Linki is an autonomous charging bot system designed to deliver power to each parking spot so that every spot becomes a charging spot.
Trends
Rapid Growth in EV Ownership
The rapid growth in electric vehicle (EV) ownership marks a transformative shift in the automotive sector. As nations worldwide commit to electrification, governmental policies and market dynamics are crucial in accelerating this transition.
Technological Convergence
Technological convergence involves the fusion of diverse technologies into innovative systems that open up new realms of possibilities. As diverse technological systems and their applications increasingly intersect, they catalyze the creation of novel opportunities, driving smarter, more efficient solutions.
Problems
"ICED" EV Spots
You want to charge your car, but all the EV spots are occupied, either by other electric vehicles or by internal combustion engine cars.
Out of Order Chargers
Research from Harvard Business School indicates that one in five public chargers in the US is out of order, and they often remain not repaired for extended periods.
Idle Fees
If drivers don't move their cars promptly, idle fees begin accruing 5 to 10 minutes after charging is complete.
Time Wasted
Concerned about idle fees, drivers often wait by their cars with their phones, leading to unnecessary time spent waiting.
Persona
Ivy
AGE
29
DRIVES
Tesla Model 3
LIVES IN
Condo Apartment
LOCATION
Anaheim, CA
WORKS AS
Financial Analyst
PAIN POINTS
“I wish that I could spend my time more productively than just waiting.”
"I wish that I could charge and forget."
How might we develop a scalable and well-designed EV charging solution that optimizes operational efficiency for system operators while enhances convenience for users?
Challenge
Key Features
Simple ordering on the Linki App
Robot Arm Connects with the Plug
Linki Bot Releases the Battery Pack
Linki Bot Stops for Pedestrian
Linki Bot and Battery Pack Charges at the Station
System Components
Hardware: One (1) Linki Bot + Eight (8) Battery Packs + One (1) Station + Eight (8) Charging Poles
Software: Linki App
Standard Linki Unit:
Battery Pack
Station
Linki Bot
Charging Pole
Linki Bot
Dimension
Development
Tools Used:
Form and robot arm placement exploration
MidJourney Ideation
Rhino and Solidworks Iterations
3D printed prototype components
3D printing, spray painting, assembling
1:4 model