Fast battery change in pit stop... need ideas.

[tom255]

In first tought, fixing from bottom was OK, but I am realy worry about chassis flex and weakness. If I use guide posts I need at least two locking mechanisms, And locking from bottom looks risky too for me. Why not use simple way one side of box going behind of chassis (difficult explain) like usualy battery trays in different devices and second side have locking mechanism and maybe one or two guides with integrated locking mechanism. But dont have nice ideas about locking yet.

Now I think inserting battery from side is bit better. My english is bad and difficult to explain but I drawed what I mean.
On the picture Green is the box and red same box but how I mount it. On topyou can see how box fix to the chassis. Box sides slips to the socket.
http://www.hot.ee/tom255/design.JPG

[JERRY2KONE]

I would think that the best way is to have a cutout area in the sides of the body, with custom trays that allow for side battery insertion. Using some kind of soft liner to compress the battery as you install it(making it snug), and finally having the snap-type locking mechanism double as some kind of snap connector. Say with a slight push or pull it opens up and the battery slides out, and then a new one slides right in. Finishing with a snapping connector plug that holds the battery in place.. I agree that the battery box should be a custom-made derlin or even thin aluminum battery box. It is just a matter of time before it is presented to us from the major manufacturers, but if you could mod something up as a prototype that would be a good start. Good luck and keep us informed of your progress.