VoltValet: Autonomous Mobile EV Charging

The VoltValet project, developed by Team ElectraSmith at Smith College, focuses on creating an autonomous mobile electric vehicle (EV) charging system. This innovative solution aims to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of EV charging by addressing the growing demand for flexible and scalable charging infrastructure. Over the academic year, the team designed and built a modular robotic system consisting of arm/navigator robots that transport battery units to parked EVs, all managed by a central station. This system allows users to order charging services through a mobile app, offering a convenient and user-friendly solution to EV charging needs.

VoltValet operates through a sophisticated network of interconnected components. The core of the system is the central station, which oversees the deployment and coordination of arm and navigator robots. These robots are equipped with advanced navigation and manipulation capabilities, enabling them to transport battery units from the central station to the user's vehicle. The arm robot handles the physical connection, plugging and unplugging the battery units to the EVs, while the navigator robot ensures accurate and efficient movement across various environments.

One of the key advantages of VoltValet is its ability to operate without the need for fixed charging infrastructure. This flexibility allows the system to be deployed in a wide range of settings, such as workplaces, malls, and other public spaces. By eliminating the reliance on stationary charging stations, VoltValet can adapt to different locations and usage patterns, significantly reducing the infrastructural strain and cost associated with traditional EV charging solutions. This adaptability makes it an ideal solution for enhancing the convenience and accessibility of EV charging in both urban and suburban areas.

The development of VoltValet involved extensive research and prototyping, utilizing technologies such as Autodesk Fusion, ROS, Gazebo, Python, and GitHub. The project spanned 32 weeks, during which the team conducted rigorous testing and refinement to ensure the system's reliability and performance. The modular design of VoltValet also allows for future scalability and upgrades, ensuring that the system can evolve with advancements in EV technology and user requirements. This forward-thinking approach highlights the project's potential for long-term impact in the field of sustainable transportation.

In summary, VoltValet represents a significant step forward in the development of autonomous mobile EV charging solutions. By combining advanced robotics, modular design, and user-friendly technology, the project addresses the pressing need for flexible and efficient EV charging infrastructure. The collaborative efforts of Team ElectraSmith have resulted in a promising solution that can enhance the accessibility and convenience of electric vehicle charging, ultimately contributing to the broader adoption of sustainable transportation.