DESC:CHARGING GUN DOCKING MECHANISM
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICTIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202421002166 filed on 10/01/2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure generally relates to a charging gun of a charger. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a charging gun docking mechanism of a charger.
BACKGROUND
Recently, there has been a rapid development in electric vehicles due to their use as a cleaner mode of transportation compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. The electric vehicle comprises a traction motor that propels the vehicle using energy stored in a power pack.
Currently, electric vehicles have a limited driving range determined by the capacity of power pack or battery system. Once the stored energy in the power pack is consumed, the vehicle cannot operate further and needs recharging. The recharging process depends on external infrastructure, such as charging stations, and may take significant time compared to refuelling conventional vehicles. The limited range and dependency on charging infrastructure pose challenges for EV adoption, particularly for long-distance travel. For the recharging, the charging gun docking mechanisms face notable challenges during vehicle charging, impacting usability and reliability. Insecurely held charging guns, often coupled with charging cables looped over the charger body, lack intuitive design and may result in improper cable management, leading to wear and tripping hazards. While secured docking solutions offer stability, they often require a learning curve for users unfamiliar with their operation, diminishing user convenience. Additionally, these solutions involve extra components and mechanical complexity, increasing manufacturing costs, maintenance requirements, and the potential for mechanical failure. Current docking methods include simple holders or clips, mechanical locks. Simple holders are prone to misalignment and fail to secure the gun firmly, leading to accidental disconnections or improper contact. Mechanical locks provide a stable hold but often involve intricate mechanisms that complicate usage and increase system vulnerability. These limitations emphasize the need for docking solutions that balance user-friendliness, reliability, and mechanical simplicity.
Thus, there exists a need for a system that overcomes one or more problems associated as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a charging gun docking mechanism of a charger.
In accordance with first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a charging gun docking mechanism of a charger. The docking mechanism comprises a charging gun and a gun holder assembly in the charger. The gun holder assembly is configured to receive and securely hold the charging gun via at least one magnet.
The present disclosure provides a charging gun docking mechanism of a charger. The docking mechanism as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageous in terms of functionality, durability, and user convenience. The docking mechanism ensures secure placement of the charging gun through a gun holder assembly which provides stability to the charging gun and preventing accidental dislodgement. The charging gun mechanism may include magnets which enhance the retention of the gun, thereby ensures an easily detachable connection. Beneficially, the design protects the charging gun from environmental factors, such as dust and moisture. Additionally, the docking mechanism provides electrical isolation, thereby reducing the risks associated with unintended electrical contact.
In accordance with second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of remote diagnostic of a vehicle. The method comprises collecting at least one diagnostic data of the vehicle using a vehicle link device, receiving the at least one diagnostic data and generating at least one diagnostic information based on the diagnostic data using a server arrangement, and displaying the at least one diagnostic information of the vehicle using a terminal device.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a charging gun docking mechanism of a charger, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a charging gun docking mechanism with charging gun docked, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of a charging gun docking mechanism of a charger and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the terms “electric vehicle”, “EV”, and “EVs” are used interchangeably and refer to any vehicle having stored electrical energy, including the vehicle capable of being charged from an external electrical power source. This may include vehicles having batteries which are exclusively charged from an external power source, as well as hybrid-vehicles which may include batteries capable of being at least partially recharged via an external power source. Additionally, it is to be understood that the ‘electric vehicle’ as used herein includes electric two-wheeler, electric three-wheeler, electric four-wheeler, electric pickup trucks, electric trucks and so forth.
As used herein, the term “charging gun docking mechanism” and “docking mechanism” are used interchangeably and refer to a system integrated into a charger, designed to securely receive, hold, and position a charging gun when not in use. The mechanism typically comprises a charging gun and a gun holder assembly, where the gun holder assembly is configured to provide structural support, protection from environmental factors, and, optionally, magnetic or mechanical retention features to ensure the charging gun is held in a stable and easily retrievable manner.
As used herein, the terms “charger” refers to a device or system configured to supply electrical energy to an energy storage device, such as a battery. The charger may include various components, such as power conversion circuits, control units, connectors, and interfaces, designed to regulate the voltage, current, and charging profile to ensure efficient and safe energy transfer. The charger may be integrated into a larger system or standalone and can be designed for various applications, including but not limited to electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment.
As used herein, the term “charging gun” refers to a device used for delivering electric power to an electric vehicle (EV) or other electrical systems via a connector interface. The charging gun typically consists of a handle, a connector end that interfaces with the vehicle or charging port, and a cable or wiring that links the connector to the power source. The charging gun is designed to safely and efficiently transfer electrical energy from the charging station to the vehicle, incorporating safety features such as insulation, locking mechanisms, and user-friendly grips.
As used herein, the term “gun holder assembly” refers to a mechanical element of the charger to hold the charging gun. The gun holder assembly may securely hold the charging gun, when it is not in use. The gun holder assembly may provide structural support, protection from environmental factors, and, optionally, magnetic or mechanical retention features to ensure the charging gun is held in a stable and easily retrievable manner.
As used herein, the term “at least one magnet” refers to one or more magnetic elements, including permanent magnets, electromagnets, or any other magnetized components, capable of generating a magnetic field sufficient to attract and retain a metallic or magnetically responsive object. The magnet may be of any shape, size, or material composition, and it may be positioned in a fixed or movable configuration to achieve the intended function of securely holding, aligning, or interacting with the associated components within the invention.
As used herein, the term “protruding metal ring” refers to an annular component fixedly attached to or integrally formed on a lateral surface of the charging gun, wherein the ring extends outwardly from the surface to create a raised structure. The protruding metal ring is configured to interact with the gun holder assembly of the docking mechanism, providing a functional interface for resting, alignment, magnetic retention, or other engagement mechanisms.
As used herein, the term “cavity” refers to a recess, hollow, or space formed within a charger assembly, configured to receive and accommodate another object. The cavity specifically pertains to the recess within the gun holder assembly, designed to securely hold the charging gun. The cavity may include structural features such as stepped surfaces, insulation layers, and magnets to facilitate the secure positioning, electrical isolation, and protection of the charging gun during docking.
As used herein, the term “at least one stepped surface” refers to a surface within the cavity of the gun holder assembly that includes one or more distinct levels, ridges, or projections arranged along its depth. These levels are configured to provide support, alignment, or engagement features for the charging gun or its components, such as a protruding metal ring. The stepped surface may have varying dimensions, geometries, or contours to facilitate functional engagement, such as resting or magnetic holding, and may include additional features like magnets or insulating layers for enhanced performance.
As used herein, the term “environmental factors” refers to any external physical, chemical, or climatic conditions that may affect the functionality, durability, or performance of a device or component. These factors may include, but are not limited to, exposure to dust, dirt, moisture, water, temperature variations, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, corrosion-inducing agents, mechanical vibrations, and other atmospheric or environmental conditions that could cause wear, degradation, or operational inefficiency over time.
As used herein, the term “insulation layer” refers to a material or structure configured to electrically isolate one component from another, thereby preventing the flow of electrical current between charging gun and the docking mechanism. The insulation layer may be made of non-conductive materials, such as polymers, ceramics, or composites, and can be applied as a coating, lining, or an integral part of the component.
As used herein, the term “at least one fastening mechanism” refers to any component or combination of components designed to securely attach or fix the gun holder assembly to the charger. The at least one fastening mechanism may include, but is not limited to, screws, bolts, clips, clamps, adhesives, rivets, latches, interlocking structures, or any other mechanical, adhesive, or magnetic means that provide stability and prevent unintended movement or detachment of the gun holder assembly from the charger.
Figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment describes a charging gun docking mechanism 100 of a charger. The docking mechanism 100 comprises a charging gun 102 and a gun holder assembly 104 in the charger. The gun holder assembly 104 is configured to receive and securely hold the charging gun 102 via at least one magnet 106.
The present disclosure discloses the charging gun docking mechanism 100. The docking mechanism as disclosed by present disclosure is advantageous in terms of providing an enhanced functionality, safety, and ease of use to the vehicle owner. Beneficially, the docking mechanism 100 securely holds the charging gun 102 using the at least one magnet 106 within the gun holder assembly 104, which ensures a stable and reliable connection between the charging gun 102 and the charger. The at least one magnet 106 provides the magnetic retention to minimize the risk of the charging gun 102 becoming accidentally dislodged. Additionally, the use of at least one magnet 106 in docking mechanism 100 provides ease of removal of the charging gun 102 when needed. Furthermore, at least one stepped surface 112 along with a cavity 110 further improves the docking process by offering a precise fit for the charging gun 102 with the help of a protruding metal ring 108. Moreover, the at least one stepped surface 112 beneficially contributes to the physical stability of the docking mechanism 100, and also helps to protect the charging gun 102 from external environmental factors, such as dust or moisture, by shielding critical areas. Additionally, the inclusion of an insulation layer 114 inside the cavity significantly ensures the electrical isolation between the charging gun 102 and the gun holder assembly 104, which mitigates potential electrical hazards or short circuits, thereby improving safety. Overall, the docking mechanism 100 offers an effective combination of magnetic retention, environmental protection, electrical safety, and structural stability, making the docking mechanism 100 a robust and user-friendly solution for secure docking of the charging gun 102.
In an embodiment, the charging gun 102 comprises a protruding metal ring 108 fixed on a lateral surface of the charging gun 102. The protruding metal ring 108 may be securely attached to the surface of the charging gun 102 through a permanent or removable fastening method, such as welding, adhesive bonding, or mechanical fastening. The protruding metal ring 108 may be designed to protrude outwardly from the charging gun 102 to a specific extent which allows the protruding metal ring 108 to interact with the gun holder assembly 104 during docking of the charging gun 102. Beneficially, the protruding metal ring 108 enhances the structural stability of the charging gun 102 when docked, and also contributes to the proper alignment of the charging gun 102 while docking the charging gun 102 in the gun holder assembly 104.
In an embodiment, the gun holder assembly 104 comprises a cavity 110 configured to receive the charging gun 102. The cavity 110 may be shaped and dimensioned to closely corresponds to the external profile of the charging gun 102, which allows to be securely positioned within the gun holder assembly 104. The cavity 110 may be formed from a durable material, such as a metal, plastic, or composite material, ensures that the gun holder assembly 104 withstands the mechanical forces experienced during docking of the charging gun 102, thereby providing a sufficient support to the charging gun 102. Beneficially, the cavity 110 may be designed with guiding features that facilitate the insertion and removal of the charging gun 102 in a smooth and controlled manner.
In an embodiment, the cavity 110 is a stepped cavity comprising at least one stepped surface 112 along a depth of the cavity 110. The stepped surface 112 may be strategically positioned within the cavity 110 to correspond with the protruding metal ring 108 located on the lateral surface of the charging gun 102. As the charging gun 102 may be docked into the cavity 110, the protruding metal ring 108 interacts with the at least one stepped surface 112 which provides a stable resting position for the charging gun 102. The at least one stepped surface 112 may be designed to allow the protruding metal ring 108 to rest securely against the at least one stepped surface 112 thereby preventing the movement or misalignment of the charging gun 102 within the cavity 110 thereby ensures the charging gun 102 is positioned in a fixed manner and reduces the likelihood of the slipping or falling out of the charging gun 102 from the gun holder assembly 104.
In an embodiment, the at least one stepped surface 112 comprises the at least one magnet 106. The at least one magnet 106 may be positioned on the at least one stepped surface 112 strategically to interact with the protruding metal ring 108 of the charging gun 102. When the charging gun 102 is inserted into the cavity 110, the protruding metal ring 108 aligns with the at least one magnet 106 on the at least one stepped surface 112. Beneficially, the at least one magnet 106 provides magnetic retention and enhances the stability of the charging gun 102 inside the cavity 110 which ensures the position of the charging gun 102 remains even under conditions such as vibration or external movements.
In an embodiment, the protruding metal ring 108 of the charging gun 102 rests on the at least one stepped surface 112 of the cavity 110. When the charging gun 102 may be inserted into the cavity 110, the protruding metal ring 108 of the charging gun 102 makes contact with the at least one stepped surface 112. The shape and positioning of the at least one stepped surface 112 may be designed such that the protruding metal ring 108 rests securely on the at least one stepped surface 112, which ensures the charging gun 102 remains stable within the gun holder assembly 104. Beneficially, the design of the at least one stepped surface 112 contributes to the mechanical stability of the charging gun 102 in the docking mechanism 100.
In an embodiment, the protruding metal ring 108 of the charging gun 102 is magnetically held by the at least one magnet 106 to securely hold the charging gun 102 inside the cavity 110. When the charging gun 102 is docked into the cavity 110, the protruding metal ring 108 rests on the stepped surface 112, and the at least one magnet 106 magnetically holds the protruding metal ring 108 in place. Beneficially, the docking mechanism 100 between the at least one magnet 106 and the protruding metal ring 108 provides the secured engagement for the charging gun 102 which ensures that the charging gun 102 is firmly held within the cavity 110, thereby preventing unintended movement or detachment during normal operation. Furthermore, the magnetic retention between the protruding metal ring 108 and the at least one magnet 106 facilitates the easy removal of the charging gun 102 when required.
In an embodiment, the resting of the protruding metal ring 108 on the at least one stepped surface 112 protect the charging gun 102 from environmental factors. The interaction between the protruding metal ring 108 and the at least one stepped surface 112 serves to securely retain the charging gun 102 within the cavity 110, and also offers protection against environmental factors such as dust, dirt, moisture, and other external elements. Beneficially, the at least one stepped surface 112 ensures that the charging gun 102 is positioned in a manner that shields sensitive components from environmental factors, thereby preserving the integrity and functionality of the charging gun 102 over time.
In an embodiment, the gun holder assembly 104 comprises an insulation layer 114 inside the cavity 110, wherein the insulation layer 114 is configured to electrically isolate the charging gun 102 from the gun holder assembly 104. The insulation layer 114 may be positioned along the inner walls of the cavity 110 where the charging gun 102 is received and securely held. The material of the insulation layer 114 may be select for electrical insulating properties, such as rubber, plastic, or any other non-conductive material, which effectively prevents any electrical contact between the charging gun 102 and the metal components of the gun holder assembly 104. Beneficially, the insulation layer 114 ensures that, in the event of a malfunction or unintentional discharge, the electrical current is not transferred from the charging gun 102 to the gun holder assembly 104, thereby reducing the risk of electrical shock, short circuits, or damage to surrounding components.
In an embodiment, the gun holder assembly 104 comprises at least one fastening mechanism 116 to fasten the gun holder assembly 104 in the charger. The fastening mechanism 116 may include screws, bolts, or clips, which may be used to attach the gun holder assembly 104 to the charger housing. Beneficially, the fastening mechanism 116 ensures the gun holder assembly 104 remains firmly in place during use and preventing any unwanted movement or detachment from the charger. Furthermore, the fastening mechanism 116 is designed to provide a durable and reliable attachment, capable of withstanding mechanical stresses and vibrations that may occur during charging operations.
In an embodiment, the charging gun docking mechanism 100 comprises the charging gun 102 and the gun holder assembly 104 in the charger. The gun holder assembly 104 is configured to receive and securely hold the charging gun 102 via the at least one magnet 106. Furthermore, the charging gun 102 comprises the protruding metal ring 108 fixed on the lateral surface of the charging gun 102. Furthermore, the gun holder assembly 104 comprises the cavity 110 configured to receive the charging gun 102. Furthermore, the cavity 110 is the stepped cavity comprising the at least one stepped surface 112 along the depth of the cavity 110. Furthermore, the at least one stepped surface 112 comprises the at least one magnet 106. Furthermore, the protruding metal ring 108 of the charging gun 102 rests on the at least one stepped surface 112 of the cavity 110. Furthermore, the protruding metal ring 108 of the charging gun 102 is magnetically held by the at least one magnet 106 to securely hold the charging gun 102 inside the cavity 110. Furthermore, the resting of the protruding metal ring 108 on the at least one stepped surface 112 protect the charging gun 102 from environmental factors. Furthermore, the gun holder assembly 104 comprises the insulation layer 114 inside the cavity 110, wherein the insulation layer 114 is configured to electrically isolate the charging gun 102 from the gun holder assembly 104. Furthermore, the gun holder assembly 104 comprises the at least one fastening mechanism 116 to fasten the gun holder assembly 104 in the charger.
Figure 2, describes the charging gun docking mechanism 100 when the charging gun is not in use and docked with the charger. The docking of the charging gun 102 occurs by positioning the charging gun 102 into the gun holder assembly 104, where the charging gun 102 may be guided into the cavity 110. The cavity 110 having the at least one stepped surface 112, allows the protruding metal ring 108 on the charging gun 102 to rest securely within the gun holder assembly 104. As the charging gun 102 is inserted, the at least one magnet 106 integrated into the at least one stepped surface 112 of the cavity 110 magnetically attracts the protruding metal ring 108 which ensures the charging gun 102 is securely held in place.
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
Modifications to embodiments and combination of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:We Claim:
1. A charging gun docking mechanism (100) of a charger, wherein the docking mechanism (100) comprises:
- a charging gun (102); and
- a gun holder assembly (104) in the charger,
wherein the gun holder assembly (104) is configured to receive and securely hold the charging gun (102) via at least one magnet (106).
2. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the charging gun (102) comprises a protruding metal ring (108) fixed on a lateral surface of the charging gun (102).
3. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gun holder assembly (104) comprises a cavity (110) configured to receive the charging gun (102).
4. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the cavity (110) is a stepped cavity comprising at least one stepped surface (112) along a depth of the cavity (110).
5. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the at least one stepped surface (112) comprises the at least one magnet (106).
6. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the protruding metal ring (108) of the charging gun (102) rests on the at least one stepped surface (112) of the cavity (110).
7. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the protruding metal ring (108) of the charging gun (102) is magnetically held by the at least one magnet (106) to securely hold the charging gun (102) inside the cavity (110).
8. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the resting of the protruding metal ring (108) on the at least one stepped surface (112) protect the charging gun (102) from environmental factors.
9. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gun holder assembly (104) comprises an insulation layer (114) inside the cavity (110), wherein the insulation layer (114) is configured to electrically isolate the charging gun (102) from the gun holder assembly (104).
10. The docking mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gun holder assembly (104) comprises at least one fastening mechanism (116) to fasten the gun holder assembly (104) in the charger.