A dock for an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station

Abstract

A dock for an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station Embodiments herein disclose a dock in an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station, wherein the dock is capable of accommodating an electrical energy storage device for an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station. Embodiments herein disclose a dock that can be easily installed within a heavy electric vehicle, which can be an interchange-enabled electric vehicle. Embodiments herein disclose a dock that can ease the electrical energy storage device interchange process and minimise time required to successfully complete the electrical energy storage device interchange process. Embodiments herein disclose a dock that can protect the electrical energy storage device from external elements. Embodiments herein disclose a dock that can readily establish an electrical and cooling connection between the electrical energy storage device and a vehicle.

Description

A dock for an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange stationCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONThis application is based on and derives the benefit of Indian Provisional Application IN202441065063, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a dock for an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station, and more specifically, to a dock configured to accommodate a cassette, wherein the cassette can contain one or more electrical energy storage devices, and the dock can be used with both the charging and interchange station and an interchange-enabled electric vehicle.BACKGROUND

[0002] The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has been steadily increasing worldwide, driven by environmental concerns and advancements in technology. However, conventional EVs face limitations such as lower range, higher charging times, significant initial investment, and so on. To address these challenges, the industry is increasingly turning to electrical energy storage device interchange technology, particularly for heavy electric vehicles.

[0003] In heavy electric vehicles, fixed electrical energy storage device systems are commonly used, necessitating charging at dedicated stations. However, this approach presents limitations, including range anxiety, long charging times, and high initial costs. Electrical energy storage device interchange technology offers a promising solution by enabling quick electrical energy storage device replacement at charging and interchange stations, eliminating the need for lengthy charging sessions.

[0004] While electrical energy storage device interchange is straightforward for smaller vehicles, the heavy vehicle segment presents unique challenges. Conventional systems for electrical energy storage device installation and interchange in heavy electric vehicles typically involve securing the electrical energy storage device to the vehicle using fasteners and supports. While this method serves the basic function of affixing the electrical energy storage device in place, it comes with several deficiencies such as a time-consuming interchange process, risk of damage to both the electrical energy storage device and the vehicle, and vulnerability to external materials such as dust, moisture, or debris, complex electrical and fluid connections.These deficiencies can impede the efficiency, safety, and convenience of electrical energy storage device interchange.

[0005] Hence, there is a need in the art for solutions that will overcome the above- mentioned drawback(s), among others.OBJECTS

[0006] The principal object of the embodiments herein is to disclose a dock for an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station, and an interchange-enabled electric vehicle.

[0007] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock capable of accommodating at least one cassette, wherein the cassette can include one or more electrical energy storage devices.

[0008] Yet another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock that can be easily installed within a heavy electric vehicle, and is compatible with an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station.

[0009] Still, another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock that can ease the interchange process and minimise the time required to successfully complete the interchange process.

[0010] Still, another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock that can protect the cassettes from external elements such as dust, moisture, or debris.

[0011] Still, another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock that can readily establish an electrical and cooling connection between the cassette and a vehicle.

[0012] Still, another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock that enables secure locking and quick release of the cassettes from one of an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station, or an interchange-enabled electric vehicle, without the need for traditional fasteners.

[0013] Still, another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock that ensures precise alignment and positioning of the cassettes having multiple electrical energy storage devices to facilitate efficient electrical and thermal interfacing.

[0014] Still, another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock that integrates safety mechanisms to detect improper installation or electrical connection of the cassettes.

[0015] Still, another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a dock compatible with automated or semi -automated handling systems for minimal human intervention and enhanced operational efficiency.

[0016] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating at least one embodiment and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.SUMMARY

[0017] The present disclosure discloses a dock, wherein the dock can be integrated with one of an interchange-enabled electric vehicle, or a charging and interchange station.

[0018] The dock comprises a frame, wherein the frame is configured using a plurality of support structures. The internal surfaces of the frame define a cavity shaped to accommodate a cassette, wherein the cassette contains one or more interchangeable electrical energy storage devices. The frame is externally covered by a set of panels, including a top panel, bottom panel, right panel, left panel, and a rear panel, wherein each panel is mounted on the corresponding operational side of the frame. The left and right panels feature dock fixture openings at the operational bottom for bolting the dock into vehicles. They also include door fixture openings at the front for mounting a door. The rear panel is equipped with openings to accommodate an electrical connector and a fluid connector, both positioned to align with the cassette’s respective interfaces. The external panels serve as protective covers, shielding the cassette from dust, debris, moisture, and other contaminants.

[0019] The internal bottom of the frame includes a plurality of internal rails that span the length of the cavity, assisting in guiding the cassette during insertion and removal. The internal rails complement cassette rollers, with vertical sections guiding the cassette and horizontal sections bearing its load, wherein these rail sections are arranged perpendicular to each other. Additionally, front and rear pins are affixed along the bottom portion of the cavity, while an arrester guide with an opening is provided at the internal front portion to engage with a spring-operated lock mechanism of the cassette. The front and rear pins are positioned to align with corresponding receivers on the cassette, with an intentional offset between front andrear pins to prevent incorrect engagement. The arrester guide is designed to align with an arrester plate on the cassette, ensuring secure locking during docking. To enhance structural strength, ribs are positioned between the support structures. Bump stops are included on the internal side of the rear panel to prevent direct contact between the cassette and the frame. The frame may be manufactured using casting or assembled using fastened metal bars.

[0020] Overall, the dock simplifies and secures the installation and interchange of energy storage cassettes while providing structural integrity, environmental protection, and guided alignment features to improve interchange efficiency.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0021] Embodiments herein are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the following illustrative drawings. Embodiments herein are illustrated by way of examples in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of the dock, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0023] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the dock, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0024] FIG. 3 illustrates a rearview of the dock, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0025] FIG. 4 illustrates a right-side view of the dock, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the dock, according to embodiments as disclosed herein; and

[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates a sectional right-side view of the dock, according to embodiments as disclosed herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as not to unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practised and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0029] For the purposes of interpreting this specification, the definitions (as defined herein) will apply, and whenever appropriate, the terms used in the singular will also include the plural and vice versa. It is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purposes of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “comprising”, “having”, and “including” are to be construed as open-ended terms unless otherwise noted.

[0030] The words / phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera”, “e.g.,”, “i.e.,” are merely used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein using the words / phrases "exemplary", “example”, “illustration”, “in an instance”, “and the like”, “and so on”, “etc.”, “etcetera”, “e.g.,”, “i.e.,” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0031] Embodiments herein may be described and illustrated in terms of blocks that carry out a described function or functions. These blocks, which may be referred to herein as managers, units, modules, hardware components or the like, are physically implemented by analogue and / or digital circuits such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory circuits, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hardwired circuits and the like, and may optionally be driven by a firmware. The circuits may, for example, be embodied in one or more semiconductor chips, or on substrate supports such as printed circuit boards and the like. The circuits constituting a block may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry), or by a combination of dedicated hardware to perform some functions of the block and a processor to perform otherfunctions of the block. Each block of the embodiments may be physically separated into two or more interacting and discrete blocks without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, the blocks of the embodiments may be physically combined into more complex blocks without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0032] It should be noted that elements in the drawings are illustrated for the purposes of this description and ease of understanding and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flowcharts / sequence diagrams illustrate the method in terms of the steps required for understanding aspects of the embodiments as disclosed herein. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the present embodiments so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Furthermore, in terms of the system, one or more components / modules which comprise the system may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the present embodiments so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

[0033] The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand various technical features and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to extend to any modifications, equivalents, and substitutes in addition to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying drawings and the corresponding description. Usage of words such as first, second, third, etc., to describe components / elements / steps is for the purposes of this description and should not be construed as sequential ordering / placement / occurrence unless specified otherwise.

[0034] The embodiments herein achieve a dock that enables secure, efficient, and rapid accommodation of cassettes (having one or more electrical energy storage devices), while facilitating reliable electrical and thermal connections, minimizing interchange time, reducing risk of mechanical damage, and protecting the devices from environmental contaminants (such as, but not limited to, dust, moisture, and debris). Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 through 6, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.

[0035] The following terms / components / systems and corresponding reference numerals have been referred to herein:100 - Dock105 - Frame110 - Top Panel120 - Bottom Panel130 - Right Panel140 - Left Panel150 - Rear Panel152 - Electrical Connector154 - Fluid Connector160 - Front Panel162 - Load and Guide Rails164 - Front Pin166 - Rear Pin168 - Arrester170 - Support Structure172 - Ribs174 - Dock fixture openings176 - Door fixture openings

[0036] FIGs. 1-6 depict a dock for an electrical energy storage device charging and interchange station, and an interchange-enabled electric vehicle. The dock 100 comprises a frame 105, wherein the frame 105 is configured using a plurality of support structures 170. In an embodiment herein, the plurality of support structures 170 can be metal bars fastened together from the frame 105. The internal surfaces of the frame 105 define a cavity 160 complementary to the size of an interchangeable cassette (not shown), wherein the cassette can have one or more multiple electrical energy storage devices. In an embodiment herein, theframe 105 is provided with ribs 172, wherein the ribs 172 are placed between the support structure for strengthening the frame 105.

[0037] The frame 105 can be manufactured using various methods, including, but not limited to, casting, pressing, bending, welding, and so on, which can prevent the failure of joints between the support structures. In alternative embodiments, the frame 105 can be made from various materials such as aluminium, steel, high-strength polymers or composite materials, depending on the specific requirements of the application. In another embodiment herein, the dock can be incorporated within an electric vehicle, a charging and interchange station, or an electrical energy storage device handling system.

[0038] In an embodiment, the cavity 160 may incorporate additional features such as, but not limited to, guide channels, alignment markers, or sensor arrays (not shown) to facilitate proper positioning and monitoring of the cassettes. In an embodiment herein, the interior surfaces of the cavity may be lined with protective materials to prevent damage during insertion and removal of the energy storage device. In an alternative embodiment, the cavity 160 can be designed to accommodate various sizes and configurations of cassettes, allowing for flexibility in the types of devices that can be used with the dock 100.

[0039] The dock 100 comprises a plurality of panels provided on the external surfaces of the frame 105. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel 110 configured on the operational top of the frame 105, a bottom panel 120 configured on the operational bottom of the frame 105, a right panel 130 configured on the operational right of the frame 105, a left panel 140 configured on the operational left of the frame 105, and a rear panel 150 configured on the operational rear of the frame 105. The plurality of panels can act as a cover to the frame 105 and provide protection to the cassettes from external elements (such as, but not limited to, dust, debris, moisture, and other contaminants). In an embodiment herein, a plurality of bump stops are provided on the internal area of the rear panel. The bump stops are configured to prevent surface-to-surface contact of the cassette (i.e., the electrical energy storage device that can be placed in the dock) with the rear of the dock 100.

[0040] The right panel 130 and the left panel 140 are each provided with a plurality of dock fixture openings 174 towards the operational bottom of the dock 100. The openings 174 are configured to secure the dock 100 within the interchange-enabled electric vehicle using bolts and fixtures. The placement and design of these openings can be customised based on the specific mounting requirements of different vehicle models or charging station configurations.

[0041] In an embodiment herein, the right panel 130 and the left panel 140 are further provided with a plurality of door fixture openings 176 at the operational front of the dock 100. The door fixture openings 176 are configured to secure a door to the dock 100 using bolts and fixtures. In alternative embodiments, the left panel 140 may incorporate different fastening mechanisms, such as, but not limited to, quick-release latches or magnetic locks, for enabling easier installation and removal of the dock 100. In alternative embodiments, the door fixture openings 176 may be designed to accommodate different door styles, such as, but not limited to, sliding doors or gull-wing doors, depending on the space constraints and aesthetic preferences of the vehicle or charging station design.

[0042] The rear panel 150 is provided with one or more openings to accommodate an electrical connector 152 for electrical connection and a fluid connector 154 for fluid connection. The electrical connector 152 serves as the interface for electrical power transfer between the dock 100 and the interchangeable cassettes having multiple electrical energy storage devices. The electrical connector 152 is designed to handle high-power connections safely and efficiently, incorporating features (such as, but not limited to, robust insulation, secure locking mechanisms, and smart sensing capabilities) to ensure proper engagement. In alternative embodiments, the electrical connector 152 may be designed to accommodate various types of cassettes, enhancing the versatility of the dock system.

[0043] The fluid connector 154 facilitates the transfer of cooling or heating fluids between the dock 100 and the cassettes. The fluid connector 154 is crucial for maintaining optimal temperature conditions for the energy storage device, which is essential for its performance and longevity. The fluid connector 154 can provide a secure and leak-free connection, potentially incorporating quick-connect features for ease of use. Alternative designs may include multiple fluid connectors for separate cooling and heating circuits or integrated temperature sensors for precise thermal management.

[0044] The bottom panel 120 may be designed with reinforced areas to bear the weight of the electrical energy storage device and withstand the stresses of vehicle operation. In some embodiments, the bottom panel 120 may include drainage features to prevent fluid accumulation. The bottom panel 120 may also incorporate one or more mounting points for securing the dock 100 to the interchange-enabled electric vehicle chassis or other supporting structures.

[0045] The top panel 110 can serve as a protective cover for the upper portion of the dock 100.

[0046] The plurality of panels (the top panel 110, the bottom panel 120, the right panel 130, the left panel 140, and the rear panel 150) can be made from various materials such as, but not limited to, metal, reinforced plastic, or composite materials. In some embodiments, the plurality of panels may include additional features such as heat dissipation fins or access ports for maintenance purposes. The design of the plurality of panels can be modified to incorporate different shapes or contours to optimise aerodynamics or aesthetics, depending on the specific application of the dock 100.

[0047] A plurality of rails 162 is provided on the internal bottom part of the frame 105. In an embodiment herein, the plurality of rails 162 face the cavity 160 along a substantial length of the frame 105. In an embodiment herein, the plurality of rails 162 face the cavity 160 through the internal length of the frame 105. The rails 152 complement the rollers provided on the interchangeable cassettes, having multiple electrical energy storage devices such that during the insertion of cassettes into dock 100 or being removed from the dock 100, the rollers on the cassettes roll on the rails, providing ease of operation. The rails 162 are provided with a vertical section for guidance, complementary to the guide rollers of the cassettes, and a horizontal section for load bearing, complementary to the load rollers of the cassettes. The vertical section and the horizontal section of the rails are substantially perpendicular to each other. In alternative embodiments, the rails 162 may incorporate low-friction materials or roller bearings to further reduce insertion and removal effort.

[0048] A plurality of front pins 164 and a plurality of rear pins 166 are located strategically on the internal bottom portion of the frame 105, facing the cavity 160. The plurality of front pins 164 and the plurality of rear pins 166 are affixed on the internal bottom of the frame 105 on the length of the frame, complementing the front and rear pin receivers provided on the cassettes. During the insertion of the cassettes within the dock 100, the front and the rear receivers provided on the cassettes receive the horizontal portion of the front pins 164 and rear pins 166, respectively and prevent further movement of the cassettes within the cavity 160 of the frame 105. In an embodiment herein, the front pins 164 and the rear pins 166 are placed at an offset with each other to prevent faulty insertion of the front pins into the rear receiver of the cassettes. In alternative embodiments, the front pins 164 may be adjustable or spring-loaded to accommodate slight variations in cassette dimensions.

[0049] An arrester guide 168 having an opening is provided on the internal front portion, wherein the arrester guide 168 is affixed on the internal bottom portion of the frame 105. The arrester guide 168 is configured to complement an arrester plate of an arrester provided on the cassettes within the opening. On the cassette being completely inserted into the cavity 160 of the dock 100, the arrester plate is inserted into the opening of the arrester guide 168, thereby arresting the cassette within the cavity 160 of the dock 100. By unlocking the arrester plate, the cassette can be removed from the cavity 160 of the dock 100. In an embodiment herein, the arrester can be a spring-operated lock system. In alternative embodiments, the arrester guide 168 may incorporate electronic locking mechanisms and / or sensors to provide additional security and monitoring capabilities.

[0050] In operation, the dock 100 functions as a secure housing for the interchangeable cassette within an electric vehicle or a charging and interchange station. The user can insert the cassette into the cavity 160, guided by the rails 162. As the cassette is pushed in, the cassette engages with the front pins 164 and rear pins 166, ensuring proper alignment and positioning. Once fully inserted, the electrical connector 152 and fluid connector 154 on the rear panel 150 engage with their counterparts on the cassette, establishing the necessary connections for power transfer and fluid circulation. The arrester guide 168 then secures the cassette in place, preventing unintended movement or disconnection during operation.

[0051] The dock 100 allows for quick and efficient interchange of cassettes, potentially reducing downtime for electric vehicles. The dock 100 can be particularly beneficial in applications where rapid energy replenishment is crucial, such as in commercial fleet operations or long-distance travel scenarios. The robust construction of the dock 100, combined with its precise fitment and connection features, ensures reliable and safe operation of the electrical energy storage system in various environmental conditions.

[0052] Recognising the shortcomings of this conventional approach, the dock as described herein represents a significant advancement in the field of heavy electric vehicles. By providing a secure enclosure equipped with precisely aligned electrical and fluid connectors, embodiments herein streamline the cassette installation and interchange process. Embodiments herein enhance operational efficiency by reducing downtime, but also offering added protection to the cassette, safeguarding it against external elements, and prolonging its lifespan.

[0053] The embodiments described herein above have several technical advantages, including, but not limited to, the realisation of a dock for electric vehicles, that enables quicker and more efficient interchange of electrical energy storage devices compared to conventional fastening-based systems, that reduces mechanical wear and potential damage to both the electrical energy storage device and the vehicle during installation and removal, that minimises human intervention by supporting automated or semi -automated interchange processes, that provides enhanced environmental protection against dust, moisture, and debris, thereby improving device reliability and longevity, that ensures consistent and precise alignment for secure electrical and thermal connections, that allows modular integration across various heavy electric vehicle platforms, increasing system versatility, that incorporates built-in safety features to detect improper installation or interface faults, enhancing operational safety, that decreases downtime associated with charging by enabling fast and seamless energy storage device replacement, that eliminates the need for complex fastening tools or manual effort, simplifying the interchange process, and that supports diagnostic and monitoring capabilities during docking, aiding maintenance and health checks of the energy storage device.

[0054] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments and examples disclosed herein can be practised with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Claims

STATEMENT OF CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A dock, comprising: a frame (105) configured using a plurality of support structures (170), wherein internal surfaces of the frame (105) define a cavity (160) complementary to the size of a cassette; a plurality of panels provided on an external surface of the frame (105), wherein the plurality of panels comprises: a top panel (110) configured on an operational top of the frame (105); a bottom panel (120) configured on an operational bottom of the frame (105); a right panel (130) configured on an operational right of the frame (105); a left panel (140) configured on an operational left of the frame (105); and a rear panel (150) configured on an operational rear of the frame (105); a plurality of rails (162) provided on an internal bottom part of the frame (105), wherein the plurality of rails (162) face the cavity (160) along a substantial length of the frame (105); a plurality of front pins (164) and a plurality of rear pins (166) located on an internal bottom portion of the frame (105) facing the cavity (160); and an arrester guide (168) having an opening provided on an internal front portion of the dock, wherein the arrester guide (168) is affixed on the internal bottom portion of the frame (105).

2. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame (105) is provided with ribs (172) placed between the support structures (170) for strengthening the frame (105).

3. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dock (100) is incorporated within an interchange-enabled electric vehicle, a charging and interchange station, or an electrical energy storage device handling system.

4. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels act as a cover to the frame (105) and provide protection to the cassette having multiple electrical energy storage devices from external elements.

5. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of bump stops are provided on an internal area of the rear panel (150), wherein the bump stops are configured to prevent surface-to-surface contact of the cassette with a rear of the dock (100).

6. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the right panel (130) and the left panel (140) are provided with a plurality of dock fixture openings (174) towards the operational bottom of the dock (100), wherein the plurality of dock fixture openings (174) are configured to secure the dock (100) using bolts and fixtures.

7. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the right panel (130) and the left panel (140) are provided with a plurality of door fixture openings (176) at the operational front of the dock (100), wherein the plurality of door fixture openings (176) are configured to secure a door to the dock (100) using bolts and fixtures.

8. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear panel (150) is provided with one or more openings to accommodate an electrical connector (152) for electrical connection and a fluid connector (154) for fluid connection, wherein the electrical connector (152) and the fluid connector (154) are positioned in the rear panel (150) complementary to an electrical connector and fluid connector of the cassettes.

9. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of rails (162) complement rollers provided on the cassettes, wherein the plurality of rails (162) are provided with a vertical section for guidance, complementary to guide rollers of the cassette, and a horizontal section for load bearing, complementary to load rollers of the cassette, and the vertical section and the horizontal section of the rails (162) are substantially perpendicular to each other.

10. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of front pins (164) and the plurality of rear pins (166) are affixed on the internal bottom of the frame (105) along a length of the frame (105) complementing front and rear pin receivers provided on the cassettes, wherein the plurality of front pins (164) and the plurality of rear pins (166) are placed at an offset with each other to prevent faulty insertion of the front pins into the rear receiver of the cassettes.

11. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the arrester guide (168) is configured to complement an arrester plate of an arrester provided on the cassette within the opening, wherein the arrester is a spring-operated lock system.

12. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame (105) is configured using metal bars fastened together.

13. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cavity (160) is configured to accommodate at least one interchangeable cassette.

14. The dock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of rails (162) facilitate insertion and removal of the cassette into and from the dock (100).

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