Robotic charging
How it works
1) Perception: cameras and sensors locate the vehicle/robot and the charge port and estimate its pose. 2) Motion planning: the system computes an arm trajectory or a mobile-unit approach that compensates for positioning inaccuracy. 3) Manipulation: an end effector holding the connector performs a precise insertion, often with mechanical compliance and force feedback to absorb contact. 4) Charging and disconnection: after the session the robot unplugs the connector and returns it to its dock. Mobile variants additionally drive to the parked vehicle rather than requiring the vehicle to come to a fixed bay.
Problem solved
Conductive charging requires a human to physically plug in the connector, which blocks full autonomy for vehicles and robots, complicates large-fleet operations, and reduces accessibility for people with limited mobility. Robotic charging removes the human from the plugging loop while keeping the efficiency of a wired connector.