HomeLatest FeedsTechnology NewsFord is using one of Apple's tricks for its electric cars

Ford is using one of Apple’s tricks for its electric cars


The practical solution can make charging more convenient.

The charging electric cars can cause minor or major problems, especially if, for example, the built-in charging head at the public charging station is broken or cracked. Current chargers work in the same way: when charging is started, a latch secures the head in the car’s charging port so that it cannot be pulled out during charging. Charging efficiency can be reduced if the connector contacts do not fit perfectly, so this technology still needs some fine-tuning.

And Ford engineers work in a similar way – writes a Green Car Reports. According to the newspaper’s information, the car manufacturer submitted a patent application that would supplement the charging heads with a magnetic connector.

Pictured is Ford's V2V (vehicle-to-vehicle) charging solution, which allows one car to power the battery of another (Photo: Ford)
Pictured is Ford’s V2V (vehicle-to-vehicle) charging solution, which allows one car to power the battery of another (Photo: Ford)

Ford submitted the application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on November 1 last year. The essence of the development is that the charging head would be fixed with the help of magnets, for more stable charging. The concept is similar to that used in Apple computers MagSafe to the connector, which prevents the stuck wire from breaking off or damaging the connector, as the magnet simply releases the wire with greater force.

According to the plans, the American manufacturer’s solution can be used for purely electric drive and plug-in hybrid models, either with direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC) charging. According to the original idea, the magnetic charger would be built into the bumper of the car, but this could cause problems if the charging post is difficult to access or if the cable is not long enough. However, there is a reference in the patent application that the magnetic technology can also be used with conventional charging connectors.

Patent drawing of Ford's magnetic charging solution (Photo: Ford)
Patent drawing of Ford’s magnetic charging solution (Photo: Ford)

Although wireless charging of electric cars is already being experimented with today, the current solution still requires a real physical connection. However, magnets have already been used by other manufacturers, for example a Dodge Ram Charger pickup charging robotwhich works on the induction principle.

So far, there is no information on when Ford’s solution may appear in their mass-produced cars. The main problem to be solved is the installation in the bumper, because this means vulnerability, especially in case of a knock.

We still have a lot to tell you, you can find everything interesting here!

Mr.Mario
Mr.Mario
I am a tech enthusiast, cinema lover, and news follower. and i loved to be stay updated with the latest tech trends and developments. With a passion for cyber security, I continuously seeks new knowledge and enjoys learning new things.

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