Pushable Transport Cart Integrated Charging via Mechanical Connector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pushable transport carts with electric and electronic devices face challenges in autonomous operation without a power cable, requiring electric storage devices that need frequent recharging, and lack effective solutions for operational safety, ease of use, and efficient charging management.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a mechanical connecting device with an electric connecting device allows for power exchange and data transmission between carts and a charging station, featuring a secure and efficient charging system with redundant connectors, voltage management, and anti-theft mechanisms, enabling self-sufficient operation and convenient handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an electric storage device is integrated into the pushable transport cart to enable autonomous operation without a cable, then the cart can move independently, but the storage device requires frequent recharging which reduces operational availability
Solution Approach 1:
The pushable transport cart automatically recharges itself by docking with adjacent carts or charging stations without user intervention. The electric connecting device autonomously establishes electrical contact when carts are mechanically connected, enabling the storage device to recharge during normal cart interactions or at designated charging locations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanical connecting device is combined with an electric connecting device for simultaneous mechanical and electrical connection, then power exchange and data transmission are enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric connecting device is integrated into the mechanical connecting device structure. When carts are mechanically connected through the mechanical connecting device (such as a coupling mechanism or hitch), the electric connecting device simultaneously establishes electrical contact through aligned contact elements, enabling power and data exchange without requiring separate connection actions.
3Reliability
If redundant connectors and voltage management systems are implemented for operational safety, then charging reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates redundant connectors and voltage management protections that are pre-configured to prevent charging failures or safety incidents before they occur. Multiple contact elements provide backup pathways, and voltage management circuitry continuously monitors and regulates power flow to prevent overcharging, short circuits, or electrical damage.
4Volume of moving object
If the electric connecting device is integrated into the mechanical connecting device, then space is saved and compact design is achieved, but the ease of operation may be reduced due to precise alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connecting device and electric connecting device are designed with asymmetric geometries that guide proper alignment during the connection process. The mechanical coupling elements feature shaped interfaces that naturally orient the carts correctly, ensuring that the electric contact elements align properly without requiring precise manual positioning by the user.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a pushable transport cart. The pushable transport cart has an electric storage device for supplying electric power to electric and/or electronic devices. To charge the storage device, the pushable transport cart can be connected to a stockage and/or charging station via an electric connecting device, which is integrated into a connecting cord or a safety chain of the pushable transport cart.