Robotic systems and methods for vehicle fueling and charging

A robotic system for fueling or charging a vehicle having a vehicle connector, comprising:

• a robotic arm;
• a flexible conduit operably connected with the robotic arm for delivering a fluid or an electrical current, respectively, to a vehicle, the flexible conduit being connected to a source at a first end and a delivery connector at a second end;
• and
• a control system for operating the robotic arm and the flexible conduit;
• wherein the control system includes a sensor for detecting a position of the vehicle relative to the robotic system;
• and
• wherein the control system provides instructions to the vehicle or a vehicle operator to position the vehicle properly for fueling or charging;
• wherein the robotic arm is operated first in a state of tension before it is connected to the vehicle, and upon connection relaxes to an under-constrained condition, and upon completion of delivering the fluid or the electrical current resumes the state of tension.

A robotic system for fueling or charging a vehicle having a vehicle connector, comprising:

• a robotic arm;
• a flexible conduit operably connected with the robotic arm for delivering a fluid or an electrical current, respectively, to a vehicle, the flexible conduit being connected to a source at a first end and a delivery connector at a second end;
• and
• a control system for operating the robotic arm and the flexible conduit;
• wherein the control system includes a communication device to signal potential users when the robotic system is available for use;
• wherein the robotic arm is operated first in a state of tension before it is connected to the vehicle, and upon connection relaxes to an under-constrained condition, and upon completion of delivering the fluid or the electrical current resumes the state of tension.