Autonomous Robot Battery Swap Using External Power Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for battery replacement in autonomous moving bodies, such as robots, are inefficient and require additional spare batteries for operation during the replacement process, leading to prolonged charging times and complex battery station configurations.
Innovation Solution
An information processing device and method that includes a controller coupling a connection terminal to an autonomous moving body, allowing it to move from a battery ejection region to a battery installation region using power from a power supply apparatus, enabling easy and efficient battery replacement without the need for additional spare batteries and simplifying the battery station design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If battery replacement is performed using conventional methods, then the autonomous moving body can be recharged, but additional spare batteries are required and the replacement process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power supply function from the battery itself and provides it externally through a power supply apparatus with a connection terminal. This allows the battery to be ejected and replaced without requiring additional spare batteries, simplifying both the operation and the battery station configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery station is designed with multi-functionality: it can eject depleted batteries, provide external power supply through connection terminals, and accommodate charged batteries. This universal design eliminates the need for complex spare battery management while maintaining continuous operation capability.
2Reliability
If additional spare batteries are kept for replacement, then continuous operation is maintained, but the quantity of batteries and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply apparatus acts as an intermediary between the external power source and the autonomous moving body. It provides power during battery replacement through a connection terminal, eliminating the need to carry additional spare batteries while maintaining continuous operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service battery replacement where the autonomous moving body can be recharged in place at the battery station without requiring external intervention or additional spare batteries. The power supply apparatus provides the necessary power directly at the replacement location.
3Productivity
If battery replacement requires keeping depleted batteries accommodated, then the replacement process can be completed, but the time and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply apparatus is prepared in advance with a connection terminal that can provide power immediately when needed. This preliminary preparation allows the autonomous moving body to be recharged without waiting for battery replacement, significantly reducing the time loss during the replacement process.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing device, an information processing method, and a program are proposed that make it possible to allow an autonomous moving body to make battery replacement more easily. The information processing device includes a controller. The controller couples, in a first region, a connection terminal to the autonomous moving body. The first region is provided for ejection of a first battery included in the autonomous moving body. The connection terminal is provided for power supply and included in a power supply apparatus disposed in the first region. The controller moves the autonomous moving body with the connection terminal coupled, from the first region to a second region in which a charged second battery is disposed.