Abstract: An EVCS equipped with an accelerometer to detect seismic events. Upon sensing a catastrophic environmental event, the EVCS is automatically disconnected from the main utility power source. A controller powered by a backup or alternate power source inside the EVCS monitors the seismic activity, and upon sensing the seismic event is over, the EVCS automatically performs a startup check. If utility power is present and the self-check passes, the EVCS resets and provides power from the main utility to the charging connector. If the EVCS is operable but utility power is unavailable, the EVCS switches to a generator or a UPS. The EVCS can provide multiple power outlets, including USB outlets, and emergency lighting. The EVCS can also be retrofitted or constructed with a communications interface for communicating status and operational information following a seismic event.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for monitoring an electric vehicle charging station (EVCS) are disclosed. A security system is disclosed for monitoring an EVCS having an electrical connector for electrically coupling to an electric vehicle. The security system includes a camera for recording images of a surrounding area of the EVCS. A sensor detects objects near the EVCS and/or detects removal of the electrical connector from the EVCS. A controller, which is operatively coupled to the camera and the sensor, is configured to: receive sensor signals output from the sensor; responsive to the sensor signals indicating that an object is near the EVCS or the electrical connector is removed from the EVCS: direct the camera to record images of the surrounding area of the EVCS; output to a user the images of the surrounding area of the EVCS; and, receive user command signals to control the EVCS and/or the security system.

Abstract: Systems, methods, devices, and computer-readable media secure a coupler 101 of an electric vehicle charging station 100 by locking the coupler 101 to the electric vehicle charging station 100 or an electric vehicle 210. A locking mechanism is provided within the coupler 101. The locking mechanism may include an actuator 432 configured to move between a lock and unlock position. When the actuator 432 is in the lock position, the coupler 101 may be locked to the charging station 100 or an electric vehicle 210. Whereas, when the actuator 432 is in the unlock position, the coupler 101 may be removed from the charging station 100 or electric vehicle 210. Further, the charging station 100 may include an identification device 437 for determining when to lock or unlock the coupler 101.

Abstract: A latch-locking device for an electric vehicle charging connector having a movable latching element for engaging a matching latching element on a charging station, or on an electric vehicle. The latch-locking device includes a movable latch-locking element mounted adjacent the matching latching element on the charging station or an electric vehicle for movement, in a direction transverse to the direction of movement of the movable latching element, between a retracted position spaced away from the matching latching element and an advanced position where the latch-locking element overlaps at least a portion of the movable latching element when the movable latching element is engaged with the matching latching element. An actuator is coupled to the latch-locking element for moving the locking element between the retracted and advanced positions.

Abstract: Rotary switch interlock mechanisms and electrical switch assemblies with a rotary switch interlock mechanism are presented herein. An electrical distribution device with at least two electrical switches is disclosed. Each of the electrical switches has a switch actuator that is movable between engaged and disengaged positions. A rotary interlock member is rotatably mounted to the housing of the electrical distribution device adjacent the first and second electrical switches. The rotary interlock member is rotatable 180 degrees between a first orientation, whereat the rotary member allows the switch actuator of the second electrical switch into its engaged position while preventing the switch actuator of the first electrical switch from being moved into its engaged position, and a second orientation, whereat the rotary member allows the first switch actuator to be moved into its engaged position while preventing the second switch actuator from being moved into its engaged position.

Abstract: Rotary switch interlock mechanisms and electrical switch assemblies with a rotary switch interlock mechanism are presented herein. An electrical distribution device with at least two electrical switches is disclosed. Each of the electrical switches has a switch actuator that is movable between engaged and disengaged positions. A rotary interlock member is rotatably mounted to the housing of the electrical distribution device adjacent the first and second electrical switches. The rotary interlock member is rotatable 180 degrees between a first orientation, whereat the rotary member allows the switch actuator of the second electrical switch into its engaged position while preventing the switch actuator of the first electrical switch from being moved into its engaged position, and a second orientation, whereat the rotary member allows the first switch actuator to be moved into its engaged position while preventing the second switch actuator from being moved into its engaged position.