Shared Battery Swap Layout for Multi-Model EV Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for replenishing energy in electric vehicles through battery pack replacement face challenges such as high cost, inefficiency, and limited interoperability, particularly during peak and off-peak demand periods, due to the weight and energy density of battery packs, and the need for specialized equipment that cannot be shared across different EV models.
Innovation Solution
A battery pack replacement system with a three-dimensional structure featuring first and second passages allowing high-value processing equipment to move between processing areas, enabling flexible system expansion and interoperability by accommodating various vehicle specifications and battery packs, and optimizing equipment utilization through scheduling during idle times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If automated replacement equipment is used to replace battery packs in EVs, then the energy replenishment speed is improved (instant replacement), but the investment cost increases significantly (tens of times higher than fast charging devices)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal battery pack replacement system where a single automated replacement device can handle multiple EV models and battery pack specifications. The system uses standardized interfaces and adaptive positioning mechanisms that allow one piece of equipment to serve multiple vehicle types, thereby reducing the number of specialized devices needed and lowering overall investment costs while maintaining fast replacement speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement equipment incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities including movable platforms, adjustable clamping mechanisms, and flexible positioning systems that can adapt to different vehicle sizes and battery pack configurations. This dynamic design allows a single device to handle various EV models without requiring multiple fixed specialized devices, reducing capital investment while preserving rapid replacement functionality
2Productivity
If multiple replacement units are installed to meet peak hour demand, then the service capacity is improved, but the capital investment increases substantially and utilization rate decreases during off-peak periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple replacement functions into a single integrated system that can sequentially serve multiple vehicles. The system includes a shared battery pack storage area, a common automated replacement device, and unified control systems that coordinate service across different EV models. This consolidation allows the system to handle peak demand through efficient scheduling rather than through parallel duplicate equipment, reducing capital investment while maintaining high service capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement system is designed to operate continuously with minimal idle time between vehicle services. The automated device performs rapid battery pack exchanges and immediately prepares for the next vehicle, maximizing utilization during peak hours. During off-peak periods, the system can perform maintenance, calibration, or serve fewer vehicles at a slower pace, ensuring continuous useful action without requiring additional equipment to maintain capacity
3Weight of moving object
If battery packs are designed with high energy density to reduce weight, then the weight is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the battery pack into modular standardized units with uniform dimensions, connection interfaces, and mounting mechanisms. This segmentation allows high-energy-density battery cells to be organized in standardized configurations that simplify the replacement process. The modular design reduces overall system complexity by creating interchangeable units that can be manufactured more efficiently, offsetting the increased complexity from high energy density requirements
4Adaptability or versatility
If the replacement system is designed to accommodate multiple EV models, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and scheduling difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal replacement platform with standardized mechanical interfaces, electrical connections, and control protocols that work across multiple EV models. The system includes adaptive positioning systems and configurable clamping mechanisms that can accommodate different battery pack sizes and vehicle platforms. This universality reduces device complexity compared to having separate specialized equipment for each vehicle model, while maintaining high adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement system uses programmable parameters and configurable settings that can be adjusted through software to accommodate different EV models and battery pack specifications. Rather than requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration, the system changes operational parameters such as positioning coordinates, clamping forces, and connection sequences through digital control, simplifying the overall device architecture while enabling multi-model compatibility
Data Source
AI summary
A battery pack replacement system for vehicles is described, including a plurality of first passages, at least one second passage, and at least one processing equipment. The vehicles move along their respective first passages, and the second passage is arranged to intersect with these first passages in a projection direction. The intersection positions of the second passage with these first passages each have a processing area. The processing equipment moves along the corresponding second passage between these processing areas, performing a battery pack replacement operation on vehicles located in each processing area. The battery pack replacement operation involves the processing equipment unloading a used battery pack from the vehicle and loading a charged battery pack onto the vehicle.