Dual-Function Coupling Interface for Battery Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery connection methods for vehicles require separate mechanical and electrical coupling processes, making the battery exchange complex and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A battery with a dual-function coupling interface that simultaneously provides mechanical and electrical coupling, using electrically conductive coupling elements like metal bolts or pins, which can be easily moved between transport and coupling positions via an actuator, allowing for quick and secure attachment to a vehicle's negative feedback interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate mechanical and electrical interfaces are used for battery connection, then reliable mechanical and electrical coupling is achieved, but the connection process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate mechanical and electrical interfaces into a single integrated coupling interface. The coupling interface includes both mechanical coupling elements (such as a coupling flange with mounting holes) and electrical coupling elements (such as electrical contacts or plug connectors) that work together as one unified component, allowing simultaneous mechanical and electrical connection in a single operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling interface is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical attachment, electrical connection, and alignment guidance all through one interface structure. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mechanical and electrical coupling operations, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable connections for both mechanical and electrical functions.
2Reliability
If separate mechanical and electrical coupling processes are used, then secure battery fixation is achieved, but the battery exchange time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical and electrical coupling operations into a single simultaneous action. When the battery is mounted or removed, both the mechanical coupling elements and electrical coupling elements engage or disengage together, allowing battery exchange to be completed in one operation rather than requiring sequential mechanical then electrical connection steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling interface is pre-configured with alignment features and pre-positioned coupling elements that guide the connection process. The mechanical and electrical components are arranged in advance to automatically align and engage simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate alignment and connection steps during battery exchange.
3Productivity
If a dual-function coupling interface is used, then battery exchange speed is improved, but the interface design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling interface is designed as a universal multi-functional component that handles mechanical attachment, electrical connection, and alignment guidance through a single integrated structure. This approach, while requiring careful initial design, actually reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate interfaces and their associated mounting hardware, fasteners, and alignment features.
4Use of energy by moving object
If electrically conductive coupling elements are used, then electrical energy transfer is enabled, but the risk of short circuits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling interface applies local quality differentiation by providing electrical conductivity only at specific localized contact points rather than across the entire interface surface. The electrical contacts are positioned precisely at designated locations where connection is intended, while surrounding areas maintain electrical insulation through non-conductive materials or geometric separation, thereby enabling efficient energy transfer at contact points while minimizing short circuit risk elsewhere.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and simple battery exchange by eliminating the need for complex separate interfaces, ensuring secure mechanical and electrical connections while preventing short circuits through electrical isolation, thus enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling interface is further configured to transfer electrical energy between the at least one negative feedback interface of the vehicle and the battery
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention presented relates to a battery (100, 200) for supplying electrical energy to a drive of a means of transport (300). The battery (100, 200) comprises a number of battery cells (103) and a coupling interface (105, 205) for mechanical and electrical coupling with the means of locomotion (300), wherein the coupling interface (105, 205) is configured to be fixedly arranged on a feedback interface (107, 207) of the means of locomotion (300) and thereby mechanically couples the battery (100, 200) to the feedback interface (107, 207), wherein the coupling interface (105, 205) is further configured to transmit electrical energy between the at least one feedback interface (107, 207) of the means of locomotion (300) and the battery (100, 200), and thereby electrically connects the battery (100, 200) to the feedback interface (107, 207) of the means of locomotion (300). (300) to couple.