Towing Vehicle Charging Dock With Guided Self-Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Towing vehicles require manual operation to connect energy storage devices to energy sources for replenishment, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
An automated system comprising a towing vehicle with a towing vehicle-defined connection counterpart and a charging dock with a dock-defined connection counterpart, guided by a guide to align and connect for energy transfer, allowing for misaligned initial relationships to be corrected and enabling energy transfer between the vehicle and dock.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual connection of energy storage devices to energy sources is used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but productivity and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated self-alignment and self-connection between the towing vehicle's energy storage device and the charging dock's energy source. The guide structure automatically guides the connection counterpart into proper alignment, and the automated connection mechanism establishes the energy transfer connection without manual intervention, allowing the system to service itself during the replenishment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure serves as an intermediary element between the towing vehicle and charging dock. It mediates the alignment process by providing physical guidance that directs the connection counterpart into the correct position, facilitating the connection without requiring precise manual positioning by an operator.
2Loss of time
If manual alignment and connection procedures are used, then device complexity is minimized, but loss of time and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The guide structure is pre-configured in a fixed position on the charging dock, creating a predetermined alignment path. When the towing vehicle approaches, the guide structure proactively guides the connection counterpart into alignment before the actual connection is made, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment adjustments during the replenishment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated guide structure that uses fixed geometric constraints to achieve precise alignment. This substitution eliminates the time required for operator intervention in the alignment process while introducing a structured mechanical guidance system.
3Productivity
If automated alignment and connection systems are implemented, then productivity and time efficiency improve, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated connection system is divided into distinct modular components: the guide structure fixed to the charging dock, the connection counterpart on the towing vehicle, and the energy storage device interface. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and tested independently, then assembled into the complete automated system, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides alignment guidance, defines the connection approach path, and ensures proper positioning of the connection counterpart. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall manufacturing and installation process while maintaining high operational efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a charging dock for a towing vehicle. The towing vehicle includes a first adapter counterpart and the dock includes a second adapter counterpart. The towing vehicle includes a robot apparatus and the dock includes a guide. The robot apparatus and the guide are co-operatively configured to align the first and second adapter counterparts, such that the first and second adapter counterparts are connectible, in response to displacement of the first adapter counterpart towards the second adapter counterpart. The connection of the first adapter counterpart with the second adapter counterpart effectuates connection between the energy source of the dock and the energy storage device of the towing vehicle, such that energy is transferrable from the energy source to the energy storage device.