Inductive Charging Platform for AWP Battery Top-Up
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerial work platforms (AWPs) and mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are transitioning to semi-electric or all-electric configurations, necessitating frequent recharging of limited battery capacity.
Innovation Solution
A wireless charging system with a platform having an induction coil that generates a magnetic field to transfer electrical energy to a vehicle's battery pack without wires, featuring a lift device with a removably coupled wireless charging interface and a control system for efficient charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless charging is implemented for AWP/MEWP batteries, then charging convenience and mobility are improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless electromagnetic induction system. The charging platform uses an induction coil to generate a magnetic field that wirelessly transfers energy to the vehicle's battery pack, eliminating the need for physical plug-and-play connections and thereby improving charging convenience while reducing mechanical wear and connection failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a charging platform with an induction coil as an intermediary between the power source and the vehicle battery. This intermediary generates a magnetic field that acts as a mediator to transfer energy wirelessly across the air gap, enabling convenient charging without direct contact while managing the complexity through a dedicated intermediate device.
2Duration of action of moving object
If battery capacity is increased to extend operational duration, then working time is improved, but vehicle weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements frequent opportunistic charging during operational pauses or downtime. Rather than requiring large batteries for extended duration, the system performs preliminary or intermediate charging actions during available windows, maintaining lighter battery weights while achieving the desired operational duration through cumulative energy input over multiple charging cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous or near-continuous operational capability by implementing frequent top-up charging during operational pauses. This creates a continuous cycle of discharge during work and charge during idle time, effectively extending the operational duration without requiring proportionally larger battery capacity, thus avoiding excessive weight increase.
3Adaptability or versatility
If frequent recharging is required due to limited battery capacity, then operational flexibility is improved, but loss of time and productivity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic charging initiation when the vehicle docks with the charging platform. The sensor detects the vehicle's presence and automatically starts the wireless charging process without requiring manual intervention, thereby minimizing operator time loss while maintaining the flexibility to charge frequently. The system serves itself by autonomously managing the charging activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses sensors to detect the vehicle's presence and charging status, providing feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adjustment of charging parameters and initiation/shutdown timing, optimizing charging efficiency and reducing unnecessary charging time. The system monitors and responds to real-time conditions to minimize time loss while maintaining operational flexibility.
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 efficient and wireless charging of AWP/MEWP batteries, improving mobility and operational efficiency by eliminating the need for wired connections and providing real-time charging status updates.
Implementation Method 1
an induction coil coupled to the platform. The induction coil is configured to receive electrical energy from an energy source and generate a magnetic field above the upper surface, the magnetic field being positioned to wirelessly transfer the electrical energy to the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless charging system includes a platform having a substantially horizontal upper surface configured to support a vehicle and an induction coil coupled to the platform. The induction coil is configured to receive electrical energy from an energy source and generate a magnetic field above the substantially horizontal upper surface, the magnetic field being positioned to wirelessly transfer the electrical energy to the vehicle while the vehicle is positioned atop the platform. A ramp is coupled to a side of the platform and extending away from the platform. An electrical cabinet is pivotally coupled to the platform and containing the energy source.