Interchangeable Battery Interface for Multi-Tool Battery Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing modular battery systems require multiple battery types with unique interface geometries, leading to high upfront costs, long-term expenses, storage challenges, and physical strain due to the need for multiple batteries and chargers, especially in scenarios like pipe inspection and utility locating where different tools are needed for various tasks.
Innovation Solution
The development of interchangeable battery interface apparatuses that include a base subassembly and battery-specific adapter elements, allowing for mechanical and electrical coupling with host devices, enabling the use of different rechargeable battery types with varying interface geometries, and providing electrical connectivity and control elements for power and data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different battery types are used to power different tools, then each tool can be powered with its specific battery type, but the upfront cost and long-term expense increase due to purchasing multiple battery types and chargers
Solution Approach 1:
The host device is designed with a universal battery interface that can accept multiple different battery types through a single standardized connection point. The battery interface apparatus includes electrical contacts and control circuitry that can recognize and adapt to different battery chemistries, voltages, and physical dimensions, allowing one device to perform multiple battery compatibility functions without requiring separate chargers or interface adapters for each battery type.
Solution Approach 2:
A battery interface apparatus serves as an intermediary component between the host device and various battery types. This interface includes a base subassembly with electrical contacts and a control element that mediates the connection, recognizing the battery type through authentication circuits and establishing appropriate electrical pathways. The interface acts as a universal adapter that translates between different battery geometries and the host device's power requirements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different battery types are stored and charged, then each battery type can be optimized for specific tools, but storage space and charging infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system is designed as a universal charging apparatus that can charge multiple different battery types through a single interface. The charging device includes recognition circuitry that identifies the battery type and adjusts charging parameters accordingly, allowing one charging station to replace multiple specialized chargers. This reduces the space required for charging infrastructure while maintaining the ability to optimize charging for different battery chemistries and capacities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different battery types are carried to jobsites, then each battery type can be used for specific tasks, but the physical weight and carrying burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The host device incorporates a universal battery interface that can accommodate multiple battery form factors and chemistries, allowing the user to carry a single lighter battery rather than multiple heavier specialized batteries. The interface includes mechanical features that can adapt to different battery sizes and shapes, and electrical features that can recognize and safely power the device from various battery types, enabling task-specific optimization without increasing carrying weight.
4Reliability
If multiple chargers for different battery types are used, then each battery type can be charged appropriately, but the complexity of charging management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery interface apparatus includes a control element with authentication and recognition circuitry that acts as an intelligent intermediary between the charger and battery. This control element automatically identifies the battery type through electrical characteristics and physical interface recognition, then establishes appropriate charging pathways and parameters. The system includes voltage detection, current regulation, and safety circuits that adapt to different battery chemistries, eliminating the need for manual charger selection while maintaining charging reliability across multiple battery types.
Data Source
AI summary
Interchangeable battery interface apparatus and modular battery systems employing interchangeable battery adapter apparatus are disclosed. Embodiments may be used for adapting tools, instruments, and/or other devices to use different rechargeable battery types on hosts with different battery interface geometries.