Locking mechanism, battery pack, electric vehicle, locking method and unlocking method

Abstract

The application discloses a locking mechanism, a battery pack, an electric vehicle, a locking method and an unlocking method, which are used for locking the battery pack on the electric vehicle, and the locking mechanism comprises a locking assembly and a traction assembly, the locking assembly is in transmission connection with the traction assembly, the locking assembly comprises a rotating buckle, the rotating buckle is provided with a clamping groove, and the traction assembly is used for driving the rotating buckle to switch from a closed state to an open state while an external device lifts the battery pack, so that the battery pack is unlocked relative to the electric vehicle. The locking mechanism drives the rotating buckle of the locking assembly to rotate through the traction assembly when the external device lifts or places the battery pack, so that the corresponding structure on the electric vehicle matched with the rotating buckle leaves or enters the clamping groove of the rotating buckle, and the battery pack is unlocked or locked relative to the electric vehicle. No additional driving source needs to be arranged at the vehicle end, the structure is light and the cost is low in the case of meeting the use of the electric vehicle, and the application is beneficial to the popularization and use of the quick battery replacement of the electric vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of new energy vehicle technology, specifically to a locking mechanism, a battery pack, an electric vehicle, a locking method, and an unlocking method. Background Technology

[0002] With increasing emphasis on environmental protection, pure electric heavy-duty trucks, as a new energy vehicle product, have been promoted in the market for many years under the government's impetus, representing the future development direction of the automotive industry. However, due to the limitations of battery technology, the energy density of battery packs cannot be made too high, which results in long charging times and short driving ranges for heavy-duty trucks. To solve this problem, battery swapping technology has emerged.

[0003] Currently, the locking mechanism of quick-swap battery packs is too large, making it impractical for the small batteries in heavy-duty trucks. Existing quick-swap battery pack locking mechanisms are also costly, hindering the promotion of battery swapping in heavy-duty trucks. Therefore, there is a need for a new type of quick-swap battery and locking device to solve the problems of the excessively large locking mechanism of quick-swap battery packs for heavy-duty trucks, which is both unsuitable for use and too expensive.

[0004] Existing locking mechanisms and devices typically require a drive source such as a cylinder or electric actuator to be installed at the vehicle end. The reciprocating motion of the cylinder or electric actuator drives the locking mechanism to achieve the purpose of locking or unlocking. The locking structure is complex, which indirectly or directly increases the design burden and cost of the OEM. Furthermore, the mechanism cannot be manually unlocked in the event of a malfunction during use. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, which requires an additional drive source to be set at the vehicle end, resulting in a complex locking structure and high cost. The present invention provides a locking mechanism, a battery pack, an electric vehicle, a locking method, and an unlocking method.

[0006] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0007] A locking mechanism for locking a battery pack to an electric vehicle, the locking mechanism including a locking component and a traction component, the locking component being tractively connected to the traction component, the locking component including a rotating latch with a slot, the traction component being used to switch the rotating latch from a closed state to an open state while an external device lifts the battery pack, thereby unlocking the battery pack relative to the electric vehicle.

[0008] In this solution, the locking mechanism utilizes a structure where the locking component rotates its rotating latch when the external device lifts or places the battery pack. This causes the corresponding structure on the electric vehicle that engages with the rotating latch to move out of or into the latch's slot, thereby unlocking or locking the battery pack relative to the electric vehicle. This locking component easily locks the battery pack during installation, and the locking or unlocking mechanism can be achieved by moving the external device containing the battery pack. No additional drive source is required on the vehicle side. While meeting the requirements for electric vehicle use, the structure is lightweight and inexpensive, which is conducive to the promotion and use of rapid battery swapping for electric vehicles.

[0009] Preferably, the electric vehicle is provided with a locking connector, and the locking assembly cooperates with the locking connector on the electric vehicle to unlock or lock the battery pack. When the rotating buckle is in the closed state, the locking connector is locked in the slot; when the rotating buckle is in the open state, the locking connector can disengage from the slot.

[0010] In this design, a locking connector is used that works in conjunction with the corresponding rotary latch on the electric vehicle. By switching the state of the rotary latch, the tightness of the lock between the electric vehicle and the battery pack is ensured, preventing the battery pack from detaching from the electric vehicle due to shaking or other reasons. This guarantees the stability and reliability of the connection between the locking mechanism and the electric vehicle.

[0011] Preferably, the rotating buckle rotates from the open state to the closed state under the action of the locking connector.

[0012] In this solution, this structural design allows the locking connector to rotate and switch to the closed state via a slot, ensuring the reliability of the locking process through mechanical linkage.

[0013] Preferably, the locking component further includes:

[0014] The housing, wherein the rotating buckle is rotatably connected to the housing via a first rotating shaft, and the position of the rotating buckle relative to the housing includes the closed state and the open state;

[0015] A first elastic element is connected to the rotary buckle and is capable of applying a force to the rotary buckle to move it from the closed state to the open state.

[0016] In this solution, this structural design connects the moving parts of the locking mechanism together by setting up a housing, which improves the durability and reliability of the locking mechanism. The rotation and limiting of the rotating buckle can be achieved simply by the elastic action of the first elastic element. The structure is simple and low in cost.

[0017] Preferably, the locking component further includes:

[0018] A limiting member is provided to restrict the position of the rotating buckle relative to the housing so that the rotating buckle is kept in the closed state. The limiting member is connected to the traction assembly, which can drive the limiting member to move and release the restriction on the rotating buckle.

[0019] In this solution, this structural design uses a limiting component to keep the rotating buckle in a closed state, preventing the rotating buckle from being switched to another state due to accidental external force, which could lead to the battery pack accidentally detaching from the electric vehicle.

[0020] Preferably, the locking component further includes:

[0021] The second elastic element is connected to the limiting element and is capable of applying a force to the limiting element to move the limiting element toward the rotating buckle.

[0022] In this solution, this structural arrangement utilizes a second elastic element to apply force to the limiting element, which allows the limiting element to maintain its restriction on the rotating latch when no external force is applied, thereby improving locking reliability.

[0023] Preferably, the limiting member is rotatably connected to the housing via a second rotating shaft, and the traction assembly can drive the limiting member to rotate relative to the housing.

[0024] In this solution, this structural setting sets the movement mode of the limiting component to rotational motion, which is more reliable than other movement modes and improves the flexibility of switching the rotary buckle to different states.

[0025] Preferably, the locking component further includes:

[0026] A blocking member is provided to limit the position of the limiting member relative to the housing, and the limiting member cooperates with the blocking member to restrict the rotation of the rotary buckle.

[0027] In this solution, this structural arrangement, through the cooperation of the second elastic element and the blocking element, allows the limiting element to be accurately positioned in the limiting state without external force, so as to reliably and continuously maintain the limiting effect on the rotating buckle.

[0028] Preferably, the blocking member includes a limiting pin, which is fixed to the housing.

[0029] Alternatively, a baffle may be provided on the housing, and the blocking member may be formed by bending sheet metal through the baffle.

[0030] In this solution, this structural design is adopted, and the blocking component is formed by installing a limit pin on the housing or by forming a baffle through sheet metal bending. The structure is simple and reliable, and the maintenance difficulty of the locking mechanism can be reduced.

[0031] Preferably, the housing has an opening that engages with the slot so that the locking connector enters the slot through the opening.

[0032] In this design, the rotating buckle relative to the housing is used to close the opening channel for the lock connector to enter and exit the slot.

[0033] Preferably, the traction assembly includes a traction member connected to the limiting member. The traction end of the traction member moves along a first direction under the action of the external device, and drives the limiting member to move along a second direction, wherein the first direction is different from the second direction.

[0034] In this design, this structural arrangement allows the position where the external device acts on the traction component to be relatively far from the position where the locking component locks and unlocks. This facilitates the layout of the locking mechanism on the battery pack or battery pack bracket, ensuring a more orderly connection within the battery pack.

[0035] Preferably, the traction assembly further includes a push-pull member, which is disposed at the traction end of the traction member and is used to drive the traction member to move under the action of an external device.

[0036] In this solution, this structural setup utilizes external equipment to drive the traction end to move, making the lifting more reliable and accurate.

[0037] Preferably, the locking mechanism further includes a guide member for guiding the push-pull member.

[0038] And / or, the locking mechanism further includes a limiting block for accommodating the push-pull member and limiting its displacement.

[0039] In this solution, the guide component ensures that the push-pull component can move stably in the preset direction; the limit block prevents external equipment from acting on the push-pull component, causing it to move excessively and damaging the traction and locking components.

[0040] Preferably, the lower surface of the limiting block forms a force-applying surface for the external device to lift the battery pack, and the push-pull member protrudes from the lower surface of the limiting block and can be driven by the external device to move until the external device contacts the lower surface of the limiting block.

[0041] In this design, the locking mechanism can be locked or unlocked by transferring the battery pack to an external device. A limit stop is used to create a force application point for the external device to lift the battery pack. This allows the push-pull component to move using the force applied by the external device, increasing the flexibility of the external device in moving the battery pack. Furthermore, the locking mechanism has a high degree of integration and a simple structure.

[0042] Preferably, the traction assembly further includes a steering component, which is located at the angle between the first direction and the second direction, and is used to change the transmission direction of the traction assembly.

[0043] In this design, this structural arrangement allows for a change in the transmission direction of the traction component, which facilitates the layout of the locking mechanism on the battery pack or battery pack bracket.

[0044] Preferably, the steering component includes a steering gear, which is connected to both the traction component and the limiting component.

[0045] Alternatively, the steering member may include a pulley, and the traction member may be arranged around the rolling surface of the pulley and connected to the limiting member.

[0046] In this solution, the use of a traction component can better improve the flexibility of transmission and direction changing between the traction component and the locking component. Furthermore, the transmission through the pulling of the traction component makes it easier to unlock the locking component. The traction component can be turned at an angle by a steering gear or by a pulley, which can change the transmission direction of the traction component in multiple directions, thus enhancing the flexibility of the traction component and locking component setup.

[0047] A battery pack, characterized in that it includes a locking mechanism as described above, the locking mechanism being disposed on the battery pack frame of the battery pack.

[0048] In this solution, this structural design makes it easy to lock and install the quick-change battery pack for heavy-duty trucks.

[0049] Preferably, the locking mechanism is distributed at least on both sides of the bottom of the battery pack frame.

[0050] In this design, a locking mechanism is arranged at the four corners of the bottom of the battery pack frame, which allows for a more stable locking action.

[0051] An electric vehicle comprising a battery pack as described above.

[0052] In this solution, the heavy-duty truck fast battery swapping locking mechanism easily locks the installation of the battery pack through locking mechanisms around the battery pack. While meeting the needs of heavy-duty truck use, the structure is lightweight and inexpensive, which is conducive to the promotion and use of fast battery swapping for heavy-duty trucks.

[0053] Preferably, the electric vehicle is provided with a battery pack bracket, and the battery pack bracket is provided with a locking connector, which cooperates with the locking mechanism to lock or unlock.

[0054] In this solution, this structural design, by setting a locking connector on the battery pack bracket and cooperating with the locking mechanism, ensures that the weight of the battery can be fully applied to the battery pack bracket, making the connection between the battery pack and the electric vehicle reliable and ensuring the smooth operation of the electric vehicle.

[0055] Preferably, the locking connector includes a shaft and a bushing, the bushing being rotatably sleeved on the shaft, and the bushing having a groove for embedding cushioning material.

[0056] In this design, a bushing is fitted onto the shaft for contact with the locking mechanism and allows rotation relative to the shaft, facilitating the connection between the locking mechanism and the lock connector and enhancing the flexibility of their connection. Simultaneously, cushioning materials such as rubber strips are embedded in the groove to provide cushioning and protect the integrity of the lock connector.

[0057] A locking method, characterized in that it employs a locking mechanism as described above, the locking mechanism being disposed on the battery pack frame of the battery pack, the locking method comprising the following steps:

[0058] The external device is controlled to contact the traction component of the locking mechanism, and the traction component is driven to rise, thereby driving the rotating buckle to rotate to the open state. The external device is controlled to drive the battery pack to descend, and the locking connector on the electric vehicle enters the slot of the rotating buckle, driving the rotating buckle to rotate to the closed state.

[0059] The external device is controlled to descend, causing it to disengage from the traction assembly, which then returns to its downward position to lock the battery pack relative to the electric vehicle.

[0060] In this solution, the battery pack can be easily installed and locked by external equipment to drive the transfer of the battery pack and the locking mechanism. No additional drive source needs to be set up on the vehicle side. While meeting the needs of heavy trucks, the structure is lightweight and low-cost, which is conducive to the promotion and use of fast battery swapping for heavy trucks.

[0061] An unlocking method employing a locking mechanism as described above, the locking mechanism being disposed on the battery pack frame of the battery pack, the unlocking method comprising the following steps:

[0062] Control the external device to move below the traction component of the locking mechanism;

[0063] The external device is controlled to lift, which in turn drives the traction component of the locking mechanism to rise, thereby causing the rotating buckle to rotate to the open state. The external device is then controlled to lift the battery pack, and the rotating buckle disengages from the lock connector on the electric vehicle, so that the battery pack is unlocked relative to the electric vehicle.

[0064] Control the external device to continue lifting and remove the battery pack from the electric vehicle.

[0065] In this solution, the locking mechanism is unlocked by an external device, which then moves the battery pack out of the electric vehicle. This easily achieves the installation and locking of the fast-swap battery pack for heavy-duty trucks, without the need for an additional drive source on the vehicle side. While meeting the requirements for heavy-duty truck use, the structure is lightweight and inexpensive, which is conducive to the promotion and use of fast battery swapping for heavy-duty trucks.

[0066] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows:

[0067] In this locking mechanism, battery pack, electric vehicle, locking method, and unlocking method, the locking or unlocking of the locking mechanism can be achieved by transferring the external device of the battery pack, without the need for an additional drive source at the vehicle end. The locking mechanism uses a traction component to rotate the rotating latch of the locking component when the external device lifts or places the battery pack. This causes the corresponding structure on the electric vehicle that engages with the rotating latch to move out of or into the latch's slot, thus unlocking or locking the battery pack relative to the electric vehicle. This locking component can easily achieve the installation and locking of the battery pack. While meeting the requirements for electric vehicle use, it is lightweight, low-cost, and conducive to the promotion and use of rapid battery swapping for electric vehicles. Attached Figure Description

[0068] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery pack mounted on the battery pack bracket in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Enlarged view of a portion of point A in the middle.

[0070] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram (a) of the external device acting on the battery pack in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram (II) of the external device acting on the battery pack in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the locking component according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the locking component in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the back structure of the locking component in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the locking component and the locking connector before they are connected in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the locking component and the locking connector in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure after the locking component and the locking connector are connected according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the locking component of Embodiment 1 of the present invention during locking and / or unlocking.

[0079] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the traction component of Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the battery pack frame including the push-pull component in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the battery pack bracket in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 15 for Figure 14 Enlarged view of section B in the middle.

[0083] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking shaft in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of the locking method according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 18 This is a flowchart of the unlocking method according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0086] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0087] Battery pack 100

[0088] Battery pack frame 11

[0089] Guide groove 111

[0090] Battery pack holder 200

[0091] Lock connector 21

[0092] Shaft 211

[0093] Bushing 212

[0094] Groove 2121

[0095] Support frame 213

[0096] Locking mechanism 300

[0097] Locking component 31

[0098] Rotary buckle 311

[0099] Card slot 3111

[0100] Casing 312

[0101] First opening 3121

[0102] Guide slope 31211

[0103] Cover plate 3122

[0104] Second opening 31221

[0105] Positioning block 3123

[0106] Bolt 3124

[0107] First pivot 313

[0108] First elastic element 314

[0109] Limiting component 315

[0110] Second elastic element 316

[0111] Second pivot 317

[0112] Blocking component 318

[0113] Limit pin 3181

[0114] Traction component 32

[0115] Traction component 321

[0116] Traction end 3211

[0117] traction rope 3212

[0118] Push-pull component 322

[0119] Horizontal end face 3221

[0120] Guide component 323

[0121] Through hole 3231

[0122] Limit block 324

[0123] Steering component 325

[0124] Steering gear 3251

[0125] 326 lifting pole

[0126] External devices 400

[0127] First direction X Detailed Implementation

[0128] The present invention will be further illustrated by way of embodiments below, but the present invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments.

[0129] Example 1

[0130] This embodiment provides a battery pack 100, the specific structure of which is as follows: Figure 1-13 As shown, the battery pack 100 includes a battery body and a battery pack frame 11. The battery body is enclosed inside the battery pack frame 11, which provides support and protection for the battery body. Furthermore, this battery pack 100 also includes a locking mechanism 300, which is disposed on the battery pack frame 11 and is used to lock the battery pack 100 onto the battery pack bracket 200 of the electric vehicle.

[0131] The locking mechanism 300 specifically includes a traction component 32 and a locking component 31. The locking component 31 and the traction component 32 are connected by a transmission. The traction component 32 is used to drive the locking component 31 to unlock or lock relative to the battery pack 100 while the external device 400 lifts or places the battery pack 100. This is to achieve the unlocking action of the battery pack 100 relative to the battery pack bracket 200 by lifting the battery pack 100 by the external device 400, or to achieve the locking action of the battery pack 100 relative to the battery pack bracket 200 by placing the battery pack 100 by the external device 400.

[0132] This locking mechanism 300 locks the battery pack 100 relative to the battery pack bracket 200 of the electric vehicle via the locking component 31, easily achieving the installation and locking of the battery pack 100. While meeting the requirements for electric vehicle use, it features a lightweight and low-cost structure, facilitating the promotion and use of rapid battery swapping in electric vehicles. Simultaneously, the traction component 32 utilizes the lifting force applied by the external device 400 to lift or place the battery pack 100. By transmitting this lifting force to the locking component 31, the locking component 31 can be locked or unlocked relative to the battery pack 100. In other words, the locking or unlocking of the locking component 31 can be achieved by moving the external device 400 containing the battery pack 100, eliminating the need for an additional drive source at the vehicle end.

[0133] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the external device 400 has forks for placing or lifting the battery pack 100. When the battery pack 100 is to be retrieved, the external device 400 moves the forks along... Figure 3 Move horizontally in the direction indicated by the middle arrow until it is below the limit stop 324, and then move along... Figure 4 The push-pull member 322 moves upward in the direction indicated by the middle arrow and acts on the traction component 32 to drive the push-pull member 322 to rise. When the push-pull member 322 rises to its maximum stroke, the locking component 31 unlocks relative to the battery pack 100, and the push-pull member 322 enters the receiving space inside the limit stop 324. The fork contacts the limit stop 324, and then continues to rise through the fork to remove the battery pack 100 relative to the battery pack bracket 200.

[0134] In this embodiment, the external device 400 is a stacker crane, used for picking up and placing the battery pack 100. In other embodiments, other equipment such as forklifts or cranes can also be used, as long as they can be used to pick up and place the battery pack 100.

[0135] like Figure 5-11 As shown, the locking assembly 31 includes a rotating buckle 311, and a slot 3111 is provided on the rotating buckle 311. When the external device 400 lifts or places the battery pack 100, the locking mechanism 300 drives the rotating buckle 311 of the locking assembly 31 to rotate via the traction assembly 32, so that the lock connector 21 on the electric vehicle that cooperates with the rotating buckle 311 leaves or enters the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle 311, thereby switching the rotating buckle 311 from a closed state to an open state, and thus unlocking or locking the battery pack 100 relative to the electric vehicle.

[0136] Specifically, a locking connector 21 is provided on the battery pack bracket 200. The locking connector 21 cooperates with the locking assembly 31 to unlock or lock the battery pack 100. When the rotating buckle 311 is in the closed state, the locking connector 21 is locked in the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle 311, thus locking the battery pack 100 to the electric vehicle. When the rotating buckle 311 is in the open state, the locking connector 21 can disengage from the slot 3111, thus unlocking the battery pack 100 from the electric vehicle. In this embodiment, this structural arrangement ensures the tightness of the lock between the electric vehicle and the battery pack 100, preventing the battery pack 100 from detaching from the electric vehicle due to shaking or other reasons, and ensuring the stability and reliability of the connection between the locking mechanism 300 and the electric vehicle.

[0137] The locking connector 21 enters the slot 3111 and applies force to the rotating buckle 311 to drive the rotating buckle 311 from the open state to the closed state. Through mechanical linkage, the reliability of the locking process is ensured.

[0138] like Figure 5-7 As shown, the locking assembly 31 includes a housing 312 and a first rotating shaft 313. The housing 312 is used to connect the various moving parts of the locking mechanism 300, thereby improving the durability and reliability of the locking mechanism 300. The first rotating shaft 313 is mounted on the housing 312, and the rotating latch 311 is mounted on the housing 312 via the first rotating shaft 313. The rotating latch 311 can switch from a closed state to an open state via the first rotating shaft 313.

[0139] The locking assembly 31 also includes a first elastic element 314, a second elastic element 316, and a limiting element 315.

[0140] like Figure 6 As shown, the two ends of the first elastic element 314 are connected to the housing 312 and the rotating buckle 311, respectively. When the rotating buckle 311 is in the closed state, the first elastic element 314 is in a stretched state and stores force, and can apply a force to the rotating buckle 311 to move it from the closed state to the open state. In this embodiment, the rotation and limiting of the rotating buckle 311 can be achieved solely through the elastic action of the first elastic element 314, resulting in a simple structure and low cost. Specifically, the first elastic element 314 is connected to the housing 312 and the rotating buckle 311 via a fixing pin.

[0141] The limiting member 315 is installed on the housing 312. The limiting member 315 is used to limit the position of the rotating buckle 311 relative to the housing 312, and to prevent the rotating buckle 311 from switching from the closed state to the open state due to the elastic action of the first elastic member 314. The limiting member 315 plays the role of limiting the rotation of the rotating buckle 311 at this point. When in the closed state, it can keep the rotating buckle 311 in the closed state, and prevent the rotating buckle 311 from being switched to another state due to accidental external force, which could lead to the battery pack 100 accidentally detaching from the electric vehicle.

[0142] In this embodiment, a second rotating shaft 317 is provided on the housing 312, and the limiting member 315 is mounted on the housing 312 via the second rotating shaft 317. One end of the limiting member 315 is connected to the traction assembly 32, which can drive the limiting member 315 to move and release the restriction on the rotating buckle 311. The other end of the limiting member 315 is connected to the second rotating shaft 317, realizing the rotational movement of the limiting member 315.

[0143] The working principle of the limiting member 315 is as follows: the traction component 32 applies a force to one end of the limiting member 315, allowing the limiting member 315 to rotate through the second rotating shaft 317, thereby limiting and releasing the position of the limiting member 315 on the rotating buckle 311. Setting the movement mode of the limiting member 315 to rotational motion is more reliable than other movement modes and improves the flexibility of the rotating buckle 311 when switching to different states.

[0144] The second elastic element 316 has two ends connected to the limiting element 315 and the housing 312, respectively. The second elastic element 316 is located at the end furthest from the second rotating shaft 317, i.e., the end closest to the traction assembly 32. One end of the second elastic element 316 is connected to the limiting element 315, and the other end is fixedly connected to the housing 312. It can apply a force to the limiting element 315 to cause the limiting element 315 to rotate and move towards the rotating buckle 311. Specifically, the second elastic element 316 is connected to the limiting element 315 and the housing 312 via a fixing pin.

[0145] The working principle of the second elastic element 316 is as follows: when the external equipment 400 (e.g., a stacker crane) applies a force to the traction component 32, the traction component 32 applies a force to one end of the limiting element 315, causing the limiting element 315 to rotate and move toward one side of the traction component 32 via the second rotating shaft 317, and the second elastic element 316 begins to stretch and store force; when the external equipment 400 is disconnected from the traction component 32, the traction component 32 loses the force applied to it by the external equipment 400, and the limiting element 315 is subjected to the elastic force of the second elastic element 316 and rotates around the second rotating shaft 317 toward the side away from the traction component 32, thus limiting the rotation buckle 311. By using the second elastic element 316 to apply a force to the limiting element 315, the limiting element 315 can maintain the restriction on the rotation buckle 311 when there is no external force, thereby improving the locking reliability.

[0146] In this embodiment, both the first elastic element 314 and the second elastic element 316 are springs, which have a simple structure and low cost. In other embodiments, other elastic components, such as elastic diaphragms, bellows, torsion springs, etc., can be used to apply force to the rotating buckle 311 and the limiting element 315.

[0147] like Figure 5-7 As shown, the locking assembly 31 also includes a blocking member 318, which is disposed on the housing 312 and is used to limit the position of the limiting member 315 relative to the housing 312. That is, the limiting member 315 cooperates with the blocking member 318 to limit the rotation of the rotating buckle 311. Through the cooperation of the second elastic member 316 with the blocking member 318, the limiting member 315 can be accurately positioned in the limiting state without external force, so as to reliably and continuously maintain the limiting effect on the rotating buckle 311.

[0148] Specifically, the blocking member 318 has two implementation methods: First, the blocking member 318 can be a limiting pin 3181, which is fixed to the housing 312. The limiting pin 3181 has a simple and compact structure, making it easy to disassemble. Second, the blocking member 318 can also be a baffle plate, which is formed by bending sheet metal. The baffle plate provides a more reliable limiting effect on the limiting member 315 and the rotating buckle 311, reducing the maintenance difficulty of the locking mechanism 300. In this embodiment, the blocking member 318 uses a limiting pin 3181. The specific structure and form of the limiting pin 3181 can be selected as needed, as long as it can limit the rotation of the buckle 311.

[0149] Furthermore, a first opening 3121 is provided on the side of the housing 312 near the slot 3111. The first opening 3121 cooperates with the slot 3111 to provide a channel for the locking connector 21, allowing the locking connector 21 to enter the slot 3111 through the first opening 3121. Preferably, as follows... Figure 7 As shown, a guide slope 31211 is provided at the first opening 3121, which makes it easier for the locking connector 21 to enter the slot 3111 through the first opening 3121 and reduces the difficulty of alignment during the locking process.

[0150] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen, in this embodiment, the locking assembly 31 also includes a cover plate 3122 and a positioning block 3123. The positioning block 3123 is disposed on the housing 312, and the cover plate 3122 is connected to the positioning block 3123 by multiple bolts 3124. The limiting member 315 and the rotating buckle 311 are disposed between the positioning blocks 3123 on both sides. The cover plate 3122 covers the side of the rotating buckle 311 and the limiting member 315 away from the housing 312, that is, the limiting member 315 and the rotating buckle 311 are sandwiched between the housing 312 and the cover plate 3122. With this structure, the operator can remove the cover plate 3122 by means of bolts 3124, which facilitates the repair and replacement of the rotating buckle 311 and the limiting member 315 inside the cover plate 3122. Meanwhile, the cover plate 3122 enhances the protection of the internal limiting member 315 and rotating buckle 311, and also makes the connection of the various moving parts of the locking assembly 31 more compact and reliable, thus improving the utilization of internal space resources of the battery pack 100. A second opening 31221 is provided on the cover plate 3122. The first opening 3121, the second opening 31221 and the slot 3111 cooperate to provide a channel for the lock connector 21, which can then enter the slot 3111 through the first opening 3121 and the second opening 31221.

[0151] like Figure 12-13As shown, in this embodiment, the traction assembly 32 includes a traction member 321 and a push-pull member 322. The traction member 321 is connected to the locking assembly 31. The purpose of the traction member 321 is to enable the battery pack 100 to lock or unlock the locking assembly 31 under the action of the external device 400.

[0152] The working principle of the external device 400 driving the battery pack 100 to lock and unlock is as follows: the external device 400 acts on the traction end 3211 of the traction member 321 and drives the traction end 3211 to move along the first direction X (vertical direction in this embodiment). At the same time, the other end of the traction member 321 drives the locking component 31 to move along the second direction. The second direction can be the same as the first direction X, or it can be different as in this embodiment.

[0153] In this embodiment, the first direction X and the second direction are arranged at an angle. Specifically, the external device 400 drives the traction end 3211 of the traction member 321 in the traction assembly 32 to move in the first direction X, so that the traction member 321 moves in the vertical direction. Then, the locking assembly 31 is driven to move in the second direction, that is, in a near-horizontal direction, through the end of the traction member 321 away from the traction end 3211. This completes the process of the external device 400 driving the battery pack 100 to lock and unlock.

[0154] The specific settings for the first direction X and the second direction can be configured as needed, as long as the external device 400 can ensure that the battery pack 100 is lifted or placed through the coordinated transmission of the locking component 31 and the traction component 32.

[0155] In this embodiment, the above-described structure is adopted so that the position where the external device 400 acts on the traction component 32 is relatively far from the position where the locking component 31 locks and unlocks, so as to reasonably plan the layout of the locking mechanism 300 on the battery pack 100 or the battery pack bracket 200, and ensure that the internal connection of the battery pack 100 is more orderly.

[0156] Specifically, the push-pull component 322 is set at the traction end 3211 of the traction component 321. The purpose of setting the traction component 321 is to drive the traction component 321 to move under the action of the external device 400, so that the battery pack 100 can be raised and lowered more reliably and accurately.

[0157] like Figure 12-13As shown, the push-pull component 322 has a horizontal end face 3221. In this embodiment, the horizontal end face 3221 is located on the lower surface of the push-pull component 322. Therefore, the principle of the external device 400 driving the traction component 32 of the battery pack 100 to move is that the external device 400 is in contact with the horizontal end face 3221 of the push-pull component 322 and drives the push-pull component 322 to move. The traction component 32 also includes a lifting rod 326. The connection between the traction component 321 and the push-pull component 322 is through the connection of the lifting rod 326. One end of the lifting rod 326 is connected to the traction component 321, and the other end of the lifting rod 326 is disposed through the push-pull component 322. With this structural arrangement, it is possible to avoid the traction component 321 from being damaged due to excessive force when pulling the locking component 31, thus protecting the integrity and safety of the traction component 32.

[0158] In addition, the locking mechanism 300 also includes a guide member 323, which is disposed on the battery pack 100. The guide member 323 guides the push-pull member 322, ensuring that the push-pull member 322 can move in a preset direction. A through hole 3231 is provided on the guide member 323, through which the lifting rod 326 can movably pass and move up and down, thereby positioning the lifting rod 326 to ensure the accuracy of the push-pull member 322 in driving the lifting rod 326 up and down. In other embodiments, the guide member 323 can be a slider or a slide rail, which can improve the reliability of the guidance.

[0159] Furthermore, the locking mechanism 300 also includes a limiting block 324, which has a recessed receiving space from the bottom inward, for accommodating the push-pull member 322 and limiting the displacement of the push-pull member 322. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, the limit stop 324 is provided on the battery pack 100 and is located above the push-pull member 322 that moves along the first direction X. This can prevent the external device 400 from acting on the push-pull member 322, causing the push-pull member 322 to move excessively and damage the traction assembly 32 and the locking assembly 31.

[0160] In this embodiment, a force-applying surface is formed on the lower surface of the limiting block 324 for the external device 400 to lift the battery pack 100. The push-pull member 322 protrudes from the lower surface of the limiting block 324 and can be moved by the external device 400 until it contacts the lower surface of the limiting block 324. That is, during the process of the external device 400 lifting or placing the battery pack 100, the push-pull member 322 will enter or leave the accommodating space inside the limiting block 324 under the action of the external device 400. Ultimately, the external device 400 will contact the force-applying surface of the limiting block 324 through the movement of the push-pull member 322 in the first direction X. This allows the push-pull member 322 to move using the force applied to the battery pack 100 by the external device 400, increasing the flexibility of the external device 400 in moving the battery pack 100. In this embodiment, the guide member 323 and the limiting block 324 are integrally formed, resulting in high structural integration and a simple structure.

[0161] A guide groove 111 is provided on the battery pack frame 11, and the traction component 32 partially passes through the guide groove 111 and is located outside the battery pack frame 11, so that the external device 400 can act on the traction component 32.

[0162] like Figure 2 and 13 As shown, the limiting block 324 is fixedly mounted on the battery pack frame 11 and protrudes from the outer wall of the battery pack frame 11. The push-pull member 322 extends to the outside of the battery pack frame 11 through the guide groove 111. The guide groove 111 can provide a path for the push-pull member 322 to move by setting its direction and length, thus limiting the direction of movement of the push-pull member 322. The external device 400 can move the push-pull member 322 in the guide groove 111 to contact the force application surface of the limiting block 324 and act on the force application surface of the limiting block 324, so as to drive the battery pack 100 to lock and unlock relative to the electric vehicle through the locking mechanism 300.

[0163] like Figure 5-7 As shown, the traction assembly 32 also includes a steering member 325, which is used to change the transmission direction of the traction member 321. This allows for a change in the transmission direction of the traction assembly 32, which is more conducive to the layout of the locking mechanism 300 on the battery pack 100 or the battery pack bracket 200. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the steering member 325 is positioned at the angle between the first direction X and the second direction.

[0164] The structure of the steering component 325 can be configured as needed, and may include at least the following two structural forms: First, the steering component 325 is a rotatable pulley, and the traction component 321 is a traction rope 3212. The traction rope 3212 is wound around the rolling surface of the pulley. Using the traction rope 3212 can better improve the flexibility of transmission and direction changing between the traction component 32 and the locking component 31. Moreover, the transmission through the pulling of the traction rope 3212 makes it easier to unlock the locking component 31. The steering of the traction rope 3212 through the pulley can change the transmission direction of the traction rope 3212 in multiple directions, enhancing the flexibility of the arrangement of the traction component 32 and the locking component 31. Second, the steering component 325 may be a steering device 3251 that rotates around a certain fulcrum. One end of the steering device 3251 is connected to the traction component 321, and the other end of the steering device 3251 is connected to the locking component 31. The transmission of traction force is realized through lever movement. The structure and form of the steering component 325 are not limited to this; they can be selected and set as needed, as long as the transmission direction can be changed. In this embodiment, a steering gear 3251 is used for transmission. Compared with a pulley, the steering gear 3251 has a simple and reliable structure, and due to its small size, it occupies less space, making the locking mechanism 300 compact and requiring multiple connections with the traction component 321.

[0165] like Figure 8-11 As shown, the working principle of the external device 400 driving the locking mechanism 300 to lock and unlock on the battery pack bracket 200 is as follows:

[0166] The external device 400 contacts the horizontal end face 3221 of the push-pull member 322, providing the push-pull member 322 with a force in the first direction X. The push-pull member 322 moves in the first direction X by the force and moves into the receiving space inside the limit stop 324. The push-pull member 322 drives the traction member 321 to move in the first direction X as well. The traction member 321 drives the locking assembly 31 to move in the second direction through the steering member 325. When the traction member 321 is connected to the limiting member 315, the traction member 321 drives the limiting member 315 to rotate and move toward the side closer to the traction assembly 32. The second elastic member 316 begins to stretch and store force. Since the rotating buckle 311 is engaged with the limiting member 315, the rotating buckle 311 moves upward along with the limiting member 315 during the movement of the limiting member 315. During the upward and clockwise rotation of the rotating buckle 311, the rotating buckle 311 gradually disengages from the limiting member 315. The first elastic member 314 resets and applies an elastic force to the rotating buckle 311. The rotating buckle 311, under the elastic action of the first elastic member 314, begins to rotate counterclockwise through the first rotating shaft 313 until the rotating buckle 311 is no longer under the action of the first elastic member 314. At this time, the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle coincides with the first opening 3121 on the housing 312 and the second opening 31221 on the cover plate 3122. When locked, the external device 400 slowly lowers the battery pack 100. The locking connector 21 enters the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle 311 through the first opening 3121 and the second opening 31221, and drives the rotating buckle 311 to rotate to the closed state. The first elastic member 314 begins to stretch and store force. The external device 400 disengages from the push-pull member 322 and releases the force applied to the push-pull member 322. The second elastic member 316 resets and applies an elastic force to the limiting member 315, causing the limiting member 315 to rotate around the second rotating shaft 317 toward the rotating buckle 311 to limit the rotating buckle 311. This ensures that the limiting member 315 maintains its restriction on the rotating buckle 311 when no external force is applied, thus completing the entire process of locking the battery pack 100 to the electric vehicle. During unlocking, the external device 400 drives the battery pack 100 to continue to rise, and the lock connector 21 disengages from the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle 311 through the first opening 3121 and the second opening 31221, thus completing the entire process of unlocking the battery pack 100 from the electric vehicle.

[0167] Preferably, the locking mechanisms 300 are at least distributed on both sides of the bottom of the battery pack frame 11, and the locking mechanisms 300 located on both sides of the bottom of the battery pack frame 11 are symmetrically arranged. The locking connectors 21 are correspondingly arranged and cooperate with the locking mechanisms 300. Accordingly, the locking connectors 21 are at least symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the battery pack bracket 200. In this embodiment, as... Figure 1As shown, four sets of locking mechanisms 300 are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the bottom of the battery pack frame 11, with two sets of locking mechanisms 300 on each side. Each set of locking mechanisms 300 includes two locking mechanisms 300. The locking mechanisms 300 are located at the four corner edges of the bottom of the battery pack frame 11, ensuring the smoothness and stability of locking or unlocking the battery pack 100 relative to the electric vehicle, and allowing the installation direction of the battery pack 100 relative to the battery pack frame 11 to be unrestricted. In addition, the number and distribution of the locking mechanisms 300 can be selected as needed, as long as the stable locking of the battery pack is guaranteed.

[0168] In other embodiments, the locking mechanism 300 can be mounted on the battery pack bracket 200, and the locking connector 21 can be mounted on the battery pack 100, which can also achieve the unlocking or locking of the battery pack 100.

[0169] Example 2

[0170] This embodiment provides an electric vehicle, which is a commercial vehicle such as a heavy-duty truck or a light-duty truck. The electric vehicle includes the battery pack 100 and battery pack bracket 200 described in Embodiment 1 above. The battery pack bracket 200 is mounted on the electric vehicle, and the battery pack 100 is connected to the electric vehicle through the battery pack bracket 200. The weight of the battery pack 100 is fully supported by the battery pack bracket 200, ensuring a reliable connection between the battery pack 100 and the electric vehicle and guaranteeing smooth operation of the electric vehicle.

[0171] A locking connector 21 is provided on the battery pack bracket 200. The locking connector 21 cooperates with the locking mechanism 300 of the battery pack 100 to unlock or lock the battery pack 100. Figure 14-15 As shown, the lock connector 21 includes a lock shaft and a support frame 213. The support frame 213 is disposed at both ends of the lock shaft, and both ends of the lock shaft are respectively fixed to the support frames 213 on both sides. When locked, the lock shaft enters the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle 311 through the first opening 3121 and the second opening 31221, thus locking the battery pack 100 to the electric vehicle. When unlocked, the lock shaft disengages from the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle 311 through the first opening 3121 and the second opening 31221, thus unlocking the battery pack 100 from the electric vehicle.

[0172] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the locking shaft includes a shaft 211 and a bushing 212, with two support frames 213 disposed at both ends of the shaft 211, namely the first support frame (…). Figure 15 The inner support frame 213) and the second support frame ( Figure 15The outer support frame 213 is located in the middle and connected to the shaft 211. One end of the shaft 211 has a boss structure, which abuts against the outer wall of the first support frame. The other end of the shaft 211 passes through the first support frame and the second support frame in sequence, and is connected to the outer wall of the second support frame by bolts or other fasteners (see...). Figure 15 This allows the two ends of the shaft 211 to be connected to the two opposing sides of the two support frames 213, and the shaft 211 is connected to the battery pack bracket 200 through the support frames 213 on both sides. Figure 16 As shown, the bushing 212 is rotatably fitted onto the shaft 211, facilitating the connection between the locking mechanism 300 and the lock connector 21 and enhancing the flexibility of their connection. A rectangular groove is recessed inward on the surface of the bushing 212 for embedding a rubber strip (not shown). The rubber strip protrudes beyond or is flush with the surface of the bushing 212, providing a cushioning effect and protecting the integrity of the lock connector 21. The bushing 212 protects the shaft 211 and can rotate and roll on the shaft 211, reducing friction between the lock shaft and the rotating buckle 311. The groove 2121 on the surface of the bushing 212 is filled with cushioning material such as a rubber strip, effectively reducing wear on the lock shaft and extending its service life. In other embodiments, grooves of any other shape can be provided on the surface of the bushing 212 to accommodate cushioning materials such as rubber strips.

[0173] Multiple locking connectors 21 are symmetrically arranged on at least two opposite sides of the battery pack bracket 200. Each locking connector 21 corresponds to a locking mechanism 300, and the locking connectors 21 cooperate with the locking mechanism 300 to ensure the smoothness and stability of locking or unlocking the battery pack 100 relative to the electric vehicle. In this embodiment, as... Figure 14 As shown, four sets of locking connectors 21 are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the battery pack bracket 200, with two sets of locking connectors 21 on each side, and each set of locking connectors 21 including two locking connectors 21. Correspondingly, four sets of locking mechanisms 300 are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the bottom of the battery pack frame 11, with two sets of locking mechanisms 300 on each side, and each set of locking mechanisms 300 including two locking mechanisms 300. The four sets of locking connectors 21 and the four sets of locking mechanisms 300 cooperate to ensure the smoothness and stability of locking or unlocking the battery pack 100 relative to the electric vehicle. In other embodiments, the number and distribution of locking connectors 21 and locking mechanisms 300 can be selected as needed, as long as the stable locking of the battery pack can be guaranteed.

[0174] The heavy-duty truck fast battery swapping locking mechanism 300 easily locks the installation of the heavy-duty truck fast battery swapping battery pack 100 through the locking mechanism 300 of the battery pack 100 and the locking connector 21 of the battery pack bracket 200. While meeting the needs of heavy-duty truck use, it has a lightweight structure and low cost, which is conducive to the promotion and use of heavy-duty truck fast battery swapping.

[0175] Example 3

[0176] This embodiment provides a locking method and an unlocking method. The locking method and the unlocking method use the locking mechanism 300 in Embodiments 1 and 2 above. The locking mechanism 300 is disposed on the battery pack frame 11 of the battery pack 100.

[0177] like Figure 17 The image shows a locking method, which specifically includes the following steps:

[0178] S11. Control the external device 400 to contact the traction component 32 of the locking mechanism 300, and drive the traction component 32 to rise, thereby driving the rotating buckle 311 to rotate to the open state. Control the external device 400 to drive the battery pack 100 to descend, and the lock connector 21 on the electric vehicle enters the slot 3111 of the rotating buckle 311, and drives the rotating buckle 311 to rotate to the closed state.

[0179] S12. Control the external device 400 to descend, so that the external device 400 is disengaged from the traction assembly 32, and the traction assembly 32 is reset downward so that the battery pack 100 is locked relative to the electric vehicle.

[0180] like Figure 18 The image shows one unlocking method, which specifically includes the following steps:

[0181] S21. Control the external device 400 to move below the traction component 32 of the locking mechanism 300;

[0182] S22. Control the external device 400 to lift, and drive the traction component 32 of the locking mechanism 300 to rise, thereby driving the rotating buckle 311 to rotate to the open state. Control the external device 400 to drive the battery pack 100 to rise, and the rotating buckle 311 disengages from the lock connector 21 on the electric vehicle, so that the battery pack 100 is unlocked relative to the electric vehicle.

[0183] S23. Control the external device 400 to continue lifting and remove the battery pack 100 from the electric vehicle.

[0184] The locking and unlocking methods described above easily achieve the installation and locking of the heavy-duty truck quick-swap battery pack 100. While meeting the requirements of heavy-duty truck use, the structure is lightweight and inexpensive, which is conducive to the promotion and use of quick battery swapping for heavy-duty trucks.

[0185] 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 locking mechanism for locking a battery pack to an electric vehicle, characterized by, The locking mechanism includes a locking component, a traction component, and a limiting block. The locking component is tractively connected to the traction component. The locking component includes a rotating buckle with a slot. The lower surface of the limiting block forms a force-applying surface for an external device to lift the battery pack. The traction component includes a traction member and a push-pull member. The traction member is connected to the locking component. The push-pull member is located at the traction end of the traction member and protrudes from the lower surface of the limiting block. It can be moved by the external device until the external device contacts the lower surface of the limiting block. The traction component uses the force of the external device lifting the battery pack to drive the traction member to move, thereby causing the rotating buckle to switch from a closed state to an open state, so that the battery pack is unlocked relative to the electric vehicle.

2. The locking mechanism of claim 1, wherein, The locking assembly cooperates with the locking connector on the electric vehicle to unlock or lock the battery pack. When the rotating buckle is in the closed state, the locking connector is locked in the slot; when the rotating buckle is in the open state, the locking connector can disengage from the slot.

3. The locking mechanism of claim 2, wherein, The rotating buckle rotates from the open state to the closed state under the action of the locking connector.

4. The locking mechanism of claim 3, wherein The locking component further includes: The housing, wherein the rotating buckle is rotatably connected to the housing via a first rotating shaft, and the position of the rotating buckle relative to the housing includes the closed state and the open state; A first elastic element is connected to the rotary buckle and is capable of applying a force to the rotary buckle to move it from the closed state to the open state.

5. The locking mechanism of claim 4, wherein The locking component further includes: A limiting member is provided to restrict the position of the rotating buckle relative to the housing so that the rotating buckle is kept in the closed state. The limiting member is connected to the traction assembly, which can drive the limiting member to move and release the restriction on the rotating buckle.

6. The locking mechanism of claim 5, wherein The locking component further includes: The second elastic element is connected to the limiting element and can apply a force to the limiting element to move the limiting element toward the rotating buckle; And / or, the limiting member is rotatably connected to the housing via a second rotating shaft, and the traction assembly can drive the limiting member to rotate relative to the housing.

7. The locking mechanism of claim 6, wherein The locking component further includes: A blocking member is provided to limit the position of the limiting member relative to the housing, and the limiting member cooperates with the blocking member to restrict the rotation of the rotary buckle.

8. The locking mechanism as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The blocking component includes a limiting pin, which is fixed to the housing. Alternatively, a baffle may be provided on the housing, and the blocking member may be formed by bending sheet metal through the baffle.

9. The locking mechanism of claim 4, wherein The housing has an opening that engages with the slot so that the locking connector can enter the slot through the opening.

10. The locking mechanism of claim 5, wherein, The traction member is connected to the limiting member. The traction end of the traction member moves along a first direction under the action of the external device, and drives the limiting member to move along a second direction. The first direction is different from the second direction.

11. The locking mechanism of claim 10, wherein, The traction assembly further includes a steering component, which is located at the angle between the first direction and the second direction, and is used to change the transmission direction of the traction assembly.

12. The locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein, The steering component includes a steering gear, which is connected to the traction component and the limiting component respectively; Alternatively, the steering member may include a pulley, and the traction member may be arranged around the rolling surface of the pulley and connected to the limiting member.

13. A battery pack, characterized by, It includes a locking mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-12, the locking mechanism being disposed on the battery pack frame of the battery pack, and the locking mechanism being distributed at least on both sides of the bottom of the battery pack frame.

14. An electric vehicle characterized by comprising: The electric vehicle includes a battery pack as described in claim 13, and the battery pack bracket is provided on the battery pack bracket. The battery pack bracket is provided with a locking connector, and the locking connector cooperates with the locking mechanism to lock or unlock.

15. The electric vehicle of claim 14, wherein, The locking connector includes a shaft and a bushing. The bushing is rotatably fitted onto the shaft and has a groove for embedding cushioning material.

16. A method of locking, characterized by It employs a locking mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-12, the locking mechanism being disposed on the battery pack frame of the battery pack, and the locking method comprising the following steps: The external device is controlled to contact the traction component of the locking mechanism, and the traction component is driven to rise, thereby driving the rotating buckle to rotate to the open state. The external device is controlled to drive the battery pack to descend, and the locking connector on the electric vehicle enters the slot of the rotating buckle, driving the rotating buckle to rotate to the closed state. The external device is controlled to descend, causing it to disengage from the traction assembly, which then returns to its downward position to lock the battery pack relative to the electric vehicle.

17. An unlocking method characterized by, It employs a locking mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-12, the locking mechanism being disposed on the battery pack frame of the battery pack, and the unlocking method comprising the following steps: Control the external device to move below the traction component of the locking mechanism; The external device is controlled to lift, which in turn drives the traction component of the locking mechanism to rise, thereby causing the rotating buckle to rotate to the open state. The external device is then controlled to lift the battery pack, and the rotating buckle disengages from the lock connector on the electric vehicle, so that the battery pack is unlocked relative to the electric vehicle. Control the external device to continue lifting and remove the battery pack from the electric vehicle.

Images