Abstract: A three part vehicle connection system comprising an object manipulator (A), a vehicle-defined connector (B) and a configuration-defined connection counterpart (e.g., a trailer-side or charging station-side connector, C) is disclosed. (A) and (B) are connectible; and, (B) and (C) are connectible. The connections (A to B and B to C) can be in a state that (i) defeats or (ii) allows connector disengagement. In a first configuration (1): (A) is connected to (B) in state (i) and (B) is connected to (C) in state (ii). When in configuration (1), an actuator of (A) can cause a change to a second configuration (2) wherein: (A) is connected to (B) in state (ii) and (B is connected to (C) in state (i).

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a vehicle, comprising a vehicle-defined connection counterpart and an object manipulator. The object manipulator comprises an end effector releasably coupled with the vehicle-defined connection counterpart, such that a coupled end effector is established, and a guide, configured for guiding displacement of the end effector. The vehicle-defined connection counterpart is configured for connection to a configuration-defined connection counterpart of a configuration, such as a trailer or a charging dock.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a charging dock for a towing vehicle. The towing vehicle includes a first adapter counterpart and the dock includes a second adapter counterpart. The towing vehicle includes a robot apparatus and the dock includes a guide. The robot apparatus and the guide are co-operatively configured to align the first and second adapter counterparts, such that the first and second adapter counterparts are connectible, in response to displacement of the first adapter counterpart towards the second adapter counterpart. The connection of the first adapter counterpart with the second adapter counterpart effectuates connection between the energy source of the dock and the energy storage device of the towing vehicle, such that energy is transferrable from the energy source to the energy storage device.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a towing vehicle, comprising a towing vehicle-defined connection counterpart, and a fixture configured for releasably coupling with the towing vehicle-defined connection counterpart. The towing vehicle-defined connection counterpart is configured for connection to a trailer-defined connection counterpart of a trailer, the trailer further including a guide.