Lifting mechanism, battery replacing device and battery replacing station

Abstract

The application provides a jacking mechanism, a battery replacing device and a battery replacing station. The jacking mechanism is arranged on a battery tray of the battery replacing device, and the battery tray is used for carrying a battery pack. The jacking mechanism comprises a driving part and a lifting part. The lifting part is used for lifting the battery pack. The output end of the driving part is connected with the lifting part. The driving part drives the lifting part to move in the direction of approaching or moving away from the battery tray. The jacking mechanism, the battery replacing device and the battery replacing station realize higher jacking stroke of the battery pack based on the battery tray, adapt to the functional requirements at higher positions, and meet the requirements of different strokes of the battery replacing device in different functional work. Compared with the case that the jacking mechanism is installed in a separate space, the jacking mechanism is fixed on the battery tray, space is saved, the jacking requirement of different strokes in limited space is met, and the battery replacing efficiency is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a jacking mechanism, a battery replacement device and a battery replacement station. BACKGROUND

[0002] The existing electric vehicles mainly have two charging methods, one is direct charging type, and the other is quick replacement type. Among them, the direct charging type needs to set up a charging pile to charge the electric vehicle, but the charging time is long and the efficiency is low. The battery replacement type needs to set up a battery replacement station to realize quick battery replacement by replacing the battery of the electric vehicle, which shortens a long time compared with the direct charging type.

[0003] The battery replacement device is an important device in the battery replacement station, which undertakes the main work of replacing the battery for the vehicle, including moving to the bottom of the vehicle, disassembling the battery pack from the battery replacement vehicle and installing the battery pack on the battery replacement vehicle, and also including transferring the battery pack between the battery replacement station and other devices such as battery transfer equipment.

[0004] For replaceable battery packs, the battery replacement operation of the battery replacement device with different devices (the battery replacement operation between the battery replacement device and the vehicle, and the battery replacement operation between the battery replacement device and the battery transfer equipment, etc.) has different requirements for the stroke of lifting the battery pack. The existing battery replacement device cannot meet the jacking requirements of different strokes, while also considering the installation in the limited space of the battery replacement device. SUMMARY

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present application is to overcome the defect that the jacking mechanism of the existing battery replacement device cannot easily meet the jacking requirements of different strokes in a limited space, and to provide a jacking mechanism, a battery replacement device and a battery replacement station.

[0006] The present application solves the above technical problems by the following technical solutions:

[0007] A jacking mechanism is used in a battery replacement device, and the jacking mechanism is arranged on a battery tray of the battery replacement device, and the battery tray is used to carry a battery pack.

[0008] The jacking mechanism comprises a driving part and a lifting part, the lifting part is used to lift the battery pack, the output end of the driving part is connected with the lifting part, and the driving part drives the lifting part to move in the direction close to or away from the battery tray.

[0009] In the scheme, the output end of the driving part is connected with the lifting part, so that the driving part can drive the lifting part. By arranging the jacking mechanism on the battery tray and moving the battery pack along the direction close to or away from the battery tray by the lifting part, the jacking mechanism can jacking the battery pack to a higher position than the battery tray, realizing a higher jacking stroke of the battery pack, adapting to the functional needs at a higher position. At the same time, the battery tray can still meet the jacking needs of the battery pack at a low position, thereby meeting the requirements of different strokes of the battery replacement equipment for different functional work; compared with the case of installing the jacking mechanism in a separate space, the jacking mechanism is fixed on the battery tray, saving space and realizing the jacking requirement of different strokes in limited space.

[0010] Preferably, the jacking mechanism further comprises a guide structure, the guide structure comprising a fixed component and a moving component matched with each other, the fixed component being fixedly connected with the shell of the driving part, and the moving component being connected with the lifting part, so that the lifting part drives the moving component to move along the direction close to or away from the battery tray.

[0011] In the scheme, the fixed component and the shell of the driving part are fixedly connected, so that the fixed fixed component and the moving component can produce relative motion, thereby realizing guided motion. The moving component is connected with the lifting part, so that the lifting part can drive the moving component to move along the direction close to or away from the battery tray, realizing moving in a defined direction while lifting the battery pack, realizing the guiding effect, ensuring that the battery pack does not deviate from the direction during lifting, accurate positioning, reducing the failure rate and improving the battery replacement efficiency.

[0012] Preferably, the number of the guide structures is at least two, and the moving components of the plurality of guide structures are arranged in parallel with and spaced apart from each other.

[0013] In the scheme, the moving components of the plurality of guide structures are arranged in parallel with each other, ensuring that the guiding of the plurality of guide structures is consistent with the driving direction of the driving part. The plurality of guide structures are arranged in a spaced apart manner, balancing the guidance to different positions of the lifting part, so that the moving direction of the lifting part is not easy to deviate; the guiding movements of the plurality of guide structures cooperate with each other, effectively ensuring the accuracy of the guiding path.

[0014] Preferably, the moving component comprises a guide shaft, the fixed component comprises a bushing, the guide shaft is movably arranged in the bushing, and one end of the guide shaft is connected with the lifting part.

[0015] In the scheme, the guide shaft is movably arranged in the bushing, so that the guide shaft moves in the limited space of the inner hole of the bushing along the axial direction of the bushing, one end of the guide shaft is connected with the lifting part, so that the lifting part can drive the guide shaft to move along the moving direction of the lifting part, and the guiding effect of the movement of the lifting part is realized.

[0016] Preferably, the inner wall of the bushing is provided with a rolling bearing, and the guide shaft is movably connected with the bushing through the rolling bearing.

[0017] In the scheme, the rolling bearing reduces the frictional resistance when the guide shaft passes through, reduces the wear of the guide shaft, and improves the stability of the guiding movement.

[0018] Preferably, the jacking mechanism further comprises a mounting part, the mounting part is connected with the battery tray, and the shell of the driving part and the fixing part of the guide structure are fixedly connected through the mounting part.

[0019] In the scheme, the mounting part is connected with the battery tray, so that the jacking mechanism is stably fixed on the battery tray; the shell of the driving part and the fixing part of the guide structure are fixedly connected through the mounting part, so as to improve the overall stability of the two movement structures (driving and guiding).

[0020] Preferably, the mounting part comprises a first mounting part and a second mounting part, the first mounting part is connected with the battery tray and the second mounting part respectively, and the shell of the driving part and the fixing part of the guide structure are fixed on the second mounting part.

[0021] In the scheme, the first mounting part and the second mounting part are connected with the battery tray and the shell of the driving part and the fixing part of the guide structure respectively, so as to realize the connection requirements of different structures.

[0022] Preferably, a limit stopper is further arranged on the driving part, and the limit stopper is used to obtain the movement information of the driving part to limit the limit position of the movement of the lifting part.

[0023] In the scheme, the limit stopper obtains the movement information of the driving part and limits the limit position of the movement of the lifting part, so as to realize the adjustment of the movement stroke of the lifting part.

[0024] Preferably, the limit stopper is a magnetic sensor, an induction part is arranged on the output shaft of the driving part, and the magnetic sensor obtains the movement information of the driving part by inducting the position of the induction part.

[0025] In the scheme, compared with other types of limiters, a magnetic sensor is used as a limiter, which is sensitive and accurate in positioning; the sensing component is arranged on the output shaft of the driving part, so that the movement information of the sensing component reflects the movement information of the driving part; through the induction cooperation of the magnetic sensor and the sensing component, the magnetic sensor can identify the movement information of the sensing component, thereby obtaining the movement information of the driving part.

[0026] Preferably, the lifting part is provided with a pad, and the pad is made of soft material.

[0027] In the scheme, by arranging the pad made of soft material on the lifting part, the impact generated when the battery pack falls on the lifting part during disassembly can be effectively buffered, the battery pack is protected from being damaged, and the stroke of the jacking is also increased; by arranging pads with different thicknesses or different shapes, the gravitational impact of different battery packs or the stroke of the jacking can be adjusted.

[0028] Preferably, the lifting part is provided with at least two pads, and the pads are distributed at both ends of the lifting part.

[0029] In the scheme, by arranging at least two pads on the lifting part and distributing them at both ends of the lifting part, the lifting force at different positions of the battery pack is balanced, which is beneficial to the stability of jacking.

[0030] Preferably, at least one gasket is arranged between the pad and the lifting part.

[0031] In the scheme, by arranging a gasket between the pad and the lifting part, the gap between the pad and the surface of the lifting part at different positions can be adjusted, the height of the pad at different positions is ensured to be consistent, the battery pack will not be displaced due to being in a non-horizontal state on the lifting part, and the stability of jacking is further ensured.

[0032] Preferably, the driving part comprises at least one of a motor, an air cylinder and a hydraulic cylinder.

[0033] In the scheme, one of a motor, an air cylinder and a hydraulic cylinder is used to realize stable and reliable driving of the lifting part.

[0034] A battery replacing device, comprising a base, a battery tray, a lifting mechanism and a jacking mechanism as described above, the battery tray is arranged on the base through the lifting mechanism, the battery tray is used to carry a battery pack, the lifting mechanism drives the battery tray to move away from or close to the base; the jacking mechanism is arranged on the battery tray, and the jacking mechanism drives the battery pack to move away from or close to the battery tray.

[0035] In this solution, the battery tray is lifted by a lifting mechanism, which moves the battery tray in a direction away from or towards the base to achieve battery swapping with the vehicle. By setting the lifting mechanism on the battery tray, the battery pack moves in a direction towards or away from the battery tray, achieving a greater lifting stroke based on the battery tray, and realizing other functional needs of the battery pack at a higher position. Thus, the same battery swapping device can simultaneously meet different lifting height requirements, adapt to functional needs at different height positions, and improve battery swapping efficiency.

[0036] Preferably, the battery tray is further provided with a plurality of support components for supporting the battery pack;

[0037] When the lifting part moves to the first limit position along the direction close to the battery tray, the lifting part is not higher than the supporting member;

[0038] When the lifting part moves to the second extreme position in a direction away from the battery tray, the lifting part is higher than the supporting member.

[0039] In this solution, multiple support components are used to stably support the battery pack after it has been removed from the vehicle or is to be installed, effectively preventing the battery pack from shifting on the battery tray. By setting the height relationship between the lifting part and the support components when the lifting part moves to two extreme positions, the lifting part can be moved below the height of the support components when the support components are needed to support the battery pack, without affecting the existing support function of the support components. When the battery pack needs to be lifted to a higher position, the lifting part can be moved above the height of the support components to achieve a greater lifting range.

[0040] Preferably, the drive unit is a cylinder, and the power swapping device further includes an air intake valve, which is connected to the cylinder via an air pipe to control the operation of the cylinder.

[0041] In this design, a cylinder is used as the drive unit, achieving stable and reliable drive, and the linear drive method facilitates guidance. The intake valve is connected to the cylinder via an air pipe; the opening and closing of the intake valve controls the cylinder's drive.

[0042] Preferably, there are multiple lifting mechanisms, and the cylinders of the multiple lifting mechanisms are all connected to the same air intake valve through air pipes.

[0043] In this solution, compared to a single lifting mechanism, multiple lifting mechanisms are used to achieve stable lifting of the battery pack and to lift heavier battery packs. The cylinders of multiple lifting mechanisms are all connected to the same air intake valve, so that all cylinders are controlled by the air intake valve at the same time, keeping the lifting movements of all lifting mechanisms synchronized and ensuring the stability of the lifting.

[0044] A battery swapping station, the battery swapping station comprising the battery swapping equipment as described above.

[0045] In this solution, the battery swapping station achieves a greater lifting range by using the aforementioned battery swapping equipment, enabling the battery pack to perform other functions at a higher position. This allows the battery swapping station to simultaneously meet different lifting height requirements and adapt to functional needs at different heights, thereby improving battery swapping efficiency.

[0046] Preferably, the battery swapping station further includes a battery transfer device, which includes an extension mechanism for transferring the battery pack between the battery swapping device and the battery transfer device.

[0047] When the lifting mechanism moves to its limit position in a direction away from the battery tray, the space between the lower surface of the battery pack and the battery tray can accommodate the extension mechanism.

[0048] In this solution, by setting the stroke of the lifting mechanism, when the lifting mechanism moves to its limit position in the direction away from the battery tray, the lifting part is higher than the battery tray, ensuring that there is a certain space between the lower surface of the battery pack lifted by the lifting part and the battery tray, which can be used for the extension and retraction of the extension mechanism, thereby supporting the extension mechanism to smoothly pick up and put down batteries from the battery swapping equipment and exchange them with the battery transfer equipment.

[0049] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows: the lifting mechanism, battery swapping equipment, and battery swapping station, based on the battery tray, achieve a higher lifting stroke for the battery pack, adapting to the functional needs at higher positions and meeting the different stroke requirements of the battery swapping equipment when performing different functions; compared to installing the lifting mechanism in an independent space, fixing the lifting mechanism on the battery tray saves space, achieves the lifting requirements of different strokes in a limited space, and improves battery swapping efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism of Embodiment 1 of the present invention on a battery swapping device.

[0051] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the lifting mechanism in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the lifting mechanism and the battery tray in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 4 This is a side view of the lifting mechanism of Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping equipment according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping device after removing the battery tray according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0056] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0057] Battery swapping equipment 1

[0058] Shuttle 11

[0059] Base 12

[0060] Lifting mechanism 13

[0061] Battery tray 14

[0062] Support component 15

[0063] Lifting mechanism 16

[0064] Drive Unit 161

[0065] Cylinder 1611

[0066] Cylinder 16111

[0067] Piston rod 16112

[0068] Lifting Department 162

[0069] 163 pads

[0070] Gasket 164

[0071] Installation Department 165

[0072] First Installation Department 1651

[0073] Second Installation Section 1652

[0074] Upper flat panel 16521

[0075] End plate 16522

[0076] Connecting tablet 1653

[0077] Guide structure 166

[0078] Fixed component 1661

[0079] Bushing 16611

[0080] Moving parts 1662

[0081] Guide shaft 16621

[0082] Limiter 167

[0083] Direction A: Near or away from the battery tray. Detailed Implementation

[0084] The present invention will be described more clearly and completely below with reference to a preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings.

[0085] Example 1

[0086] This embodiment provides a lifting mechanism 16 for use in the battery swapping equipment 1. When a vehicle requiring battery pack replacement drives into the battery swapping station, the battery swapping equipment 1 moves to the bottom of the vehicle, removes the battery pack to be swapped from the vehicle, and installs a usable battery pack from the battery swapping station onto the vehicle, thus completing the battery swapping operation. Simultaneously, the battery pack in the battery swapping station is located within the charging compartment, and the transfer of the battery pack between the battery swapping equipment 1 and the charging compartment is typically achieved through a battery transfer device. The battery swapping equipment 1 can also move to the battery transfer device to deliver the battery pack removed from the electric vehicle to the battery transfer device, or to receive a usable battery pack from the battery transfer device.

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, the battery swapping equipment 1 includes a base 12 and a battery tray 14. The battery tray 14 is located on the base 12, and the lifting mechanism 16 is located on the battery tray 14. The battery tray 14 is used to carry the battery pack.

[0088] The lifting mechanism 16 includes a drive unit 161 and a lifting unit 162. The lifting unit 162 is used to lift the battery pack. The output end of the drive unit 161 is connected to the lifting unit 162. The drive unit 161 drives the lifting unit 162 to move in a direction A that is closer to or farther from the battery tray 14.

[0089] By connecting the output end of the drive unit 161 to the lifting unit 162, the drive unit 161 can drive the lifting unit 162. By mounting the lifting mechanism 16 on the battery tray 14 and having the lifting unit 162 lift the battery pack along direction A, moving it closer to or further away from the battery tray 14, the lifting mechanism 16 can lift the battery pack to a position higher than the battery tray 14. This achieves a higher lifting stroke for the battery pack, accommodating the needs of battery swapping with charging equipment at higher positions or other functional requirements. Simultaneously, the lifting mechanism below the battery tray 14 raises and lowers the battery tray 14, allowing it to remain at a low position under the vehicle to meet the battery pack lifting needs and facilitate battery swapping with the vehicle. This satisfies the different stroke requirements of the battery swapping device 1 when performing different functions. Compared to installing the lifting mechanism 16 in a separate space, fixing the lifting mechanism 16 to the battery tray 14 saves space and achieves the lifting requirements for different strokes within a limited space.

[0090] like Figure 2As shown, in this embodiment, the drive unit 161 is specifically a cylindrical cylinder 1611. The cylinder 1611 includes a cylinder barrel 16111, a piston (not shown in the figure), and a piston rod 16112. One end of the piston rod 16112 is connected to the piston, and the other end is connected to the lifting part 162 of the lifting mechanism 16. The cylinder barrel 16111 is connected to an external air source, and compressed air pushes the piston inside the cylinder barrel 16111, causing the piston rod 16112 to move linearly. The lifting part 162 is a flat lifting plate. In other embodiments, the drive unit 161 can also use other drive devices, such as a motor, a hydraulic cylinder, etc. Motors, cylinders, and hydraulic cylinders can all achieve stable and reliable driving of the lifting part 162.

[0091] The lifting mechanism 16 also includes a guide structure 166, which includes a fixed component 1661 and a moving component 1662. The fixed component 1661 is fixedly connected to the outer shell of the cylinder 16111, and the moving component 1662 is connected to the lifting part 162. The lifting part 162 drives the moving component 1662 to move along direction A, which is closer to or farther from the battery tray 14.

[0092] By fixing the fixed component 1661 to the outer shell of the cylinder 16111, the fixed component 1661 and the moving component 1662 can generate relative movement, thereby achieving guiding movement. Through the connection of the moving component 1662 to the lifting part 162, the lifting part 162 can drive the moving component 1662 to move along direction A, either closer to or further away from the battery tray 14. This achieves the goal of lifting the battery pack while moving in a defined direction, thus providing guidance and ensuring that the battery pack does not deviate from its direction during lifting and lowering. This accurate positioning reduces the failure rate and improves battery swapping efficiency.

[0093] Among them, such as Figure 2 As shown, there are two guide structures 166. The moving parts 1662 of the two guide structures 166 are parallel to each other and spaced apart from the piston rod 16112 of the cylinder 1611.

[0094] By making the moving parts 1662 of the multiple guide structures 166 parallel to the drive unit 161, the guiding direction of the multiple guide structures 166 is ensured to be consistent with the driving direction of the drive unit 161. The multiple guide structures 166 are spaced apart to balance the guidance at different positions of the lifting part 162, making it less likely for the moving direction of the lifting part 162 to deviate; the guiding movements of the multiple guide structures 166 cooperate with each other to effectively ensure the accuracy of the guiding path.

[0095] Specifically, such as Figure 2As shown, the moving part 1662 includes a guide shaft 16621, the fixed part 1661 includes a bushing 16611, the guide shaft 16621 is movably inserted through the bushing 16611, and one end of the guide shaft 16621 is connected to the lifting part 162.

[0096] A guide shaft 16621 is movably inserted into the bushing 16611, allowing the guide shaft 16621 to move axially within the defined space of the inner hole of the bushing 16611. One end of the guide shaft 16621 is connected to the lifting part 162, enabling the lifting part 162 to drive the guide shaft 16621 to move along the moving direction of the lifting part 162, thus achieving a guiding function for the movement of the lifting part.

[0097] The bushing 16611 has a rolling bearing (not shown in the figure) on its inner wall, and the guide shaft 16621 is movably connected to the bushing 16611 via the rolling bearing. The rolling bearing reduces the frictional resistance of the guide shaft 16621 as it passes through, decreases wear on the guide shaft 16621, and improves the stability of the guiding motion. It is understood that the movable connection between the guide shaft 16621 and the bushing 16611 is not limited to rolling bearings. In other optional embodiments, a sliding connection with low frictional resistance can also be achieved by providing a sliding surface made of a material with a low coefficient of friction on the inner wall of the bushing 16611.

[0098] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the lifting mechanism 16 also includes a mounting part 165, which is connected to the battery tray 14. The housing of the cylinder 1611 and the bushing 16611 of the guide structure 166 are fixedly connected through the mounting part 165.

[0099] The lifting mechanism 16 is stably fixed on the battery tray 14 by connecting the mounting part 165 to the battery tray 14; the overall stability of the two moving structures (drive and guide) is improved by fixing the housing of the cylinder 1611 and the bushing 16611 of the guide structure 166 through the mounting part 165.

[0100] The mounting section 165 includes a first mounting section 1651 and a second mounting section 1652. The first mounting section 1651 is a flat plate, which is fixed to the surface of the battery tray 14 by multiple bolts. The second mounting section 1652 includes an upper flat plate 16521 and a vertically arranged end plate 16522. An elongated hole is formed in the end plate 16522. The upper flat plate 16521 is welded to the flat plate of the first mounting section 1651 through the end plate 16522, so that the flat plate of the first mounting section 1651 and the upper flat plate 16521 of the second mounting section 1652 are parallel to each other. The upper flat plate 16521 is adapted to the shape of the outer shell of the cylinder 1611 and is fixed to the outer shell of the cylinder 1611. The bushings 16611 of the two guide structures 166 are fixed to the second mounting section 1652 by connecting plates 1653. All components of the mounting section 165 are made of steel plate or other metal materials.

[0101] By connecting the first mounting part 1651 and the second mounting part 1652 to the outer shell of the battery tray 14 and the cylinder 1611 and the bushing 16611 of the guide structure 166 respectively, the connection requirements of different structures are achieved.

[0102] Among them, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the cylinder 1611 is also equipped with a limiter 167. The limiter 167 is used to acquire the movement information of the piston rod 16112 to limit the extreme position of the lifting part 162. Specifically, the limiter 167 is a magnetic sensor. The piston rod 16112 of the cylinder 1611 is equipped with a sensing component (not shown in the figure). The magnetic sensor acquires the movement information of the piston rod 16112 by sensing and identifying the position of the sensing component. Specifically, there can be two limiters 167. The two limiters 167 are respectively installed at the upper and lower ends of the cylinder shell 16111, thereby limiting the piston rod 16112 to the upper extreme position and the lower extreme position, respectively, so as to control the movement stroke of the lifting part 162.

[0103] By using limit switch 167, the movement information of piston rod 16112 is obtained, limiting the extreme position of the lifting part 162, thereby realizing the adjustment of the movement stroke of the lifting part. Compared with other types of limit switches 167, using a magnetic sensor as the limit switch 167 is more sensitive and precise in positioning; by placing the sensing component on piston rod 16112, the movement information of the sensing component reflects the movement information of cylinder 1611. Through the sensing cooperation between the magnetic sensor and the sensing component, the magnetic sensor can identify the movement information of the sensing component, thereby obtaining the movement information of cylinder 1611.

[0104] like Figure 2As shown, the lifting section 162 is equipped with two pads 163, which can be made of soft materials such as rubber or nylon. By providing pads 163 made of soft material on the lifting section 162, the impact of the battery pack falling onto the lifting section 162 during battery pack removal can be effectively buffered, protecting the battery pack from damage and increasing the lifting stroke. By setting pads 163 of different thicknesses or shapes, the impact of gravity on different battery packs can be accommodated or the lifting stroke can be adjusted.

[0105] Two pads 163 are evenly distributed at both ends of the lifting part 162. By setting two pads 163 on the lifting part 162 and evenly distributing them at both ends of the lifting part 162, the lifting force is balanced at different positions of the battery pack, which is beneficial to the lifting stability.

[0106] Multiple shims 164 are provided between the pad block 163 and the lifting part 162. By providing shims 164 between the pad block 163 and the lifting part 162, the gap between the pad block 163 and the surface of the lifting part 162 at different positions can be adjusted, ensuring that the height of the pad block 163 at different positions is consistent. This prevents the battery pack from shifting due to being in a non-horizontal state on the lifting part, further ensuring the lifting stability.

[0107] In other embodiments, the number and height of the pads 163 can be increased or decreased accordingly to meet the needs of padding or balancing the lifting force. The shape of the pads 163 can also be other shapes as needed, and the pads 163 can also be made of other soft materials. The number of pads 164 can also be adjusted accordingly as needed.

[0108] Example 2

[0109] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, this embodiment provides a battery swapping device 1, which includes a shuttle 11, a base 12, a battery tray 14, a lifting mechanism 13, and a lifting mechanism 16 as in Embodiment 1. The battery tray 14 is mounted on the base 12 via the lifting mechanism 13 and is used to carry the battery pack. The lifting mechanism 13 drives the battery tray 14 to move in a direction away from or towards the base 12, that is, to move towards or away from the electric vehicle. The lifting mechanism 16 is mounted on the battery tray 14 and drives the battery pack to move in a direction A that is towards or away from the battery tray 14.

[0110] When the battery swapping device 1 is in operation, the shuttle 11 moves to a position below the vehicle chassis. The lifting mechanism 13 lifts the battery tray 14, moving it in a direction away from or towards the base 12 within a lower travel space. Battery packs removed from the vehicle are placed on the battery tray 14, or available battery packs on the battery tray 14 are lifted from the battery swapping device 1 and installed onto the vehicle chassis, thus achieving battery swapping with the vehicle. Simultaneously, by arranging the lifting mechanism 16 on the battery tray 14, the battery packs are moved in a direction A, towards or away from the battery tray 14, within a higher travel space above the surface of the battery tray 14. This achieves a greater lifting range, allowing battery pack swapping operations to be performed with the charging equipment at a higher position. This enables the same battery swapping device to simultaneously meet different lifting height requirements, adapting to functional needs at different heights and improving battery swapping efficiency. In other embodiments, other functional devices, such as transfer equipment, can be located at the higher position to fulfill different functional requirements.

[0111] Among them, such as Figure 5 As shown, the battery tray 14 is also provided with a plurality of support members 15 for supporting the battery pack; when the lifting part 162 moves to the first limit position along the direction A close to the battery tray 14, the lifting part 162 is not higher than the support member 15, and the first limit position is any position between the surface of the battery tray 14 and the top surface of the support member 15; when the lifting part 162 moves to the second limit position along the direction A away from the battery tray 14, the lifting part 162 is higher than the support member 15, and the first limit position is any position higher than the top surface of the support member 15.

[0112] Multiple support components 15 stably support the battery pack after it has been removed from the vehicle or is to be installed, effectively preventing the battery pack from shifting on the battery tray 14. By setting the height relationship between the lifting part 162 and the support component 15 when the lifting part 162 moves to two extreme positions, the lifting part 162 can be moved below the height of the support component 15 when the support component 15 needs to support the battery pack, without affecting the existing support function of the support component 15. When the battery pack needs to be lifted to a higher position, the lifting part 162 can be moved above the height of the support component 15, achieving a greater lifting range.

[0113] The battery swapping device 1 also includes an air intake valve (not shown in the figure). The air intake valve is connected to an external air source and is connected to a cylinder via an air pipe to control the cylinder's operation. Using a cylinder as the drive unit 161 achieves stable and reliable drive, and the linear drive method facilitates guidance. Connecting the air intake valve to the cylinder via an air pipe allows for the control of the cylinder's drive by opening and closing the air intake valve.

[0114] Among them, such as Figure 5As shown, the battery swapping device 1 is equipped with two lifting mechanisms 16, which are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the battery tray 14. The cylinders of the two lifting mechanisms 16 are connected to the same air intake valve through air pipes.

[0115] Compared to a single lifting mechanism 16, two lifting mechanisms 16 are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the battery tray 14, so that the battery pack is supported and balanced by the lifting parts 162 on both sides, achieving stable lifting of the battery pack and enabling the lifting of heavier battery packs; the cylinders of both lifting mechanisms 16 are connected to the same air intake valve, so that all cylinders are controlled by the air intake valve at the same time, keeping the lifting movement of all lifting mechanisms 16 synchronized and ensuring the stability of lifting.

[0116] Example 3

[0117] This embodiment provides a battery swapping station, which includes battery swapping equipment as described in Embodiment 2 and battery transfer equipment. The battery transfer equipment can be a palletizer or a lift, etc. The battery transfer equipment includes an extension mechanism for transferring battery packs between the battery swapping equipment and the battery transfer equipment. The battery tray is provided with multiple positioning components, battery disassembly and assembly components, and other battery swapping-related components. The positioning components are used to cooperate with positioning holes provided on the vehicle chassis and / or battery pack to achieve positioning during the battery swapping process. The battery disassembly and assembly components are used to install or remove the battery pack.

[0118] When the lifting mechanism moves to its limit position in the direction away from the battery tray, the lifting part is higher than the battery tray and the positioning parts, battery disassembly and assembly parts and other parts protruding from the surface of the battery tray. This creates a space between the lower surface of the battery pack and the battery tray that can accommodate the battery pack of the extension mechanism. The lifting part of the extension mechanism can extend into or out of this space to pick up and put down the battery without being obstructed by the positioning parts, battery disassembly and assembly parts and other parts on the battery tray. This allows the battery pack to be transferred between the battery swapping equipment 1 and the battery transfer equipment.

[0119] This battery swapping station utilizes cooperating positioning components and positioning holes to achieve accurate positioning of the battery pack. This ensures that the extension mechanism has a precise position to support the battery pack during its telescopic movement, avoiding malfunctions caused by inaccurate positioning. By setting the stroke of the lifting mechanism, when the lifting mechanism moves to its limit position away from the battery tray, the lifting part is higher than the positioning components and the battery tray. This ensures that there is sufficient space between the lower surface of the battery pack supported by the lifting part and the surfaces of the positioning components and the battery tray for the telescopic movement of the extension mechanism. This, in turn, supports the extension mechanism in smoothly picking up and placing batteries from the battery swapping equipment and exchanging them with the battery transfer equipment.

[0120] This battery swapping station, using the aforementioned battery swapping equipment, achieves a greater lifting range through a lifting mechanism mounted on the battery tray, enabling the battery pack to be lifted to a higher position for exchange with the battery transfer equipment. Furthermore, as the lifting mechanism's supporting part moves towards the battery tray, the lifting mechanism on the base lifts the battery tray, allowing for battery swapping with the vehicle at a lower position. This allows the battery swapping station to simultaneously meet different lifting height requirements, adapt to functional needs at different heights, and improve battery swapping efficiency.

[0121] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0122] 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 lifting mechanism for use in a power swapping device, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism is mounted on the battery tray of the battery swapping equipment, and the battery tray is used to support the battery pack. The lifting mechanism includes a drive unit and a lifting unit. The lifting unit is used to lift the battery pack. The output end of the drive unit is connected to the lifting unit. The drive unit drives the lifting unit to move in a direction closer to or away from the battery tray.

2. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism also includes a guide structure, which includes a fixed component and a moving component that cooperate with each other. The fixed component is fixedly connected to the housing of the drive unit, and the moving component is connected to the lifting unit. The lifting unit drives the moving component to move in a direction closer to or away from the battery tray.

3. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The number of guide structures is at least two, and the moving parts of the multiple guide structures are parallel to each other and spaced apart from the drive unit.

4. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The moving component includes a guide shaft, the fixed component includes a bushing, the guide shaft is movably inserted through the bushing, and one end of the guide shaft is connected to the lifting part.

5. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The inner wall of the bushing is provided with a rolling bearing, and the guide shaft is movably connected to the bushing through the rolling bearing.

6. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism also includes a mounting part, which is connected to the battery tray. The housing of the drive unit and the fixing component of the guide structure are fixedly connected through the mounting part.

7. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The mounting portion includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion. The first mounting portion is connected to the battery tray and the second mounting portion, respectively. The housing of the drive portion and the fixing component of the guide structure are both fixed on the second mounting portion.

8. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The drive unit is also provided with a limiter, which is used to obtain the movement information of the drive unit in order to limit the extreme position of the lifting unit's movement.

9. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The limiter is a magnetic sensor, and a sensing component is provided on the output shaft of the drive unit. The magnetic sensor obtains the movement information of the drive unit by sensing the position of the sensing component.

10. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The support part is provided with a pad, and the pad is made of a soft material.

11. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The lifting part is provided with at least two pads, which are evenly distributed at both ends of the lifting part.

12. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 10, characterized in that, At least one pad is also provided between the pad block and the supporting part.

13. The lifting mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The drive unit includes at least one of a motor, a cylinder, and a hydraulic cylinder.

14. A battery swapping device, characterized in that, The battery swapping equipment includes a base, a battery tray, a lifting mechanism, and a jacking mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-13. The battery tray is mounted on the base via the lifting mechanism and is used to carry a battery pack. The lifting mechanism drives the battery tray to move in a direction away from or towards the base. The jacking mechanism is mounted on the battery tray and drives the battery pack to move in a direction towards or away from the battery tray.

15. The battery swapping equipment as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The battery tray is also provided with multiple support components for supporting the battery pack; When the lifting part moves to the first limit position along the direction close to the battery tray, the lifting part is not higher than the supporting member; When the lifting part moves to the second extreme position in a direction away from the battery tray, the lifting part is higher than the supporting member.

16. The battery swapping equipment as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The drive unit is a cylinder, and the power swapping device also includes an air intake valve, which is connected to the cylinder through an air pipe to control the operation of the cylinder.

17. The battery swapping equipment as described in claim 16, characterized in that, There are multiple lifting mechanisms, and the cylinders of the multiple lifting mechanisms are all connected to the same air intake valve through air pipes.

18. A battery swapping station, characterized in that, The battery swapping station includes the battery swapping equipment as described in any one of claims 14-17.

19. The battery swapping station as described in claim 18, characterized in that, The battery swapping station also includes a battery transfer device, which includes an extension mechanism for transferring the battery pack between the battery swapping device and the battery transfer device. When the lifting mechanism moves to its limit position in a direction away from the battery tray, the space between the lower surface of the battery pack and the battery tray can accommodate the extension mechanism.

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