Modular Battery Pack Interface for Tool-Free Swapping and Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery-powered indoor and outdoor power equipment face limitations in terms of portability, interoperability, and efficient charging, as they often require tools for battery replacement and lack unified charging solutions, leading to downtime and inefficiencies in usage across various equipment types.
Innovation Solution
A modular battery assembly with a handle and mating feature that allows hot-swappable battery replacement and integration with charging stations, enabling seamless power supply and charging across different equipment types, including indoor and outdoor power equipment, with optional modular portions for protection and customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional battery replacement methods are used, then battery replacement is possible, but tools are required and the process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The battery assembly is divided into modular components including a battery pack, handle assembly, and protective portions that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for easier replacement and maintenance of individual components without requiring tools or complex disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
A receptacle is introduced as an intermediary component between the battery pack and the power equipment. The receptacle provides a standardized interface that simplifies battery replacement by eliminating the need for tools, allowing users to simply insert or remove the battery pack from the receptacle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple battery types are supported, then versatility is improved, but charging infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery assembly is designed with universal features including a standardized receptacle interface and protective portions that can be configured for different battery chemistries and form factors. This allows a single charging station with multiple receptacles to accommodate various battery types without requiring complex adaptive mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accommodates different battery types by allowing parameter changes in the protective portions and internal configuration of the battery pack, while maintaining the same external interface and receptacle design. This enables versatility in battery chemistry and capacity without increasing charging infrastructure complexity.
3Reliability
If battery protection is enhanced, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple protective functions are merged into integrated protective portions that combine impact absorption, electrical isolation, and mechanical support features. These protective portions are integrated into the battery assembly structure rather than being separate add-on components, thereby enhancing reliability without significantly increasing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A battery pack includes a housing defining an upper portion and a lower portion, a first protector portion coupled to a first corner of the housing, a second protector portion coupled to a second corner of the housing, a plurality of battery cells disposed within the housing, and a mating feature including a plurality of ports electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells and structured to supply power from the plurality of battery cells through the ports.