Interchangeable Robot Battery Chassis for Rapid Module Swapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Robots in storage and retrieval systems face inefficiencies due to the time required for battery module recharging and replacement, leading to periods of inoperability, which can be minimized by enabling simultaneous swapping of battery modules between a robot and a charging station.
Innovation Solution
A robot with a dual battery compartment chassis that allows for the simultaneous exchange of a depleted battery module with a charged one when engaging with a charging station, utilizing a mechanism with engagement arms, springs, and tracks to secure and release battery modules efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a robot uses a single battery module, then the device complexity is reduced, but the robot experiences downtime when the battery needs recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is segmented into multiple independent battery modules (first battery module and second battery module) that can be independently exchanged. This allows one module to be used while another is charged, eliminating downtime without requiring a complex integrated charging system
Solution Approach 2:
The second battery module is pre-charged and held in readiness within the battery compartment. When the first battery module needs replacement, the second module is already prepared and can be immediately installed, preventing any operational downtime
2Productivity
If the robot has a mechanism to automatically exchange battery modules, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement arm is designed as a dynamic, pivotable mechanism that can automatically adjust its position to engage and disengage battery modules. This dynamic design enables automatic battery exchange without requiring complex manual intervention systems
Solution Approach 2:
The battery exchange mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through the pivotable engagement arm that automatically engages with the battery module's engagement feature and electrical contacts, enabling the robot to replace its own battery without external assistance
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
This solution reduces the downtime of robots by allowing them to quickly swap battery modules, minimizing the time they are inoperable and enhancing their operational efficiency in fulfilling tasks.
Implementation Method 1
a spring arranged to bias the battery module when the battery module is received by the rack
Implementation Method 2
an electrical contact arranged to transmit a voltage from the battery to a drive mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A robot with rechargeable and interchangeable batteries. The robot includes a body coupled to a wheel assembly, the wheel assembly including a plurality of wheels and a drive mechanism arranged to move the body along a first set of parallel rails extending in a first direction and a second set of parallel rails extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The body has a chassis defining a first battery compartment and a second battery compartments with a first battery module disposed within the first battery compartment. When the chassis engages with a charging station, the chassis is arranged to release the first battery module from the first battery compartment and receive a second battery module within the second battery compartment. The robot is thus designed to simultaneously swap a depleted first battery module with a charged second battery module and quickly return to operation.