Docking device of connector assembly, connector device, charging rack and battery swap station

Abstract

The application provides a docking device of a connector assembly, a connector device, a charging rack and a battery swap station. The docking device is arranged on a rack body of the charging rack and comprises a connecting seat for being connected to the rack body, a bearing disc having a bearing end for bearing a battery pack, the bearing disc being switchable between an initial state and a bearing state, a mounting seat for mounting the connector assembly, the mounting seat being movably connected to the bearing disc and the connecting seat through a linkage mechanism, and the linkage mechanism being connected between the bearing disc and the mounting seat and comprising an elastic assembly, the linkage mechanism and the mounting seat being movably connected through the elastic assembly. When the battery end connector is in contact with the electric connector assembly, the mounting seat can move under the action of the elastic assembly to adaptively adjust to compensate for a part of displacement of the connector assembly, so that rigid collision between the connector assembly and the battery end connector can be avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery swapping, and in particular to a docking device for connector assemblies, a connector device, a charging rack, and a battery swapping station. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, vehicle exhaust emissions remain a significant contributor to environmental pollution. To address this issue, natural gas vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, solar-powered vehicles, and electric vehicles have been developed to replace gasoline-powered cars. Among these, electric vehicles hold the most promise. Current electric vehicles primarily fall into two categories: direct-charging and fast-swapping. Due to limitations in charging time and location, many new energy electric vehicles are gradually adopting a fast-battery swapping system for refueling.

[0003] When replacing the battery in an electric vehicle, the battery swapping equipment removes the depleted battery from the vehicle and transfers it to the battery transfer equipment. The battery transfer equipment then transfers the depleted battery to the charging rack for charging. Afterward, the battery transfer equipment removes a fully charged battery from the charging rack and transfers it to the battery swapping equipment, which then installs the fully charged battery into the electric vehicle. For charging the depleted battery, the electrical connectors on the charging rack must be aligned and connected to the battery terminal connectors on the battery pack before charging can begin.

[0004] In the prior art, the invention patent with authorization announcement number CN202772633U discloses an on-board power battery charging platform for electric vehicles. This solution utilizes the downward force applied to the mounting seat during the placement of the battery pack on the bracket. Through the combined action of the interlocking inclined sliding groove, the rollers below the mounting seat, and the sliding rail and slider that enable the mounting seat to slide on the bracket, the vertical movement of the battery pack is converted into the horizontal movement of the mounting seat, thereby achieving electrical connection. However, if the battery pack is placed on the mounting seat in a deviated position, such as being closer to the electrical connection components on the mounting seat than the standard charging connection position, the mounting seat may come into contact with or even collide with the battery terminal electrical connector before moving to the theoretical electrical connection position between the electrical connection components and the battery terminal electrical connector. This may damage the electrical connector or affect the electrical connection.

[0005] Therefore, in the prior art, the docking device used to connect with the battery pack by connecting the connector assembly to the battery end connector assembly has the defect that the connector assembly and the battery end connector assembly are prone to collision due to deviation in the placement of the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the defect of the existing docking device, which is prone to collision between the connector assembly and the battery end connector assembly due to the deviation of the battery pack placement position. The present invention provides a docking device for connector assembly, a connector device, a charging rack and a battery swapping station.

[0007] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0008] A connector assembly mating device is disposed on the frame of a charging rack, the mating device comprising:

[0009] Connecting bracket, used for connecting to the frame;

[0010] The carrier plate has a carrier end for carrying the battery pack, and the carrier plate can switch between an initial state and a carrying state;

[0011] Mounting base, the mounting base is used to mount connector assembly, the mounting base is movably connected to the carrier plate and the connecting base respectively through the linkage mechanism;

[0012] The linkage mechanism connects the carrier plate and the mounting base. The linkage mechanism includes an elastic component, and the linkage mechanism and the mounting base are floatingly connected through the elastic component.

[0013] When the carrier end is not carrying a battery pack, the carrier plate is in its initial state, and the mounting base is in its initial position relative to the carrier plate;

[0014] When the carrier end carries the battery pack, the carrier plate moves relative to the connector and is in a carrying state. The mounting base moves towards the carrier end under the drive of the linkage mechanism and is in a docking position relative to the carrier plate, so that the connector assembly is connected to the battery end connector of the battery pack.

[0015] In this solution, a floating connection is achieved between the linkage mechanism and the mounting base under the action of the elastic component. When the battery end connector contacts the electrical connection assembly, the battery end connector applies a force to the connector assembly in a direction away from the bearing end. Under the action of the elastic component, the mounting base moves in a direction away from the bearing end to make adaptive adjustments to compensate for part of the displacement of the electrical connector assembly. This can avoid rigid collision between the connector assembly and the battery end connector, and effectively prevent the connector assembly and the battery end connector from being damaged or affected by the collision.

[0016] Preferably, when the bearing end carries the battery pack and the connector assembly is subjected to a force from the battery end connector in a direction away from the bearing end, the elastic component undergoes elastic deformation in a direction away from the bearing end to achieve a floating connection between the linkage mechanism and the mounting base.

[0017] In this solution, when the battery-side electrical connector comes into contact with the electrical connection assembly, the battery-side connector applies a force to the connector assembly in a direction away from the bearing end. The elastic component undergoes elastic deformation in a direction away from the bearing end. This deformation can compensate for a portion of the displacement of the electrical connector assembly, thereby playing a buffering and compensation role and effectively preventing the connector assembly and the battery-side connector from being damaged or having their connection affected by collision.

[0018] Preferably, the linkage mechanism includes a linkage mechanism, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the bearing end of the bearing plate, the second end of which is rotatably connected to the mounting base, and the elastic component cooperates with the linkage mechanism;

[0019] During the process of switching the bearing plate from the initial state to the bearing state, under the action of the linkage mechanism, the elastic component undergoes elastic deformation in the direction close to the bearing end. During the process of restoring the elastic deformation, the elastic component acts on the linkage mechanism to drive the mounting seat to move towards the bearing end, so as to convert the movement of the bearing plate into a force that moves the mounting seat from the initial position to the docking position.

[0020] In this design, during the transition of the support plate from its initial state to its load-bearing state, the elastic component undergoes elastic deformation towards the load-bearing end under the action of the linkage mechanism. During the recovery process, it again drives the mounting base towards the load-bearing end via the linkage mechanism, thus actuating the mounting base. The cooperation between the linkage mechanism and the elastic component ensures that when the battery pack is properly positioned, the mounting base can reliably and normally drive the connector assembly to connect with the battery connector. Simultaneously, when the battery pack is misaligned, the elastic component compensates for this misalignment by generating elastic deformation in a direction away from the load-bearing end.

[0021] Preferably, the linkage mechanism comprises a first link, a second link, and a third link, wherein the first end of the first link is rotatably connected to the bottom of the bearing end, the second end of the first link is rotatably connected to the first end of the second link, the second end of the second link is movably sleeved on the first end of the third link, and the second end of the third link is rotatably connected to the mounting base;

[0022] The connection between the first link and the second link is slidably connected to the connecting seat;

[0023] The portion of the third link located inside the second link is provided with a first limiting member. The elastic component includes a first elastic member, which is sleeved on the third link, and both ends of the first elastic member abut against the inner wall surfaces of the first limiting member and the second end of the second link, respectively.

[0024] In this design, when the carrier end carries the battery pack, the battery pack presses down on the carrier plate. The first link drives the second link to move relative to the third link towards the first end of the second link. The first elastic element undergoes elastic deformation along the direction closer to the carrier end. Under the action of the first elastic element on the first limiting element, the third link moves towards its first end, which in turn drives the mounting base to move towards the carrier end via the moving mechanism, so that the connector assembly connects with the battery end connector of the battery pack. If the battery pack is misplaced on the carrier end, such as being closer to the electrical connection assembly than the standard charging connection position, when the mounting base moves to the point where the connector assembly contacts or collides with the battery end connector, the connector assembly is subjected to a force away from the carrier end. Under the action of the moving mechanism, the third link moves towards its second end, and the first limiting element undergoes elastic deformation away from the carrier end, thus providing a certain compensation or buffering effect and preventing damage to the connector assembly and battery end connector caused by the misplacement of the battery pack.

[0025] Preferably, the first limiting member is vertically disposed on the rod body of the third link, and both ends of the first limiting member are not lower than the first elastic member along the axial direction perpendicular to the rod body of the third link.

[0026] In this solution, the above-mentioned structural configuration can ensure the stability of the structure between the first limiting member and the first elastic member. In particular, when the bearing plate switches between the initial state and the bearing state, the first limiting member can be stably subjected to the force of the first elastic member without causing the first elastic member to come out, which helps to improve the reliability of the electrical connection between the docking device and the battery end connector.

[0027] Preferably, the two ends of the first limiting member extend out of the sidewalls of the second connecting rod;

[0028] The second connecting rod has grooves on both sides, and the two ends of the first limiting member are located in the two grooves respectively.

[0029] In this solution, the above-mentioned structural configuration can further improve the stability of the first limiting member. The slide also provides space for the movement of the first limiting member and guides its movement.

[0030] Preferably, the elastic component further includes a second elastic element, which, along the axial direction of the third link, is located on both sides of the first limiting element.

[0031] The second link is also provided with a second limiting member, and the two ends of the second elastic member abut against the first limiting member and the second limiting member respectively.

[0032] In this design, the elastic element extends between the first and second limiting elements, allowing the first limiting element to cause elastic deformation of the elastic component in both directions. This increases the floating stroke of the third link and also helps improve the overall reliability.

[0033] Preferably, the first elastic element and the second elastic element constitute an integrally formed elastic element.

[0034] In this solution, the first elastic element and the second elastic element are set as an integrated elastic element, which results in higher strength of the elastic component and helps to ensure the stability of the elastic component during movement.

[0035] Preferably, the linkage mechanism further includes a sliding guide structure disposed on the connecting seat, and the connection between the first link and the second link is slidably connected to the sliding guide structure.

[0036] In this design, the sliding guide mechanism can limit the movement of the first and second links, and also provides movement space and guidance for the movement of the second link.

[0037] Preferably, the sliding guide structure includes a guide member disposed on the connecting seat, the guide member having a strip-shaped guide hole, the connection between the first link and the second link being located within the guide hole and movable along the length direction of the guide hole.

[0038] In this design, the guide hole of the guide member guides the movement of the connection between the first link and the second link. When the first link is subjected to force, the force can be converted through the guide hole into the movement of the mounting base along the direction closer to or further away from the bearing end, thus smoothly realizing the mechanical automatic electrical connection function of the docking device. At the same time, since the linkage mechanism is set between the connecting base and the bearing plate, the space at this location is fully utilized, which helps to reduce the overall volume of the docking device.

[0039] Preferably, during the process of switching the bearing plate from the initial state to the bearing state, the connection between the first link and the second link moves from the first end of the guide hole to the second end of the guide hole. In the direction perpendicular to the bottom plate of the connecting seat, the position of the first end of the guide hole is higher than the position of the second end of the guide hole.

[0040] In this design, the first end of the guide hole is positioned higher than the second end of the guide hole, meaning the guide hole is tilted upwards relative to the base plate of the connecting seat, which helps prevent the second connecting rod from getting stuck during movement.

[0041] Preferably, there are at least two linkage mechanisms, and the two linkage mechanisms are disposed between the connecting seat and the bearing plate;

[0042] The first link is rotatably connected to the second link through the first connecting shaft, which passes through the guide hole. The two link mechanisms share one first connecting shaft.

[0043] And / or, the first link is rotatably connected to the bottom of the bearing end via a second connecting shaft, and the two link mechanisms share a second connecting shaft.

[0044] In this scheme, the shared connecting shaft can improve or ensure the synchronization of the movements of the two linkage mechanisms, which in turn helps to further improve the overall stability.

[0045] Preferably, the linkage mechanism further includes a moving mechanism, and the mounting base is slidably connected to the carrier plate through the moving mechanism.

[0046] In this solution, the linkage mechanism and the moving mechanism work together to achieve the effect of pressing the battery pack down onto the bearing plate, causing the connector assembly and the battery end connector of the battery pack to approach each other until they are connected. The moving mechanism adopts a sliding connection to reduce friction when the mounting base moves.

[0047] Preferably, the moving mechanism includes a sliding guide rod and a slider, which are respectively connected to the mounting base and the bearing plate.

[0048] In this design, the guide rod and slider have simple structures, which helps to simplify the overall structure of the docking device.

[0049] Preferably, there are at least two moving mechanisms, and the at least two moving mechanisms are respectively disposed at both ends of the mounting base.

[0050] The above-mentioned structural design in this solution helps to improve the stability of the mounting base during movement.

[0051] Preferably, during the process of switching from the initial state to the bearing state at the bearing end, the bearing plate moves up and down relative to the connecting seat.

[0052] In this scheme, the bearing plate switches between the initial state and the bearing state by moving linearly up and down relative to the connecting seat, and the movement process is relatively simple.

[0053] Preferably, the carrier plate further includes a connecting end opposite to the carrier end, and the mounting base is disposed between the carrier end and the connecting end of the carrier plate;

[0054] The connecting end is rotatably connected to the connecting seat. During the process of the bearing end switching from the initial state to the bearing state, the bearing disc rotates around the connecting end relative to the connecting seat.

[0055] When the battery pack is detached from the support end, the support plate rotates upward with the connection end as the rotation point, and the mounting base moves in the direction away from the support end of the support plate;

[0056] When the battery pack is placed on the carrier end, the carrier plate rotates downward with the connection end as the rotation point, and the mounting base moves towards the carrier end closer to the carrier plate under the force provided by the linkage mechanism, so that the electrical connection assembly is electrically connected to the battery end electrical connector of the battery pack.

[0057] In this design, the carrier plate switches between the initial and carrying states by rotating relative to the connector seat. The docking device uses the battery pack pressing down on the carrier plate, causing it to rotate around its connecting end as a pivot point. A linkage mechanism then converts the carrier plate's rotational motion into movement of the mounting seat towards or away from the carrier plate's carrying end, ultimately achieving automatic mechanical docking. This allows the connector assembly to connect with the battery connector. The docking device has a pivot point, making it more stable during state switching and less prone to jamming. Furthermore, during the transition from the carrying state to the initial state, the carrier end rotates upwards, potentially causing the battery connector to collide with the connector assembly. A linkage mechanism, including a linkage link, allows the carrier plate to rotate upwards at a relatively small angle, enabling the mounting seat to move a longer distance. This facilitates quick separation of the battery connector from the connector assembly, improving overall safety.

[0058] Preferably, when the bearing plate switches between the initial state and the bearing state by rotating relative to the connecting seat, the top of the bearing plate is aligned with the top of the connecting seat when the bearing end is in the bearing state.

[0059] In this solution, the above-mentioned structural configuration ensures that when the bearing end is in a bearing state, the battery pack is simultaneously supported by the bearing plate and the connecting seat, which improves the stability of the battery pack and helps to reduce the space or overall volume occupied by the docking device in the vertical direction.

[0060] Preferably, a limiting baffle is provided at the position corresponding to the connection end of the connecting seat and the bearing plate, and the limiting baffle extends from the side wall of the connecting seat toward the bearing plate;

[0061] When the top of the carrier plate is aligned with the top of the connecting seat, the carrier plate is in contact with the limiting baffle.

[0062] In this solution, the limiting baffle can limit the highest position of the carrier plate, preventing excessive movement of the carrier plate from damaging the battery pack or connector, thereby improving overall safety.

[0063] Preferably, the docking device further includes a reset component, which is used to provide a force to the carrier plate to switch it from the bearing state to the initial state.

[0064] In this solution, when the battery pack on the carrier end is removed, the reset component can automatically switch the carrier disk from the carrier state to the initial state, which is convenient for subsequent use and also helps to improve charging efficiency.

[0065] Preferably, the two ends of the reset assembly are connected to the bearing end of the carrier plate and the connecting seat, respectively, so as to apply a force to the bearing end of the carrier plate toward the distance from the connecting seat.

[0066] In this solution, the reset component is located between the bearing end of the carrier plate and the connecting seat. When the force of the battery pack on the bearing end is removed, the reset component acts on the bearing end, causing the carrier plate to move, and then, under the action of the linkage mechanism, it drives the mounting seat to move to the initial position.

[0067] Preferably, the reset assembly includes a third elastic element, and the third elastic element is in an elastic deformation state when the carrier plate is in a bearing state.

[0068] In this scheme, the third elastic element is in an elastic deformation state when under load. When the battery pack is removed from the bearing end of the bearing plate, the third elastic element will apply a restoring force away from the bearing end to the mounting base during the process of restoring deformation, so that the bearing plate switches to the initial state.

[0069] Preferably, the third elastic element is a compression spring.

[0070] In this scheme, when the third elastic element is a compression spring, the third elastic element is in a compressed state when the bearing plate is in a bearing state, and when the bearing plate is in the initial state, the third elastic element is still in a compressed state or just returns to a non-deformable state, so as to ensure that the force provided by the third elastic element can make the bearing plate switch to the initial state, without the phenomenon of stagnation before returning to the initial state.

[0071] Preferably, the two ends of the reset assembly are connected to the connecting seat and the mounting seat respectively, and a force is applied to the mounting seat toward the bearing end away from the bearing plate.

[0072] In this solution, the reset component is located between the connector and the mounting base. When the force of the battery pack on the bearing end is removed, the reset component acts on the mounting base, causing the mounting base to move. Then, under the action of the linkage mechanism, the bearing plate moves until it returns to its initial state.

[0073] Preferably, the reset assembly includes a fourth elastic element, and the fourth elastic element is in an elastic deformation state when the carrier plate is in a bearing state.

[0074] In this scheme, the fourth elastic element is in an elastic deformation state when it is under load. When the battery pack is removed from the bearing end of the bearing plate, the fourth elastic element will apply a restoring force away from the bearing end to the mounting base during the process of returning to the non-deformed state, so that the bearing plate switches to the initial state.

[0075] Preferably, the fourth elastic element is a tension spring.

[0076] In this scheme, when the fourth elastic element is a tension spring, the fourth elastic element is in a stretched state when the bearing plate is in a loaded state, and when the bearing plate is in the initial state, the fourth elastic element is still in a stretched state or just returns to a non-deformed state, so as to ensure that the force provided by the fourth elastic element can make the bearing plate switch to the initial state, without the phenomenon of stagnation before returning to the initial state.

[0077] Preferably, the two ends of the connecting seat are provided with connecting ear plates extending horizontally in opposite directions. The connecting ear plates are provided with first position adjustment holes. The connecting ear plates are detachably connected to at least one of a plurality of second position adjustment holes on the frame through the first position adjustment holes and the connecting components.

[0078] In this solution, on the one hand, the connecting ear plate can strengthen the connecting seat; on the other hand, the connecting ear plate facilitates the connection between the docking device and the frame. In addition, the first position adjustment hole can cooperate with the second position adjustment hole on the frame to facilitate the adjustment of the position of the docking device to adapt to battery packs of different sizes, thereby expanding the applicability of the docking device.

[0079] A connector device includes a connector assembly and a mating device for the connector assembly, the connector assembly being disposed on the mating device.

[0080] Preferably, the connector assembly includes an electrical connector plug and / or a liquid-cooled connector plug, the electrical connector plug being used for electrical connection with the battery terminal electrical connector on the battery pack; the liquid-cooled connector plug being used for communication with the battery terminal liquid-cooled connector on the battery pack.

[0081] In this solution, the docking device can reliably achieve reliable connection between the electrical connector plug and the battery terminal connector, and / or between the liquid cooling connector plug and the battery terminal liquid cooling connector.

[0082] Preferably, the connector assembly further includes a floating plate, which is floatingly mounted on the mounting base, and the electrical connection plug and / or liquid-cooled connection plug are disposed on the floating plate.

[0083] In this solution, the above-mentioned structural configuration allows for adaptive adjustments to the alignment of the connector assembly and the battery connector when there is a misalignment between them, thanks to the action of the floating plate, thus facilitating reliable docking.

[0084] Preferably, the electrical connector is disposed on the floating plate, which is located in the middle of the mounting base; there are two liquid cooling connectors, which are disposed on the mounting base and located on both sides of the floating plate.

[0085] In this design, vehicle-end liquid cooling connectors are provided on both sides of the electrical connector. The two liquid cooling connectors are used for the inflow and outflow of coolant, respectively, to facilitate the arrangement of liquid cooling lines.

[0086] Preferably, the connector device further includes a detection component disposed on the mounting base for detecting whether there is a battery pack on the frame within a preset distance.

[0087] In this design, a detection component checks for the presence of a battery pack on the mounting frame. The docking device only activates when a battery pack is detected. The mounting base, driven by a linkage mechanism, moves the connector assembly mounted on it to the location of the battery connector and docks with it. This design prevents the docking device from malfunctioning due to external forces other than the battery pack, thus improving the reliability of the docking with the battery connector.

[0088] A charging stand includes a frame and the aforementioned connector device, the connector device being connected to the frame.

[0089] Preferably, the frame includes at least two brackets for carrying the battery pack, and a charging compartment for accommodating the battery pack is formed between two adjacent brackets in the height direction. Connector devices are provided in one-to-one correspondence with the charging compartments, and the connector devices are connected to the brackets.

[0090] In this solution, the connector device is connected to the bracket. When the battery pack is placed in place on the bracket, the corresponding part of the battery pack will also be placed in place on the bearing end of the carrier plate, which facilitates a reliable connection between the connector device and the battery pack.

[0091] Preferably, along the mating direction between the battery end connector and the connector device, at least two sets of second position adjustment holes are provided on the bracket, and the first position adjustment hole of the connector device and at least one set of second position adjustment holes are detachably connected by a connector.

[0092] In this solution, the position of the connector device can be easily adjusted by the cooperation of the first position adjustment hole and the second position adjustment hole to adapt to battery packs of different sizes, thereby expanding the applicability of the charging rack.

[0093] A battery swapping station includes a charging rack as described above.

[0094] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows:

[0095] In the docking device of the connector assembly, a floating connection is achieved between the linkage mechanism and the mounting base under the action of the elastic component. When the battery end connector contacts the connector assembly, the battery end connector applies a force to the connector assembly in a direction away from the bearing end. The mounting base moves in a direction away from the bearing end under the action of the elastic component to make adaptive adjustments to compensate for part of the displacement of the connector assembly, thereby avoiding rigid collision between the connector assembly and the battery end connector. Attached Figure Description

[0096] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the docking device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, wherein the docking device is in the initial state.

[0097] Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the docking device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, wherein the mounting base and the bearing plate are not shown in the figure.

[0098] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified structural diagram of part A in the middle.

[0099] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A magnified structural diagram of part B.

[0100] Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the docking device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, in which the bearing plate and the linkage mechanism are shown.

[0101] Figure 6 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the docking device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, in which the mounting base and linkage mechanism are shown.

[0102] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the charging stand according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0103] Figure 8 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the docking device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, wherein a partial schematic diagram of another linkage mechanism is shown in the figure.

[0104] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the connector device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0105] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0106] 100 Docking device; 10 Connector assembly; 101 Electrical connector plug; 102 Liquid-cooled connector plug; 103 Floating plate; 104 Floating spring; 105 Detection assembly; 20 Connecting base; 201 Base plate; 202 Enclosure plate; 203 Connecting ear plate; 204 First position adjustment hole; 205 Limiting baffle; 30 Bearing plate; 301 Bearing end; 302 Connecting end; 303 Connecting block; 304 Plate body; 3041 Accommodation hole; 305 Adapter plate; 306 First connecting plate; 307 Second connecting plate; 308 Bending part; 40 Mounting base; 4 01 Connecting part; 50 Linkage mechanism; 501 First link; 502 Second link; 503 Guide member; 504 Guide hole; 505 First connecting shaft; 506 Second connecting shaft; 507 Third link; 60 Moving mechanism; 601 Guide rod; 602 Slider; 70 Connecting pin; 701 Circumferential flange; 80 Third elastic member; 90 Elastic component; 901 First elastic member; 902 First limiting member; 903 Second elastic member; 904 Second limiting member; 905 Slide groove; 200 Frame; 2001 Bracket; 2002 Second position adjustment hole. Detailed Implementation

[0107] The present invention will be described more clearly and completely below with reference to a preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings.

[0108]

Example 1

[0109] like Figures 1-6 As shown, this embodiment discloses a docking device 100 for a connector assembly 10, which is used to connect the connector assembly 10 on the docking device 100 to the battery end connector of a battery pack. The specific structure of the docking device 100 will be described in detail below.

[0110] A docking device 100 for a connector assembly 10 is disposed on the frame 200 of a charging rack. The docking device 100 includes a connecting seat 20, a carrier plate 30, a mounting base 40, and a linkage mechanism. The connecting seat 20 is used to connect to the frame 200. The carrier plate 30 has a carrier end 301 for carrying a battery pack, and the carrier plate 30 can switch between an initial state and a carrying state. The mounting base 40 is used to mount the connector assembly 10, and the mounting base 40 is movably connected to both the carrier plate 30 and the connecting seat 20 via the linkage mechanism. The linkage mechanism is connected between the carrier plate and the mounting base 40, and the linkage mechanism includes an elastic component 90. The linkage mechanism and the mounting base 40 are floatingly connected via the elastic component 90.

[0111] When the carrier end 301 is not carrying the battery pack, the carrier plate 30 is in its initial state, and the mounting base 40 is in its initial position relative to the carrier plate 30. When the carrier end 301 carries the battery pack, the carrier plate 30 moves relative to the connecting base 20 and is in a carrying state. The mounting base 40 moves towards the carrier end 301 under the drive of the linkage mechanism and is in a mating position relative to the carrier plate 30, so that the connector assembly 10 is connected to the battery end connector of the battery pack.

[0112] Under the action of the elastic component 90, a floating connection is achieved between the linkage mechanism and the mounting base 40. When the battery end electrical connector contacts the electrical connection assembly, the battery end connector applies a force to the connector assembly 10 in a direction away from the bearing end 301. Under the action of the elastic component 90, the mounting base 40 moves in a direction away from the bearing end 301 to make adaptive adjustments to compensate for a part of the displacement of the electrical connector assembly 10. This can prevent the connector assembly 10 from rigidly colliding with the battery end connector and effectively prevent the connector assembly 10 and the battery end connector from being damaged or affected by the collision.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, when the bearing end 301 carries the battery pack and the connector assembly 10 is subjected to a force from the battery end connector in a direction away from the bearing end 301, the elastic component 90 undergoes elastic deformation in a direction away from the bearing end 301 to achieve a floating connection between the linkage mechanism and the mounting base 40.

[0114] When the battery-side connector comes into contact with the electrical connection assembly, the battery-side connector applies a force to the connector assembly 10 in a direction away from the bearing end 301. The elastic component 90 undergoes elastic deformation in a direction away from the bearing end 301. This deformation can compensate for a portion of the displacement of the electrical connector assembly 10, thereby playing a buffering and compensation role and effectively preventing the connector assembly 10 and the battery-side connector from being damaged or having their connection affected by collision.

[0115] In a preferred embodiment, the linkage mechanism includes a linkage mechanism 50, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the bearing end 301 of the bearing plate 30, the second end of which is rotatably connected to the mounting base 40, and the elastic component 90 cooperates with the linkage mechanism 50.

[0116] During the process of switching the bearing plate 30 from the initial state to the bearing state, under the action of the linkage mechanism 50, the elastic component 90 undergoes elastic deformation in the direction close to the bearing end 301. During the process of restoring the elastic deformation, the elastic component 90 acts on the linkage mechanism 50 to drive the mounting seat 40 to move towards the bearing end 301, so as to convert the movement of the bearing plate 30 into a force that moves the mounting seat 40 from the initial position to the docking position.

[0117] During the transition of the support plate 30 from its initial state to its supporting state, the elastic component 90 undergoes elastic deformation towards the support end 301 under the action of the linkage mechanism 50. During the recovery process, it again drives the mounting base 40 towards the support end 301 via the linkage mechanism 50, thereby driving the mounting base 40. The cooperation of the linkage mechanism 50 and the elastic component 90 ensures that when the battery pack is properly positioned, the mounting base 40 can reliably and normally drive the connector assembly 10 to connect with the battery end connector. Simultaneously, when the battery pack is misaligned, the elastic component 90 compensates for this misalignment by generating elastic deformation in a direction away from the support end 301.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment, the linkage mechanism 50 comprises a first link 501, a second link 502, and a third link 507. The first end of the first link 501 is rotatably connected to the bottom of the bearing end 301. The second end of the first link 501 is rotatably connected to the first end of the second link 502. The second end of the second link 502 is movably sleeved on the first end of the third link 507. The second end of the third link 507 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 40. The connection between the first link 501 and the second link 502 is slidably connected to the connecting seat 20. The portion of the third link 507 located within the second link 502 is provided with a first limiting member 902. The elastic component 90 includes a first elastic member 901, which is sleeved on the third link 507, with both ends of the first elastic member 901 abutting between the inner wall surfaces of the first limiting member 902 and the second end of the second link 502, respectively.

[0119] When the bearing end 301 carries the battery pack, the battery pack presses down the bearing plate 30. The first link 501 will drive the second link 502 to move relative to the third link 507 toward the first end of the second link 502. The inner wall surface of the second link 502 causes the first elastic member 901 to elastically deform along the direction close to the bearing end 301. During the process of the first elastic member 901 returning to its original deformation, the first elastic member 901 exerts a force on the first limiting member 902, thereby driving the third link 507 to move toward its first end. Then, through the moving mechanism 60, the mounting base 40 is driven to move toward the direction close to the bearing end 301, so that the connector assembly 10 is connected to the battery end connector of the battery pack.

[0120] If the battery pack is misplaced at the bearing end 301, such as being closer to the electrical connection component than the standard charging connection position, when the mounting base 40 moves to the point where the connector assembly 10 contacts or collides with the battery end connector, the connector assembly 10 is subjected to a force away from the bearing end 301. Under the action of the moving mechanism 60, the third link 507 moves toward its second end, and the first limiting member 902 causes the first elastic member 901 to undergo elastic deformation in the direction away from the bearing end 301, thereby playing a certain compensation or buffering role and preventing damage to the connector assembly 10 and the battery end connector caused by the misplacement of the battery pack.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, the first limiting member 902 is vertically disposed on the rod body of the third connecting rod 507, and both ends of the first limiting member 902 are not lower than the first elastic member 901 along the axial direction perpendicular to the rod body of the third connecting rod 507.

[0122] The above-mentioned structural configuration can ensure the stability of the structure between the first limiting member 902 and the first elastic member 901. In particular, when the bearing plate 30 switches between the initial state and the bearing state, the first limiting member 902 can be stably subjected to the force of the first elastic member 901 without causing the first elastic member 901 to come out, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection between the docking device 100 and the battery end connector.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment, the elastic component 90 further includes a second elastic element 903, which, along the axial direction of the third link 507, is located on both sides of the first limiting member 902.

[0124] The second link 502 is also provided with a second limiting member 904, and the two ends of the second elastic member 903 abut against the first limiting member 902 and the second limiting member 904 respectively.

[0125] The second limiting member 904 has a through hole for the third link 507 to pass through. The elastic member extends between the first limiting member 902 and the second limiting member 904, so that the first limiting member 902 can cause the elastic component 90 to undergo elastic deformation in both directions toward its first end and second end, which increases the floating stroke of the third link 507 and also helps to improve the overall reliability.

[0126] like Figure 3As shown, the second limiting member 904 can be integrally formed with the second connecting rod 502. Specifically, the second limiting member 904 is formed by cutting and bending one side of the second connecting rod 502, and the second limiting member 904 is engaged with the other side of the second connecting rod 502, thereby improving the structural strength of the second limiting member 904. It is understood that in other optional embodiments, the second limiting member 904 can also be an independent component, fixedly connected to the second rod 502 in other ways.

[0127] In a preferred embodiment, the first elastic element 901 and the second elastic element 903 constitute an integrally formed elastic element.

[0128] Among them, the first elastic element 901 and the second elastic element 903 are set as an integral elastic element, which makes the elastic component 90 stronger and helps to ensure the stability of the elastic component 90 during the movement process.

[0129] In a preferred embodiment, the linkage mechanism 50 further includes a sliding guide structure disposed on the connecting seat 20, wherein the connection between the first link 501 and the second link 502 is slidably connected to the sliding guide structure.

[0130] The sliding guide mechanism can limit the movement of the first link 501 and the second link 502, and also provides movement space and guidance for the movement of the second link 502.

[0131] In a preferred embodiment, the sliding guide structure includes a guide member 503 disposed on the connecting seat 20. The guide member 503 has a strip-shaped guide hole 504. The connection between the first connecting rod 501 and the second connecting rod 502 is located in the guide hole 504 and can move along the length direction of the guide hole 504.

[0132] The guide hole 504 of the guide member 503 guides the movement of the connection between the first link 501 and the second link 502. When the first link 501 is subjected to force, the force can be converted through the guide hole 504 to drive the mounting base 40 to move in the direction of approaching or moving away from the bearing end 301, thus smoothly realizing the mechanical automatic electrical connection function of the docking device 100. At the same time, since the link mechanism 50 is located between the connecting base 20 and the bearing plate 30, the space at this location is fully utilized, which helps to reduce the overall volume of the docking device 100 and improve the space utilization rate.

[0133] In a preferred embodiment, during the process of switching the bearing plate 30 from the initial state to the bearing state, the connection between the first link 501 and the second link 502 moves from the first end of the guide hole 504 to the second end of the guide hole 504. In the direction perpendicular to the base plate 201 of the connecting seat 20, the position of the first end of the guide hole 504 is higher than the position of the second end of the guide hole 504.

[0134] The first end of the guide hole 504 is positioned higher than the second end of the guide hole 504. That is, the guide hole 504 is set to be inclined upward relative to the base plate 201 of the connecting seat 20. This makes the connection between the first link 501 and the second link 502 more compatible with the movement path of the guide hole 504 and the movement direction of the bearing plate 30, which helps to prevent the second link 502 from getting stuck during movement.

[0135] In a preferred embodiment, there are at least two linkage mechanisms 50, and the two linkage mechanisms 50 are disposed between the connecting seat 20 and the bearing plate 30. At least as Figures 5-6 As shown, the first link 501 is rotatably connected to the second link 502 through the first connecting shaft 505. The first connecting shaft 505 passes through the guide hole 504, and the two link mechanisms 50 share one first connecting shaft 505. The first link 501 is rotatably connected to the bottom of the bearing end 301 through the second connecting shaft 506, and the two link mechanisms 50 share one second connecting shaft 506.

[0136] The shared connecting shaft can improve or ensure the synchronization of the movements of the two linkage mechanisms 50, which in turn helps to further improve the overall stability.

[0137] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the two linkage mechanisms 50 share the first connecting shaft 505 and the second connecting shaft 506. In other alternative embodiments, either the first connecting shaft 505 or the second connecting shaft 506 may be shared.

[0138] In a preferred embodiment, the linkage mechanism further includes a moving mechanism 60, and the mounting base 40 is slidably connected to the carrier plate 30 through the moving mechanism 60.

[0139] The linkage mechanism 50 and the moving mechanism 60 work together to achieve the effect of pressing the battery pack down onto the bearing plate 30, causing the connector assembly 10 and the battery end connector of the battery pack to approach each other until they are connected. The moving mechanism 60 adopts a sliding connection to reduce friction when the mounting base 40 moves.

[0140] In a preferred embodiment, the guide rod 601 and the slider 602 include: a guide rod 601 and a slider 602 that are slidably engaged, and the guide rod 601 and the slider 602 are respectively connected to the mounting base 40 and the bearing plate 30.

[0141] The guide rod 601 and slider 602 in the moving mechanism 60 have simple structures, which helps to simplify the overall structure of the docking device 100. It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, the moving mechanism 60 may also adopt other sliding fit structures.

[0142] In a preferred embodiment, there are at least two moving mechanisms 60, and the at least two moving mechanisms 60 are respectively disposed at both ends of the mounting base 40.

[0143] The above-mentioned structural design helps to improve the stability of the mounting base 40 during movement.

[0144] In a preferred embodiment, the carrier disk 30 switches between an initial state and a carrying state by rotating relative to the connecting seat 20. Specifically, the carrier disk 30 further includes a connecting end 302 opposite to the carrying end 301, and a mounting seat 40 is disposed between the carrying end 301 and the connecting end 302 of the carrier disk 30. The connecting end 302 is rotatably connected to the connecting seat 20. During the process of the carrying end 301 switching from the initial state to the carrying state, the carrier disk 30 rotates relative to the connecting seat 20 around the connecting end 302. Specifically, when the battery pack is detached from the carrying end, the carrier disk 30 rotates upward about the connecting end 302, and the mounting seat 40 moves toward the carrying end 301 away from the carrier disk 30. When the battery pack is placed on the carrying end, the carrier disk 30 rotates downward about the connecting end 302, and the mounting seat 40 moves toward the carrying end 301 of the carrier disk 30 under the force provided by the linkage mechanism, so that the electrical connection assembly is electrically connected to the battery terminal electrical connector of the battery pack.

[0145] The carrier plate 30 switches between its initial and carrying states by rotating relative to the connecting seat 20. The docking device 100 causes the carrier plate 30 to rotate around its connecting end 302 by pressing down on it with the battery pack. A linkage mechanism then converts the rotation of the carrier plate 30 into movement of the mounting seat 40 towards or away from the carrier end 301 of the carrier plate 30, ultimately achieving automatic mechanical docking of the docking device 100. This allows the connector assembly 10 to connect with the battery connector. The docking device 100 has a rotation point, making it more stable during state switching and less prone to jamming. Furthermore, when the carrier end 301 switches from the carrying state to the initial state, it rotates upwards, making it easy for the battery connector to collide with the connector assembly 10. A linkage mechanism including a linkage 50 allows the carrier plate 30 to rotate upwards at a relatively small angle, while the linkage 50 can move the mounting seat 40 a longer distance. This facilitates quick separation of the battery connector from the connector assembly 10, improving overall safety.

[0146] In an alternative embodiment, the process of switching the bearing end 301 from the initial state to the bearing state can also be achieved by moving the bearing disk 30 up and down relative to the connecting seat 20.

[0147] The carrier plate 30 switches between the initial state and the bearing state by moving linearly up and down relative to the connecting seat 20, and the movement process is relatively simple.

[0148] In a preferred embodiment, when the carrier plate 30 switches the carrier end 301 between the initial state and the carrier state by rotating relative to the connecting seat 20, when the carrier end 301 is in the carrier state, the top of the carrier plate 30 is aligned with the top of the connecting seat 20.

[0149] By adopting the above-mentioned structural configuration, when the bearing end is in the bearing state, the battery pack is simultaneously supported by the bearing plate 30 and the connecting seat 20, which improves the stability of the battery pack and helps to reduce the space or overall volume occupied by the docking device 100 in the vertical direction.

[0150] In a preferred embodiment, such as Figures 1-2 As shown, a limiting baffle 205 is provided at a position corresponding to the connection end 302 of the connecting seat 20 and the carrier plate 30. The limiting baffle 205 extends from the side wall of the connecting seat 20 toward the carrier plate 30. When the top of the carrier plate 30 is aligned with the top of the connecting seat 20, the carrier plate 30 is in contact with the limiting baffle.

[0151] The limiting baffle can restrict the highest position of the carrier plate 30, preventing excessive movement of the carrier plate 30 from damaging the battery pack or connector 20, thereby improving overall safety.

[0152] The following is combined with Figures 5-6 The structure of the bearing plate 30 will be described below.

[0153] The carrier plate 30 includes a plate body 304 and an adapter plate 305. The plate body 304 has a receiving hole 3041 for the mounting base 40 to pass through, and the connecting end 302 and the bearing end 301 are the two ends of the plate body 304, respectively. The adapter plate 305 is disposed at the receiving hole 3041 of the plate body 304, and the adapter plate 305 is recessed towards the connecting base 20 to form a mounting area for the mounting base 40 to partially extend into. This arrangement can make full use of the space between the plate body 304 and the connecting base 20, thereby helping to reduce the space occupied or the overall volume of the docking device 100 in the vertical direction.

[0154] Furthermore, the adapter plate 305 includes a first connecting plate 306 and a second connecting plate 307 connected to each other at a preset angle. The end of the first connecting plate 306 away from the second connecting plate 307 is connected to the receiving hole 3041 of the disk body 304, and the second connecting plate 307 is located on the side close to the connecting seat 20. The mounting seat 40 is connected to the second connecting plate 307 through the moving mechanism 60 and partially extends between the disk body 304 and the second connecting plate 307. The mounting seat 40 partially extends below the receiving hole 3041. Firstly, this helps to reduce the volume of the docking device 100 in the height direction, so that the position of the connector assembly 10 can match the position of the battery end connector. Secondly, it can protect the moving mechanism 60.

[0155] The connecting seat 20 includes a base plate 201 and a surrounding plate 202 circumferentially disposed on the base plate 201. The base plate 201 and the surrounding plate 202 together form a receiving cavity, and the bearing plate 30 is disposed at the opening of the receiving cavity. With this arrangement, the surrounding plate 202 surrounds the docking device 100 within the receiving cavity, which helps to protect the core structure of the docking device 100 and thus improves the overall safety.

[0156] Furthermore, the bearing plate 30 also includes a bending portion 308, which is disposed at the connecting end 302 of the bearing plate 30. The bending portion 308 is rotatably connected to the surrounding plate 202 of the connecting seat 20 via a connecting pin 70. Through the bending portion 308 and the connecting pin 70, reliable rotation between the bearing plate 30 and the connecting seat 20 can be achieved relatively easily.

[0157] The bent portion 308 has a first connecting hole, and the surrounding plate 202 has a second connecting hole. Both ends of the connecting pin 70 have circumferential flanges 701. The connecting pin 70 passes through the first and second connecting holes, positioning the bent portion 308 and the surrounding plate 202 between the two circumferential flanges 701. The circumferential flanges 701 of the connecting pin 70 limit the gap or relative position between the bearing plate 30 and the connecting seat 20. That is, when the bearing plate 30 shifts to one side, the circumferential flange 701 of the connecting pin 70 on the other side will prevent further shifting of the bearing plate 30, thus avoiding increased friction when the bearing plate 30 flips due to the bent portion 308 pressing against the surrounding plate 202, and ensuring the flexibility of the bearing plate 30's rotation.

[0158] It should be noted that a connecting block 303 is provided at the bottom of the bearing end 301 (bearing end 301 of the disc body 304) of the bearing disk 30, and the first end of the first connecting rod 501 is rotatably connected to the connecting block 303. Correspondingly, the first mounting base 40 is provided with a connecting portion 401 extending toward the connecting base 20, and the second end of the second connecting rod 502 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 40 through the connecting portion 401. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 401 is provided on the lower end surface of the connecting base 20. In a preferred embodiment, the docking device 100 further includes a reset component, which is used to provide a force to the bearing disk 30 to switch it from the bearing state to the initial state.

[0159] When the battery pack is removed from the carrier end 301, the reset component can automatically switch the carrier disk 30 from the carrier state to the initial state, which is convenient for subsequent use and also helps to improve charging efficiency.

[0160] In a preferred embodiment, the two ends of the reset component are connected to the bearing end 301 of the bearing disk 30 and the connecting seat 20, respectively, so as to apply a force toward the bearing end 301 of the bearing disk 30 toward the connecting seat 20.

[0161] The reset component is located between the bearing end 301 of the bearing plate 30 and the connecting seat 20. When the force of the battery pack on the bearing end 301 is removed, the reset component acts on the bearing end 301, causing the bearing plate 30 to move, and then, under the action of the linkage mechanism, it drives the mounting seat 40 to move to the initial position.

[0162] In a preferred embodiment, the reset component includes a third elastic element 80, and the third elastic element 80 is in an elastic deformation state when the carrier disk 30 is in a bearing state.

[0163] The third elastic element 80 is in an elastic deformation state when it is under load. When the battery pack is removed from the bearing end 301 of the bearing disk 30, the third elastic element 80 will apply a restoring force away from the bearing end 301 to the mounting base 40 during the process of returning to the non-deformable state, so that the bearing disk 30 switches to the initial state.

[0164] In a preferred embodiment, the third elastic element 80 is a compression spring.

[0165] When the third elastic element 80 is a compression spring, the third elastic element 80 is in a compressed state when the bearing plate 30 is in a bearing state. When the bearing plate 30 is in the initial state, the third elastic element 80 is still in a compressed state or just returns to a non-deformable state, so as to ensure that the force provided by the third elastic element 80 can make the bearing plate 30 switch to the initial state without the phenomenon of stagnation before returning to the initial state.

[0166] In an alternative embodiment, the two ends of the reset assembly are connected to the connecting seat 20 and the mounting seat 40, respectively, and apply a force to the mounting seat 40 toward the bearing end 301 away from the bearing disk 30. The reset assembly is positioned between the connecting seat 20 and the mounting seat 40. When the force from the battery pack on the bearing end 301 is removed, the reset assembly acts on the mounting seat 40, causing the mounting seat 40 to move. This, in turn, drives the bearing disk 30 to move under the action of the linkage mechanism until it returns to its initial state.

[0167] Optionally, the reset assembly includes a fourth elastic element, which is in an elastic deformation state when the carrier plate 30 is in a loaded state.

[0168] The fourth elastic element is in an elastic deformation state when it is under load. When the battery pack is removed from the support end 301 of the support disk 30, the fourth elastic element will apply a restoring force away from the support end 301 to the mounting base 40 during the process of returning to the non-deformable state, so that the support disk 30 switches to the initial state.

[0169] Optionally, the fourth elastic element is a tension spring. When the fourth elastic element is a tension spring, the fourth elastic element is in a stretched state when the bearing plate 30 is in a loaded state, and the fourth elastic element is still in a stretched state or just returned to a non-deformed state when the bearing plate 30 is in the initial state, so as to ensure that the force provided by the fourth elastic element can make the bearing plate 30 switch to the initial state without the phenomenon of stagnation before returning to the initial state.

[0170] In addition, it should be noted that the number of linkage mechanism 50, moving mechanism 60 and reset component are not limited to the number provided in this embodiment, and can be set to other numbers different from those in this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0171] In a preferred embodiment, the two ends of the connecting seat 20 are provided with connecting ear plates 203 extending horizontally in opposite directions. The connecting ear plates 203 are provided with first position adjustment holes 204. The connecting ear plates 203 are detachably connected to at least one of a plurality of second position adjustment holes on the frame 200 through the first position adjustment holes 204 and the connecting components.

[0172] On the one hand, the connecting ear plate 203 can strengthen the connecting seat 20; on the other hand, the connecting ear plate 203 facilitates the connection between the docking device 100 and the frame 200. In addition, the first position adjustment hole 204 can cooperate with the second position adjustment hole 2002 on the frame 200 to facilitate the adjustment of the position of the docking device 100 to adapt to battery packs of different sizes, thereby expanding the applicability of the docking device 100.

[0173] A connector device includes a connector assembly 10 and a mating device 100 for the connector assembly 10, wherein the connector assembly 10 is disposed on the mating device 100. In this embodiment, the connector assembly 10 mainly includes an electrical connector plug 101, which is electrically connected to a battery terminal electrical connector to charge the battery pack.

[0174] The connector assembly 10 also includes a floating plate 103, which is floatingly mounted on the mounting base 40, and an electrical connector 101 is disposed on the floating plate 103. In addition, the electrical connector 101 is also connected to the floating plate 103 by four diagonally located floating springs 104.

[0175] Based on the above, the working process of the docking device 100 of the charging connector assembly 10 is summarized below from the time the battery pack is inserted into the time the battery pack is removed.

[0176] (1) Battery pack is inserted normally:

[0177] The carrier plate 30 switches from the initial state to the carrier state, and the mounting base 40 moves from the initial position to the docking position.

[0178] When it is necessary to connect the connector assembly 10 to the battery end connector of the battery pack, the battery pack is placed on the carrier end 301 of the carrier plate 30. The battery pack presses down on the carrier plate 30 from top to bottom. The carrier end 301 of the carrier plate 30 rotates downward relative to the connector seat 20 around the connection end 302 (counterclockwise rotation). The downward rotation of the carrier plate 30 drives the first connecting rod 501 to rotate. The rotation of the first connecting rod 501 drives the second connecting rod 502 to slide relative to the guide hole 504 of the guide member 503 at the connection point of the two (i.e., slide relative to the connector seat 20). The second connecting rod 502 slides relative to the third connecting rod 507. The first elastic element 901 undergoes elastic deformation (such as compression) along the direction near the bearing end 301. During the recovery process, the first elastic element 901 acts on the third link 507 through the first limiting element 902, causing the third link 507 to move towards the bearing end 301. The third link 507 acts on the mounting base 40, thereby causing the mounting base 40 to move from its initial position towards the bearing end 301 under the cooperation of the guide rod 601 and the slider 602, until the connector assembly 10 is connected to the battery end connector of the battery pack. At this time, the bearing plate 30 is in a bearing state, and the mounting base 40 is in a mating position.

[0179] (2) The battery pack was misplaced:

[0180] For example, when the battery pack is inserted, the distance between it and the mounting base 4 is less than the preset distance range.

[0181] When it is necessary to connect the connector assembly 10 to the battery end connector of the battery pack, when the battery pack is placed on the support end 301 of the support plate 30, the distance between the battery pack and the mounting base 4 is less than a preset distance range, that is, it is closer to the mounting base 40 than the normal position. The battery pack presses down on the support plate 30 from top to bottom. Under the action of the linkage mechanism, the mounting base 40 moves along the direction close to the support end 301 until the connector assembly 10 comes into contact with the battery end connector. The battery end connector applies a force to the mounting base 40 away from the support end 301. Under the action of the moving mechanism 60, the third link 507 moves along the direction away from the support end 301. The first elastic member 901 undergoes elastic deformation along the direction away from the support end 301, which can compensate for part of the displacement of the mounting base 40 to prevent the connector assembly 10 from rigidly colliding with the battery end connector.

[0182] (3) Battery pack removal:

[0183] The bearing plate 30 switches from the bearing state to the initial state, and the mounting base 40 moves from the docking position to the initial position.

[0184] When it is necessary to disconnect the connector assembly 10 from the battery end connector of the battery pack, the battery pack is removed, and the force exerted by the battery pack on the carrier end 301 of the carrier disk 30 is eliminated. Under the action of the reset component, that is, the reset component provides the carrier disk 30 with an upward rotation force, the carrier disk 30 rotates upward, and the force of the linkage mechanism will drive the mounting base 40 to move in the direction away from the carrier end 301 until the mounting base 40 returns to the initial position and the carrier disk 30 returns to the initial state.

[0185] like Figure 7 As shown, this embodiment also discloses a charging rack, which includes a rack body 200 and the aforementioned connector device, the connector device being connected to the rack body 200.

[0186] In this embodiment, the frame 200 includes at least two brackets 2001 for supporting the battery pack. A charging compartment for accommodating the battery pack is formed between two adjacent brackets 2001 in the height direction. The docking device 100 is provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the charging compartment and is connected to the bracket 2001.

[0187] The docking device 100 is connected to the bracket 2001 and is located at one end of the bracket 2001. When the battery pack is placed in place on the bracket 2001, the corresponding part of the battery pack will also be placed in place on the bearing end 301 of the bearing plate 30, so as to realize the reliable connection between the docking device 100 and the battery pack.

[0188] To accommodate battery packs of different sizes and thus expand the applicability of the docking device 100, at least two sets of second position adjustment holes 2002 are provided on the bracket 2001 along the first direction (the docking direction between the battery end connector and the connector assembly 10). The first position adjustment hole 204 of the docking device 100 and the at least one set of second position adjustment holes 2002 are detachably connected via a connecting assembly. This configuration allows for convenient adjustment of the position of the docking device 100 on the bracket 2001 via the first and second position adjustment holes 204 and 2002, thereby accommodating battery packs of different sizes and expanding the applicability of the charging rack.

[0189] This embodiment also discloses a battery swapping station, which includes the aforementioned charging rack.

[0190]

Example 2

[0191] like Figure 8 As shown, this embodiment discloses a mating device 100 for another connector assembly 10. The mating device 100 in this embodiment has a basically the same structure as the mating device 100 in Embodiment 1, with the main difference being the structure of the elastic component 90. In this embodiment, the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1 refer to the same or corresponding elements.

[0192] like Figure 8 As shown, the two ends of the first limiting member 902 extend out of the sidewalls of the second connecting rod 502. The two sidewalls of the second connecting rod 502 are provided with sliding grooves 905, and the two ends of the first limiting member 902 are respectively located in the two sliding grooves 905.

[0193] The aforementioned structural design further enhances the stability of the first limiting member 902, preventing it from detaching from the elastic component 90. Furthermore, the slide groove 905 provides space for the movement of the first limiting member 902 and guides its movement.

[0194] It should be noted that the first limiting component 902 can be a pin, but is not limited to a pin.

[0195]

Example 3

[0196] This embodiment discloses another connector device. The connector device in this embodiment has a basically the same structure as the connector device in Embodiment 1, the main difference being the connector assembly 10 part disposed on the mounting base 40. In this embodiment, the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1 refer to the same or corresponding elements.

[0197] like Figure 9As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the connector assembly 10 includes an electrical connector plug 101 and a liquid-cooled connector plug 102. The electrical connector plug 101 is used for electrical connection with the battery terminal electrical connector on the battery pack; the liquid-cooled connector plug 102 is used for connection with the battery terminal liquid-cooled connector on the battery pack. This docking device 100 reliably achieves reliable communication between the electrical connector plug 101 and the battery terminal electrical connector, and between the liquid-cooled connector plug 102 and the battery terminal liquid-cooled connector.

[0198] Specifically, to simultaneously align and connect the battery-side liquid-cooled connector on the battery pack with the liquid-cooled connector plug 102 on the charging rack, the connector assembly's mating device further includes two liquid-cooled plugs for connecting to the battery-side liquid-cooled connector on the battery pack. These two liquid-cooled plugs are mounted on the mounting base 40 and positioned horizontally on either side of the electrical connector plug 101. The positions of the aforementioned liquid-cooled connector plugs 102 on the mounting base 40 correspond one-to-one with the positions of the battery-side liquid-cooled connectors on the battery pack.

[0199] Among them, the electrical connector 101 is provided with vehicle-end liquid cooling connectors 102 on both sides. The two liquid cooling connectors 102 are used for the inflow and outflow of coolant, respectively, so as to facilitate the arrangement of liquid cooling lines.

[0200] In a preferred embodiment, the connector assembly 10 further includes a floating plate 103, which is floatingly mounted on the mounting base 40, and an electrical connection plug 101 is disposed on the floating plate 103.

[0201] To allow the electrical connector plug to float and adjust its position in a plane perpendicular to the direction of movement of the mounting base 40, thus ensuring precise alignment between the electrical connector plug 101 and the battery terminal connector, the mounting base 40 is also equipped with a vertically arranged floating plate 103. The floating plate 103 is floatingly connected to the mounting base 40 via horizontally arranged floating springs 104 and vertically arranged floating springs 104. The electrical connector plug 101 is mounted on the floating plate 103, i.e., connected to the mounting base 40 via the floating plate 103. The horizontally arranged floating springs 104 are used to achieve horizontal floating of the electrical connector plug 101, and the vertically arranged floating springs 104 are used to achieve vertical floating of the electrical connector plug 101.

[0202] In this embodiment, the liquid-cooled connector 102 has a built-in floating structure, which allows it to adjust its position relative to the mounting base 40. Therefore, the liquid-cooled connector 102 is not mounted on the floating plate 103, but is directly fixed to the mounting base 40. It is understood that in other alternative embodiments, if the liquid-cooled connector 102 does not contain a floating structure, it can be mounted on the floating plate 103 together with the electrical connector 101 to achieve an overall floating connection of the connector assembly 10.

[0203] With the above-described structure, when there is a misalignment between the connector assembly 10 and the battery connector, the floating plate 103 can adaptively adjust the alignment of the connector assembly 10 and the battery connector, facilitating reliable docking.

[0204] In a preferred embodiment, the connector device further includes a detection component mounted on the mounting base 40. This detection component detects whether a battery pack is present on the frame 200 within a preset distance. The docking device 100 only activates when a battery pack is detected, and the mounting base 40, under the action of a linkage mechanism, moves the connector assembly 10 mounted on it to the location of the battery connector and docks with it. This configuration prevents the docking device 100 from erroneously activating under external forces other than the battery pack, thus improving the reliability of docking with the battery connector.

[0205] Optionally, the detection component 105 includes a photoelectric sensor. One end of the mounting base 40 is provided with a sensor whose sensing direction is towards the bearing end 301 of the bearing plate 30. In this embodiment, the sensor is a photoelectric sensor. When the battery pack is placed on the bearing end 301 of the bearing plate 30, the photoelectric sensor is triggered, thereby determining whether a battery pack is placed at the docking device 100 or on the frame 200. The preset distance detected by the detection component 105 can be determined according to the actual setting position of the battery pack in the charging rack. In this embodiment, the photoelectric sensor can be triggered when the distance between the battery pack and the photoelectric sensor is less than or equal to 15mm.

[0206] In other specific implementations, other sensors may also be used, such as infrared sensors, ultraviolet sensors, Hall sensors, etc., which will not be elaborated here.

[0207] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A docking device for a connector assembly, disposed on the frame of a charging rack, characterized in that, The docking device includes: Connecting base, used for connecting to the frame; A carrier plate having a carrier end for carrying a battery pack, the carrier plate being switchable between an initial state and a carrying state; Mounting base, the mounting base is used to mount connector assembly, the mounting base is movably connected to the carrier plate and the connector base respectively through a linkage mechanism; A linkage mechanism is connected between the carrier plate and the mounting base. The linkage mechanism includes an elastic component, and the linkage mechanism and the mounting base are floatingly connected through the elastic component. When the bearing end is not carrying a battery pack, the bearing plate is in its initial state, and the mounting base is in its initial position relative to the bearing plate; When the bearing end carries the battery pack, the bearing plate moves relative to the connecting seat and is in a bearing state. The mounting seat moves towards the bearing end under the drive of the linkage mechanism and is in a docking position relative to the bearing plate, so that the connector assembly is connected to the battery end connector of the battery pack. When the battery end connector contacts the electrical connection assembly, the battery end connector applies a force to the connector assembly in a direction away from the bearing end, and the mounting base moves in a direction away from the bearing end under the action of the elastic component.

2. The docking device for the connector assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein when the bearing end carries the battery pack and the connector assembly is subjected to a force from the battery end connector in a direction away from the bearing end, the elastic component undergoes elastic deformation in a direction away from the bearing end, so as to realize a floating connection between the linkage mechanism and the mounting base.

3. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The linkage mechanism includes a linkage mechanism, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the bearing end of the bearing plate, the second end of which is rotatably connected to the mounting base, and the elastic component cooperates with the linkage mechanism. During the process of the bearing plate switching from the initial state to the bearing state, under the action of the linkage mechanism, the elastic component undergoes elastic deformation in the direction close to the bearing end. During the process of restoring the elastic deformation, the elastic component acts on the linkage mechanism to drive the mounting base to move towards the bearing end, so as to convert the movement of the bearing plate into a force that moves the mounting base from the initial position to the docking position.

4. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The linkage mechanism includes a first link, a second link, and a third link. The first end of the first link is rotatably connected to the bottom of the bearing end. The second end of the first link is rotatably connected to the first end of the second link. The second end of the second link is movably sleeved on the first end of the third link. The second end of the third link is rotatably connected to the mounting base. The connection between the first link and the second link is slidably connected to the connecting seat; The portion of the third link located inside the second link is provided with a first limiting member. The elastic component includes a first elastic member, which is sleeved on the third link, and both ends of the first elastic member abut against the inner wall surface of the first limiting member and the second end of the second link, respectively.

5. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first limiting member is vertically disposed on the rod body of the third link, along the axial direction perpendicular to the rod body of the third link, and both ends of the first limiting member are not lower than the first elastic member.

6. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The two ends of the first limiting member extend out of the sidewalls of the second connecting rod; The second connecting rod has grooves on both side walls, and the two ends of the first limiting member are located in the two grooves respectively.

7. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic component further includes a second elastic element, which, along the axial direction of the third link, is located on both sides of the first limiting member. The second link is also provided with a second limiting member, and the two ends of the second elastic member abut against the first limiting member and the second limiting member respectively.

8. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The first elastic element and the second elastic element constitute an integrally formed elastic element.

9. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The linkage mechanism further includes a sliding guide structure disposed on the connecting seat, and the connection between the first link and the second link is slidably connected to the sliding guide structure.

10. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The sliding guide structure includes a guide member disposed on the connecting seat. The guide member has a strip-shaped guide hole. The connection between the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod is located in the guide hole and can move along the length direction of the guide hole.

11. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 10, characterized in that, During the process of the bearing plate switching from the initial state to the bearing state, the connection between the first link and the second link moves from the first end of the guide hole to the second end of the guide hole. In the direction perpendicular to the bottom plate of the connecting seat, the position of the first end of the guide hole is higher than the position of the second end of the guide hole.

12. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 10, characterized in that, There are at least two linkage mechanisms, and the two linkage mechanisms are disposed between the connecting seat and the bearing plate; The first link is rotatably connected to the second link via a first connecting shaft, which passes through the guide hole. The two link mechanisms share one first connecting shaft. And / or, the first link is rotatably connected to the bottom of the bearing end via a second connecting shaft, and the two link mechanisms share a second connecting shaft.

13. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The linkage mechanism also includes a moving mechanism, and the mounting base is slidably connected to the support plate through the moving mechanism.

14. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The moving mechanism includes a guide rod and a slider that are slidably engaged, the guide rod and the slider being respectively connected to the mounting base and the support plate.

15. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 13, characterized in that, There are at least two moving mechanisms, and the at least two moving mechanisms are respectively disposed at both ends of the mounting base.

16. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, During the process of switching from the initial state to the bearing state at the bearing end, the bearing plate moves up and down relative to the connecting seat.

17. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The carrier plate also includes a connecting end opposite to the carrier end, and the mounting base is disposed between the carrier end and the connecting end of the carrier plate; The connecting end is rotatably connected to the connecting seat. During the process of the bearing end switching from the initial state to the bearing state, the bearing disc rotates around the connecting end relative to the connecting seat. When the battery pack is detached from the support end, the support plate rotates upward with the connection end as the rotation point, and the mounting base moves in a direction away from the support end of the support plate; When the battery pack is placed on the support end, the support plate rotates downward with the connection end as the rotation point, and the mounting base moves towards the support end of the support plate under the force provided by the linkage mechanism, so that the connector assembly is connected to the battery end connector of the battery pack.

18. The mating device for the connector assembly as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, When the bearing plate switches between the initial state and the bearing state by rotating relative to the connecting seat, the top of the bearing plate is aligned with the top of the connecting seat when the bearing end is in the bearing state.

19. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 18, characterized in that, A limiting baffle is provided at a position corresponding to the connection end of the connecting seat and the bearing plate, and the limiting baffle extends from the side wall of the connecting seat toward the bearing plate; When the top of the bearing plate is aligned with the top of the connecting seat, the bearing plate is attached to the limiting baffle.

20. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The docking device of the connector assembly further includes a reset component, which is used to provide a force to the carrier plate to switch it from a bearing state to an initial state.

21. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The two ends of the reset component are respectively connected to the bearing end of the bearing disk and the connecting seat, so as to apply a force to the bearing end of the bearing disk toward the connecting seat.

22. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 21, characterized in that, The reset assembly includes a third elastic element, and the third elastic element is in an elastic deformation state when the carrier plate is in a bearing state.

23. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 22, characterized in that, The third elastic element is a compression spring.

24. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The two ends of the reset assembly are connected to the connecting seat and the mounting seat respectively, and apply a force to the mounting seat toward the bearing end away from the bearing plate.

25. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 24, characterized in that, The reset assembly includes a fourth elastic element, and the fourth elastic element is in an elastic deformation state when the bearing plate is in a bearing state.

26. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in claim 25, characterized in that, The fourth elastic element is a tension spring.

27. The mating device for the connector assembly as described in any one of claims 1-26, characterized in that, The connecting base has connecting ear plates extending horizontally in opposite directions at both ends. The connecting ear plates have first position adjustment holes. The connecting ear plates are detachably connected to at least one set of multiple sets of second position adjustment holes on the frame through the first position adjustment holes and connecting components.

28. A connector device, characterized in that, It includes a connector assembly and a docking device as described in any one of claims 1-27, wherein the connector assembly is disposed on the docking device.

29. The connector device as claimed in claim 28, characterized in that, The connector assembly includes an electrical connector plug and / or a liquid-cooled connector plug, the electrical connector plug being used for electrical connection with the battery terminal electrical connector on the battery pack; the liquid-cooled connector plug being used for connection with the battery terminal liquid-cooled connector on the battery pack.

30. The connector device as claimed in claim 29, characterized in that, The connector assembly also includes a floating plate, which is floatingly mounted on the mounting base, and the electrical connector plug and / or liquid-cooled connector plug are disposed on the floating plate.

31. The connector device as claimed in claim 30, characterized in that, The electrical connector is disposed on the floating plate, which is located in the middle of the mounting base; there are two liquid cooling connectors, which are disposed on the mounting base and located on both sides of the floating plate.

32. The connector device according to any one of claims 28-31, characterized in that, The connector device also includes a detection component, which is mounted on the mounting base and is used to detect whether there is a battery pack on the frame within a preset distance.

33. A charging stand, characterized in that, It includes a frame and a connector device as described in any one of claims 28-32, the connector device being connected to the frame.

34. The charging stand as described in claim 33, characterized in that, The frame includes at least two brackets for carrying battery packs. A charging compartment for accommodating the battery pack is formed between two adjacent brackets in the height direction. The connector device is provided in a one-to-one correspondence with the charging compartment and is connected to the bracket.

35. The charging stand as described in claim 34, characterized in that, Along the mating direction between the battery end connector and the connector device, at least two sets of second position adjustment holes are provided on the bracket, and the first position adjustment hole of the connector device and at least one set of second position adjustment holes are detachably connected by a connector.

36. A battery swapping station, characterized in that, It includes the charging stand as described in any one of claims 33-35.

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