Parker-Hannifin Corporation
MAGNETICALLY COUPLED POWER SYSTEM FOR A POWERED MOBILITY ASSISTANCE DEVICE INCLUDING FAST SWAP BATTERY

Abstract:

A power system includes a battery assembly that has at least one battery cell for providing power; a battery receiver that removably receives the battery assembly; and a plurality of first connecting elements that are located in the battery assembly and a corresponding plurality of second connecting elements that are located in the battery receiver, wherein an attractive magnetic force between the plurality of first and second connecting elements aids in maintaining a physical connection between the battery assembly within the battery receiver. In addition, a connection between a pair of a first connecting element and a corresponding second connecting element further constitutes an electrical connection between the battery assembly and the battery receiver. The battery system may be incorporated into a mobility assistance device that includes a first limb component that includes the battery receiver and an actuator system that is powered when the battery assembly is connected to the battery receiver, and a second limb component, wherein a connection of the first and second limb components comprises a rotatable joint, and the actuator system rotates the second limb component relative to the first limb component at the joint.