Universal Battery Exchange Toolbox With Motion Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery exchange systems for electric and hybrid vehicles face challenges in accommodating different battery types due to the need for multiple automatic devices or costly manual solutions, making them economically and technologically impractical for widespread implementation.

Innovation Solution

A universal 'toolbox' device with a housing, motion transmission system, and gripping mechanisms, powered by motors and connected to an external motor, allows for standardized and flexible actuation of battery locking and unlocking mechanisms, integrated with a lifting system for vertical and horizontal movement, enabling efficient battery replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple automatic devices are implemented to handle different battery types, then the system can accommodate various battery types, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery type compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of automatic devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal toolbox device that can handle multiple battery types through a single standardized interface. The toolbox comprises a support box with gripping systems and actuation mechanisms that can accommodate different battery configurations (e.g., different lock positions, battery orientations) without requiring multiple specialized devices. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by maintaining adaptability while reducing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The toolbox incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components, such as gripping systems with variable positions and actuation mechanisms that can adapt to different battery types. The device includes movable elements and adjustable parameters that allow it to dynamically adjust its configuration based on the specific battery being handled, enabling a single device to serve multiple functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual solutions are implemented for battery replacement, then the system can handle various battery types, but the operation time and labor requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery type compatibilityVSAvoidbattery replacement time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The toolbox device is designed to perform automatic actuation of locking mechanisms without requiring manual intervention for each battery type. The device includes self-adjusting features and automated gripping systems that can identify and adapt to different battery configurations automatically, enabling the system to serve itself across multiple battery types while minimizing manual labor and reducing replacement time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If standardized toolbox device is used for all battery types, then the device complexity is reduced, but the precision of gripping and actuation may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of specialized devicesVSAvoidgripping accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The toolbox device incorporates locally optimized gripping systems and actuation mechanisms tailored to specific interaction points with the battery. Each gripping system is designed with specific geometric features and force application points that ensure precise engagement with the battery's locking mechanisms, maintaining high gripping accuracy despite the standardized overall device design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP2499013B1Device for the exchange of a supply battery for the drive motor of a motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2013.12.04 RENAULT SA
  • EP2499013B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2499013B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2499013B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Tool box device (1) for locking and/or unlocking a battery that powers a motor that drives a motor vehicle, characterized in that it comprises a support housing (2), a movement transmission system comprising at least one gear box (4) and at least one transmission shaft (5), connected to at least one system (6) for engaging a battery locking/unlocking mechanism.