In-Motion Vehicle Battery Transfer for Continuous Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle battery replacement systems require vehicles to stop or significantly alter their travel mission to access charging points, wasting energy and limiting travel time.
Innovation Solution
A battery replacement system and method that allows vehicles to replace batteries without stopping, using a second vehicle to deliver a new battery while maintaining vehicle operation, with mechanisms for orienting and connecting the battery in any orientation, and compartments for seamless swapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stationary battery replacement system or recharge system is used, then the battery can be replaced or recharged, but the vehicle must stop or significantly alter its travel mission to access charging points, wasting energy and time
Solution Approach 1:
A second vehicle acts as an intermediary carrier to deliver the replacement battery to the first vehicle in motion. The battery is transferred from the second vehicle to the first vehicle while both are moving, eliminating the need for the first vehicle to stop for battery replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery replacement system is made dynamic by enabling battery exchange between moving vehicles. The system includes movable compartments, transfer mechanisms, and orientation adjustment capabilities that allow battery replacement during motion rather than requiring a static charging point.
2Reliability
If a stationary battery replacement system or recharge system is used, then the battery can be replaced or recharged, but significant energy is wasted from the resources
Solution Approach 1:
The second vehicle serves as a mobile battery storage and transfer station, delivering charged batteries to the first vehicle in motion. This eliminates the energy waste associated with the first vehicle traveling to and from stationary charging points, as the battery exchange occurs during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle maintains continuous operation and mission execution during battery replacement. The battery exchange process occurs without stopping the vehicle's forward motion or interrupting its primary function, ensuring continuous useful action throughout the replacement process.
3Reliability
If the battery replacement system requires the vehicle to stop or alter travel mission, then the battery can be replaced, but the travel time is limited and logistics needs arise
Solution Approach 1:
The second vehicle acts as a mobile logistics support, carrying replacement batteries and delivering them to the first vehicle during motion. This eliminates the need for the first vehicle to divert from its travel mission or stop for battery replacement logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The second vehicle serves multiple functions: it is both a operational vehicle and a mobile battery storage and transfer station. This multi-functionality enables the first vehicle to maintain its travel mission while receiving battery replacement support from the second vehicle.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the battery replacement system uses complex mechanisms for orientation and connection, then the battery can be replaced in any orientation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery cartridge is designed with asymmetric features including a specific orientation marker and connector placement that guides proper orientation during transfer. The compartment and transfer mechanism have corresponding asymmetric features that automatically align the battery in the correct orientation, reducing the need for complex active orientation control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer mechanism creates a gravity-assisted transfer path where the battery naturally orients itself during the transfer process. The compartment design and transfer mechanism work together to provide a smooth, guided path that allows the battery to settle into the correct orientation without requiring complex active orientation control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject matter discloses a method for replacing a battery for a first vehicle, comprising a second vehicle placing the battery above the first vehicle; releasing the battery from the second vehicle to an inlet in the first vehicle; carrying the battery in a compartment of the first vehicle; coupling the battery to electronic circuitry in the first vehicle, such that the electronic circuitry receives electronic power from the battery. The subject matter also discloses an aerial vehicle used to receive a replacing battery, and a battery replacement system.