Patent Publication Number: US-2018041053-A1

Title: Device for Exchanging and Charging Batteries on Remote Controlled Hobby Vehicles

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention generally relates to radio controlled hobby vehicles that are Remotely Controlled (RC) and have mobility. More particularly, the present invention relates to the hobby industry RC models cars and trucks. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     In applications where RC hobby vehicles need reenergizing periodically, the normal procedure is to discontinue operations and either recharge the batteries onboard or manually replace the batteries. Onboard recharging means the vehicle is put out of operation until the batteries are recharged. Recharging batteries usually takes 20 minutes or more for RC hobby cars. The down time for recharging battery powered RC hobby vehicles is usually unacceptable and another vehicle is put into use if available. Alternatively, exchanging the depleted batteries with charged ones eliminates the problem of down time or having multiple vehicles in reserve. However, presently virtually all battery exchanging is done manually, which can be quite time consuming itself. 
     This invention replaces the manual operations of exchanging and recharging batteries on remote controlled vehicles with an Automatic Exchanging and Charging Station, (AECS) for short, which may include a battery charging system for automatically recharging batteries removed for exchange. The automatic exchanging and charging operations is facilitated by the fact that the remote controlled (RC) vehicles are generally mobile, and can be directed to and made to interface with the AECS. Remote controlled can mean any number of ways of communicating control signals to the RC vehicle, including radio frequencies, light waves, infrared waves, microwave waves, etc., or electrically by wire. 
     The various battery types&#39; onboard RC vehicles may particularly include batteries of the following type: nickel-cadmium type batteries, nickel/metal-hydride type batteries, silver-zinc type batteries, lead-acid type batteries, and lithium-ion type batteries. In particular, when the battery of a RC vehicle becomes discharged during use, the vehicle&#39;s operator must then discontinue operations for a significant period of time while the vehicle&#39;s battery is recharged. To remedy such a problem, an operator of a RC vehicle having a discharged battery can either switch vehicles, obtaining a replacement vehicle with a fully charged battery, or alternatively the operator may manually exchange the battery on the RC vehicle with a fully charged one in reserve. Such discontinuity in use of RC vehicles, however, may not be generally practical, or fun, for persons are organizations needing or wanting long-distance and/or frequent and repetitive vehicle use, like racing for example. 
     Therefore, in view of the above, there is a present need in the art for an Automatic Exchanging and Charging Station (AECS) that is both equipped and able to exchange and recharge various battery types onboard different types of RC vehicles in short periods of time. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides an Automatic Exchanging and Charging Station (AECS) for exchanging and charging various battery types of RC vehicles. In one embodiment, the automatic exchanging and charging station may include a rack, a plurality of replaceable batteries, a service module, and an electronic computer control system. The replaceable batteries are stocked on the rack and substantially charged. The service module is mounted on the rack, and the electronic computer control system is connected in electrical communication with the service module. In this configuration, the service module is controllably operable to receive a depleted replaceable battery from a RC vehicle and also selectively deliver one of the substantially charged batteries to the RC vehicle. The automatic exchanging and charging station may optionally further include a battery charging system for recharging the received depleted vehicle batteries while stocked/stored on the rack. 
     Furthermore, it is believed that various alternative embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art when the detailed description of the best mode(s) contemplated for practicing the present invention, as set forth hereinbelow, is reviewed in conjunction with the appended claims and the accompanying drawing figures. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention is described hereinbelow, by way of example, with reference to the following drawing figures. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a side view of one practicable embodiment of an AECS for exchanging and charging batteries onboard RC vehicles. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a perspective view of the automatic exchanging and charging station depicted in  FIG. 1 . In this view, the AECS is partially cut away and shown to include a rack and a plurality of replaceable batteries stocked on the rack by means of a circulating conveyor system. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view highlighting the circulating conveyor system depicted in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of a transfer manifold of the circulating conveyor system depicted in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a partial sectional view of a holding clamp assembly of the circulating conveyor system depicted in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of another practicable embodiment of an AECS station facility. In this view, the AECS is partially cut away and shown to include a rack and a plurality of replaceable batteries stocked on the rack by means of a robotic arm engaged on a rail system. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a partial sectional view of a robotic service module mounted on the rack of the service station facility depicted in  FIG. 6 . In this view, the robotic service module is engaged underneath the battery of a vehicle being serviced. 
     
    
    
     UST OF PARTS AND FEATURES 
     To facilitate an understanding of the present invention, a list of parts and features highlighted with alphanumeric designations in  FIGS. 1 through 7  is set forth hereinbelow.
           8  AECS (first embodiment as a towable trailer)     9  RC vehicle     10  rack or framework     11  batteries     12  robotic service module     13  electronic computer control system     14  hitch or tow bar     15  wheel(s) (mounted at the bottom of the rack)     16  conveyor system     17  cooling system (for cooling batteries during charging)     18  hose (for receiving water, for example)     19  cable (for receiving electricity)     20  AECS (second embodiment as in-ground facility)     21  electric charging system (for recharging batteries)     22  position sensor(s) (for alignment of robotic service module to RC vehicle)     23  identification scanner or transceiver     24  control panel     25  display monitor     26  Remote controller (for RC vehicles)     27  storage tanks(s) (which may store, for example, cooling water)     28  fluid pumping system (for pumping, for example, cooling water)     29  energy cells (capacitors, for example)     30  foldable ramp(s) (for RC vehicles to egress and depart)     31  hydraulic lift system (for lifting and aligning the robotic service module)     32  service hole (in service platform)     33  (placeholder number)     34  service platform (for RC vehicle)     35  stabilizer(s)     36  rack-and-pinion mechanism (for adjusting the robotic service module)     37  permanent vehicle guide rail(s) (for RC vehicles)     38  Optional guide rail(s)     39  signaling device (for giving RC driving instructions such as go, slow, stop)     40  heating and cooling system     41  transfer manifold (of conveyor system)     42  quick disconnect (breaks before rotation)     43  quick disconnect (makes before rotation)     44  dual quick disconnect manifold     45  slip ring     46  hose wheel (of conveyor system)     47  liquid supply line (from cooling system for example)     48  liquid umbilical hose and/or electric cable     49  clamp(s)     50  transfer line(s) (liquid cooling hoses and/or electric recharging cables)     51  holding damp assembly (for conveyor system)     52  electric power connector     53  electric power input connector     54  liquid inlet port (passing, for example, water)     55  retention pin(s)     56  holding clamp(s)     57  quick disconnect(s)     58  electromagnetic actuator (for example, a quick disconnect solenoid)     59  electromagnetic driver (for example, a clamping solenoid)     60  power and status signal cable (for heating and cooling system)     61  bearing(s)     62  roller bearing(s)     63  roller assembly     64  railing (of conveyor system)     65  pull chain     66  sprocket wheel (for engaging pull chain)     67  front end axle of conveyor system (driven by an electric step motor for example)     68  cooling vent(s)     69  hook-up (for receiving water)     70  hook-up (for receiving electricity)     71  controllable robotic arm (for moving batteries for example)     72  positionable carriage (for supporting robotic arm)     73  electric motor (for positioning robotic arm carriage on rail system)     74  rail system (for moving robotic arm about the rack)     75  in-ground enclosure (made of, for example, fiberglass)     76  bay area (for recharging batteries for example)     77  compartment     78  power source (for electric heater)     79  utility trough (for umbilical hoses, cooling hoses, and electric charging cables)     80  liquidizer and refrigeration system (chiller)     81  rail system (for moving and positioning the robotic service module)     82  ground level     83  vehicle retention mechanism(s)     84  alignment pin(s)     85  electric torque motor(s)     86  electric motor     87  jackscrew     88  electric motor (for adjusting the robotic service module)     89  motor mount(s)     90  electric power input connector     91  liquid inlet port (passing, for example, water)     92  hose coupler     93  Receiver and Transmitter       

     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  respectively illustrate side and perspective views of one practicable embodiment of an Automatic Exchanging and Charging Station (AECS)  8  pursuant to the present invention. In general, the AECS  8  is adapted for replenishing various battery types onboard different types of RC vehicles. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the AECS facility  8  includes a rack  10 , a plurality of batteries  11 , a robotic service module  12 , and an electronic computer control system  13 . The replaceable batteries  11  are stocked on the rack  10  and substantially charged utile as motivational energy sources within battery-operated RC vehicles. The robotic service module  12  is adjustably mounted on the rack  10  via a hydraulic lift system  31 , a rack-and-pinion mechanism  36 , and a rail system  81 . The electronic computer control system  13  is connected in electrical communication with the robotic service module  12  and its adjusting systems and mechanisms as well. In this configuration, the robotic service module  12  is controllably operable to remove a depleted battery from a battery-operated RC vehicle  9  and also selectively install one of the recharged batteries  11  onboard the battery-operated RC vehicle  9 . As used herein, the term “robotic service module” may include any electrically, mechanically, hydraulically, and/or pneumatically assisted arms or lever mechanisms. 
     As further shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the AECS  8  also includes a closed-loop conveyor system  16  on which the batteries  11  are releasably held. The conveyor system  16  is mounted on the rack  10  and connected in electrical communication with the electronic computer control system  13 . In this configuration, the conveyor system  16  is controllably operable to circulate the batteries  11  about the service station facility  8  so that the robotic service module  12  has selective access to each of the batteries  11 . 
     As best shown in  FIG. 2 , the AECS  8  further includes a cooling system  17  for cooling the batteries. The cooling system  17  itself has both a hose  18  and a cable  19  for thereby receiving water and electricity from public utilities. The cooling system  17  is connected in electrical communication with the electronic computer control system  13  and also controllably connectable in fluidal communication with any of the batteries  11  on the conveyer system  16 . In this configuration, the cooling system  17  is controllably operable to receive both water and electricity to thereby produce chilled coolant so as to substantially cool batteries  11  on the conveyor system  16  that are designated for exchange. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the cooling system  17 , or any other cooling system in general, may alternatively be situated in a second facility that is located near to the service station facility  8  and connected thereto via one or more fluid and/or electrical supply lines. Such an alternative arrangement may in some circumstances be desirable if a cooling system is deemed to be too large to include within the service station facility  8 . In this way, the service station facility  8  is still able to maintain its portability. 
     In addition to including the batteries  11 , the AECS  8  also includes a plurality of replaceable alternative energy cells  29  stocked on the rack  10 . In general, the energy cells  29  are all substantially charged and are sufficient and utile as motivational energy sources within RC vehicles. As depicted in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the replaceable energy cells  29  are releasably held on the conveyor system  16  along with the batteries  11 . In this configuration, the conveyor system  16  is controllably operable to circulate the replaceable energy cells  29  about the service station facility  8  so that the robotic service module  12  has selective access to each of the energy cells  29 . In this way, the robotic service module  12  is controllably operable to remove a discharged replaceable energy cell from a RC vehicle and also selectively install one of the charged replaceable energy cell  29  onboard the RC vehicle. 
     In general, the plurality of replaceable batteries  11  stocked on the rack  10  may include many different types of batteries that are utile within battery-operated RC vehicles. Though other types of batteries are possible, some of these batteries  11  may particularly include, for example, a lead-acid type battery, a lithium-ion type battery, a nickel-cadmium type battery, a nickellmetal-hydride type battery, or a silver-zinc type battery. The polarity of replaceable energy cells  29  stocked on the rack  10  may include many different types of energy cells that are utile within RC vehicles. Though other types of energy cells are possible, some of these energy cells  29  may particularly include, for example, a capacitor, 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the AECS  8  further includes an electric charging system  21  for recharging any batteries  11  or energy cells  29  on the conveyor system  16  that are discharged. The electric charging system  21  is connected in electrical communication with the cable  19  for thereby receiving electricity from a public utility, or from a local power generating facility such as a solar powered generator mounted on a trailer. In addition, the electric charging system  21  is connected in electrical communication with the electronic computer control system  13  and also controllably connectable in electrical communication with any of the replaceable batteries  11  or energy cells  29  on the conveyor system  16 . In this configuration, the electric charging system  21  is controllably operable to substantially charge any of the replaceable batteries  11  or energy cells  29  on the conveyor system  16  that are designated for recharging. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 2 , the AECS  8  further includes a plurality of wheels  15 , a hitch  14 , and one or more stabilizers  35 . The hitch  14  is mounted on one end of the rack  10 , and the wheels  15  are rotatably mounted at the bottom of the rack  10 . In this configuration, both the hitch  14  and the wheels  15  facilitate towing of the AECS  8  by, for example, a RC vehicle, where the towing vehicle can optionally be serviceable by the AECS itself. Whenever the AECS  8  is unhitched, each stabilizer  35  helps balance and stabilize the AECS  8  so that an RC vehicle  9  can be safely driven up one of the ramps  30  and onto the stations service platform  34  for service. 
     As further shown in  FIG. 2 , the AECS  8  also includes one or more position sensors  22  and an electronic signaling device  39 . The position sensors  22  and the signaling device  39  are all mounted at the top of the rack  10  and about the service platform  34 . Both the position sensors  22  and the signaling device  39  are connected in electrical communication with the electronic computer control system  13 . In this configuration, each position sensor  22  is controllably operable to sense the position of an RC vehicle  9  relative to the AECS  8  and its main service features, such as both the service hole  32  and the robotic service module  12  on the facility&#39;s service platform  34 . In this way, proper alignment and controlled operation of the robotic service module  12  relative to the RC vehicle  9  is facilitated while the RC vehicle  9  is serviced on the platform  34 . In this same configuration, the signaling device  39  further facilitates proper alignment between the RC vehicle  9  and both the service hole  32  and the robotic service module  12  by displaying various driving instructions to the operator of a RC vehicle, or by a transmitter  93  transmitting positional signals or commands to a remote controller  26  as dictated by the position sensors  22 . Some of the driving instructions displayed on the signaling device  39  for a RC vehicle may include, for example, “go,” “slow,” “stop,” or even others. 
     In addition to the above, the AECS  8  also includes a transceiver  23 . The transceiver  23  is mounted at the top of the rack  10  and situated along one side of the service platform  34 . The transceiver  23  is also connected in electrical communication with the electronic computer control system  13 . Situated and connected as such, the transceiver  23  is controllably operable to establish electromagnetic communication with a RC vehicle  9  to be serviced and thereby identify the vehicle  9  so that the robotic service module  12  can service the vehicle  9  accordingly. By initially identifying an RC vehicle  9  in this way, the electronic computer control system  13  can control the robotic service module  12  so as to install the proper type of battery  11  or the proper type of energy cell  29  into the vehicle  9 . 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the AECS  8  further includes a control panel  24 , and a display monitor  25 . The control panel  24  and the display monitor  25  are mounted at the top of the rack  10  and situated along a side of the service platform  34 . In addition, they are all connected in electrical communication with the electronic computer control system  13  as well. Situated and connected as such, the control panel  24  and the display monitor  25  facilitate controlled operation of the service station facility  8  by a service attendant. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of the conveyor system  16  depicted in  FIG. 2 . In this view, the two rotating end shafts, the semicircular end guide rails, the holding clamps  56 , and the rotating transfer manifold  41  of the conveyor system  16  are all highlighted. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a perspective view of the rotating transfer manifold  41  of the conveyor system  16  depicted in  FIG. 3 . In this view, the dual disconnect system of the transfer manifold  41  is highlighted. As shown in  FIG. 4 , the dual disconnect system particularly includes one make-before-rotate quick disconnect  43  and one break-before-rotate quick disconnect  42 , which are situated 180 degrees away from each other about the transfer manifold&#39;s hose wheel  46 . In general, such a dual disconnect system eliminates the need for fluid hoses to circulate with the conveyor system. For multiple cooling fluid types, a series of rotating manifolds  41  can be stacked axially. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a partial sectional view of one holding clamp assembly  51  of the circulating conveyor system  16  depicted in  FIG. 3 . In this view, the holding clamp assembly  51  is shown to ride on the railing  64  about the conveyor system  16  as driven by a pull chain  65  and a sprocket wheel  66 . As further shown in the view of  FIG. 5 , the holding clamp  56  of the assembly  51  operates to both engage and lock onto a battery  11  or energy cell  29  on the conveyor system  16  and also pull the battery  11  or cell  29  around the conveyor system  16  so that the battery  11  or cell  29  rides on rail-mounted roller bearings  62 . At about the same time that the holding clamp  56  of the assembly  51  locks onto the battery  11  or cell  29 , both a fluidal connection and an electrical connection are respectively made with the battery  11  or cell  29  via an electric power connector  52  and a quick disconnect  57 . To later transfer the battery  11  or cell  29  from the conveyor system  16  to the robotic service module  12  for installation onboard a RC vehicle  9 , both the fluidal connection and the electrical connection established by the holding clamp assembly  51  with the battery  11  or cell  29  are broken so as to release the battery  11  or cell  29  from the conveyor system  16 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of another practicable embodiment of a AECS  20  pursuant to the present invention. In this view, the AECS  20  is shown to be largely prefabricated and housed in an enclosure  75  that has been lowered into an excavated hole in the ground. As a result, the AECS  20  has a service platform  34  that is substantially even with ground level  82 . 
     In the embodiment depicted in  FIG. 6 , the AECS  20  does not include a conveyor system for moving and stocking batteries as does the facility  8  in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . Instead, the AECS  20  includes a bay area  76  wherein both batteries  11  and energy cells  29  are stocked and stored on a shelf-like rack  10 . To move the batteries  11  and the energy cells  29  about the facility&#39;s bay area  76  and both onto and off of the robotic service module  12 , the AECS  20  alternatively includes a controllable robotic arm  71  mounted on a carriage  72 . The carriage  72  along with the robotic arm  71  are positionable about the facility&#39;s bay area  76  by means of a rail system  74 . The carriage  72  is engaged on the rail system  74  and is moved thereon by an electric motor  73 . The carriage  72  and its electric motor  73  are both connected in electrical communication with the facility&#39;s electronic computer control system  13  so as to control all movement of the robotic arm  71 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 6 , the AECS  20  also includes a plurality of supplemental storage tanks  27  and a fluid pumping system  28 . The storage tanks  27  are mounted on the rack  10  and adapted to retain cooling fluids. One or more of the storage tanks  27  themselves may initially be filled for a cooling system  17  connected thereto. The fluid pumping system  28  is also mounted on the rack  10  and connected in fluidal communication with the storage tanks  27 . The electronic computer control system  13  is connected in electrical communication with the fluid pumping system  28 . In this configuration, cooling fluid (i.e., water for example) may generally be controllably pumped by the fluid pumping system  28  from the storage tanks  27  and into or around the replaceable batteries  11  or energy cells  29  in the bay area  76 , where the fluid flow effectively absorbs and removes heat from the batteries  11  or energy cells  29 . Establishing a fluidal connection between one of the storage tanks  27  and one of the replaceable batteries  11  or energy cells  29  for successfully transferring fluid therebetween for cooling the battery  11  or energy cells  29  is particularly accomplished with help from the robotic arm  71 . 
     In addition thereto, the AECS  20  also includes an electric charging system  21 . The electric charging system  21  is mounted on the rack  10  and connected in electrical communication with the electronic computer control system  13 . In this configuration, electric current may generally be controllably communicated from the electric charging system  21  and into the replaceable batteries  11  or energy cells  29  in the bay area  76 . Establishing an electrical connection between the electric charging system  21  and one of the replaceable batteries  11  or energy cells  29  for successfully transferring electric current therebetween for recharging the battery  29  is particularly accomplished with help from the robotic arm  71 . 
     In a possible alternative embodiment, it is to be understood that the electric charging system  21  may be directly connected in electrical communication with the robotic service module  12  itself. In this way, the robotic service module  12  would be controllably operable to establish electrical communication with a battery-operated RC vehicle and also substantially recharge a discharged battery onboard the vehicle. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a partial sectional view of the robotic service module  12  adjustably mounted on the rack  10  of the AECS  20  depicted in  FIG. 6 . In this view, the robotic service module  12  is engaged underneath the battery  11  or energy cell  29  of an RC vehicle  9  that is being serviced. As also shown in this view of  FIG. 7 , the RC vehicle  9  includes one or more retention mechanisms  83  for releasably holding the battery  11  or energy cell  29  in place after the battery  11  or energy cell  29  is installed by the robotic service module  12 . As further shown in  FIG. 7 , the robotic service module  12  includes one or more electric torque motors  85  engaged with a matching number of vertical alignment pins  84 , which ensure proper engagement of the service module  12  and the vehicle  9  while also releasing the retention mechanism  83 . The jackscrew  87  and the electric motor  88  are used for moving the robotic service module  12  up and down with its battery  11  or energy cell  29  load. Equipped as such, the robotic service module  12  can thus remove a depleted battery  11  or energy cell  29  from the vehicle  9  and also install a battery  11  or energy cell  29 . Furthermore, in  FIG. 7 , the robotic service module  12  is also shown to have both an associated rack-and-pinion mechanism  36  and an associated electric motor  88  mounted on the rack  10  of the AECS  20 . Together, the rack-and-pinion mechanism  36  and the electric motor  88  work to adjust and position the robotic service module  12  for proper lateral alignment with the RC vehicle  9 . 
     In general, the present invention as described hereinabove is able to supply both the appropriate battery  11  or energy cell  29  at needed locations in a cost effective and timely manner. It is anticipated that the invention when properly implemented will allow continuous operation of RC vehicles when needed. 
     In essence, the above-described Automatic Exchanging and Charging Station (AECS)  8  is a Portable Energy Rack for Inserting and Charging replaceable batteries or energy cells. The AECS can be constructed to provide conventional battery or energy cell recharging services in combination with battery or energy cell exchange capabilities. 
     An Automatic Exchanging and Charging Station pursuant to the present invention may be a stationary or permanent structure like the above-described facility  20 . It is anticipated, however, that the portable facility  8 , which can easily be moved to locations in demand of replaceable batteries or energy cells, will be highly functional and more effective in facilitating remote operations in racing or competitive locations. By using a remote controller  26  to maneuver RC vehicles to the AECS, the battery exchange or servicing process can be automatically initiated by the sensors of the AECS, or alternatively the remote controller  26  can be used to initiate the exchange or servicing process by way of a service receiver and transmitter  93 . This will facilitate remote controlled operation of the AECS by a remote operator with an established communication link, RF for example, between the AECS and the remote controller  26 . 
     The AECS  8  can be made portable through use of any suitable transportation means, including being carried in or on transportation vehicles like trucks or cars. More practically, however, the facility  8  is best made portable by means of wheels  15  attached to its undercarriage, as in a trailer. Having such wheels  15  enables the facility  8  to be easily towed, moved, pulled, and ultimately parked by most any type of transportation means, including another RC vehicle, to desired locations. 
     As also described hereinabove, a Stationary Automatic Exchanging and Charging Station for replaceable batteries or energy cells is proposed herein as well. This type of AECS facility  20  may be more desirable in factories or warehouses, where cargo or inventory is moved about systematically by RC vehicles. This AECS type  20  is a stationary or permanent structure, which may be prefabricated and installed or dropped into an excavated site. When utilizing such a facility  20 , RC vehicles may simply be driven onto a ground-level service platform  34  to be serviced. 
     The AECS  8  and  20  each include a sturdy framework or rack  10  that is able to support a RC vehicle of any kind or technology or mobility, to drive onto, or be pulled or pushed by extemal means onto, the top of the AECS  8  or the service platform  34 . The facilities  8  and  20  may also be constructed to provide service to RC vehicles positioned alongside each facility instead of on top each facility. In this way, the facilities  8  and  20  would each have vertical servicing capability. 
     The facilities  8  and  20  also incorporate within their respective structures a robotic servicing apparatus or service module  12  for exchanging batteries or energy cells in RC vehicles, automatically or autonomously. A single robotic service module  12  is generally employed to do both battery exchanges and energy cell exchanges, but two or more service modules may alternatively be installed wherein each service module is dedicated to a separate function. With removable batteries or energy cells, the robotic service module  12  will be equipped with mechanisms for first decoupling a vehicle&#39;s battery or energy cell, and then lowering it to a stowed position within the rack  10  for the purpose of recharging. Thereafter, the robotic service module  12  will reinstall a recharged battery or energy cell into the RC vehicle  9 , thereby ensuring that the battery or energy cell is connected properly and secure onboard the vehicle  9 . Furthermore, in the case of a vertically oriented system, the robotic service module  12  may automatically replace or replenish a desired energy source. 
     The AECS  8  and  20  are constnructed and designed to move their respective robotic service modules  12  to specific locations on a serviced RC vehicle  9  where the vehicle  9  needs to be serviced. Alternatively or in combination therewith, the facilities  8  and  20  may also be constructed with means to position each vehicle  9  in a specific orientation on the rack  10  or service platform  34  for proper alignment, so as to service the vehicle  9  with a battery or energy cell of any type as required by the vehicle  9 . For example, in some constructed facility configurations, vehicles may be pulled up alongside the facilities  8  and  20 . Thereafter, the battery exchange or recharging may be carried out in an automated manner. 
     The battery or energy cell cooling capability is accomplished by providing onboard storage tanks  27 , transfer lines, electric cables, pumps, battery chargers and also cable hook-ups. The storage tanks  27  may be refilled by onboard generators for the cooling systems  17 . In addition thereto or alternatively, they may also be refilled via one or more external sources such as, for example, a tanker truck, manually, or even one or more stationary pipelines. 
     Primarily, or in combination, the AECS  8  and  20  are constructed to service vehicles with removable energy storage devices such as batteries. The facilities  8  and  20  will contain within their respective mid sections a store of appropriate batteries or energy cells that are completely or substantially charged, and will replace or exchange a vehicle&#39;s removed battery or energy cell with a pre-replenished one. Alternatively, the facilities  8  and  20  may be interfaced with an adjacent store or silo of batteries or energy cells for the exchange. In general, the exchange method implemented in these facilities  8  and  20  is highly efficient in that no recharge time is required for the RC vehicles themselves, which can take several minutes to hours. That is, in facilities  8  and  20 , a user may simply drive his vehicle  9  onto or alongside the service platform  34  of the facility, wait a few seconds for the exchange to take place, and then simply drive away. Such a brief and timely exchange is one of the most desirable aspects of both the AECS  8  and  20 . 
     An example structure for the AECS  8  is a rectangular framework or rack  10  that is constructed with a truss to support RC vehicles  9  parked on top, to hold replaceable batteries or energy cells stored in recharging bays, or to hold a rotating conveyer system  16  of cells. A rail system  81  for moving each of the robotic service modules  12 , or a rail system  74  for moving the robotic arm  71  are each mounted to the respective framework or rack  10  of the facilities  8  and  20 . Each framework or rack  10  also includes compartments  77  for storage tanks  27 , generators or cooling systems  17 , heating and cooling units, and electronic computer control systems  13 . Twin axial wheels  15  and stabilizers  35  are mounted to the undercarriage of the AECS  8 , along with a tow bar  14  mounted to the front, to thereby form a mobile trailer. 
     An example structure for the AECS  20  is similar to the AECS  8 , except that the mobility aspect is not present in the AECS  20 . Instead, the AECS  20  is constructed to be modular so that it can easily be placed on or into the ground using at a desired destination site. The AECS  20  is substantially enclosed with, for example, fiberglass walls for thereby withstanding any adverse effects from the elements of ground or in-ground environments. 
     An electronic computer control system  13  is mounted within each facility&#39;s controls for thereby exchanging energy cells or batteries within vehicles. Mounted as such, the electronic computer control system  13  operates to control and monitor the recharging of spent cells or batteries, and also controls any communication links established between the facility itself, the RC vehicles  9 , and the control panel  24 . The electronic computer control system  13  is loaded with autonomous software for the automatic or autonomous control of the overall facility. Such control may particularly include, for example, the positioning of the robotic service module  12  for proper vehicle alignment, the monitoring and moving of the batteries or energy cells to and from the vehicles, the assuring of proper connections of cooling hoses and electric cables for safe operation, and also the monitoring and controlling of communication interfaces between the facility itself, the vehicles  9 , and the service control panels  24 . 
     The electronic computer control system  13  interfaces with the facility&#39;s proximity or position sensors  22  for thereby determining the relative locations of vehicles  9 , and the computer control system  13  also calculates the required repositioning for proper alignment. Such location information is also used to communicate directions to a user through the control panel&#39;s associated display monitor  25  and electronic signaling device  39  mounted on the service station facility. The direction commands given by the signaling device  39  may instruct a vehicle driver to, for example, pull forward and stop as necessary for a proper exchange to take place. 
     In addition to the above, AECS has means for interacting with and sensing the type of vehicles, to determining the battery or energy cell type requirement along with the quantity of charge to be replenished, or the battery or energy cell type and state of charge. The interaction protocol and identification code definitions may be developed by collaboration with industry. The vehicle codes can be attached to the vehicles in an established location in the form of magnetic strips or barcodes for reading by one or more sensors or transceivers  23  mounted on the facility. However, this type of link is limited in that no variable information can be transmitted from the vehicles to the facility about type or charge levels. A better alternative is for the facility and vehicles to have a communication link by means of infrared transceivers, electrical signal contacts, or wireless Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) means. These types of communication links can transmit the vehicle type, along with battery or energy cell type and charge level. The transmitted vehicle information is then communicated to the facility&#39;s electronic computer control system  13 . The computer control system  13  may then control any actions necessary for properly servicing the vehicle. 
     If recharging, the level of recharge can be controlled by the vehicle operator himself, or by a service attendant, via the control panel  24  mounted on the facility, with the control panel  24  more preferably made accessible to the driver by remote control means  26 . In an alternative embodiment, a second control panel may be mounted on the side of the rack  10  for access by an operator. Such an additional control panel may also be remotely operated via a cable or a wireless connection to the facility by a service attendant. 
     After the AECS  8  has determined the vehicle battery or energy cell requirements, the facility  8  will automatically move the robotic service module  12  to the exchange location on the vehicle, and autonomously exchange the battery or energy cell. The exchange process is performed by removing the spent battery or cell from the vehicle, and then placing it onto the conveyor system  16 . A fresh battery or cell is then rotated by the conveyor system  16  to the insertion position. In contrast, in the AECS  20 , the robotic arm  71  may move the battery or cell to the bay area  76  for recharging, and the arm  71  may also retrieve a fresh unit for replacement and installation in the vehicle. In collaboration with industry, a standard retention mechanism  83 , for example, may be defined for various types of batteries or energy cells so as to hold the batteries or cells in the undercarriage of their respective vehicles. The robotic service module  12  will achieve alignment with the vehicle retention mechanism  83  by means of the position sensors  22 . The robotic service module  12  then engages the retention mechanism  83  via alignment pins  84 , and then actively causes the retention mechanism  83  to release the battery  11  or cell  29  from the vehicle  9 . This can be accomplished, for example, by rotating a screw type locking bolt of the retention mechanism  83  by using an electric torque motor  85 . The robotic service module  12  is maneuvered within the facility  20  also by electric motors on the rail system  81  via wheels or bearings. Alternatively, the robotic service module  12  may be positioned by a rack-and-pinion mechanism  36 . Also, the robotic service module may lift and lower batteries or cells using another electric motor and a jackscrew lift, or alternatively a hydraulic jack lift system  31 . The robotic arm  71  along with its carriage  72  may maneuver in a similar manner, except that the robotic arm  71  itself will perform the lowering, lifting, and placing of the batteries or cells into the bay area  76  for charging. The robotic arm  71  may be somewhat more versatile in that the interface definition of the individual batteries or energy cells can be somewhat varied and less narrowly defined. That is, given the robotic arm&#39;s dexterous clamp or claw on its distal end and also its intelligent controlling software, the robotic arm  71  may be utilized to grasp and move batteries and energy cells having multiple different configurations. 
     Alternatively or in combination with each robotic service module  12 , the service AECS facilities  8  and  20  may be constructed with a movable service platform to help position the vehicles in a specific orientation for proper alignment. Such can be accomplished, for example, by using hydraulic cylinders or electric motors connected to a floating service platform on bearings. The cylinders would extend or retract as directed by the electronic computer control system  13 . In such an embodiment, the computer control system  13  sends position commands to cylinder valve controllers and receives position feedback signals from position sensors on the service platform. A simpler method, however, would be to use a guide rail  37  mounted to the service platform  34 . Such will force the vehicle driver to place the vehicle in an approximate initial alignment position. Thereafter, final alignment may easily be achieved via the mobility of the robotic service module  12  itself. 
     If a cooling process is required during periods of recharging, the robotic service module  12  will autonomously connect a cooling hose or appendage as required to the vehicle. This again, can be accomplished by defining interface requirements with industry, and having the service module  12  maneuver the hose with gears, levers, screws, and sensors in a predefined manner for positive engagement. A robotic arm with intelligent software, however, may again be a better approach for thereby ensuring versatile engagement capability. 
     Preferably, the vehicle charging port would be located on the undercarriage of the vehicle, for ease of the mating process, but such is not a necessary restriction. For side-mounted charging ports on vehicles, the AECS  8  will have side-mounted robotic service modules for vehicles to park alongside. For vehicles pulled on top of the AECS  8  and  20 , top-protruding side service modules  12  will be utilized. In general, side-charging robotic service modules will operate and maneuver in a similar manner as the undercarriage-charging service modules  12 . 
     One method of stowing and recharging the batteries or energy cells is for the facility to contain within its midsection, a conveyor system  16  to move the removed batteries or cells around a closed loop while being recharged. In this manner, the removed units are rotated out of the way, while the replenished units are simultaneously rotated into position for installation by the robotic service module  12 . The length of the conveyor system  16 , and consequently the number of stowed units, can be adjusted to meet the supply demand in concert with the recharging timing requirements. 
     In general, the conveyor system  16  includes a chain with holding clamps that automatically grasp the battery or energy cell when put in place by the robotic service module  12 . Also mounted to the chain and split off to the clamps, are fluid umbilical hoses and/or electric cables  48  for cooling and recharging. The clamps are spaced on the chain with a spacing to accommodate the predefined battery or cell sizes. The clamp devices incorporate sensors to sense when a battery or cell is placed, triggering a clamping action. The clamping action is electromagnetically driven, but could be actuated by pneumatic means as well. The clamps also contain alignment sensors and quick disconnects for aligning and connecting the umbilical hose or cables  48 . The umbilical devices will contain quick disconnects, connectors, or brushes as needed to temporarily connect the batteries or cells as they are placed and removed from the conveyor system  16  by the robotic service module  12 . The clamps also contain electromagnetic actuators and sensors for aligning and establishing these temporary connections, which occurs after the clamping device confirms a positive battery or cell clamp. 
     The conveyor system  16  itself is rotated by an electric step motor, but can also be rotated by a hydraulic or pneumatic motor as well. Operation of the conveyor system motor is controlled by commands given by the electronic computer control system  13 . The required cooling fluid and charge is transferred from storage tanks and generators to the conveyor cooling and recharging hoses and cables, by a slip ring  45  mounted to a conveyor hose wheel  46  at one end of the conveyor system  16 . Alternatively, the fluid and/or charge transfers can be done by a dual quick disconnect manifold with sensors and actuators similar in operation to the umbilical arrangement. During a rotational step of the conveyor system  16 , one quick disconnect is maintained while the other is released. This method eliminates the need for a service transfer hose and cable that would need to circulate around with the conveyor system  16 . 
     Another method of cooling and recharging the exchangeable batteries and energy cells is for the facility to contain a storage rack system (or bay area) either internally within or adjacent to the facility. The robotic service module  12  or robotic arm  71  would be controlled by electrical control signals communicated from the electronic computer control system  13 , and would maneuver on rail systems as previously described herein. The computer control system  13  would receive charge level signals and types from sensors situated within the bay areas. Keeping track of charge levels enables the computer control system  13  to select a battery or cell that meats a charge or type requirement of the user. Such a system is more flexible in allowing the user to select batteries or cells. In using a conveyor system, if a user wanted to select a particular type battery or charge, the unit conveyor could be rotated to position a more recently removed battery or cell partially charged, or preferentially desired type, for installation. 
     In general, there are two ways in which an AECS can obtain required battery or energy cell charges. They can be externally generated and transferred to energy storage cells or batteries within the facilities for instantaneous servicing of the vehicles, or for later transfer to the vehicle batteries and energy cells. Alternatively or in combination, the facilities contain on-board charge generators and electrical converters, or battery chargers, for charging batteries or energy cells contained within the unit. 
     Currently, there are many off-the-shelf battery chargers and generators commercially available. Any quantity or combination of such devices may optionally be included within either of the AECS  8  and  20  to generate or convert the charges needed or required to service vehicle demand. 
     In summary, the AECS  8  and  20  generally act as universal power generators, electric converters, and energy storage facilities, and also generally provide a universal interface for various RC vehicle electric charge needs. The AECS  8  and  20  are generally equipped with universal adapters as needed to output charges using connectors for interfacing with RC vehicles. Additionally, the ASSF  8  and  20  also perform an autonomous or automatic exchange of batteries and energy cells of any type, thereby simplifying, expediting, and making easier the energy input or transfer to RC vehicles. The structure and function of the AECS  8  and  20  are to provide an energy delivery system that interfaces universally with these inputs, outputs, and also meets user needs. Such is why the AECS proposed herein are so useful. In particular, simply replacing a battery with a fully re-charged one generally eliminates any significant time period for waiting while a vehicle is serviced. That is, if the vehicles are properly constructed with replaceable batteries or energy cells, and the machinery for performing the exchange is sufficiently robust, then such swapping can be accomplished with any type of battery or energy cell in a matter of seconds. 
     While the present invention has been described in what are presently considered to be its most practical and preferred embodiments or implementations, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed hereinabove. On the contrary, the present invention is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the claims appended hereinbelow, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as are permitted under the law.