Classifications

• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
  • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
  • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
  • H02G3/02—Details
  • H02G3/08—Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes
  • H02G3/12—Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes for flush mounting
  • H02G3/121—Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes for flush mounting in plain walls
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
  • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
  • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
  • H02G3/02—Details
  • H02G3/08—Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes
  • H02G3/12—Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes for flush mounting
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
  • B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
  • B60L53/00—Methods of charging batteries, specially adapted for electric vehicles; Charging stations or on-board charging equipment therefor; Exchange of energy storage elements in electric vehicles
  • B60L53/30—Constructional details of charging stations
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
  • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
  • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
  • H02G3/02—Details
  • H02G3/08—Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
  • H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
  • H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
  • H02G3/02—Details
  • H02G3/08—Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes
  • H02G3/086—Assembled boxes
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
  • Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
  • Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
  • Y02T10/70—Energy storage systems for electromobility, e.g. batteries
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
  • Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
  • Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
  • Y02T10/7072—Electromobility specific charging systems or methods for batteries, ultracapacitors, supercapacitors or double-layer capacitors
• • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
  • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
  • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
  • Y02T90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
  • Y02T90/10—Technologies relating to charging of electric vehicles
  • Y02T90/12—Electric charging stations

Definitions

• the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for a wall mounting system, and particularly to a method and apparatus for an in-wall wall mounting system for an electric vehicle (EV) charging device.
• EV charge points including EV charging devices and units, typically take the form of electrical components combined with an electrical lead extending out. and may for instance look similar in appearance to a petrol pump with a hose.
• the electrical lead typically has a plug on one end for inserting into a vehicle to be charged.
• the electrical components are typically connected to the mains power supply, and comprise electrical circuitry such as transformers to convert mains electricity into a suitable format for charging the electric vehicle.
• EV charge points are typically surface mounted on the exterior parts of a wall. These EV charge points have to be located in close proximity to a vehicle they are intended to charge. Accordingly, EV charge points are usually mounted in locations in which space is already at a premium, such as driveways, garages, or parking spaces. As such, wall mounting EV charge points in these environments further exacerbates the problem as any usable space either side of a parked vehicle, for example, is already limited. These problems are especially true in a residential context. [0004] In particular, current mounted EV charge points traditionally range from 120mm to 200mm in depth. Hence once externally mounted to a wall this depth causes the EV charge point to protrude significantly into the space in which the EV charging point is installed.
• the maximum and minimum install height of EV charge points is sometimes constrained by building regulations. Additionally, the EV charge point has to be accessible by a user, and so certain install heights are impractical. Similarly, mounting EV charge points further away from the parking location of a vehicle is also problematic due to the limited length of charging cables, as well as associated hazards caused by excessive lengths of cable, such as trip hazards. [0005] Additionally, current wall mounted EV charge points are often unsightly due to their bulky format and physical protrusion outward from the surface of the wall. Furthermore, this bulk and physical protrusion exposes the EV charge point to potential damage from impact, such as from a car or user.
• Embodiments of the present invention may advantageously allow an EV charging device to be located at least partially within a wall rather than being surface mounted to a wall. Embodiments may enable an EV charging device to be installed within a single integral mounting unit which is not prone to leakage and which is advantageously water-proof.
• the mounting unit may be affixed, connected, or attached to an apparatus that is itself affixed to a wall via a mounting method, removing the need for open fixings or holes within the mounting unit or EV charging device itself.
• Embodiments may enable the EV charging device to sit flush with the wall in which it is mounted, resulting in a minimum or no protrusion of the EV charging device from the wall.
• Embodiments of the invention may provide a wall mounting system for an EV charging device.
• Embodiments of the invention may provide an operable EV charging device installed at least partially within a wall.
• Embodiments of the invention may provide a method of installing a wall mounting system for an EV charging device.
• a wall mounting system for an EV charging device comprising a fixing cage comprising a first mounting means and a second mounting means, the first mounting means for attaching the fixing cage to a wall and a mounting unit configured to at least partially house an operable EV charging device, the mounting unit configured to be received by the fixing cage and comprising a third mounting means for attaching the mounting unit to the fixing cage via the second mounting means when the mounting unit is received by the fixing cage, wherein the fixing cage is configured to be located at least partially within a wall and the first mounting means is configured to attach the fixing cage to the inside of a wall such that the wall mounting system allows an EV charging device to be installed at least partially inside a wall.
• the fixing cage may be configured to be located substantially inside a wall and the mounting unit may be configured to be received substantially inside the fixing cage, such that the wall mounting system allows an EV charging device to be installed substantially inside a wall.
• the fixing cage further may comprise a fourth mounting means for attaching the fixing cage to a wall, the fourth mounting means different from the first mounting means.
• the first mounting means may comprise at least one hole allowing fastenings for attachment to a wall to pass therethrough such that the fixing cage can be attached to a wall.
• the first mounting means may comprise at least one fixing tooth configured to be positionable to grip to a wall.
• the at least one fixing tooth may be substantially triangular in shape and may be configured such that a point of the triangle may be positioned to grip and/or enter a wall in use.
• the fourth mounting means may comprise at least one fixing tooth configured to be positionable to grip to a wall.
• the fourth mounting means may comprise at least one hole allowing fastenings for attachment to a wall to pass therethrough such that the fixing cage can be attached to a wall.
• the fixing cage may comprise four substantially planar side surfaces connected together such that the fixing cage comprises an open front side and an open back side, the first mounting means configured to be in at least one substantially planar side surface, wherein when the fixing cage may be located at least partially inside a wall the four substantially planar side surfaces are configured to be substantially perpendicular to the external surface of a wall and the open front side and open back side are configured to be substantially parallel to the external surface of the wall.
• the fixing cage may further comprise at least one tab configured such that when the fixing cage is located at least partially inside a wall the tab abuts against the external surface of the wall and thereby prevents the fixing cage from being located further inside the wall.
• the second mounting means may comprise at least one hole allowing fastenings for attachment to the third mounting means to pass therethrough such that the fixing cage can be attached to the mounting unit.
• the wall mounting system may comprise four second mounting means, each second mounting means located at the point where one planar side surface is connected to the adjacent planar side surface.
• the mounting unit may comprise a box having an open front side, the mounting unit comprising four substantially planar side surfaces connected together and a back surface facing the open front side.
• the third mounting means may comprise at least one hole for allowing fastenings for attachment to the second mounting means to pass therethrough such that the fixing cage can be attached to the mounting unit.
• the mounting unit may comprise a lip or skirt configured such that when the mounting unit is received by the fixing cage, and when the fixing cage is located at least partially inside a wall, the lip or skirt abuts against the external surface of the wall.
• the mounting unit may comprise four cutaway sections, each cutaway section located at the point where one planar side surface of the mounting unit connects to the adjacent planar side surface of the mounting unit, each cutaway section configured to be in line with a one of the second mounting means of the fixing cage when the mounting unit is received by the fixing cage.
• the mounting unit forms part of an EV charging unit, the EV charging unit comprising the EV charging device, and preferably wherein the mounting unit is a back cover of an EV charging unit.
• the fixing cage may be configured to be received in a recess, hole, or cavity in a wall which is of similar mutual dimensions to the fixing cage.
• an operable EV charging device installed at least partially within a wall using the wall mounting system as described.
• the EV charging device may be installed substantially inside the wall.
• a method of installing the wall mounting system of any preceding claim comprising, locating the fixing cage at least partially within a hole, recess or cavity of a wall, attaching the fixing cage to the inside of the wall using the first mounting means, locating the mounting unit within the fixing cage, and attaching the mounting unit to the fixing cage using the second and third mounting means.
• the step of locating the fixing cage locating the fixing cage at least partially within a hole, recess or cavity of the wall may comprise locating the fixing cage substantially within the hole, recess or cavity of the wall, and wherein the step of locating the mounting unit within the fixing cage may comprise locating the mounting unit substantially within the fixing cage.
• attaching the fixing cage to the inside of the wall may comprise passing a fastening through the hole and into the wall.
• attaching the fixing cage to the inside of the wall may comprise positioning the at least one fixing tooth such that it grips to the inside of the wall.
• attaching the mounting unit to the fixing cage may comprise passing a fastening through the at least one hole in the mounting unit and through the hole in the fixing cage such that the mounting unit is thereby attached to the fixing cage.
• the step of attaching the fixing cage to the inside of the wall may comprise using the first mounting means and then using the fourth mounting means.
• Figure 1 shows an example of a wall mounting system.
• Figures 2A and 2B show perspective views of examples of fixing cages of the wall mounting system.
• Figure 3 shows an example of a fixing cage of the wall mounting system installed in- situ in a wall.
• Figure 4A shows a perspective view of an example of a mounting unit of the wall mounting system.
• Figure 4B shows a section of the mounting unit of the wall mounting system shown in Figure 4A.
• Figure 4C shows an example of a release key for the wall mounting system.
• FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of an example of a mounting unit of the wall mounting system.
• FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of an example of a mounting unit of the wall mounting system.
• FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of an example of a mounting unit of the wall mounting system.
• FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of an example of a mounting unit of the wall mounting system.
• FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of an example of a mounting unit of the wall mounting system.
• embodiments of the invention may provide a wall mounting system which allows for fast, easy, secure, and/or reliable installation of an EV charging device within a wall.
• Embodiments of the invention may provide for an EV charging device to be located entirely, substantially, or at least partially in a wall, thereby providing considerable advantageous space saving as compared to conventional external wall mounted EV charging devices.
• Embodiments of the invention may provide for the EV charging device to be located at least partially within a wall in a manner that provides improved prevention of water of water ingress into the EV charging device as compared with conventional wall mounted EV charging points.
• embodiments of the invention may provide for improved ease and speed of removably and reversibly installing an EV charging device at least partially within a wall.
• Embodiments of the invention may provide a wall mounting system having a first element which is configured to attach to a wall within a cavity, recess, or hole in the wall, and a second element configured to attach or connect to the first element, the second element configured to allow an EV charging device to be located at least partially within it in.
• the second element may form part of an EV charging unit and for instance may be the back cover of an EV charging unit, and/or may be able to receive an EV charging device or unit within it in a secure attached manner.
• an EV charging unit may be an integral or modularly separable product comprising the EV charging device.
• the EV charging unit may comprise an integral casing comprising the EV charging device, or the EV charging unit may comprise a modularly separable casing comprising the EV charging device.
• Embodiments of the invention may advantageously allow an EV charging device to be attached or fixed at least partially within a wall through the use of mounting means, wherein there may be a plurality of mounting means which may take a number of different forms.
• the mounting means of the wall mounting system may attach or fix the wall mounting system to the wall, or may attach or fix the EV charging device or unit to the wall mounting system, or a combination of both.
• the wall may for instance be brick or wooden in construction, or any other suitable wall-like structure or material.
• the mounting unit 200 is configured to be connectable to the fixing cage 100, and for instance to be located at least partially within the fixing cage 100.
• the fixing cage 100 and the mounting unit 200 may be shaped and/or dimensioned correspondingly so that the mounting unit 200 can be placed within the fixing cage 100, for instance in the manner indicated by guidelines 101.
• the mounting unit 200 may form part of an EV charging unit comprising the EV charging device, for instance the mounting unit 200 may be the back cover of an EV charging unit.
• the fixing cage 100 may be formed of four side walls 115, where the side walls 115 of the fixing cage 100 are the walls which are perpendicular to the plane of the external surface of the wall in use.
• the fixing cage 100 may optionally have a back wall which in use will be located within the wall and away from but parallel to the external surface of the wall in use.
• the back of the fixing cage 100 may be open.
• the back of the fixing cage 100 may be open to allow electrical wiring of the EV charging device, once installed in the wall mounting system 50, to be inserted through the back of the fixing cage 100 and into the EV charging device.
• the fixing cage 100 may be configured to sit substantially flush with the external surface of the wall once installed. Embodiments of the installation of the wall mounting system 50 into a wall will be described further below.
• the mounting unit 200 is configured to be suitable for having an EV charging device located within it, and in particular may allow an EV charging device to connect or attach to the mounting unit 200 in a secure manner such that the EV charging device can be used in a conventional manner. Accordingly, in use an EV charging device may be situated within the mounting unit 200. For instance, once the fixing cage 100 is located at least partially within a wall, an EV charging device may be placed into the mounting unit 200 which is within the fixing cage 100. Alternatively, the mounting unit 200 may be part of an EV charging unit, such as a back cover of the EV charging unit.
• the mounting unit 200 comprising the back cover of the EV charging unit may be installed within the fixing cage 100.
• the wall mounting system 50 advantageously allows the EV charging device and/or unit to be at least partially, and preferably substantially, located within a wall. This advantageously provides a minimum projection of the EV charging device or unit from the external surface of the wall into the space in which the EV charging device or unit is located.
• the fixing cage 100 and the mounting unit 200 may be advantageously mutually dimensioned such that once the fixing cage 100 is installed within the wall and the mounting unit 200 is installed within the fixing cage 100, an EV charging device may be located in the mounting unit 200 and may project a minimum distance out of the wall and into the location in which the EV charging device is installed, such as a garage.
• a typical depth dimension of an EV charging device is 120mm to 200mm
• the fixing cage 100 and the mounting unit 200 may be dimensioned such that the EV charging device fits entirely within the mounting unit 200 and is flush with the surface of the wall and does not protrude into the location in which the EV charging device is installed.
• the EV charging device may fit substantially within the mounting unit 200 such that a majority of the EV charging device is located within the wall and behind the external surface of the wall.
• the mounting unit 200 is preferably made of a single integral piece, such that it provides a physical barrier between the main body of the EV charging device located within it and the fixing cage 100, thereby advantageously preventing water ingress from the wall or fixing cage 100 from entering the mounting unit 200 where it may potentially damage the EV charging device.
• the mounting unit 200 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic.
• Figure 2A shows the fixing cage 100 according to an embodiment.
• the fixing cage 100 has at least one type of mounting means for mounting the fixing cage 100 in a wall, for mounting and connecting to the mounting unit 200, or mounting means for both connecting to the wall and for connecting to the mounting unit 200.
• the mounting means may take a number of different forms, and there may be a plurality of different mounting means, and a plurality of each different type of mounting means, as will be described further below.
• the fixing cage 100 may include a first mounting means 110 for mounting the fixing cage 100 to a wall.
• the first mounting means 110 may be configured to assist the fixing cage 100 in sitting flush with the external surface of a wall in which it is located, and may prevent the fixing cage 100 from being inserted too far into the wall within which it is located.
• the fixing cage 100 may include a second mounting means 120.
• the second mounting means 120 may be configured to attach or securely fix the fixing cage 100 to the wall within which it is at least partially inserted, and further may advantageously do so in a fast and simple manner.
• the second mounting means 120 may take the form of fixing teeth 120.
• the holes 130 may be spaced apart on the at least one side of the fixing cage 100.
• the holes may be located opposing on different sides of the fixing cage 100. For instance, there may be four holes 130 on each vertical side of the fixing cage 100 and two holes 130 on each horizontal side which may sit opposed to the holes 130 located on the holes’ 130 respective opposite sides.
• the holes 130 may be situated in-line with the fixing teeth 120. [0065]
• the holes 130 may be shaped such that fixing articles or fastenings may be used within the fixing cage 100.
• fixing articles or fastenings such as nails, screws, and rawlplugs may be placed through the holes 130 to secure the fixing cage 100 to the wall into which the fixing cage 100 is placed.
• Other appropriate fixing articles or fastenings may also be used. Accordingly, in use the user would first locate the fixing cage 100 within the wall, for instance as previously described, and would then proceed to pass the fixing articles or fastenings through the holes 130 and into the wall in the manner suitable for the specific mounting means. For instance, in the case of screws the user may first drill holes in the wall in line with the holes 130, and may then pass screws into the wall through the holes 130 such that the fixing cage 100 is attached to the wall through the use of the holes 130.
• the locking tabs may sit within correspondingly shaped openings to the locking tabs 140.
• the locking tabs 140 may have a wide free end that is not connected to the fixing cage 100, at least one small protrusion that extends parallel to the fixing cage’s 100 wall where the locking tab 140 resides, and a tapered section connecting the wide end to a neck which is connected to the fixing cage 100.
• the locking tabs 140 may be located on at least one side of the fixing cage 100.
• the locking tabs 140 may be spaced apart on the at least one side of the fixing cage 100 and may be opposing on at least one different side of the fixing cage 100. There may be the same number of locking tabs 140 on the at least one side of the fixing cage 100.
• the locking tabs 140 may be configured such that the action of mounting the mounting unit 200 inside the fixing cage 100 cause the interaction of the locking tabs 140 with the mounting unit 200 in such a manner that the mounting unit 200 becomes removably connected to the fixing cage 100.
• the locking tabs 140 may interact with mutual features of the mounting unit 200 to cause this removable connection between the fixing cage 100 and the mounting unit 200.
• features of the mounting unit 200 may be configured to deform the locking tabs 140 when the mounting unit 200 is located within the fixing cage 100, such that the material bias of the locking tabs 140 against the mounting unit 200 may create sufficient attachment or connection of the fixing cage 100 to the mounting unit 200.
• the fixing cage 100 as depicted in Figure 2B may have a different combination of mounting means than the first embodiment for mounting the fixing cage 100 in a wall, for mounting and connecting to the mounting unit 200, or mounting means for both connecting to the wall and for connecting to the mounting unit 200.
• the fixing cage 100 may include the first, second and third mounting means 110, 120, 130 as previously described as well as a fifth mounting means 150.
• the fifth mounting means may be configured to removably attach or connect the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100.
• the fifth mounting means 150 may take the form of a fixing point 150. There may be a plurality of fixing points 150 and these may take a number of forms.
• the fixing points 150 may be shaped such that they have an opening within them.
• the fixing points 150 may be similar to tabs and may be square in shape and may have a circular opening within them. Other appropriate shapes are equally applicable.
• the fixing points 150 may be located on the front face of the fixing cage 100.
• the fixing points 150 may be located on at least one side of the fixing cage 100.
• the fixing points 150 may be in contact with at least one side of the fixing cage 100.
• the fixing points 150 may be situated in each corner of the front face of the fixing cage 100.
• the fixing points 150 may be shaped such that fixing articles or fastenings may be used within the fixing cage 100. In use the fixing points 150 may be configured to removably connect or attach the fixing cage 100 to the mounting unit 200.
• the fixing points 150 may be configured such that the mounting unit 200 may be mounted inside the fixing cage 100 using fixing articles or fastenings. For instance, screws or nuts and bolts may be used to secure the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100. Other appropriate fixing articles or fastenings may also be used.
• Figure 3 shows an example of a fixing cage 100 in-situ within a wall.
• the fixing cage 100 may be fabricated out of a single piece of material.
• the fixing cage 100 may be made out of metal, advantageously providing a straightforward and uncomplicated method of fabrication.
• the fixing cage 100 may be made of galvanized steel, and may be 0.8mm thick.
• the fixing cage 100 can be of any suitable size.
• the fixing cage 100 may be 230mm in height, 230mm in width, and 120mm in depth.
• these dimensions allow a recess in a wall to be one standard house brick wide and three standard house bricks high including a nominal space for mortar gaps that separate these bricks, allowing a simple and easy installation process.
• the hole may be made during construction, may be left by builders, or may be made in a wall by other appropriate means.
• the fixing cage 100 is described as including particular mounting means.
• the fixing cage 100 may include only a single type of mounting means as previously described, or alternatively may include all of the mounting means previously described, or any combination of specific mounting means as previously described.
• the fixing cage 100 includes all of the previously described associated mounting means, however the invention is not so limited.
• the fixing cage 100 may include the first, second and third mounting means 110, 120 and 130 as well as the fifth mounting means 150 (which is not shown in this Figure 3).
• Figures 4A and 4B show a mounting unit 200 according to an embodiment.
• the mounting unit 200 may be any appropriate size.
• the mounting unit 200 may be 228.4mm in height, 228.4mm in width, and 120 mm in depth.
• the thickness of the material of the mounting unit 200 may be 1mm.
• the mounting unit 200 may have mounting means for sealing the mounting unit 200.
• the mounting unit 200 may have mounting means for mounting the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100.
• the mounting means may take a number of forms. There may be a plurality of different mounting means.
• the mounting unit 200 may include a sixth mounting means 210 for connecting or attaching the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100.
• the sixth mounting means 210 of the mounting unit 200 may be configured to interconnect with the with fourth mounting means 140 of the fixing cage 100, thereby allowing the fixing cage 100 and the mounting unit 200 to be removably attached or connected together.
• the sixth mounting means may take the form of a slot 210. There may be a plurality of slots 210, which may take a number of different forms.
• the slots 210 may be located on at least one side of the mounting unit 200.
• the slots 210 may be opposing on the at least one side of the mounting unit 200.
• the slots 210 may be located externally on the mounting unit 200.
• the slots 210 may be spaced apart on the at least one side of the mounting unit 200.
• the slots 210 may be recessed into the mounting unit 200.
• the slots 210 may extend from the front face to the back face of the mounting unit 200. For instance, there may be two slots 210 on each vertical side of the mounting unit 200.
• the location of the slots 210 may advantageously correspond to the locking tabs 140 of the fixing cage 100 and may allow the mounting unit 200 to be secured within the fixing cage 100 via interaction of the locking tabs 140 and the slots 210.
• the mounting unit 200 may be placed within the fixing cage 100 via a sliding action wherein the slots 210 of the mounting unit 200 are aligned with the locking tabs 140 on the fixing cage.
• the slots 210 and the locking tabs 140 may be shaped such that the locking tabs 140 can easily locate the slots 210, providing a simple, fast, and smooth locating mechanism.
• the action of mounting the mounting unit 200 within the fixing cage 100 may deform the locking tabs 140 as described previously, such that the material bias of the locking tabs 140 against the mounting unit 200 may create sufficient attachment or connection of the fixing cage 100 to the mounting unit 200.
• each slot 210 may include a lip 211. There may be a plurality of lips 211 which may take a number of forms.
• the lips 211 may be spaced apart on at least one side of the mounting unit 200.
• the lips 211 may be opposing on the at least one different side of the mounting unit 200. There may be the same or a different number of edges on the at least one side of the mounting unit 200.
• the lips 211 may be located externally on the mounting unit 200.
• the lips 211 may protrude outwards from the mounting unit 200. For instance, each lip 211 may be located within each slot 210, respectively, and may protrude 0.5mm outwards form the slots 210.
• the lip 211 may be for attachment to the EV charging device or unit, regardless of whether the mounting means 200 is part of the EV charging unit, such as the back cover of the EV charging unit, or not, as previously described.
• the locking tabs 140 may locate the slots 210 as the mounting unit 200 is pushed into the fixing cage 100 and may be pushed over the lips 211.
• the biased resting position of the locking tabs 140 may enable them to deform around the lips 211, and subsequently lodge themselves into place behind the lips 211 and provide a secure and tight fit for the mounting unit 200 within the fixing cage 100.
• the protrusions on the locking tabs 140 may locate the lips 211 such that the mounting unit 200 is secure when placed within the fixing cage 100. Once the locking tabs 140 have located the lips 211, the mounting unit 200 may be held in place and may be prevented from being removed from the fixing cage 100 by the lips 211.
• the mounting unit 200 may include a seventh mounting means 260.
• the seventh mounting means 260 may take the form of a release slot 260 associated with each slot 210.
• the release slots 260 may be configured to be used in connection with an associated release key 300.
• Figure 4C shows an example of a release key 300 in place against a locking tab 140 on the fixing cage 100.
• the release key 300 is configured such that it may pass through the release slots 260 and may release the connection between the locking tab 140 and the mounting unit 200 such that the mounting unit 200 becomes advantageously removable from the fixing unit 100.
• the release key 300 may deform the locking tab 140 away from the mounting unit 200, for instance deforming the locking tab 140 away from the lip 211, thereby allowing the mounting unit 200 to be removed from the fixing cage 100. Accordingly, the release key 300 may advantageously allow the mounting unit 200 to be removed from the fixing cage 100 in a simple and easy manner. This may be particularly useful, for instance, should the EV charging device need to be inspected, repaired, or otherwise accessed.
• the release key 300 may take a number of forms.
• the release key 300 may have a thin section connected to a wider section. The thin section may be longer than the wider section. The wider section may have an opening contained within it.
• the release 300 key may have a certain thickness.
• the release key may have a long thin rectangular section connected to a short wide rectangular section with a smaller rectangular opening within the short wide section, and have a thickness smaller than that of the release slots 260.
• the release key 300 may be stored within the mounting unit 200 following installation and as such may be easily located if removal of the mounting unit 200 is required.
• the mounting unit 200 may include an eighth mounting means 220.
• the eighth mounting means 220 may take the form of a skirt 220.
• the skirts 220 may take a plurality of forms.
• the skirt 220 is located on the front face of the mounting unit 200.
• the skirt 220 extends outwards perpendicular to the sides of the mounting unit 200.
• the skirt 220 may be located on at least one side of the mounting unit 200.
• the skirt 220 may be located one all edges of the front face of the mounting unit 200 in a continuous fashion and may extend perpendicularly outwards from the mounting unit 200.
• the skirt 220 may account for and conceal any unevenness or gaps that may exist between the fixing cage 100 and the wall in which the fixing cage 100 is installed.
• the skirt 220 may extend 20mm externally from the mounting unit 200.
• the skirt 220 may advantageously prevent over-insertion of the mounting unit 200 within the fixing cage 100.
• the mounting unit 200 may include an upper lip 230.
• the upper lip 230 may be configured to provide a manner of attaching or connecting the mounting unit 200 to an EV charging device or unit.
• the upper lip 230 may take a plurality of forms.
• the upper lip 230 is located on an upper edge or face of the mounting unit 200.
• the upper lip 230 extends outward from the mounting unit 200, and may for instance extend perpendicular and/or parallel to the sides of the mounting unit 200. For instance, the upper lip may be located on the top side of the front face of the mounting unit 200.
• the upper lip 230 may extend outwards from the mounting unit 200 parallel to the top side of the mounting unit 200 for a first distance and then upwards for a second distance perpendicular to the top side of the mounting unit 200.
• the user may be able to hang a mutually compatible part of an EV charging device or unit from the upper lip 230.
• the EV charging device or unit may be able to be hung from the lip 230 such that a majority of the bulk of the EV charging device or unit is located within the internal cavity created by the mounting unit 200.
• the mounting unit 200 may include a lower lip 240.
• the lower lip 240 may take a plurality of forms.
• the lower lip 240 may extend outwards from the mounting unit 200.
• the lower lip 240 may be located on the bottom edge of the front face of the mounting unit 200 and may extend outwards a distance from the mounting unit 200 parallel to the bottom side of the mounting unit 200.
• the lower lip 240 may additionally include securing holes 241.
• the securing holes 241 may be circular. Other appropriate shapes are also applicable.
• the securing holes 241 may be spaced part.
• the securing holes 241 may extend through the bottom lip 240. For instance, there may be two securing holes 241 on the bottom lip 240.
• an EV charging device may advantageously at least rest on the lower lip 240, and additionally may be secured thereto by virtue of the securing holes 241.
• the mounting unit 200 may include a seal 250.
• the seal 250 may take a plurality of different forms.
• the seal may be located externally on the mounting unit 200.
• the seal may be located on at least one face of the mounting unit 200.
• the seal 250 may be located on the skirt 220 of the mounting unit 200. For instance, the seal 250 may be located along the length of the skirt 220 in a continuous fashion.
• the seal 250 may be configured to interface with an EV charging device and be made of a material which provides both resistance grip to the surface material of the EV charging device, and/or may be made of a material which is sufficiently waterproof to prevent water ingress from entering the internal cavity of the mounting unit 200 when the EV charging device is installed therein.
• the seal 250 may be made of rubber or silicone.
• the seal 250 therefore provides additional securing of an EV charging device to the mounting unit 200, and additionally provides a simple and efficient manner of preventing water ingress into EV charging device.
• the fixing cage 100 as depicted in the specific embodiment of Figure 2A is configured to be used with the mounting unit 200 depicted in the specific embodiment of Figures 4A, 4B and 4C.
• FIG. 4D shows a mounting unit according to another embodiment.
• the mounting unit 200 may include a ninth mounting means 270 for connecting or attaching the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100.
• the ninth mounting means 270 of the mounting unit 200 may be configured to interconnect with the fifth mounting means 150 of the fixing cage 100, thereby allowing the fixing cage 100 and the mounting unit 200 to be removably attached or connected together.
• the ninth mounting means 270 may take the form of a fixing point hole 270 or a plurality of fixing point holes 270, and may take a number of forms and configurations.
• the fixing point holes 270 may be circular. Other appropriate shapes are also applicable.
• the fixing point holes 270 may be located on the front face of the mounting unit 200.
• the fixing point holes may be located on the skirt 220.
• the fixing point holes 270 may be located in the corners of the skirt 220 which correspond to the corners of the mounting unit 200 and the corners of the fixing cage 100.
• the location of the fixing point holes 270 may advantageously correspond to the fixing points 150 of the fixing cage 100 and may allow the mounting unit 200 to be secured within the fixing cage 100 via fixing articles or fastenings.
• the mounting unit 200 may be placed within the fixing cage 100 wherein the fixing point holes 270 are aligned with the fixing points 150.
• the fixing point holes 270 and the fixing points 150 may be shaped such that fixing articles or fastenings can easily be placed through the fixing point holes 270 and the fixing points 150, providing a simple, fast, and effective locking mechanism and advantageously securing the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100.
• the mounting unit 200 may include cutaway sections 290 which correspond to the locations of the fixing points 150 of the fixing cage 100 such that the mounting unit 200 can easily slide into the fixing cage 100 and such that the fixing points 150 of the fixing cage 100 in combination with the cutaways 290 additionally provide an advantageous interlocking securing of the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100.
• the fixing cage 100 as depicted in the specific embodiment of Figure 2B is configured to be used with the mounting unit 200 depicted in the specific embodiment of Figure 4D.
• the user may first install the fixing cage 100 into a recess, cavity or hole in a wall of a suitable dimension.
• a user may begin to insert the fixing cage 100 into a cavity, recess, or hole within a wall.
• the first mounting means 110 for instance in the form of a tab 110, will interface with and abut the external surface of the wall thereby advantageously preventing the user from inserting the fixing cage 100 too far into the wall. Accordingly, the first mounting means 110 thereby also provides accurate alignment and fast, ease of installation of the fixing cage 100 within a wall.
• the fixing cage 100 includes second mounting means 120 such as depicted in Figure 2B, for instance in the form of fixing teeth 120, the fixing teeth 120 may rest parallel to the interior edges of the hole or recess of the wall.
• the fixing teeth 120 may be configured to pivot around their short edge, enabling the fixing teeth 120 to be positioned outwards with respect to the sides of the fixing cage 100.
• a user may push the fixing teeth 120 outward toward the wall, using hand force or for instance a screw driver, wherein the fixing teeth 120 may make contact with the wall and be forced into the wall, ensuring a secure fixing.
• the second mounting means 120 are therefore capable of quickly and easily accounting for variations in the depth and width of the hole or recess in the wall in which the fixing cage 100 is installed in.
• the fixing cage includes third mounting means 130 such as depicted in Figure 2B, for instance in the form of a hole or holes 130
• a user would proceed to pass the fixing articles or fastenings through the holes 130 and into the wall in the manner suitable for the specific mounting means. For instance, in the case of screws the user may first drill holes in the wall in line with the holes 130, and may then pass screws into the wall through the holes 130 such that the fixing cage 100 is attached to the wall through the use of the holes 130.
• the use of the third mounting means 130 may precede the use of the second mounting means 120, or the user may alternate between using the second mounting means 120 and third mounting means 130 in any order.
• the user may install the mounting unit 200 in the fixing cage 100.
• the fixing cage 100 includes the fifth mounting means 150, for instance in the form of fixing points 150
• the mounting unit 200 includes the skirt 220, cutaways 290 and the ninth mounting means 270, for instance in the form of a fixing hole 270
• the user may position the mounting unit 200 such that the cutaways 290 are in line with the fixing points 150.
• the user may then introduce the mounting unit 200 into the fixing cage 100 until the skirt 220 abuts against the external surface of the wall to provide the extent of maximum insertion. Both the cutaways 290 and the skirt 220 therefore advantageously provide quick, easy and accurate alignment and installation of the fixing cage 100 within the mounting unit 200.
• suitable fixing articles or fastenings such as screws or bolts may be placed through the fixing point holes 270 and the fixing points 150, providing a simple, fast, and effective locking mechanism, advantageously securing the mounting unit 200 to the fixing cage 100.
• the mounting unit 200 and the fixing cage 100 are both securely and removably attached together, and the fixing cage 100 is securely attached to the wall, such that therefore the fixing cage 100 and the mounting unit 200 are in combination securely and removably attached to a wall with sufficient integrity such that an EV charging device can be installed in the mounting unit 200, where the mounting unit 200 may form part of an EV charging unit such as the back cover of an EV charging device, and can thereby be used by a user.
• the manner of installation of the EV charging device or unit in the mounting unit 200 will not be discussed in detail herein, but could be in any suitable manner.
• the electrical components of the EV charging device can be located within the cavity of the mounting unit 200 and a front cover of the EV charging device or unit can be attached to the front of the mounting unit 200, for instance to the skirt 220 by virtue of fixing means.
• the EV charging device may then be electrically wired in such that it is functional.
• the manner of electrical wiring will not be discussed further herein, however the electrical wiring may have been pre-installed in the cavity, recess or hole in the wall such that the EV charging device, once installed, can simply be attached thereto.
• both the fixing cage 100 and mounting unit 200 may include holes in their bottom lower side surfaces to allow electrical wiring from the EV charging device to exit the EV charging device and enter the wall, for instance to continue to a connection point to the mains electricity supply.
• the mounting unit 200 may include holes to allow electrical wiring from the EV charging device to exit the EV charging device and enter the wall, and the fixing unit 100 may be open at the back to similarly allow access for the electrical wiring.
• the electrical wiring may be pre-installed in the wall before wall mounting units 50 according to the present invention are installed.
• the mounting unit 200 may also be used to attach directly to the external surface of a wall, and may for instance accordingly includes features such as screw holes in the back face to allow for screws to be passed through the mounting unit 200 and into the external surface of a wall.
• the mounting unit 200 may therefore be used both for external mounting on a wall, and may be used for internal mounting inside a recess, cavity or hole in a wall when used with the fixing cage 100 as previously described.
• the mounting unit 200 is described as including particular mounting means.
• the mounting unit 200 may include only a single type of mounting means as previously described, or alternatively may include all of the mounting means previously described, or any combination of specific mounting means previously described. Specific embodiments including specific combinations of mounting means are shown in the Figures, as previously described, however the invention is not so limited.
• the fixing cage 100 may include the first, second, third and fifth mounting means 110, 120, 130 and 150 as shown in the embodiment of Figure 4D, and the mounting unit 200 may include the eighth and ninth mounting means 220 and 270. [0114] In the above described embodiments, the fixing cage 100 is described as including particular mounting means.
• the fixing cage 100 may include only a single type of mounting means as previously described, or alternatively may include all of the mounting means previously described, or any combination of specific mounting means previously described. In the specific embodiments as shown in the Figures, the fixing cage 100 includes all of the previously described associated mounting means, however the invention is not so limited. In particular, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 2B, the fixing cage 100 may include the first, second and third mounting means 110, 120 and 130 as well as the fifth mounting means 150. [0115] Embodiments of the invention may allow for an in-wall mounted EV charging device to be installed in any property, irrespective of the method of construction of said property but particularly of traditionally brick walls, in an efficient, simple, and rapid manner at the initial construction phase.
• the wall mounting system including the fixing cage and the mounting unit allow an in-wall mounted EV charging device to be installed which is substantially flush with the surface of the wall.
• the wall mounting system including the fixing cage and the mounting unit allow an in-wall mounted EV charging device to be installed so as to not protrude more than 20mm to 30mm from the exterior of the wall in which the EV charging device is installed.
• embodiments of the invention may advantageously provide that all electrical components are kept away from possible damage that could otherwise be caused by the EV charging device protruding excessively from a wall, hence minimizing risk that externally mounted EV charge units pose to those in its close proximity and to the electrical equipment within the EV charging device itself.
• the mounting unit 200 may form part of an EV charging unit comprising the EV charging device, for instance the mounting unit 200 may be the back cover of an EV charging unit.
• all the previously described advantages described with reference to the EV charging device apply equally to the EV charging unit.
• it is both the EV charging device and the EV charging unit which are advantageously enabled to sit at least partially, substantially or entirely with the wall in which it is mounted, resulting in a minimum or no protrusion of the EV charging device and/or EV charging unit from the wall.
• Alternative Embodiments [0117]
• the embodiments described above are illustrative of, rather than limiting to, the present invention. Alternative embodiments apparent on reading the above description may nevertheless fall within the scope of the invention.

Landscapes

• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Architecture (AREA)
• Civil Engineering (AREA)
• Structural Engineering (AREA)
• Power Engineering (AREA)
• Transportation (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Casings For Electric Apparatus (AREA)
• Charge And Discharge Circuits For Batteries Or The Like (AREA)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Publications (1)

Family

ID=82705232

Family Applications (1)

Country Status (3)

Families Citing this family (1)

Family Cites Families (10)

• 2022
  • 2022-06-20 GB GB2209006.2A patent/GB2621540B/en active Active
• 2023
  • 2023-06-19 WO PCT/EP2023/066462 patent/WO2023247440A1/en not_active Ceased
  • 2023-06-19 EP EP23734923.8A patent/EP4540902A1/de active Pending

Also Published As

Similar Documents

Legal Events