A manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system

Abstract

A manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system Embodiments herein disclose a hybrid manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system (MBHS), wherein the hybrid system aims to combine the efficiency of automation with the practicality of human intervention, offering a more sustainable and economical solution for the transportation sector.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONThis application is based on and derives the benefit of Indian Provisional Application IN202441065099, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to electrical energy storage unit interchange systems for heavy-duty vehicles, and more particularly to a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system in an electrical energy storage unit interchange system for heavy-duty vehicles.BACKGROUND

[0002] In the contemporary landscape, electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly recognized for their numerous advantages, including reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and alignment with sustainability goals. Among the various advancements in this field, the adoption of electrical energy storage unit interchange technology particularly for heavy-duty vehicles (for example, buses and trucks) is witnessing growing interest and acceptance. This technology offers the promise of minimizing vehicle downtime by enabling quick replacement of depleted energy storage units with fully charged ones, thus improving operational efficiency.

[0003] However, implementing an effective interchange system for heavy-duty vehicles presents several significant challenges. One of the foremost issues arises from the inherently large size and considerable weight of the electrical energy storage units required to power these vehicles. Their substantial mass and bulkiness make the process of handling, moving, and replacing them extremely demanding, creating logistical and operational difficulties.

[0004] To address these challenges, automated cassette handling systems (often referred to as Automated Battery Handling Systems or ABHS) have been developed. These systems are designed to automate the interchange process, thereby reducing the need for human intervention and improving speed and safety. ABHS solutions streamline the removal and installation of heavy energy storage cassettes, making the interchange process more viable for commercial-scale deployment.

[0005] Despite these advantages, the adoption of ABHS comes with its own set of drawbacks. Chief among them is the high capital expenditure required for their initial setup, which can pose a barrier for operators or fleet owners with budget constraints. In addition to the substantial upfront investment, ABHS solutions also incur considerable maintenance costsover their operational lifetime, adding to the overall financial burden. Furthermore, given the size and weight of the energy storage units, manual handling remains impractical and unsafe, underscoring the need for either automated solutions or alternative approaches to overcome these challenges effectively.

[0006] Hence, there is a need in the art for solutions which will overcome the above mentioned drawback(s), among others.OBJECTS

[0007] The principal object of embodiments herein is to disclose a manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system (MBHS) that aims to combine the efficiency of automation with the practicality of human intervention, offering a more sustainable and economical solution for the transportation sector.

[0008] Another objective of the embodiments herein is to reduce the capital investment required for handling electrical energy storage units by minimizing the level of automation without compromising safety and operational effectiveness.

[0009] Yet another objective is to provide a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system (MBHS) that ensures the safe and ergonomic handling of heavy and bulky energy storage cassettes, reducing the physical strain and risk of injury to human operators.

[0010] Still another objective is to design a manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system (MBHS) that offers greater operational flexibility by allowing both manual and semi-automated operation modes, thereby adapting to different site conditions, budgets, and workforce capabilities.

[0011] An objective of the embodiments herein is to lower the maintenance costs typically associated with fully automated battery handling systems by integrating simpler mechanical and assistive components with minimal electronics.

[0012] Another objective is to enable faster interchange of energy storage units in heavy-duty vehicles compared to manual systems, thereby improving turnaround time and vehicle availability.

[0013] Yet another objective is to make the system scalable and modular, allowing it to be deployed in small or large interchange stations as per demand, with the ability to upgrade or downgrade automation levels as needed.

[0014] An additional objective of the present disclosure is to facilitate training and ease- of-use, making it possible for operators with minimal technical background to effectively use the system after brief instruction.

[0015] Still another objective is to enhance the reliability of the interchange process by providing redundant manual overrides in case of power failure or malfunction in the semiautomated components.

[0016] A further objective of the embodiments herein is to contribute to the overall sustainability goals of the electric transportation industry by offering a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for handling energy storage units, thereby promoting wider adoption of interchange technology.

[0017] 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

[0018] A manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system (MBHS) is disclosed, which comprises a platform configured to host one or more interchangeable electrical energy storage units. The platform is substantially rectangular in shape and is manufactured using a plurality of bars and ribs designed to carry high loads.

[0019] A control unit is displaceably mounted on the platform using a plurality of linear motion (LM) rails and LM blocks. The LM rails are mounted linearly on the platform along its length, and the LM blocks are fixed to the bottom face of the control unit, enabling it to slide linearly on the LM rails. The lock key has a profiled projection that unlocks the cassette from the dock of a vehicle or from a cassette compartment of a charging and interchange station. The lock key is also configured to lock and hold the cassette in place and to assist the control unit in pulling and pushing the cassette into and out of the dock or compartment.

[0020] The system further includes a lock key mounted on the control unit and operated by a servo motor, a prime mover coupled to the control unit, and a rack and pinion arrangement configured to provide linear movement to the control unit along the LM rails. Additionally, aguidance system is included, comprising a plurality of rails in a parallel spaced-apart configuration, mounted on the platform.

[0021] The rack of the rack and pinion arrangement is mounted on the platform, while the pinion is fixed to the shaft of the prime mover. The pinion meshes with the rack and converts the rotational motion of the prime mover shaft into linear motion of the control unit. The guidance rails on the platform include a guide section and a load section, which accommodate one or more guide rollers and one or more load rollers respectively, wherein the one or more guide rollers and the one or more load rollers are provided on the cassette. The load rollers carry the weight of the cassette, while the guide rollers guide the cassette onto the platform during interchange.

[0022] The system also includes a stacker configured to accommodate the platform. The platform provides a provision for rigidly mounting a stacker arm, allowing operation of the platform using the stacker to handle the electrical energy storage units. The control unit and the prime mover shaft are powered by an external electrical energy storage unit provided on the stacker and / or a power source. The platform is mounted in line with the stacker arm and is configured to be mounted horizontally with it.

[0023] A method for handling electrical energy storage units using the manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system is also disclosed. The method involves positioning the platform along a dock or a charging and interchange station to receive a cassette, moving the control unit along the LM rails using the prime mover and the rack and pinion arrangement, and engaging the lock key with the cassette's locking mechanism. The control unit then pulls the cassette onto the platform, after which the platform is repositioned along the dock to release the cassette from the lock key. Finally, the control unit pushes the cassette into its new position in the dock, secures it, and unlocks the cassette using the lock key.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0024] 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:

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates an isometric view of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system mounted on a stacker, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0029] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system mounted on a stacker, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system mounted on a stacker, according to embodiments as disclosed herein; and

[0031] FIG. 7 illustrates an isometric view of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system mounted on a stacker, according to embodiments as disclosed herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] 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 practiced 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] Embodiments herein may be described and illustrated in terms of blocks which 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] The embodiments herein achieve a hybrid manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system (MBHS). Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 through 7, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.

[0039] A Cassette as referred to herein, can be an electro-mechanical device comprising at least one Electrical energy storage device, an ICU (Interface Control Unit), a TIU (TelematicInterface Unit), a BCU (Body Control Unit) and a plurality of sensors interconnected with each other, to behave as a unitary system.

[0040] Embodiments herein disclose a cost-effective solution that strikes a balance between automation and manual assistance. Embodiments herein disclose a hybrid manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system (MBHS). The MBHS aims to combine the efficiency of automation with the practicality of human intervention, offering a more sustainable and economical solution for the transportation sector. Embodiments herein disclose a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system that is simple and easy to operate. Embodiments herein disclose a MBHS that has a lower cost of investment and maintenance, and is efficient.

[0041] The following reference numerals have been referred to herein:100 - Manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system102 - Platform104 - Prime Mover106 - Control Unit108 - Lock Key110 - Guide And Load Rail112 - Rack And Pinion Arrangement114 - LM Rails116 - LM Block118 - Stacker120 - Stacker Arm122 - Railing

[0042] FIGs. 1-3 disclose a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system (MBHS) 100. The MBHS 100 comprises a platform 102, a prime mover 104, a control unit 106, a lock key 108, rails 110, a rack and pinion arrangement 112, a plurality of Linear motion (LM) rails 114, and a plurality of LM blocks (116). These components work together to facilitate the handling and interchange of electrical energy storage units, such as cassettes, in a semi-automated manner.

[0043] The platform 102 serves as the as a base structure for the entire system, providing stability and support for the other components. The platform 102 is configured to host one or more electrical energy storage units for interchange. In an example herein, the platform 102 can be substantially rectangular in shape. The platform 102 can comprise a plurality of bars and ribs for carrying high loads. The robust construction of the platform ensures stability and durability during the handling process. In alternative embodiments, the platform 102 may be constructed using materials (such as, but not limited to, lightweight alloys, composite materials, and so on) to reduce the overall weight of the system while maintaining structural integrity.

[0044] The control unit 106 is displaceably mounted on the platform 102 using the plurality of Linear motion (LM) rails 114, and the plurality of LM blocks 116. The plurality of LM rails 114 are mounted linearly on the platform 102 along its length. The LM blocks 116 are attached to the bottom face of the control unit 106. This configuration allows the control unit 106 to slide linearly along the LM rails 114, providing precise and smooth movement during operation.

[0045] The control unit 102 is equipped with a lock key 108 operated by a servo motor (not shown). The lock key 108 features a profiled projection (not shown) configured to unlock the cassette from the dock of a vehicle or a dock (i.e., an electrical energy storage / charging unit compartment) of a charging and interchange station. The lock key 108 is configured to lock and hold the cassette and assist the control unit 106 in pulling and pushing the cassette out and into the dock of a vehicle or the dock of the station. Alternative designs of the lock key 108 may include multiple locking mechanisms or adjustable profiles to accommodate various cassette designs and docking systems.

[0046] Alternative embodiments may include different locking mechanisms (such as, but not limited to, electromagnetic locks, hydraulic systems, and so on) to accommodate various cassette designs and improve security.

[0047] The control unit 106 is further coupled to a prime mover 104. The prime mover 104 is configured to provide linear movement to the control unit 106 along the LM rail 114 using the rack and pinion arrangement 112. The rack of the rack and pinion arrangement 112 is mounted on the platform 102 and the pinion of the rack and pinion arrangement 112 is mounted on the shaft of the prime mover 104. The pinion is functionally meshed with the rack and converts the rotational motion of the prime mover shaft to the linear movement. Inalternative embodiments, the prime mover 104 may employ other mechanisms for linear actuation (such as, but not limited to, a ball screw a linear motor, and so on) to achieve precise and smooth movement of the control unit 106. In additional embodiments, the prime mover 104 may incorporate variable speed control and / or regenerative braking capabilities to optimize energy efficiency during operation. In additional embodiments, the LM rails and blocks 114, 116 may incorporate self-lubricating materials or advanced bearing technologies to further enhance their performance and longevity.

[0048] The platform 102 incorporates a guidance system including a plurality of rails 110 in a parallel spaced apart configuration. The rails 110 are configured to have a guide section and a load section. The guide section accommodates guide rollers provided on the cassette, while the load section supports load rollers provided on the cassette. This dual-purpose design ensures that the weight of the cassettes is properly distributed on the load rollers, while the guide rollers facilitate smooth and accurate movement of the electrical energy storage unit / cassette onto the platform for interchange.

[0049] In an alternative embodiment, the system 100 may include additional sensors or monitoring devices to track the position and status of the cassettes during the handling process. These sensors could provide real-time feedback to the control unit 106, enabling more precise control and improved efficiency in the interchange process.

[0050] In alternative embodiments, the guidance system may incorporate additional features (such as, but not limited to, self-aligning mechanisms, adjustable rail positions, and so on) to accommodate different cassette sizes and configurations.

[0051] The MBHS 100 operates through a series of steps. First, the platform 102 is positioned along the dock or the charging and interchange station to receive the cassette. The control unit 106 then moves along the LM rails 114, driven by the prime mover 104 and guided by the rack and pinion arrangement 112. As the control unit 106 approaches the cassette, the lock key 108 engages with the cassette's locking mechanism and locks the cassette to the control unit. The control unit 106 then pulls the cassette onto the platform 102. The platform 102 is re-positioned along the dock or the charging and interchange station to release the cassette. The control unit 106 then pushes the cassette into the dock or the charging and interchange station. Once the cassette is secured, the control unit 106 unlocks the cassettes with the lock key 108. Throughout this process, the rails 110 guide and support the cassette, ensuring smooth and secure movement.

[0052] FIGs. 4, 5 & 6 illustrate the manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system 100 with a stacker 118. The stacker 118 is configured to accommodate the platform 102. The platform 102 can be mounted in various configurations, including in-line with the stacker arm 120 or horizontally, depending on the specific application requirements.

[0053] The platform 102 is equipped with a provision to insert the stacker arm 120 for rigidly mounting the platform 102. The platform 102 can now be operated using the stacker 118 for handling electrical energy storage units that needs interchange. The control unit 106 and the prime mover 102 are powered by an external electrical energy storage unit provided on the stacker 118. In an embodiment, the platform is mounted in line with the stacker arm 120.

[0054] The platform 102 is further configured to host one or more railings 122 on either side of the platform 102 to prevent accidental damage to the electrical energy storage unit during handling. The railings 122 provide an additional safety feature, ensuring the secure movement of cassettes during the interchange process. In alternative embodiments, the railings 122 may be equipped with one or more sensors to further provide feedback on the positioning of the cassettes. In alternative embodiments, the railings 122 may be equipped with one or more cushioning materials to further enhance protection.

[0055] In an embodiment herein, the platform 102 can be mounted horizontally with the stacker arm 120 as shown in FIG. 7. The horizontal mounting of the platform 102 with the stacker arm 120 provides stability to the system 100.

[0056] The embodiments described herein have several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system,- that enables efficient and reliable transfer of heavy energy storage units (i.e., cassettes) with reduced dependence on fully automated mechanisms;- that lowers the overall cost of implementation and maintenance while maintaining safety and operational effectiveness;- that ensures ergonomic and safe handling of bulky cassettes, minimizing operator fatigue and risk of injury;- that provides smooth, precise, and controlled movement of the handling mechanism for accurate positioning of the cassette;- that securely engages and releases the cassette during the interchange process, improving operational reliability;- that converts available power efficiently into controlled linear movement to facilitate the interchange process with minimal effort;- that allows integration into diverse operational environments and adapts to varying levels of infrastructure readiness;- that guides and supports the cassette during movement to prevent misalignment or accidental damage;- that offers operational flexibility, allowing continued functionality even in case of partial failure of automated components; and- that promotes wider adoption of energy storage unit interchange technology by providing a cost-effective, sustainable, and user-friendly solution suitable for heavy-duty vehicles.

[0057] The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented through at least one software program running on at least one hardware device and performing network management functions to control the network elements. The elements include blocks which can be at least one of a hardware device or a combination of hardware devices and software modules.

[0058] The embodiments disclosed herein describe a hybrid manually assisted semiautomated cassette handling system (MBHS). Therefore, it is understood that the scope of the protection is extended to such a program and in addition to a computer readable means having a message therein, such computer readable storage means contain program code means for implementation of one or more steps of the method, when the program runs on a server or mobile device or any suitable programmable device. The method is implemented in at least one embodiment through or together with a software program written in e.g., Very high-speed integrated circuit Hardware Description Language (VHDL) another programming language or implemented by one or more VHDL or several software modules being executed on at least one hardware device. The hardware device can be any kind of portable device that can be programmed. The device may also include means which could be e.g., hardware means e.g., an ASIC, or a combination of hardware and software means, e.g. an ASIC and an FPGA, or at least one microprocessor and at least one memory with software modules located therein. The method embodiments described herein could be implemented partly in hardware and partly insoftware. Alternatively, the invention may be implemented on different hardware devices, e.g., using a plurality of CPUs.

[0059] 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 practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Claims

STATEMENT OF CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system comprising: a platform (102) configured to host one or more cassettes for interchange; a control unit (106) displaceably mounted on the platform (102) using a plurality of Linear Motion (LM) rails (114) and a plurality of LM blocks (116); a lock key (108) mounted on the control unit (106) and operated by a servo motor; a prime mover (104) coupled to the control unit (106); a rack and pinion arrangement (112) configured to provide linear movement to the control unit (106) along the LM rail (114); and a guidance system including a plurality of rails (110) in a parallel spaced apart configuration, mounted on the platform (102).The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claimwherein the platform (102) is substantially rectangular in shape.

3. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the platform (102) comprises a plurality of bars and ribs.The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of LM rails (114) are mounted linearly on the platform (102) along its length, and the LM blocks (116) are mounted at the bottom face of the control unit (106), wherein the LM blocks (116) are configured to slide linearly on the LM rails (114).

5. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lock key (108) has a profiled projection configured to unlock the cassette from the dock of a vehicle or a cassette compartment of a charging and interchange station, wherein the lock key (108) is configured to lock and hold the cassette.

6. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the lock key (108) is configured to assist the control unit (106) in pulling and pushing the cassette out and into the dock of a vehicle or the dock of the charging and interchange station.

7. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rack of the rack and pinion arrangement (112) is mounted on the platform (102) and the pinion of the rack and pinion arrangement (112) is mounted on the shaft of the prime mover (104), wherein the pinion is functionally meshed with the rack and converts the rotational motion of the prime mover shaft to the linear movement.

8. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rails (110) are configured to have a guide section and load section.

9. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the guide section and load section are configured to accommodate guide rollers and load rollers respectively provided on the cassette, wherein the load rollers carry the weight of the cassette, and the guide rollers guide the cassette onto the platform for interchange.

10. The manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system includes a stacker (118) configured to accommodate the platform (102), wherein the platform (102) is configured to be operated using the stacker (118) for handling the cassette that needs interchange.

11. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the platform (102) is provided with a provision to insert a stacker arm (120) for rigidly mounting the platform (102), wherein the platform (102) is mounted in line with the stacker arm (120), and horizontally with the stacker arm (120).

12. The manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the control unit (106) and the prime mover (104) are powered by an external electrical energy storage unit provided on the stacker (118).

13. The manually assisted semi-automated cassette handling system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the platform (102) is configured to host railings (122) on either side, wherein the railings (122) are configured to prevent accidental damage to the cassette during handling.

14. A method for handling cassettes using a manually assisted semi -automated cassette handling system, the method comprising: positioning a platform (102) along a dock or a charging and interchange station to receive a cassette; moving a control unit (106) along LM rails (114) using a prime mover (104) and a rack and pinion arrangement (112);engaging a lock key (108) mounted on the control unit (106) with the cassette's locking mechanism and locking the cassette to the control unit; pulling the cassette onto the platform (102) by the control unit (106); re-positioning the platform (102) along the dock or the charging and interchange station to release the cassette; pushing the cassette into the dock or the charging and interchange station using the control unit (106); securing the cassette in its new position; and unlocking the cassette using the lock key (108).

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