Electric vehicle charging station
First Claim
1. A charging station operable in a charging cycle for charging an electric vehicle, the charging station comprising a controller for controlling thecharging cycle activated by an electronic user key, a panel movable between an open position and a closed position, a locking mechanism controlled by the controller for locking the panel in the closed position, and a socket for receiving a plug, wherein the charging cycle is initiated when the panel is moved to the closed position, wherein, once a charging cycle has been initiated, the electronic user key used to initiate a charging cycle can be used to open the locking mechanism, but another electronic user key cannot, and wherein, in use, a plug located in the socket is locked in position by the panel when the panel is locked in the closed position.
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Accused Products
Abstract
The present application relates to a charging station operable in a charging cycle for charging an electric vehicle. The charging station has a key-activated controller for controlling the charging cycle. The application also relates to a key for operating the charging station. Furthermore, the application relates to a charging station having an interface for connecting the charging station to a data network. The application also relates to a charging station having a socket for receiving a plug and a key-operated locking mechanism for locking a plug in said socket. A frangible panel movable between an open position and a closed position may be provided. A processor may be provided for generating data to impose a financial charge on an individual for using the charging station. The application also relates to methods of operating a charging station including the steps of obtaining user identification data; supplying electricity to a charging socket; and generating data for levying a financial charge on the user.
51 Citations
27 Claims
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1. A charging station operable in a charging cycle for charging an electric vehicle, the charging station comprising a controller for controlling the
charging cycle activated by an electronic user key, a panel movable between an open position and a closed position, a locking mechanism controlled by the controller for locking the panel in the closed position, and a socket for receiving a plug, wherein the charging cycle is initiated when the panel is moved to the closed position, wherein, once a charging cycle has been initiated, the electronic user key used to initiate a charging cycle can be used to open the locking mechanism, but another electronic user key cannot, and wherein, in use, a plug located in the socket is locked in position by the panel when the panel is locked in the closed position.
Specification