Modular Cart Battery Pack for Recyclable Lithium Battery Portions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard lithium batteries used in medical carts and other electronic equipment often exceed the 11-pound limit for recycling, making them difficult to recycle and dispose of safely.
Innovation Solution
A battery system comprising two or more battery portions that fit within a housing, allowing each portion to be recycled individually since they weigh at or below 11 pounds, and can be easily replaced and charged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a standard lithium battery is used to power medical carts, then sufficient power is provided, but the battery weight exceeds the 11-pound recycling limit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single large battery into multiple smaller battery portions (e.g., two or more 6V batteries instead of one 12V battery). Each portion weighs below the 11-pound recycling threshold while collectively providing the same power output when connected in parallel through a central connector.
2Power
If a single large battery is used, then power requirements are met, but recycling and disposal become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the battery system into multiple smaller portions, each can be individually recycled through standard channels that accept batteries under 11 pounds, eliminating the need for special handling or stockpiling of oversized batteries.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables individual battery portions to be removed and recycled separately when depleted, allowing continuous operation by replacing only the exhausted portions while recovering materials through established recycling programs.
3Loss of substance
If heavy lithium batteries are shipped for disposal, then recycling is attempted, but shipping restrictions prevent transport
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the battery into smaller portions reduces each unit's weight below shipping thresholds, allowing disposal through regular mail services without requiring hazardous materials certifications or special shipping arrangements.
4Power
If a single large battery is used, then power needs are satisfied, but replacement becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The modular battery system allows individual portions to be independently replaced by opening a front door or cover, simplifying maintenance operations compared to replacing an entire large battery assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
Battery systems containing recyclable battery portions. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a battery system, comprising a housing configured to retain two or more battery portions; two or more battery portions configured to fit within the housing; wherein the housing is configured to fit within a battery compartment of a cart; wherein the two or more battery portions, when effectively connected together using a central connector of the battery system, collectively produce sufficient power to power electronic equipment of the cart; and wherein each of the two or more battery portions weigh at or below a desired threshold weight.