Inductively coupled charger having a light-activated mechanical

Abstract

An inductive charging system having a light-activated mechanical positioning system for aligning a charge probe to a charge port in an electric vehicle to charge propulsion batteries of the electric vehicle. The present invention permits automatic docking of the electric vehicle to the charging system without operator assistance or intervention. A light detector, such as an an array of photoelectric detectors is disposed adjacent the charge probe. A light source is disposed on the electric vehicle that is aligned with the charge port. The detector or array of photoelectric detectors is coupled to a servo control system that includes an X-Y-Z mechanical driver that moves the position of the charge probe relative to the position of the charge port. The servo control system moves the position of the charge probe relative to the position of the charge port in the X, Y, or Z directions, based upon signals provided by the detector or array of photoelectric detectors. Once proper alignment of the charge probe to the charge port is achieved, the charge probe is fully inserted into the charge port and charging of the vehicle propulsion batteries commences. The present invention thus provides for a charging system that automatically and properly aligns the charge probe to the charge port of the electric vehicle without an operator physically handling the charge probe. Elimination of handling of the charge probe by the vehicle operator minimizes potential damage to the charging system and ensures the safety of the operator.