Stackable Charging Mat Interface for Electric Scooter Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an efficient system and method to charge and store electric transport devices, such as electric scooters, that allows for easy stacking and charging while maintaining portability and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A charging system comprising a mat with charging terminals of a specific shape that aligns with corresponding connection points on the electric transport devices, enabling them to be stacked and charged simultaneously, with the connection points on each device having conforming shapes for both electrical and mechanical attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple electric transport devices are stacked for storage and charging, then storage efficiency and charging capability are improved, but the complexity of the charging system and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The charging mat is segmented into multiple independent charging terminals, each capable of charging one device. This allows multiple devices to be charged simultaneously in a stacked arrangement, improving productivity while keeping each terminal relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging mat serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for stacking devices, enables simultaneous charging of multiple devices through multiple terminals, and organizes storage space efficiently. This multi-functionality addresses the complexity issue by consolidating several functions into a single integrated system.
2Reliability
If connection points are designed for precise alignment with charging terminals, then charging reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection points on the device housings are designed with asymmetric shapes that correspond to the charging terminals. This asymmetric design ensures proper orientation and alignment when devices are stacked, improving charging reliability while allowing for reasonable manufacturing tolerances through the self-aligning nature of the asymmetric geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection points are integrated into the device housing structure in a nested manner, where the connection points are recessed or built into the housing rather than being separate components. This integration simplifies the overall structure and reduces the need for high-precision assembly while maintaining reliable electrical contact.
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
Enables efficient charging and stacking of multiple electric transport devices, facilitating easy storage and transportation while ensuring each device can be charged when stacked, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The onboard battery is electrically connected to the connection points so as to be charged when the connection points are in contact with a charging source
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for charging and stacking electric transport devices is described. In one embodiment, an electric transport device charging system includes a charging mat including a plurality of charging terminals. The plurality of charging terminals have a first shape. The system also includes a plurality of electric transport devices. Each electric transport device has a pair of side surfaces including a plurality of connection points. The connection points on one of the side surfaces having a second shape that is configured to conform to the first shape of the plurality of charging terminals. A first electric transport device of the plurality of electric transport devices is configured to be placed on the charging mat with the plurality of charging terminals aligned with the connection points on one of the side surfaces having the second shape such that the connection points and the charging terminals fit into each other.