A multi-dock system for heavy vehicles of varying capacity

Abstract

Embodiments herein disclose a multi-dock system for electrical energy storage device interchange compatible with heavy electric vehicles of varying capacity. Embodiments herein disclose a multi-dock system for a heavy vehicle that can accommodate multiple-capacity electrical energy storage devices. Embodiments herein disclose a multi-dock system for a heavy vehicle that is easy to install and operate. Embodiments herein disclose a multi-dock system for a heavy vehicle that has a lower cost of manufacturing and maintenance.

Description

A multi-dock system for heavy vehicles of varying capacityCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONThis application is based on and derives the benefit of Indian Provisional Application IN202441065127, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to a multi-dock system for heavy vehicles, and more particularly to a multi -dock system for electrical energy storage device interchange compatible heavy electric vehicles of varying capacity.BACKGROUND

[0002] Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles, driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. As adoption grows across various mobility sectors, including commercial and passenger transport, EVs promise benefits such as lower operating costs, reduced noise pollution, and improved energy efficiency. However, despite these advantages, EVs face certain limitations; most notably, extended charging durations and range anxiety. These issues are particularly pronounced in heavy-duty applications, where vehicle downtime for charging can severely impact operational efficiency and logistics planning.

[0003] The adoption of electrical energy storage device interchange is gaining momentum as an efficient alternative to plug-in charging for electric vehicles. This method significantly reduces downtime by allowing depleted electrical energy storage devices to be quickly replaced with fully charged ones, offering a practical solution to range anxiety and long wait times. While this approach is already showing promise for light and mid-sized vehicles, its extension to heavy-duty electric vehicles (for example, buses, trucks, vans, and so on) remains complex due to their higher energy demands and larger system footprints.

[0004] A key challenge in enabling electrical energy storage device interchange for heavy vehicles is the variability in energy requirements across different vehicle models. In an example scenario, trucks and buses may require electrical energy storage devices with considerably different capacities, which complicates standardization. Designing a system that caters to all vehicle classes using a one-size-fits-all solution becomes impractical, as it leads to inefficiencies in spatial design, power delivery, and thermal management. Additionally, theincreased size and weight of these storage devices make manual or semi -automated handling even more difficult without a scalable and robust infrastructure.

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

[0006] The principal object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system for a heavy electric vehicle, wherein the multi-dock system can be compatible with varying electrical energy storage device capacities / shape / sizes.

[0007] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system for a heavy electric vehicle that can accommodate a plurality of electrical energy storage devices.

[0008] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system for a heavy electric vehicle that is easy to install and operate.

[0009] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system for a heavy electric vehicle that has a lower cost of manufacturing and maintenance.

[0010] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system that enables efficient handling, alignment, and positioning of interchangeable electrical energy storage devices of varying capacities / shape / sizes.

[0011] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system that supports parallel or sequential operation for simultaneous interchange of multiple energy storage devices.

[0012] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system that ensures operational safety and stability during the interchange process for heavy energy storage devices.

[0013] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system that is scalable and adaptable to different station configurations and spatial constraints.

[0014] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system with integrated monitoring and control features to track the status and operation of each dock independently.

[0015] Another object of embodiments herein is to disclose a multi -dock system that minimizes interchange time and maximizes uptime for heavy electric vehicles.

[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] A multi -dock system for heavy electric vehicles, wherein the multi -dock system comprises a frame that defines a plurality of compartments. Each compartment can be configured to accommodate electrical energy storage device packs of varying capacities. These compartments are designed to provide versatile and secure housing for energy storage devices used in heavy electric vehicles. Within each compartment, multiple guide and load rails are positioned internally to facilitate smooth insertion and removal of the packs. Additionally, clamps are provided within each compartment to firmly secure the packs during operation or transit, preventing unintended movement. The rear end of the frame features a back plate that allows for the mounting of standardized fluid and electrical female connectors, ensuring consistent and reliable connectivity with the energy storage device packs.

[0018] The frame of the system is constructed using one or more support structures (such as, but not limited to, metal bars), which are joined using a variety of metal joining techniques, (such as, but not limited to, welding, brazing, soldering, riveting, bolting, adhesive bonding, and so on). This construction ensures durability and stability, essential for handling heavy and high-capacity energy storage devices. The guide and load rails may be located on the floor, sides, or top of the compartment and are aligned to interface smoothly with guide and load rollers on the energy storage device packs. The clamps are positioned to match clamp receivers on the packs, enhancing safety during the interchange process. The fluid and electrical connectors on the back plate are placed to correspond precisely with male connectors on the energy storage packs, supporting quick and accurate connection during installation.

[0019] The system is highly configurable and modular, allowing for a mix of compartment sizes and capacities. Larger compartments can house high-capacity packs, while also being capable of accommodating one or more lower-capacity packs, depending on operational needs. Smaller compartments are dedicated to lower-capacity packs, creating aflexible arrangement tailored to specific vehicle requirements. The multi-dock system can include two or more large compartments of the same or differing capacities and may also combine them with smaller compartments in the same structure. The design supports dynamic combinations of energy storage device capacities, optimizing resource utilization when a specific size is unavailable. The multiple multi-dock systems can be installed side-by-side to scale up for higher capacity demand. This modular and adaptive design enhances operational flexibility and enables broad deployment across varied heavy electric vehicle.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0020] 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:

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a multi-dock system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a multi-dock system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates an example front view of a multi-dock system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of an example multi-dock system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;

[0025] FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of an example multi-dock system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein; and

[0026] FIGs. 6A and 6B illustrate a front view of an example multi-dock system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] The embodiments herein achieve a modular and adaptable solution for the interchange of electrical energy storage devices in heavy electric vehicles with varying capacity requirements. By introducing a multi -dock system capable of handling diverse storage device sizes and configurations, embodiments herein address key challenges such as compatibility, efficient handling, and reduced downtime. Furthermore, the system is designed to be cost- effective, easy to install and operate, while ensuring safety, scalability, and optimal stationlevel performance.

[0034] Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGS. 1 through 6B, 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:05 - Electrical energy storage device pack of lower capacity10 - Electrical energy storage device pack of higher capacity20 - Multi Dock25 - Compartment100 - Multi dock102 - Frame104 - Compartment106 - Backplate108 - Guide rails110 - Clamp150 - Multi dock160 - Compartment170 - Compartment200 - Multi dock210 - Compartment250 - Multi dock260 - Compartment270 - Compartment

[0036] FIGs. 1-6B discloses a multi-dock system 100 for heavy electric vehicles. The multi-dock system 100 comprises a frame 102 defining a plurality of compartments 104, guide and load rails 106, clamps 108, and a back plate 110. The frame 102 is configured to accommodate multiple electrical energy storage device packs of varying capacities, providing a versatile solution for electric vehicle power management. Capacities as referred to herein canrefer to batteries of at least one of varying WattHour (Wh), KiloWh (KWh), size, dimensions, shapes, and so on.

[0037] The frame 102 of the multi-dock system 100 is configured using one or more support structures, (such as, but not limited to, metal bars, and so on), wherein the support structures can be fused together using fasteners. The frame 102 can be customized to include different numbers and sizes of compartments, allowing for flexibility in accommodating various combinations of electrical energy storage device packs. The frame 102 can be constructed using various materials, (such as, but not limited to, steel, aluminium alloys, alloys, composite materials, and so on) to ensure durability and stability. In alternative embodiments, the frame 102 may incorporate lightweight composite materials to reduce overall weight without compromising structural integrity. Alternative embodiments may include modular frame designs that allow for easy expansion or reconfiguration of the multi-dock system.

[0038] The compartments 104 are designed to accommodate a plurality of electrical energy storage device packs of varying capacity. Each compartment 104 can provide a secure and efficient storage space for the energy storage devices. The compartments 104 can vary in size, with larger compartments capable of accommodating higher capacity storage devices or multiple smaller capacity devices. In alternative embodiments, the compartments 104 may feature adjustable dividers or modular inserts to optimize space utilization for different pack capacities.

[0039] Each compartment 104 is provided with guide and load rails 106, which enable effortless insertion and extraction of electrical energy storage device packs from the compartment 104. The guide and load rails 106 are installed on the floor of each compartment 104. The guide and load rails 106 are complimentary to the guide and load rollers provided on the electrical energy storage device packs, thereby ensuring a seamless interface between the storage devices and the multi-dock system. The guide and load rails 106 can be made of low- friction materials (such as, but not limited to, PTFE-coated metal, high-density polyethylene, and so on) to minimize wear and ensure longevity. In alternative embodiments, the guide and load rails 106 may incorporate powered rollers to assist in the movement of heavier packs. In alternative embodiments, the guide and load rails 106 may include magnetic levitation systems or air cushion mechanisms for even smoother pack handling.

[0040] Each compartment 104 is further provided with a plurality of clamp 108 placed on the floor of the compartment 104. These clamps 108 are complimentary to the clampreceiver provided on the electrical energy storage device pack. The primary function of the clamps 108 is to secure the storage devices in place, preventing any unintended movement within the compartments 104 during operation or transportation. This feature enhances the safety and reliability of the multi -dock system 100. The clamping mechanism may utilize various technologies (such as, but not limited to, mechanical locks, electromagnetic systems, hydraulic actuators, and so on) to ensure a secure and reliable hold. Alternative embodiments may include using sensor-equipped clamps that provide real-time feedback on the pack's position and security status.

[0041] A back plate 110 is provided on the rear end of the frame 102, wherein the back plate 110 serves as an interface for electrical and fluid connections. The back plate 110 features one or more cutouts for mounting of a fluid female connector and an electrical female connector. The connectors are positioned to align with the fluid male connectors and electrical male connectors on the electrical energy storage device packs. This standardized connector layout ensures compatibility across different pack capacities and simplifies the connection process. Alternative designs may incorporate quick-connect systems or wireless power transfer technologies for even more efficient pack integration.

[0042] In operation, the multi-dock system 100 allows for flexible configuration of electrical energy storage devices. For instance, a larger compartment can accommodate a higher capacity energy storage device (for example, 100 kWh, 120 kWh, 150 kWh, 180 kWh, and so on) or, alternatively, a smaller capacity energy storage device (e.g., 30 kWh, 50 kWh, 60 kWh, and so on) when larger units are unavailable. This adaptability is particularly beneficial in situations where specific capacity requirements need to be met or when dealing with limited availability of certain storage device sizes at interchange stations.

[0043] The multi-dock system 100 can be arranged in various configurations to meet different capacity demands. Multiple units can be placed adjacent to each other, allowing for scalability without the need to expand compartments vertically beyond practical vehicle heights. This modular approach provides a versatile solution for a wide range of electric vehicle power requirements.

[0044] Electrical energy storage devices 5 and 10 of varying capacity are designed to provide varying power to heavy vehicles based on their capacity. The electrical energy storage device packs of varying capacity are designed such that, all the electrical energy storage device packs of different capacity have a constant width and length, wherein the electrical energystorage device packs of different capacity vary only in height. Further, the fluid and electrical connectors are provided at a standard location. The standard location is consistent with all the electrical energy storage device packs of varying capacities. This design enables the insertion of smaller capacity electrical energy storage device packs into the bigger compartment without hassle. This is mainly helpful in conditions where larger electrical energy storage devices might not be available in interchange stations for interchange. In such conditions, smaller-capacity electrical energy storage device packs might be substituted.

[0045] FIG. 3 discloses an example multi-dock system 20 having a single larger compartment 25. The system 20 includes a frame structure, guide and load rails, clamping mechanisms, and electrical and fluid connectors, all working in conjunction to facilitate the efficient insertion, extraction, and operation of the electrical energy storage devices.

[0046] In the depicted example, the larger compartment 25 of the multi -dock system 20 is configured to accommodate a higher capacity storage device 10. This design allows for the storage and utilization of substantial electrical energy, suitable for powering heavy electric vehicles that require significant power output. The compartment 25 is equipped with guide and load rails positioned on its floor, complementary to the guide and load rollers provided on the electrical energy storage device pack. This configuration enables effortless insertion and extraction of the electrical energy storage device pack from the compartment 25.

[0047] The compartment is further configured to accommodate a smaller capacity energy storage device 05, in situations where higher capacity electrical energy storage devices 10 are unavailable. Hence in combination, the example multi -dock system 20 can operate in two different combinations of electrical energy storage device capacities based on the requirement. This versatility in accommodation is achieved through the standardized design of the electrical energy storage device packs. All packs, regardless of their capacity, maintain a constant width and length, with variable heights. This design principle ensures that smaller capacity devices can be easily inserted into larger compartments without any compatibility issues.

[0048] FIG. 4 discloses an example multi-dock system 150 having two different compartment sizes designed to accommodate electrical energy storage device packs of varying capacities. The multi -dock system 150 includes a larger capacity compartment 160 and a smaller capacity compartment 170 both integrated into a single frame structure. This configuration allows for flexible energy storage options to meet diverse vehicle requirements.

[0049] In the depicted example, the larger compartment 160 can accommodate the higher capacity storage device 10 and the smaller capacity energy storage device 05. The compartment 160 features guide and load rails placed on its floor, complementary to the guide and load rollers provided on the electrical energy storage device pack. These rails enable effortless insertion and extraction of the energy storage device from the compartment. Additionally, the larger compartment 160 is equipped with a plurality of clamps positioned on its floor, corresponding to clamp receivers on the electrical energy storage device pack. These clamps serve to restrict unintended movement of the energy storage device within the compartment.

[0050] The smaller compartment 170 is capable of accommodating the smaller capacity energy storage device 50. Similar to the larger compartment, the smaller compartment 170 is also fitted with guide and load rails and clamps to ensure secure placement and easy handling of the energy storage device. The dimensions of this compartment are optimized for the smaller capacity battery pack, maximizing space efficiency within the multi-dock system.

[0051] Hence in combination, the example multi-dock system 150 can operate in four different combinations of electrical energy storage device capacity based on the requirement. These combinations include: a higher capacity energy storage device 10 in the larger compartment and a smaller capacity energy storage device 05 in the smaller compartment, two smaller capacity energy storage devices 05 in both compartments, one higher capacity energy storage device 10 in the larger compartment, or a smaller capacity energy storage device 05 in the larger compartment or the smaller compartment. This adaptability ensures that the multidock system can cater to a wide range of energy needs for different types of heavy electric vehicles.

[0052] FIG. 5 discloses an example multi-dock system 200 having two large compartments of equal capacity 210. The compartments 210 are configured to accommodate electrical energy storage device packs of varying capacities, specifically a higher capacity electrical energy storage device 10 and a smaller capacity electrical energy storage device 05.

[0053] The multi-dock system 200 is designed with a frame structure that defines the two large compartments 210. Each compartment 210 is equipped with guide and load rails positioned on the floor, wherein the guide and load rails are complementary to guide and load rollers provided on the electrical energy storage device packs. This configuration enables effortless insertion and extraction of the electrical energy storage device packs from thecompartments 210. Each compartment 210 is further equipped with a plurality of clamps positioned on the floor. These clamps are complementary to clamp receivers provided on the electrical energy storage device packs. A back plate is provided on the rear end of the frame of the multi-dock system 200. This back plate comprises one or more cutouts configured for mounting fluid female connectors and electrical female connectors. The positions of these connectors are complementary to the positions of fluid male connectors and electrical male connectors provided on the electrical energy storage device packs.

[0054] In the depicted example, the larger compartment 160 is capable of accommodating the higher capacity energy storage device 10 and the lower capacity energy storage device 05. Hence in combination, the example multi-dock system 200 can operate in five different combinations of electrical energy storage device capacity based on the requirement. The combinations include: two higher capacity energy storage devices 10 in both the compartments, one higher capacity energy storage device 10 in one compartment and one lower capacity energy storage device 05 in another compartment, two lower capacity energy storage devices 05 in both the compartment, one higher capacity energy storage device 10 in either compartment, with the other compartment empty, or one lower capacity energy storage device 05 in either compartment, with the other compartment empty.

[0055] FIGs. 6A and 6B disclose an example multi-dock system 250 having three compartments of two large compartments 260 and one smaller compartment 270, wherein the compartments are arranged to efficiently utilize the available space while accommodating different sizes of electrical energy storage device packs.

[0056] The large compartments 260 are designed to accommodate higher capacity energy storage devices 10. These compartments are versatile, as they can also house electrical energy storage devices of lower capacity energy storage device 05, when higher capacity devices are unavailable. This flexibility allows for optimal utilization of available resources and ensures continuity of service even when specific capacity batteries are in short supply.

[0057] The smaller compartment 270 is specifically designed to accommodate lower capacity energy storage devices 05. This compartment provides a dedicated space for smaller batteries, ensuring efficient use of space within the multi-dock system 250.

[0058] Each compartment 260, 270 is equipped with guide and load rails positioned on the floor, wherein the guide and load rails are complementary to guide and load rollers provided on the electrical energy storage device packs. This configuration enables effortless insertionand extraction of the electrical energy storage device packs from the compartments 260, 270. Each compartment 260, 270 is further equipped with a plurality of clamps positioned on the floor. These clamps are complementary to clamp receivers provided on the electrical energy storage device packs. A back plate is provided on the rear end of the frame of the multi-dock system 250. This back plate comprises one or more cutouts configured for mounting fluid female connectors and electrical female connectors. The positions of these connectors are complementary to the positions of fluid male connectors and electrical male connectors provided on the electrical energy storage device packs.

[0059] The multi-dock system 250 is designed to operate with various combinations of electrical energy storage device capacities based on specific requirements. With its three- compartment configuration, this system can accommodate up to eight different combinations of electrical energy storage device capacities. These combinations include: two higher capacity energy storage devices 10 in both of the larger compartments and one lower capacity energy storage device 05 in the smaller compartment, three lower capacity energy storage devices 05 in all the compartments, two higher capacity energy storage devices 10 in both of the larger compartment and an empty smaller compartment, two lower capacity energy storage devices 05 in both of the larger compartment and an empty smaller compartment, a higher capacity energy storage device 10 in either of the larger compartment and two lower capacity energy storage devices 05 one in the another larger compartment and one in the smaller compartment, a higher capacity energy storage device 10 in either of the larger compartment and one lower capacity energy storage device 05 in either of the larger compartment or the smaller compartment and one empty compartment, a higher capacity energy storage device 10 in one of the larger compartment and remaining two empty compartment, or just one lower capacity energy storage device 05 in one of the larger compartment and remaining two empty compartment. This adaptability ensures that the multi-dock system can cater to a wide range of energy needs for different types of heavy electric vehicles.

[0060] In an embodiment herein, the multi-dock systems can be arranged adjacent to other similar systems to achieve larger capacity demands, as expanding compartments vertically beyond the specified vehicle height could potentially become impractical.

[0061] In an alternative embodiment, the multi-dock system could be designed with additional features such as a thermal management system integrated within the compartments. This system could include cooling channels or heat dissipation mechanisms to maintain optimaloperating temperatures for the electrical energy storage devices, thereby enhancing their efficiency and longevity.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the multi -dock system could be equipped with a smart management system (not shown) that monitors the state of charge, health, and compatibility of the electrical energy storage devices. This system could optimize the selection and combination of devices based on the specific requirements of each vehicle, ensuring efficient energy utilization and prolonging the lifespan of the electrical energy storage devices.

[0063] Furthermore, the multi-dock system could be equipped with a smart monitoring system (not shown). This system would include sensors to monitor the state of charge, temperature, and overall health of the installed electrical energy storage devices. The data collected could be transmitted to a central control unit, allowing for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance of the energy storage system.

[0064] In another embodiment, the multi-dock system could incorporate a modular design approach. This would allow for easy expansion or reconfiguration of the system by adding or removing compartments as needed. Such flexibility would enable the system to adapt to changing energy requirements or advancements in electrical energy storage technology over time.

[0065] The multi-dock system represents a significant advancement in power management for heavy electric vehicles. Its ability to accommodate varying capacities of electrical energy storage devices within a single compartment provides a versatile and efficient solution for the evolving needs of electric transportation. This system not only addresses the immediate power requirements of heavy vehicles but also offers the flexibility to adapt to future developments in electrical energy storage technology.

[0066] The embodiments described herein have several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of a multi-dock system for electric vehicles,- that supports interchange of electrical energy storage device packs with varying capacities, making it adaptable to different vehicle energy demands;- that facilitates efficient loading and unloading of electrical energy storage device packs, improving operational turnaround time;- that enhances safety during storage and handling of electrical energy storage device packs by providing secure retention and connection mechanisms;- that allows modular expansion and reconfiguration to suit different station sizes and vehicle types, improving station scalability;- that ensures compatibility with diverse electric vehicle architectures through a flexible compartment layout;- that minimizes the need for multiple, dedicated systems for different energy storage capacities, reducing infrastructure complexity;- that enables consistent and reliable electrical and fluid connectivity for electrical energy storage device packs, enhancing system performance;- that simplifies maintenance and replacement procedures due to its compartmental and structural accessibility;- that optimizes floor space utilization through a compact, horizontally extensible design suited for practical vehicle dimensions; and that supports seamless integration with existing electric vehicle handling systems, promoting wider interoperability and deployment.

[0067] 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 multi-dock system for heavy electric vehicles, comprising: a frame (102) defining a plurality of compartments (104) configured to accommodate a plurality of energy storage devices of varying capacity, wherein each compartment (104) includes: a plurality of guide and load rails (106), positioned internal to each compartment (104); a plurality of clamps (108), positioned internal to each compartment (104); and a back plate (110) provided on the rear end of the frame (102), wherein the back plate (110) is configured for mounting of at least one fluid female connector and at least one electrical female connector.

2. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, the frame (102) comprises one or more support structures joined by a metal joining technique.

3. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guide and load rails (106) are located on at least one of a floor of each compartment (104), sides of each compartment (104), and top of each compartment (104), wherein the guide and load rails (106) are positioned complimentary to guide and load rollers provided on the energy storage device.

4. The multi -dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the clamps (108) are located on at least one of the floor of each compartment (104), sides of each compartment (104), and top of each compartment (104), wherein the clamps (108) are positioned complimentary to clamp receivers provided on the energy storage device.

5. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the position of the fluid female connector and the electrical female connector is complimentary to the position of a fluid male connector and an electrical male connector provided on the energy storage device, wherein the fluid and electrical connectors are provided at a standard location consistent with all the energy storage devices of varying capacities.

6. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy storage devices of varying capacity have a constant width, a constant length, and a variable height.

7. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system includes at least one larger compartment (25) configured to accommodate at least one at least one higher capacity energy storage device (10); and at least one lower capacity energy storage device (05).

8. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system includes at least one larger compartment (160) and at least one smaller compartment (170), wherein the larger compartment (160) is configured to accommodate at least one higher capacity energy storage device (10) and at least one lower energy storage device (05), and the smaller compartment (170) is configured to accommodate at least one lower energy storage device (05).

9. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system includes at least two large compartments (210) of equal capacity, wherein each large compartment (210) is configured to accommodate at least one higher capacity energy storage device (10) and at least one lower capacity energy storage device (05).

10. The multi-dock system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system includes at least two large compartments (260) and at least one smaller compartment (270), wherein each large compartment (260) is configured to accommodate at least one higher capacity energy storage device (10), and the smaller compartment (270) is configured to accommodate at least one lower capacity energy storage device (05).

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