle, and serves to fasten the electric vehicle to the charging and storage station to prevent removal or theft of the electric vehicle, and to conduct electricity to charge the electric vehicle, and wherein the fastening and/or detaching of the cable is controlled by a wireless signal.