Patent Publication Number: US-2023158909-A1

Title: Elevated vehicle charge cable system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/281,529, filed on Nov. 19, 2021, the contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     INTRODUCTION 
     The present disclosure relates to systems for charging vehicles, and more particularly, to systems for charging a fleet of vehicles. 
     SUMMARY 
     As electric vehicles are beginning to become available to commercial/fleet operators, a corresponding need has arisen for fleet operators to charge multiple electric vehicles. Presently available charging devices are generally not designed for fleet or commercial operations. Integration-level problems can require non-scalable interventions, and as a result usability, serviceability, and cost of ownership can be compromised. 
     When it comes to designing fleet charging depots, there are many advantages to installing the charging hardware on overhead structures. Overhead charging structures generally keep infrastructure clutter away from vehicles and personnel on the ground and are modular and scalable. However, there are unique challenges to accessing these benefits due to difficulties associated with managing charging cables. The tight spaces between relatively large commercial vehicles can create the potential for clutter or danger, e.g., from cables lying over vehicles, around walkways for service personnel, etc. Cables may also become damaged from bending, exposure to elements on the ground, or personnel stepping on/around the cable, as examples. Suspended charging cables also may need a flexible “reach radius” to connect to inconsistently located vehicle charge ports, e.g., due to variations of parking practices or vehicle models. Additionally, charging hardware and their accessories mounted on high structures need to be securely implemented, and easy to install and service. Each of these challenges is magnified when considering using higher power charging, which generally requires thicker and or more complex cables to facilitate higher/faster power transfer. Failure to manage these issues can result in frequent hardware servicing, a compromise between ergonomics and serviceability, inefficiencies due to non-standardized servicing practices, extended downtime (and corresponding loss of revenue to fleet operators), and compromised components or other equipment. Accordingly, the example illustrations herein address one or more of the above shortcomings. 
     In at least some example illustrations, a charging system is provided comprising a gantry structure and a plurality of electrical charging devices mounted to the gantry structure. Each of the electrical charging devices has a charging cable extending downward from the gantry structure, with each charging cable configured to charge a vehicle. 
     In at least some examples, the charging system further includes a retractor configured to support one of the charging cables at an elevated position and a lowered position, wherein the one charging cable is positioned for charging one of the vehicle at the lowered position. 
     In at least some examples, the charging system includes a track extending from the gantry structure, wherein the retractor is configured to move along the track. 
     In at least some example approaches, the track is angled relative to a horizontal direction, such that the trolley is biased toward an end of the track. 
     In at least some example approaches, the track extends laterally from the gantry structure in a direction parallel to a vehicle movement direction through a charging area of the one of the electrical charging devices. 
     In at least some example illustrations, the charging system further includes a cable stabilizer mounted to one of the electrical charging devices, the charging cable of the one charging device extending downward from the one electrical charging device within the cable stabilizer. 
     The cable stabilizer may, in at least some examples, include a partial tube laterally supporting the charging cable below the electrical charging device. 
     In at least some example illustrations, the charging system also includes a saddle configured to support the charging cable of one of the electrical charging devices below the one electrical charging device. 
     In at least some example illustrations, the saddle defines a support surface for the charging cable having a support radius greater than a minimum bend radius of the charging cable. 
     In at least some examples, the charging system includes a support cord of the saddle configured to move the saddle vertically, which is laterally spaced from the charging cable such that charging cable is looped to define a plane. 
     In at least some examples, the plane is aligned parallel to a vehicle movement direction through a charging area of the one of the charging devices. 
     In at least some example approaches, the charging system further includes a mounting system securing one of the electrical charging devices to the gantry structure. The mounting system may comprise a front plate configured to be mounted to a wall structure. 
     In at least some example illustrations, the mounting system comprises a plurality of modular components. 
     In at least some examples, the electrical charging devices are configured to supply a direct current via a respective charging cable. 
     In at least some examples, a charging system includes a gantry structure and an electrical charging device mounted to the gantry structure. The charging system further includes a charging cable extending downward from the gantry structure, with the charging cable configured to charge a vehicle. The charging system may further include a retractor configured to support the charging cable at an elevated position and a lowered position, wherein the charging cable is positioned for charging the vehicle at the lowered position. The charging system may also include a saddle configured to support the charging cable below the electrical charging device. The retractor may be configured to raise and lower the saddle. The saddle may also define a support surface for the charging cable having a support radius greater than a minimum bend radius of the charging cable. 
     In at least some example illustrations, the charging system further includes a support cord of the saddle that is laterally spaced from the charging cable such that charging cable is looped to define a plane. For example, the plane may be aligned parallel to a vehicle movement direction through a charging area of the electrical charging device. 
     In at least some example approaches, a charging system comprises a gantry structure and an electrical charging device mounted to the gantry structure. The charging system may also include a charging cable extending downward from the gantry structure that is configured to charge a vehicle. The charging system may further include a cable stabilizer, the charging cable extending downward from the electrical charging device within the cable stabilizer. The charging system may also include a stationary saddle configured to support the charging cable below the electrical charging device, wherein the stationary saddle defines a support surface for the charging cable having a support radius greater than a minimum bend radius of the charging cable. 
     In at least some examples, the stationary saddle is laterally spaced from the charging cable such that charging cable is looped to define a plane. 
     In at least some example approaches, the plane is aligned parallel to a vehicle movement direction through a charging area of the electrical charging device. 
     In at least some example approaches, a retractor for a charging cable is provided comprising a base configured to be positioned above a charging location, and a retractable support cord extending from the base to a saddle. The support cord may be configured to extend toward the charging location and retract toward the base. The retractor may further include a ratchet brake configured to position the saddle at a plurality of positions between the base and the charging location. 
     In at least some examples, the retractor also comprises a track configured to be mounted to a gantry structure, with the base being movably mounted to the track. 
     In at least some example approaches, a modular mounting system for a charging device comprises a front plate configured to support the charging device in an elevated position, and a top panel. The modular mounting system may be configured to be mounted in a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the front plate is mounted to a wall structure such that the charging device is mounted to the wall structure. In the second configuration, the front plate and the top panel cooperate to enclose a gantry structure such that the charging device is mounted to the gantry structure. 
     In at least some examples, the modular mounting system comprises a bottom plate configured to cooperate with the front plate and the top panel to enclose the gantry structure when the modular mounting system is mounted in the second configuration. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and other features of the present disclosure, its nature and various advantages will be more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG.  1    is an illustrative diagram of a fleet charging environment or system, e.g., for a storage facility for a fleet of electric delivery vehicles, according to some embodiments of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  2 A  is a perspective view of an example cable retractor for the system of  FIG.  1   , with the cable illustrated in a first position, according to some example approaches; 
         FIG.  2 B  is an enlarged view of the example retractor of  FIG.  2 A , with the cable illustrated in a second position that is relatively lowered, according to an example; 
         FIG.  3 A  is a perspective view of the retractor of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  3 B  is a side view of the retractor of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  3 C  is a side view of the retractor of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , illustrating the retractor partially disassembled, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  3 D  is a perspective view of a saddle for use with the retractor of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  3 E  is a bottom view of the retractor of  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a cable stabilizer for the fleet charging system of  FIG.  1   , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  5    is an enlarged perspective view of the cable stabilizer of  FIG.  4   , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  6    is a perspective view of a track system for the fleet charging system of  FIG.  1   , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  7 A  is an enlarged perspective view of the track system of  FIG.  6   , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  7 B  is an assembly view of the track system of  FIG.  7 A , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  7 C  is a side view of the track system of  FIG.  7 A , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  8 A  is an exploded or assembly view of a mounting system, e.g., for the fleet charging system of  FIG.  1   , according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  8 B  is a perspective view of a front plate and top panel of the mounting system of  FIG.  8 A  assembled to a gantry structure, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  8 C  is a perspective view of the mounting system of  FIGS.  8 A and  8 B  assembled in a first arrangement with a relatively reduced interior dimension, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  8 D  is a perspective view of the mounting system of  FIGS.  8 A and  8 B  assembled in a second arrangement with a relatively increased interior dimension, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  9 A  is a perspective view of the mounting system of  FIGS.  8 A- 8 D  mounted to a wall structure, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  9 B  is a perspective view of the mounting system of  FIGS.  8 A- 8 D  mounted to a gantry structure, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and 
         FIG.  9 C  is a perspective view of the mounting system of  FIGS.  8 A- 8 D  mounted to another gantry structure, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring now to  FIG.  1   , a fleet charging environment or system  100  is illustrated. System  100  generally includes an overhead charging system comprising a plurality of gantry structures  102  extending across parking spaces  104  for corresponding delivery vehicles  106 . The gantry structures  102  each include a purpose-built cable management solution to manage secure, reliable, and efficient operation of plugs or charge connectors  108  at an end of a charging cable  110  in relatively tight spaces, e.g., between vehicles. Accordingly, removal/plugging in of connectors  108  to vehicle charge ports is made relatively less difficult despite vehicles  106  being relatively closely positioned together. Each charging cable  110  may generally extend downward from the gantry structure  102  and may be configured to charge one of the vehicles  106 . For example, the connectors  108  may be associated with each of the parking spaces  104  and may deliver current to the vehicles  106  from electrical charging devices  112  via one of the charging cables  110  when the vehicles  106  are parked or stored in the parking spaces  104 . Each of the electrical charging devices  112  are mounted to one of the gantry structures  102 , elevating the electrical charging devices  112  above the vehicles  106 . Accordingly, the electrical charging devices  112  generally are positioned above drivers of the vehicles  106  as well as puddles or other ground-related potential electrical hazards. In the illustrated example, a single electrical charging device associated with each parking space  104 , with the electrical charging device  112  having a single cable  110  extending to a single connector  108 . However, other configurations are permitted, such as where multiple connectors  108  and/or cables  110  are associated with a single charging device  112  to provide current to multiple parking spaces  104 /vehicles  106 . The electrical charging devices  112  may be high-speed direct current (DC) chargers. The charging devices  112  may have any power output capability that is convenient for charging vehicles  106 . In an example, the charging devices  112  are configured to deliver varying levels of power depending on charging needs for a vehicle  106  receiving current from the charging device  112 , including a peak power of 160 kilowatts (kW). While the examples herein are generally directed to high-speed direct current (DC) charging systems, it should be understood that the examples herein may be equally applicable to alternating current or non-high-speed charging systems or components. 
     Generally, the examples herein leverage combined benefits of purpose-designed components and their integration into multiple configurable or modular systems that may be adapted for specific needs of a fleet operator, as will be described further below. As will be described further below, among other advantageous aspects the cable management systems of system  100  may generally provide:
         1. charging cables  110  that have controlled movement and orientation in space;   2. user touchpoints benefitting from reduced load handling and less steps required for completing charging sessions;   3. extended lifespan of critical charging hardware components (for example, cables  110  and connectors  108 );   4. a relatively small number of key systems that can support wide range of fleet charging use cases;   5. field-serviceable components, with easy access to modularized servicing touchpoints, minimizing disruption to the charging operation; and   6. mounting for the components on multiple types of overhead structures, including to purpose-built gantry systems, e.g., having one or more gantry structures  102 , as well as existing ceiling/architecture of fleet charging facilities.       

       FIGS.  2 A,  2 B, and  3 - 9    generally illustrate various components of the system  100  illustrated in  FIG.  1   . The subsystems or components illustrated in  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B, and  3 - 9    may also be employed in different charging systems for different electric vehicle hardware and/or charging use cases. 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B, and  3   , a first example subsystem directed to a cable retractor  114 , e.g., for a charging cable  110  extending from charging device  112 , is illustrated and described in further detail. Generally, the retractor  114  is configured to support the charging cable  110  at least at a relatively elevated position, e.g., for storage. The retractor  114  is also configured to support the charging cable  110  at a relatively lowered position, e.g., such that the charging cable  110  is positioned below the elevated position such as for charging a vehicle  106 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  2 B  at a lowered position the charging cable  110  may be extended relatively further below the charging device  112  such that the connector  108  is at a height H 1 , in which the connector  108  is sufficiently close to the ground/parking space  104  that the connector  108  may be plugged into a charging location (e.g., charge port  116  of the vehicle  106  when parked in the parking space  104 ; see  FIG.  2 A ). Alternatively, the retractor  114  may elevate the cable  110  to a position such that the connector  108  is relatively higher, e.g., at a height H 2 , in which the connector  108  and the cable  110  are sufficiently high that drivers or other personnel using system  100  may walk beneath the connector  108  and/or cable  110 . As seen in  FIG.  2 A , the cable  110  may be provided with a pull handle  128  to allow a driver or service personnel to reach the connector  108  and/or cable  110 , and/or pull the connector  108  downward from the elevated/storage position, e.g., so that the connector  108  may be plugged into the vehicle  106 /charge port  116 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  3 A-E , the retractor  114  is illustrated and described in further detail. The retractor  114  may include a housing  115  and a base  118  configured to be secured to the gantry structure  102 . The base  118  may have one or more mounting points, e.g., holes for receiving fasteners configured to secure the retractor  114  to the gantry structure  102 . In an example, the base  118  defines a mount panel  119  or surface that engages the gantry structure  102 . The mount panel  119  may be smaller than the gantry structure, such that the retractor  114  is generally covered by the gantry structure  102 , e.g., to minimize exposure to outdoor elements, weather, etc., when mounted underneath the gantry structure  102 . Accordingly, the base  118  is configured to be positioned above a charging location, e.g., a parking space  104 . 
     The retractor  114  includes a retractable support cord  120 , e.g., a paracord, extending from the base  118  to a saddle  122 . The support cord  120  is configured to be spooled into/out of the housing  115  of the retractor  114 . Accordingly, the support cord  120  generally may be extended downward, e.g., toward the charging location/parking space  104 , and may also retract toward the base  118 . The support cord  120  may thereby lower/raise the cable  110  and/or connector  108 . 
     Generally, the retractor  114  facilitates use of the cable  110  for a vehicle charge port  116  within relatively small spaces, e.g., between parking spaces  104  and/or vehicles  106 , and allows the cable  110  to be tucked away or stored when not in use. Charging cables  110  may be suspended/lowered via the support cord  120  or other support cable, paracord, or the like with a range of retraction forces that are rated for electric vehicle charging equipment load and ergonomic requirements of operators. Generally, to the extent a charging cable  110  is longer and/or heavier, it will require greater retraction forces than comparably shorter/lighter versions of the charging cable  110 . In at least some examples, retraction forces may be between approximately 15 pounds and 30 pounds. Additionally, the support cord  120  can be “locked” from further extension and retraction at any extended length from the retractor housing  115 , which as noted above may be mounted to the gantry structure  102  over the vehicle  106 , improving ease of use of the cable  110  and support cord  120 . In at least some examples, the support cord  120  may have a travel of no less then 8-10 feet, thereby providing effective reach of the charging cable  110 . 
     A relatively wide-angled operation of extension and retraction of the support cord  120  may be facilitated by a cord routing opening  130  that extends across a relatively large proportion of the housing  115 . In the example illustrated in  FIG.  3 E , the cord routing opening  130  extends through the entire lower half or hemisphere of the housing  115 . A cord grommet  132  surrounding the opening  130  may also have a self-cleaning feature to deter rain, snow, and dust from intrusion into the housing  115 , e.g., brush elements or the like. 
     The retractor  114  may include a ratchet brake  124  configured to position the saddle  122  at a plurality of positions between the base  118  and the charging location, e.g., one of the parking spaces  104 . In an example, the ratchet brake  124  is configured to retract/deploy the support cord  120  from the housing  115  according to manually applied inputs from a driver or other service personnel. For example, the ratchet brake  124  may allow deployment/unspooling of the support cord  120  when handle  128  (see  FIG.  2 A ) is pulled downward and may prevent retraction of the support cord  120  such that the saddle  122  remains at a desired vertical height. The driver/user may then apply a relatively hard/fast pull on the support cord  120  to disengage the ratchet brake  124 , allowing a retraction mechanism to retract the support cord  120  into the housing  115 , raising the cable  110  and/or connector  108 , e.g., to an elevated or storage position. 
     In some examples, the retractor  114  may have a remote paracord retractor brake control. For example, operating touchpoints on the suspended charging cable  110  and/or connector  108  may allow deployment/retraction of the cable  110 /connector  108 . Additionally, a wireless connection, e.g., Bluetooth or the like, may allow control of a brake mechanism of the retractor  114 , allowing stopping/locking of the support cord  120  in any extended length that is convenient. Further, an operator may remotely control the retractor  114  and release along any extended length of the support cord  120  using the remote/wireless control. 
     As noted above, example retractors  114  and/or support cords  120  may allow stop/release extension/retraction of the cable  110  and/or connector  108  anywhere across the entire length of the support cord  120 . Example retractors may also provide sufficient load range and lengths suitable for example charging devices. In an example, a load range capacity and length of a support cord  120  is set to account for various factors, e.g., a clearance height of overhead beams, e.g., of the gantry structure  102 , which can range from 12½ feet to 21 feet as an example, and weight of the suspended charging cable  110  that is needed to integrate the cable management systems and beams at the stated range of clearance height, e.g., to provide sufficient elevation of the connector  108  and/or cable  110 . Example retractors  114  may also provide protection from outdoor elements, e.g., of components of the retractor  114 , as may be beneficial in a commercial/fleet application where vehicles are stored/parked outdoors. Merely as one example, as noted above the mount panel  119  may be sized to be covered by gantry structure  102 , and the cord grommet  132  may prevent dirt and/or moisture from being drawn into the housing  115 , e.g., during retraction of the support cord  120 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  3 D , the example retractor  114  also includes a saddle  122  for the charging cable  110 . Generally, the saddle  122  may prolong a lifespan of the charging cable  110  by preventing excessive bending. For example, as illustrated the saddle  122  may have an upwardly-facing support surface  123  configured to carry a portion of the charge cable  110  (not shown in  FIG.  3 D ), with the support surface defining a support radius R that is greater than, or at least no smaller than, a minimum bend radius of the charge cable  110  (i.e., as a measurement of the tightest turn or loop that may be formed with the cable  110  without damaging the cable  110  and/or components thereof). To the extent the cable  110  may define a thickness offsetting a centerline of the cable  110  from the support surface  123 , it will be understood that the support radius R may in some cases be less than the minimum bend radius of the charge cable  110  by the offset amount, e.g., one half of a thickness of the cable  110 . The saddle  122  allows for a tool-free removal of the charge cable  110  from the saddle  122  and may be formed of an impact-safe material, e.g., plastic or rubber, to prevent damage to vehicles  106  that might otherwise result from incidental contact. 
     As best seen in  FIG.  2 A , the charging cable  110  and support cord  120  coming out of a retractor  114  may be generally offset laterally (e.g., in a direction parallel to the x-axis) by a distance D that is at least as great as the minimum bend radius of the cable  110 . The offset distance D may correspond to the support radius R of the saddle  122 . This may minimize an overall footprint of the suspended charging cable  110  to the extent possible without damaging the cable  110  from the bending/looping arrangement, e.g., by bending or looping the cable  110  at a radius lower than the minimum bend radius. 
     The spacing of the charging cable  110  and support cord  120  may be aligned to minimize potential for interference of the cable  110  with the vehicle  106  and/or a driver or other service personnel. For example, as shown in  FIG.  2 A  the support cord  120  and portion of the cable  110  hanging from the housing  115  are parallel and laterally or horizontally spaced apart. For example, as illustrated in  FIG.  2 A , the support cord  120  and portion of the cable  110  hanging from the housing  115  are spaced along the indicated x-axis. The support cord  120  of the saddle  122  may be spaced from the charging cable  110  such that charging cable  110  is looped to generally define a plane  125 . The plane  125  may include any loops, e.g., helical loops, of the cable  110  that may be needed, depending on the length of the cable  110 , reach between raised and lowered positions, etc. The spacing and the orientation of the charging cable  110  by the saddle  122  may generally keep the looped charging cable  110  oriented in the plane  125 , thereby defining a planar space for the charging cable  110  in the suspended state. The plane  125  encompasses a planar space for the charging cable  110 , which minimizes interference with the space needed for vehicle  106  and personnel traffic. Accordingly, the plane  125  is parallel or substantially so with respect to a direction of travel of the vehicle  106  through parking space  104 , e.g., for charging. As a result, spread of the cable  110  across the width of the vehicles&#39; parking space  104  is prevented, and the potential for vehicle-to-hanging charging cable  110  contact may be reduced. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  4  and  5   , another example subsystem for supporting a cable  110  from an electrical charging device  112 , e.g., in the system  100 , is illustrated and described in further detail. More specifically, a cable stabilizer  134  may be provided that extends downward from the charging device  112 . The charging cable  110  may extend downward from the electrical charging device  112  within the cable stabilizer. The cable stabilizer  134  generally allows the cable  110  to hang downward from the elevated gantry structure  102  and/or the charging device  112 . The cable stabilizer  134  generally provides lateral support to the charging cable  110 , which may hang down from the charging device  112 . In the example illustrated in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , stabilizer  134  comprises a tube-like structure, e.g., partial tube  136 , at least partially extending about the cable  110  to protect the cable  110 , e.g., to prevent the cable  110  from freely swinging due to wind, protect from impact with vehicle  106  and/or users, etc. The partial tube  136  may allow the cable  110  to be pulled away from or out of the stabilizer  134 , e.g., as may be needed to allow the cable  110  to reach a charge port  116  of the vehicle  106 , etc. The partial tube  136  may be formed of a somewhat compliant material such as rubber but may also have structure sufficient to protect the cable  110 . In one example, wire elements extending through the rubber material may provide a degree of resistance or stiffness to protect the charge cable  110  within the partial tube  136 . The partial tube  136  may allow access to the charging cable  110 , e.g., with a “half-pipe” configuration that is open along a length of the charging cable  110 . The partial tube  136  may allow the charging cable  110  to be securely suspended from the overhead-mounted charging device  112  and may also minimize footprint of the charge cable  110  when not in use. Additionally, the cable  110  may be kept above or off the ground when not in use, preventing the cable  110  and/or connector  108  from becoming a tripping hazard and reducing wear/tear to the charging cable  110  and/or connector  108 . 
     As also illustrated in  FIGS.  4  and  5   , the stabilizer  134  may have a stationary saddle  122 ′ provided at a lower end thereof. The stationary saddle  122 ′ may generally be identical to the saddle  122  illustrated in  FIG.  3 D  and described above but may be generally fixed in position relative to the charging device  112  and/or the gantry structure  102 . More specifically, to the extent the stabilizer  134  and/or partial tube  136  are relatively “stiff,” the saddle  122 ′ may in some examples not be movable with respect to the charging device  112 , gantry structure  102 , or for that matter anything else from which the stabilizer  134  is suspended. Accordingly, the cable  110  may be looped in a plane to minimize lateral space of the cable  110 , e.g., as described above in the example of  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B, and  3   . 
     The partial tube  136  may be secured to the charging device  112  in any manner convenient. As seen in  FIG.  5   , a fitting  140  may generally clamp the partial tube  136  to the charging device  112  (not shown in  FIG.  5   ). At an upper end of the partial tube  136 , a slip sleeve  138  may be provided which allows the cable  110  to be inserted laterally into the partial tube  136 . For example, a resilient material of the partial tube  136  adjacent a slit in the upper end of the partial tube  136  may deflect to allow the cable  110  to be inserted into the partial tube  136 , thereby eliminating any need to remove the cable  110  from the charging device  112 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS.  6  and  7 A- 7 C , another cable storage subsystem is illustrated and described in further detail. More specifically, the illustrated subsystem is directed to a track and trolley arrangement that is mounted onto the gantry structure  102  above the vehicle(s)  106  and/or parking space(s)  104 . 
     A retractor  114 , e.g., as described above and shown in  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B, and  3   , is provided that is moveable along a track  142  supported by the gantry structure  102 , thereby increasing reach of the support cord  120  and/or the charging cable  110 . The track  142  is shown extending at a right angle with respect to the gantry structure  102 , such that the retractor  114  may be moved longitudinally (i.e., front-to-back or vice-versa) with respect to a vehicle  106 . The example illustrated in  FIGS.  6  and  7 A- 7 C  may maintain efficient use of space by the charging cable  110  with semi-automated features. Additionally, user operation is improved, and a need for operators&#39; involvement with active cable management is reduced. 
     As noted above, in some examples a retractor  114  may include a support cord  120 , retractor  114 , a remote retractor control, and a saddle  122 , e.g., as described above and illustrated in  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B, and  3 A -E. The track/trolley system of  FIGS.  6  and  7 A- 7 C  may be optionally provided in addition, thereby expanding reach of the charge cable  110 , e.g., to a vehicle charge port  116  (see  FIG.  6   ). 
     The track  142  may include a track support structure  144  extending from the gantry structure  102 . The track support structure  144  generally supports the track  142  within a guard  146 . A trolley  148  carries the base  118  of the retractor  114 . The trolley  148  may include wheels or any other mechanism convenient for facilitating movement of the retractor  114  and/or base  118  along the track  142 . Merely as another example, the trolley  148  may slide along the track  142 . The guard  146  may generally protect the trolley  148  and may also prevent the trolley  148  from becoming dislodged from the track  142 . As shown in  FIG.  7 C , the track  142  may define an angle α relative to horizontal, such that gravity biases the trolley toward one end of the track  142 . In the example illustrated, the trolley  148  generally rests at an end of the track  142  adjacent the charging device  112  and/or gantry structure  102 . Further, a magnet  150 , a detent, or other retention device may be provided to maintain the trolley  148  in a stationary position on the track  142 , absent a user pulling the retractor  114  and/or trolley  148  away from that position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  8 A- 8 D and  9 A- 9 C , an example modular mounting system  152  that may be employed to mount charging device  112  and/or cable  110 , e.g., above a vehicle  106 , is illustrated and described in further detail. The mounting system  152  may mount a charging device  112  having a cable  110  to a gantry structure  102 , with the cable  110  extending downward from an overhead position, e.g., as in any of the arrangements described above such as with a retractor  114 , cable stabilizer  134 , and/or track  142  and accompanying trolley  148 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  8 A , example mounting system  152  is illustrated in an exploded view. The mounting system  152  may include, as illustrated three primary or main components: a top panel  154 , a front plate  156 , and a bottom plate  158  ( FIG.  8 A  illustrates the bottom plate  158  in two different orientations, with the upper orientation of the bottom plate  158  being flipped vertically with respect to the lower orientation, and vice versa). The top panel  154  and front plate  156  may be assembled and “hung” over a beam, e.g., of the example gantry structures  102  described above, as illustrated in  FIG.  8 B . The bottom plate  158  may be secured to the top panel  154 /front plate  156  to enclose the gantry structure  102 . The mounting system  152  may be configured to enclose various size/shape gantry structures  102 . For example, the bottom plate  158  may have multiple mounting apertures  159   a  and  159   b  (collectively,  159 ) to different interior heights of the assembled mounting system  152 . More specifically, in a first arrangement illustrated in  FIG.  8 C , the bottom plate  158  defines a relatively smaller interior height (e.g., 10 inches) with the bottom plate  158  secured to the top panel  154  and front plate  156  with mounting apertures  159   a . In a second arrangement illustrated in  FIG.  8 D , the bottom plate  158  defines a relatively larger interior height (e.g., 12 inches) with the bottom plate  158  secured to the top panel  154  and front plate  156  with mounting apertures  159   b . Accordingly, the mounting system  152  may be mounted to a variety of different gantry structures  102  using the enclosed configuration illustrated in  FIGS.  8 C and  8 D . The bottom plate may have a plurality of mounting studs  161 , e.g., to facilitate assembly of different cable management system(s) and/or different locations for mounting supports for cable  110  (not shown in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 D ). 
     The mounting system  152  may also be used to secure a charging device  112  to elevated structures other than the gantry structure  102 . For example, as illustrated in  FIG.  9 A  one side of the front plate  156  may be secured to a wall structure  160 , with the charging device  112  mounted to the other side of front plate  156 . Accordingly, the mounting system  152  is configured be used in a variety of different configurations to mount charging device  112  in an elevated position. As noted above, in a first configuration the front plate  156  may be mounted to wall structure  160  to support mounting of the charging device  112 , as illustrated in  FIG.  9 A . In a second configuration, the front plate  156  and top panel  154  may cooperate to enclose gantry structure  102 , as illustrated in  FIG.  9 B , with the bottom plate  158  enclosing the gantry structure  102 . Other configurations are possible. For example, to the extent the bottom plate  158  is not needed to securely mount the charging device  112 , the front plate  156  and the top panel  154  may be assembled and hung upon gantry structure  102 . Furthermore, the mounting system  152  may be secured to different types of elevated gantry structures  102 . In  FIG.  9 B , the mounting system  152  is illustrated mounted to a gantry structure  102  comprising a beam having a generally square cross-section. In  FIG.  9 C , the mounting system  152  is secured to a gantry structure  102 ′ comprising a beam having a generally I-shaped cross-section. 
     Generally, the mounting system  152  conceals or hides visual clutter of charging accessories that are mounted on the overhead structures, e.g., gantry structure  102 . Lifespan of mounted charging accessories, e.g., charging device  112 , may also be improved via protection from mechanical impact and natural elements. The mounting system  152  may also function as an information display board, to the extent the mounted charging device  112  includes displays or other indicators that are visible with the charging device  112  mounted. 
     In some examples, the mounting system  152  provides a structure for a charger (e.g., any electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE)) and associated cable management hardware, e.g., a retractor  114 , cable stabilizer  134 , track  142 /trolley  148  arrangement, or the like. The mounting system  152  may have built-in attachment points, which creates optimal hardware integration needed for cable management. The generally modular configuration of the three components of the mounting system  152  generally facilitates servicing and updates to the cable management accessories. For example, serviced/updated components may be utilized with the remaining/non-serviced components, e.g., where bottom plate  158  becomes damaged, it may be removed and a new bottom plate  158  may be installed with the existing front plate  156  and top panel  154 . 
     The mounting system  152  may generally prevent load travel, e.g., from the weight of the suspended cable  110  and its pull into the main charging device  112  mounted above. Accordingly, rubbing and/or sliding at an interface between the cable  110  and the charging device  112  may be reduced or eliminated. Accordingly, overall lifespan of the charging device  112 , cable  110 , connector  108 , etc. are increased to the extent wear is reduced. In at least some examples, the mounting system  152  may allow a strain relief device to be mounted to the mounting system  152  or to the charging device  112  to reduce strain applied to the charging cable  110 , e.g., as a result of the charging cable  110  being suspended, from manipulation by a user, etc. Merely as one example, a strain relief  142  (e.g., a wire mesh strain relief or Kellems grip) is illustrated in  FIGS.  9 A- 9 C , which is secured to the charging device  112 . In other example charging devices  112  where a strain relief device for the charging cable  110  is not already included, example strain relief devices supporting the charging cable  110  may be mounted to the mounting system  152  instead of the charging device  112 . Supporting the strain relief device  142  from the mounting system  152  in such approaches may minimize load or wear on the an enclosure of the charging device  112 , particularly for applications involving repeated bend cycles and/or heavy usage. 
     As noted above, the charging device  112  may be any that is convenient. The mounting system  152  may generally provide a flexible installation solution for various third-party charging units, to the extent additional mounting positions may be defined by the front plate  156  or other components of the mounting system  152 . The mounting system  152  may also add fleet-use readiness to existing charging systems by providing structural reinforcement, added flexibility for conductor routing, and integration with other cable management components. Accordingly, the mounting system  152  may generally be used with any form factor for a charging device. 
     Using the above-described mounting and cable arrangements for charging devices, integration of charging systems in a fleet application, e.g., as illustrated in  FIG.  1   , may be executed according to pre-established design rules. As elaborated further below, these guidelines are configured to optimize reach flexibility, use efficiency, reduction of potential hazards to users, and hardware lifespan. For example, multiple systems/components described herein may be combined to achieve desired site planning, for example, based on parking, gantry clearance, and vehicle fleet needs. Accordingly, an overall system such as system  100  illustrated in  FIG.  1    may be generated based on desired use cases or requirements. 
     Merely as examples, benefits that are facilitated by the example illustrations herein include improved ease of operation, relatively controlled cable movement and orientation in space, efficient use of space by the cable, and an improved component lifespan. The example illustrations also provide a configurable cable management system that optimizes meeting fleet operator requirements and specific needs of their operations and business. Modularized cable management systems and components herein can also easily scale with evolving fleet charging needs. The examples herein may also provide consistent fleet charging hardware management for the lifespan of a fleet charging operation. The examples herein may also provide cost-efficient solutions to implementing an elevated or overhead fleet charging system. 
     Additionally, example components and their associated systems are designed specifically to work optimally with charging hardware and with any pre-existing structures, e.g., already located at a fleet location. Standardized components and their integration may also reduce or remove complexities involved in planning, installation, and hardware maintenance. Modularity and consistent integration points can also lower costs and time barriers to servicing in the field and allow scaling up or down as needed. Further, the integration of example systems facilitates reduced hazards to operators and service personnel. 
     The integration guidelines herein and illustrated in the drawings may also expedite design and installation of a fleet depot or system. Total costs of operations may be reduced via reductions in down-time and scalable hardware options. The integrated system of chargers and cable management may also provide higher reliability and reduction of hazards, e.g., due to wear on charging cables  110 , charging device  112 , or other components. 
     Example specifications for integration of charging components may combine various parameters or dimensions discussed herein. In one example approach for an integration of components, system  100  includes charging connectors  108  that are stored at a minimum height above the ground to create substantial head clearance, e.g., 80″ above a ground surface. Additionally, the charging cable  110  and support cord  120  coming out of a retractor  114  are offset at a distance that matches the minimum “bend-guard” or support radius R on the saddle  122  (e.g., as shown in  FIGS.  2 A,  2 B,  3 , and  6   ), thereby minimizing a footprint of the suspended charging cable  110  without damaging the cable  110  from the bending/looping arrangement. Further, in this example the cable  110  and support cord  120  are aligned on a same axis or laterally spaced apart (e.g., with respect to the x-axis shown in  FIG.  2 A ), thereby keeping the charging cable  110  oriented within a plane  125  and associated planar space in their suspended state and reducing interference to the space needed for vehicle  106  and personnel traffic (i.e., by preventing spread of the cable  110  across the width of the parking space  104 ). The load capacity of the retractors  114  in this example may also be adjusted or calibrated so that no more than 5 pounds (lbs.) of pull-down force is needed for operation. Vehicle charge ports of this example may also be installed between a height range of 2% feet to 4 feet (i.e., above the relevant ground surface), facilitating relatively easy and efficient reach and operation by a user. Further, user operation touchpoints are kept between a height above ground surface of 2% feet to 5 feet to enable operation of example systems and components for smaller users, e.g., a 5 th  percentile-size female, users under 5 feet tall, etc. Additionally, relatively higher reach operations associated with the system or components thereof will generally not require users to lift their elbows above shoulder height. 
     The foregoing description includes exemplary embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure. These examples are provided for purposes of illustration only, and not for purposes of limitation. It will be understood that the present disclosure may be implemented in forms different from those explicitly described and depicted herein and that various modifications, optimizations, and variations may be implemented by a person of ordinary skill in the present art, consistent with the following claims.