Multi-directional floating electrical connection device, replaceable electric ship and charging and replacing station

Abstract

The application discloses a multi-direction floating electric connection device, a replaceable ship and a charging and replacing station. The multi-direction floating electric connection device comprises a floating plate, a base, a first floating assembly and a second floating assembly. The floating plate is connected to the base through the first floating assembly along the length direction and the width direction of the floating plate, so that the floating plate can move in the plane to adjust the electric connector to the position capable of being electrically connected with the battery box. The second floating assembly is arranged between the floating plate and the base, so that the floating plate can move towards the base or away from the base to keep abutting when being electrically connected with the battery box. The electric connector of the application can adapt to the deviation during the connection, avoid the damage of the electric connector and the electric interface, and make the electric connector more closely connected. The adjustment of the electric connector is automatically realized, which is simple, convenient and fast. Meanwhile, due to the design of the floating structure and the floating amount, when the battery box shakes, the electric connector and the electric interface can keep closely connected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a multidirectional floating electrical connection device, a battery-swappable ship, and a charging / swapping station. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, batteries are widely used as power sources in various transportation vehicles such as vehicles and ships. Because the batteries required for these vehicles are large and take a long time to charge, hindering their efficient use, battery swapping has become a more efficient alternative to charging. During battery swapping, it is crucial to ensure that the electrical connection devices on the transportation vehicle or within the charging / swapping station are properly aligned with the battery's electrical interface to facilitate subsequent charging and discharging. However, current electrical connection devices often exhibit slight misalignments between the connectors on the connection device and the interfaces on the battery. Adjusting these misalignments is cumbersome and time-consuming. Forcing the connectors together can damage them, or result in loose contact, making charging impossible. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the defects of the prior art, such as the deviation between the electrical connection device and the charging port, inconvenient adjustment, easy damage to the electrical connector and the charging port, and poor contact, and to provide a multi-directional floating electrical connection device, a battery-swappable ship, and a charging and battery swapping station.

[0004] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0005] A multi-directional floating electrical connection device is provided for electrical connection with a battery box for charging and discharging operations. The multi-directional floating electrical connection device includes a floating plate, a base, a first floating component, and a second floating component. The floating plate is equipped with an electrical connector for electrical connection. The floating plate is connected to the base along its length and width directions via the first floating component, allowing the floating plate to move within its plane to adjust the electrical connector to a position for electrical connection with the battery box. The second floating component is provided between the floating plate and the base, allowing the floating plate to move towards or away from the base to maintain contact during electrical connection with the battery box.

[0006] In this technical solution, the coordinated action of the first and second floating components allows the floating panel to move not only within its plane but also in the forward and backward directions. This enables the electrical connector and the floating plate to float together in all directions, accommodating deviations during the connection between the electrical connector and the battery box's electrical interface and preventing damage to both. The forward and backward floating motion ensures a tighter connection between the electrical connector and the interface. Furthermore, the adjustment of the electrical connector is automatic during insertion, requiring no control equipment, making it simple and quick. Simultaneously, due to this floating structure and its designed float amount, the electrical connector and interface maintain a tight connection even when the battery box shakes.

[0007] Preferably, the first floating assembly includes a plurality of first elastic elements that connect the floating plate to the base on both sides along the length direction.

[0008] In this technical solution, the first elastic element can make the floating plate float and adjust on both sides of the length direction. When there is a deviation in the width direction, when the electrical connector needs to be adjusted in the process of docking with the electrical interface, the floating plate compresses the first elastic element on the side of the deviation direction to reduce the deviation and dock with the electrical interface.

[0009] Preferably, a plurality of the first elastic elements are evenly spaced along the length direction on both sides of the floating plate.

[0010] In this technical solution, the uniformly arranged first elastic element can ensure that the force in the width direction on both sides of the connecting plate in the length direction remains balanced, and will not cause tilting on both sides.

[0011] Preferably, the first floating component includes a plurality of second elastic elements that connect the floating plate to the base on both sides along the width direction.

[0012] In this technical solution, the second elastic element can make the floating plate float and adjust on both sides of the width direction. When there is a deviation in the length direction, when the electrical connector needs to be adjusted in position during the docking process with the electrical interface, the floating plate compresses the second elastic element on the side of the deviation direction to reduce the deviation and dock with the electrical interface.

[0013] Preferably, a plurality of the second elastic elements are disposed at least at the middle position of the floating plate along the width direction.

[0014] In this technical solution, the second elastic element located in the middle position can ensure that the force in the length direction on both sides of the connecting plate in the width direction remains balanced and will not cause tilting on both sides.

[0015] Preferably, the floating plate includes a floating panel and a connecting plate fixed to the floating panel. The electrical connector is mounted on the floating panel. The connecting plate is connected to the base through the first elastic member and the second elastic member. The connecting plate is configured to be adjustable in position relative to the floating panel along the width direction so that the first elastic members arranged on both sides along the length direction are subjected to balanced force and the electrical connector can be held in a preset position to facilitate electrical connection between the electrical connector and the battery box.

[0016] In this technical solution, the connecting plate and the floating panel can move relative to each other while connected. Therefore, with the initial relative positions of the connecting plate and the base fixed, the position of the floating panel relative to the connecting plate can be adjusted to maintain the electrical connectors on the floating panel in their preset positions, facilitating connection with the electrical interface of the battery box. Furthermore, because the forces on each of the first elastic elements on both sides along the length direction are balanced, the amount of floating in the width direction of the first elastic elements can be provided to the floating panel, eliminating the need to correct their own position before floating.

[0017] Preferably, the floating plate further includes a connecting component to connect the connecting plate and the floating panel. The connecting plate and the floating panel are respectively provided with a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole for the connecting component to pass through and be fixed. One of the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole is a round hole and the other is an oblong hole. The long axis of the oblong hole corresponds to the width direction.

[0018] In this technical solution, the movement of the connecting component within the oblong hole guides and ensures the connecting plate moves along the predetermined long axis direction of the oblong hole, i.e., the width direction. Preferably, the floating plate further includes an adjustment component, at least two of which abut against both ends of the connecting plate along the width direction to adjust the position of the connecting plate relative to the floating panel.

[0019] In this technical solution, the adjustment components at both ends can each push the connecting plate to the other end, thereby achieving bidirectional adjustment of the connecting plate in the width direction. Simultaneously, the adjusted components on both sides press against the sides of the connecting plate, keeping the position of the connecting plate fixed relative to the floating panel in the width direction.

[0020] Preferably, the adjustment assembly includes a fixing part disposed on the floating panel and an adjustment part passing through the fixing part. One end of the adjustment part abuts against the end face of the connecting plate, and the other end of the adjustment part is configured to be force-applied so that the adjustment part can move relative to the fixing part to adjust the position of the connecting plate relative to the floating panel.

[0021] In this technical solution, the position of the connecting plate can be adjusted by applying force to the adjusting part, simplifying the adjustment operation. At the same time, it avoids contact with other parts such as the floating panel and the connecting plate, enabling adjustment within a confined internal space.

[0022] Preferably, the second floating assembly includes a plurality of third elastic elements disposed between the opposing end faces of the floating plate and the base. The multi-directional floating electrical connection device further includes a guide shaft, the first end of which is connected to the floating plate, and the second end of which is configured to pass through the third elastic elements and pass through the base. Thus, when the floating plate is compressed during the electrical connection process, the floating plate and the guide shaft can move toward the base, causing the third elastic elements to be compressed, and the electrical connector can always remain in contact with the battery box during electrical connection.

[0023] In this technical solution, the guide shaft guides the movement. When the electrical connector is connected to the electrical interface, the floating plate moves backward and floats due to pressure. The third elastic element makes the floating amount of the floating plate in a predetermined direction adjustable. Furthermore, because the third elastic element is compressed during the backward movement, it generates a reaction force on the floating plate, making the connection between the electrical connector and the electrical interface tighter.

[0024] Preferably, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device further includes a limiting sleeve, which is sleeved outside the third elastic member and the guide shaft, and located between the floating plate and the base.

[0025] In this technical solution, the limiting sleeve limits the floating amount of the floating plate, preventing unreasonable excessive backward movement of the floating plate and guide shaft. It also protects the spring and guide shaft, preventing other objects from entering the positions of the third elastic element and guide shaft and affecting the sliding of the guide shaft and the extension and retraction of the third elastic element.

[0026] Preferably, the first end of the guide shaft passes through the floating plate with a clearance fit, so that the floating plate is tilted relative to the first end of the guide shaft.

[0027] In this technical solution, the gap between the floating plate and the guide shaft allows the floating plate to tilt at some angles, thereby enabling the floating plate to adapt to the battery box in terms of tilt angle and ensuring reliable connection of electrical connectors and electrical connections, further enhancing the adaptability.

[0028] Preferably, the multi-directional floating charging device further includes a second limiting member disposed at the first end of the guide shaft. The second limiting member includes a first pad and a second pad, which are disposed opposite to each other and located on both sides of the floating plate. The distance between the first pad and the second pad is greater than the thickness of the floating plate along the extension direction of the guide shaft.

[0029] In this technical solution, the first and second pads respectively limit the front and rear sides of the floating plate, ensuring that the floating plate can tilt and rotate at a certain angle between the first and second pads. At the same time, the first and second pads transmit force and increase the effective area, making the floating more stable and the floating plate less prone to damage during repeated floating.

[0030] Preferably, the second pad is located on the side of the floating plate closer to the base; the second pad is fixed to the guide shaft, or the guide shaft includes a baffle, the second pad abuts against the baffle and the baffle is located on the side of the second pad facing the base.

[0031] In this technical solution, the second pad can be directly fixed to the guide shaft to ensure that the floating plate abuts against the second pad after being pressed, thereby driving the guide shaft to float together; or a baffle fixed to the guide shaft can abut against the second pad after the floating plate is pressed, and the second pad abuts against the baffle, thereby driving the guide shaft to float together.

[0032] Preferably, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device further includes a sensor, which is disposed on the base and is positioned opposite to the end of the second end of the guide shaft and spaced apart by a first preset distance. When the multi-directional floating electrical connection device is electrically connected to the battery box, the base moves along the electrical connection direction with the floating plate, and the floating plate abuts against the battery box and is pressed. The floating plate and the guide shaft can move a second preset distance toward the base so that the sensor detects the end of the second end of the guide shaft to confirm that the electrical connector is properly connected to the battery box.

[0033] When the multi-directional floating electrical connector docks with the battery box, the floating plate drives the guide shaft to move closer to the base. The sensor detects the end of the second end of the guide shaft, indicating that the floating plate and the guide shaft have floated with sufficient displacement. The electrical connector docks with the electrical connector of the battery box. The motor that controls the forward movement of the electrical connector stops working. At the same time, the third elastic element is pressed to keep the two in contact.

[0034] Preferably, the second end of the guide shaft is further provided with a detection plate, the sensor is disposed opposite to the detection plate and spaced apart by a first preset distance, and the diameter of the detection plate is larger than the diameter of the end face of the second end of the guide shaft.

[0035] In this technical solution, a larger diameter detection plate can increase the area to be detected, making it easier for the sensor to sense the movement of the guide shaft.

[0036] Preferably, the sensor is a proximity switch, and the diameter of the detection plate is not less than two-thirds of the diameter of the sensor.

[0037] In this technical solution, a detection plate with a larger diameter can cover the signal area of ​​the sensor as much as possible, increasing the intensity of the sensor's reflected signal. Preferably, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device further includes at least one guide member near the electrical connector and disposed on the floating plate, the guide member being used to cooperate with a positioning hole disposed on the battery box to drive the floating plate to adjust its position.

[0038] In this technical solution, the guide and positioning hole are used to align the electrical connection device with the battery box, and the floating plate enables the electrical connector to quickly reach the electrical connection position and align with the corresponding electrical connector, thereby improving alignment efficiency and accuracy.

[0039] Preferably, there are two guide members, which are respectively disposed at a predetermined distance between the two sides of the electrical connector, so that a sealing ring for sealing the electrical connector can be accommodated between the electrical connector and the guide member.

[0040] In this technical solution, when the two guide members are inserted into the corresponding positioning holes, the corresponding electrical connectors used for electrical connection can be accurately aligned, improving alignment accuracy. The sealing ring prevents water from entering the electrical connector location, avoiding leakage and improving safety.

[0041] A swappable vessel includes a battery box and a multi-directional floating electrical connection device, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device being electrically connected to the battery box to provide a power source for the swappable vessel.

[0042] A charging and battery swapping station for a ship's fast-swap battery, comprising the multi-directional floating electrical connection device, wherein the multi-directional floating electrical connection device is electrically connected to the ship's fast-swap battery to charge the fast-swap battery.

[0043] The significant advantages of this invention are as follows: the electrical connector can float in all directions, thus adapting to deviations during connection between the connector and the battery box's electrical interface, preventing damage to both. The forward and backward floating motion ensures a tighter connection. Furthermore, the connector adjustment process is automatic during insertion, requiring no control equipment, making it simple and quick. Simultaneously, due to this floating structure and the amount of floating, the connector maintains a tight connection with the interface even when the battery box shakes. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the multidirectional floating electrical connection device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a front view schematic diagram of a multidirectional floating electrical connection device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a rear view of a multidirectional floating electrical connection device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the base and floating plate in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the top structure of the base and floating plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second floating component according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the guide shaft according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the limiting sleeve according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the detection plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the adjustment component according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 12 This is a top view schematic diagram of the adjustment component according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0056] 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 described herein.

[0057] Example 1

[0058] like Figures 1-12 As shown, this embodiment discloses a multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 for electrical connection with a battery box to perform charging and discharging operations, wherein, as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 of this embodiment includes a floating plate 100, a base 500, a first floating component 400, and a second floating component 300. An electrical connector 200 for electrical connection is mounted on the floating plate 100. The floating plate 100 is connected to the base 500 along its length direction X and width direction Y via the first floating component 400, allowing the floating plate 100 to move within its plane to adjust the electrical connector 200 to a position suitable for electrical connection with the battery box. The second floating component 300 is located between the floating plate 100 and the base 500, allowing the floating plate 100 to move in a forward / backward direction Z towards or away from the base 500, maintaining contact during electrical connection with the battery box. In this embodiment, the length direction X and width direction Y are located in a plane perpendicular to the mating direction of the electrical connector 200. In this embodiment, taking the electrical connection direction between the multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 and the battery box as a reference, the front-to-back direction Z is the electrical connection direction parallel to the electrical connector 200, and the length direction X corresponds to the left-to-right direction. In the following description, the two sides of the length direction X are the two ends along the vertical direction or the width direction Y; the width direction Y corresponds to the vertical direction, and in the following description, the two sides of the width direction Y are the two ends along the left-to-right direction or the length direction X. The first floating component 400 and the second floating component 300 can be various mechanisms that can float or move elastically according to changes in force.

[0059] In this embodiment, through the synergistic effect between the first floating component 400 and the second floating component 300, the floating panel 110 can move not only within its own plane but also in the forward-backward (Z) direction. This allows the electrical connector 200 and the floating plate 100 to float together in all directions, adapting to deviations when the electrical connector 200 reconnects to the battery box's electrical interface, thus preventing damage to the electrical connector 200 and the electrical interface. The forward-backward (Z) floating direction ensures a tighter connection between the electrical connector 200 and the electrical interface. Furthermore, the adjustment process of the electrical connector 200 is automatically achieved during its insertion, without the need for control equipment, making it simple and quick. Simultaneously, due to the floating design and floating range, a tight connection is maintained even when the battery box shakes.

[0060] like Figure 2 and Figure 6As shown, to enable the floating plate 100 to quickly float to the accurate electrical connection position, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 also includes at least one guide member 220 disposed on the floating plate 100 near the electrical connector 200. The guide member 220 is used to cooperate with the positioning hole disposed on the battery box to drive the floating plate 100 to adjust its position. In this embodiment, the cooperation between the guide member 220 and the positioning hole enables the electrical connection device to be aligned with the battery box, and the floating of the floating plate 100 enables the electrical connector 200 to accurately and quickly reach the electrical connection position, improving alignment accuracy and efficiency.

[0061] In this embodiment, two guide members 220 are respectively disposed at predetermined distances on both sides of the electrical connector 200, so that a sealing ring for sealing the electrical connector 200 can be accommodated between the electrical connector 200 and the guide member 220, preventing water from entering the electrical connector 200, avoiding leakage, and improving safety. When the two guide members 220 are inserted into the corresponding positioning holes, the two corresponding electrical connectors 200 used for electrical connection can be accurately aligned, improving alignment accuracy. Of course, in other embodiments, the number of guide members 220 may be more than two.

[0062] like Figure 6 As shown, the guide member 220 includes a guide portion 221, a positioning portion 222, and a connecting portion 223 arranged sequentially. The connecting portion 223 is connected to the floating plate 100. The guide portion 221 has a guide surface, which is used to guide the guide member 220 to slide into the positioning hole. The guide member 220 can quickly align with the positioning hole within the range of the guide surface, thus increasing the alignment range.

[0063] In this embodiment, the guide surface is a conical surface, which allows the guide member 220 to quickly align with the positioning hole in the circumferential direction within the guiding range of the conical surface. Of course, in other embodiments, the guide surface can also be an inclined surface.

[0064] In this embodiment, the positioning part 222 is a cylindrical structure adapted to the positioning hole, used to fix the floating plate 100 to the battery box to achieve a reliable electrical connection of the electrical connector 200. In other embodiments, the positioning part 222 may be other cylindrical structures besides cylindrical ones.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the electrical connector 200 extends into the base 500 via a connector cable 210 on the side near the base 500, thereby connecting to power supply equipment or the like inside the multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000. Simultaneously, as the electrical connector 200 and the floating plate 100 move together, the connector cable 210 moves accordingly, and the space within the base 500 ensures that the connector cable 210 can extend, retract, and move internally.

[0066] like Figure 4 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the first floating assembly 400 includes a plurality of first elastic elements 410, which connect the floating plate 100 to both sides of the base 500 along the length direction X. The first elastic elements 410 can make the floating plate 100 float and adjust on both sides of the length direction X. When there is a deviation in the width direction Y, and the electrical connector 200 needs to be adjusted in position during docking with the electrical interface, the floating plate 100 compresses the first elastic element 410 on the side of the deviation direction to reduce the deviation and dock with the electrical interface.

[0067] like Figure 4 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, a plurality of first elastic elements 410 are evenly spaced along the length direction X on both sides of the floating plate 100. The evenly spaced first elastic elements 410 ensure that the force in the width direction Y on both sides of the connecting plate 120 in the length direction X remains balanced, preventing tilting on both sides. Of course, in other embodiments, the first elastic elements 410 can be arranged in various ways and in various numbers.

[0068] like Figure 4 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, a plurality of first elastic elements 410 are disposed at least at the end positions of the floating plate 100 along the length direction X. The distance between the first elastic elements 410 located at the end positions along the length direction X can be kept to the maximum, thereby making the connection more stable. At the same time, the middle position of the connecting plate 120 is avoided to avoid interference with the wiring harness extending from the electrical connector, etc.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the first floating assembly 400 further includes a plurality of second elastic elements 420, which connect the floating plate 100 to the base 500 on both sides along the width direction Y. The second elastic elements 420 can make the floating plate 100 float adjustable on both sides of the width direction Y. When there is a deviation in the length direction X, and the electrical connector 200 needs to adjust its position during docking with the electrical interface, the floating plate 100 compresses the second elastic element 420 on the side of the deviation direction to reduce the deviation and dock with the electrical interface.

[0070] like Figure 4 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, a plurality of second elastic members 420 are disposed at least at the middle position of the floating plate 100 along the width direction Y. The second elastic members 420 located at the middle position can ensure that the force in the length direction X on both sides of the connecting plate 120 in the width direction Y remains balanced, and that there is no tilting on both sides. Of course, in other embodiments, the first elastic members 410 can be arranged in various ways and in various numbers.

[0071] In the preferred embodiment described above, the first elastic element 410 and the second elastic element 420 are preferably springs. However, in other embodiments, the first floating assembly 400 is not limited to a spring and can employ other structures capable of achieving floating, such as pneumatic rods, hydraulic rods, rubber parts, and other elastic restoring elements that can deform and provide restoring force.

[0072] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the second floating component 300 includes a plurality of third elastic elements 390, wherein there are a total of four in the embodiment shown in the figure for clarity. Figure 6 One limiting sleeve 370 has been removed, exposing the elastic element 390. The other three elastic elements 390 are covered by the limiting sleeve 370 and are therefore not shown. Multiple third elastic elements 390 are disposed between the opposing end faces of the floating plate 100 and the base 500. The multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 also includes a guide shaft 310. The first end of the guide shaft 310 is connected to the floating plate 100, and the second end of the guide shaft 310 is configured to pass through the third elastic elements 390 and through the base 500. Thus, during electrical connection, when the floating plate 100 is compressed, the floating plate 100 and the guide shaft 310 can move towards the base 500, compressing the third elastic elements 390, while the electrical connector 200 remains in contact with the battery box during electrical connection.

[0073] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the guide shaft 310 guides the movement. When the electrical connector 200 mates with the electrical interface, the floating plate 100 floats backward due to pressure. The third elastic element 390 allows the floating amount of the floating plate 100 in a predetermined direction to be adjustable. Furthermore, because the third elastic element 390 is compressed during the backward movement, it generates a reaction force on the floating plate 100, making the connection between the electrical connector 200 and the electrical interface tighter. Of course, in other embodiments, the second floating component 300 can also be configured with other structures, such as only providing the third elastic element 390 without the guide shaft 310, or using a slide rail or other methods to replace the guide shaft 310 for guidance. The third elastic element 390 can also be replaced by other elastically recoverable elements.

[0074] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 further includes a limiting sleeve 370, which is sleeved outside the third elastic member 390 and the guide shaft 310, and located between the floating plate 100 and the base 500. The limiting sleeve 370 limits the floating amount of the floating plate 100, preventing unreasonable excessive backward movement of the floating plate 100 and the guide shaft 310. It also protects the third elastic member 390 and the guide shaft 310, preventing other objects from entering their positions and affecting the sliding of the guide shaft 310 and the extension / retraction of the third elastic member 390. Of course, in other embodiments, the limiting sleeve 370 may not be provided, or other forms of structures may be used to protect the third elastic member 390 and the guide shaft 310.

[0075] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the first end of the guide shaft 310 passes through the floating plate 100 with a clearance fit, so that the floating plate 100 is tilted relative to the first end of the guide shaft 310. The gap between the floating plate 100 and the guide shaft 310 allows the floating plate 100 to have a certain tilt angle, thereby adapting the floating plate 100 to the battery box in terms of tilt angle to ensure reliable docking of electrical connectors and electrical connections, further enhancing the adaptability. In other embodiments, the first end of the guide shaft 310 may also be connected to the floating plate 100 in other ways, such as being directly fixed together.

[0076] like Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the second end of the guide shaft 310 is provided with a first limiting member to prevent the guide shaft 310 from disengaging from the base 500. In this technical solution, the first limiting member can lock the base 500 and prevent the guide shaft 310 from popping out from the front side of the base 500 after the third elastic member 390 is not under force or has extended to its initial length.

[0077] In a further preferred embodiment, the first limiting member is a nut 320 and a retaining ring 360, which can be unscrewed from the initial position. Figure 7 The threaded portion at the second end of the guide shaft 310 ensures that the second end of the guide shaft 310 can pass through the hole in the base 500 and enter the interior of the base 500. Then, the nut 320 and the retaining ring 360 are screwed into the second end of the guide shaft 310. During movement, the retaining ring 360 is larger than the hole in the base 500, thus it can abut against the interior of the base 500 from the inside, preventing the guide shaft 310 from completely dislodging. The nut 320 secures the retaining ring 360, preventing it from dislodging from the second end of the guide shaft 310.

[0078] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the multi-directional floating charging device further includes a second limiting member, which is disposed at the first end of the guide shaft 310. The second limiting member includes a first pad 331 and a second pad 332. The first pad 331 and the second pad 332 are disposed opposite each other and are respectively located on both sides of the floating plate 100. The first pad 331 and the second pad 332 are respectively provided with a second through hole for the guide shaft 310 to pass through. The diameter of the second through hole is slightly larger than the diameter of the guide shaft. The diameter of the first through hole on the floating plate 100 is much larger than the diameter of the second through hole and smaller than the diameter of the first pad 331 and the pad 332. The distance between the first pad 331 and the second pad 332 is greater than the thickness of the floating plate 100 along the extension direction of the guide shaft 310.

[0079] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first pad 331 and the second pad 332 respectively limit the front and rear sides of the floating plate 100, and ensure that the floating plate 100 tilts and rotates at a certain angle between the first pad 331 and the second pad 332 so that the electrical connector 200 always remains in contact with the electrical interface when it is connected. At the same time, the first pad 331 and the second pad 332 transmit force and increase the effective area, making the floating more stable and the floating plate 100 less likely to be damaged during repeated floating. In other embodiments, for example, the first end of the guide shaft 310 is directly fixed to the floating plate 100, or is connected to the floating plate 100 by means of hinges or other methods.

[0080] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the second pad 332 is placed on the side of the floating plate 100 near the base 500 and fixed to the guide shaft 310. The second pad 332 is directly fixed to the guide shaft 310 to ensure that the floating plate 100, when pressed, abuts against the second pad 332, thereby causing the guide shaft 310 to float together. In another embodiment, the guide shaft 310 includes a baffle 340, and the second pad 332 abuts against the baffle 340, with the baffle 340 located on the side of the second pad 332 facing the base 500. The baffle 340 can, on the one hand, transmit the pushing force of the second pad 332 to the guide shaft 310, and on the other hand, it can abut against the third elastic member 390.

[0081] like Figure 7 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the side of the first pad 331 facing away from the floating plate 100 is held in place by an axial limiting member 350 to prevent the floating plate 100 from sliding out of the guide shaft 310. In other embodiments, the axial limiting member 350 can be a snap ring or other axial limiting structures.

[0082] like Figure 4 and Figure 9As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the multidirectional floating electrical connection device 1000 further includes a sensor. The sensor is mounted on the base 500 via a sensor support 700 and is positioned opposite to the second end of the guide shaft 310 at a first preset distance. The first preset distance is not less than the movable amount of the guide shaft plus the distance at which the sensor can detect the second end. In this embodiment, when the guide shaft 310 is in its original position (without any movement), the first preset distance between the sensor and the second end of the guide shaft 310 is set to 25 mm. Figure 9 Only the sensor support 700 is shown, not the sensor itself. In actual implementation, it is only necessary to install the sensor on the sensor support 700 and align it with the end of the second end of the guide shaft 310. When the multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 is electrically connected to the battery box, the base 500 moves along the electrical connection direction with the floating plate 100. The floating plate 100 abuts against the battery box and is pressed. The floating plate 100 and the guide shaft 310 can move a second preset distance toward the base 500 so that the sensor can detect the end of the second end of the guide shaft 310 to confirm that the electrical connector 200 is properly connected to the battery box. In this solution, the distance at which the sensor can detect the end of the second end of the guide shaft 310 is 15mm. That is, in this solution, a movement of 10mm (the second preset distance) of the guide shaft 310 is sufficient to ensure that the electrical connector 200 is properly connected to the electrical interface.

[0083] like Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, when the multi-directional floating electrical connector 1000 docks with the battery box, the floating plate 100 drives the guide shaft to move towards the base 500. The sensor detects the end of the second end of the guide shaft 310, indicating that the floating plate 100 and the guide shaft 310 have floated with sufficient displacement. The electrical connector 200 docks with the electrical connector 200 of the battery box, the motor controlling the forward movement of the electrical connector stops working, and the third elastic element 390 is pressed, ensuring that the two remain in contact. In this embodiment, sensors are respectively installed on opposite sides of the second ends of the two diagonally opposite guide shafts 310. During the docking process, as long as one sensor detects the end of the second end of the guide shaft 310, it can be determined that the electrical connector 200 and the electrical connector 200 of the battery box are docked. Simultaneously, two sensors increase the recognition rate.

[0084] like Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, a detection plate 380 is further provided at the second end of the guide shaft 310. The sensor and the detection plate 380 are disposed opposite each other and spaced apart by a first preset distance. The diameter of the detection plate 380 is larger than the diameter of the end face of the second end of the guide shaft 310. A larger diameter detection plate 380 can increase the detected area, making it easier for the sensor to sense the movement of the guide shaft 310. Wherein, as... Figure 4 In the example shown, some guide shafts 310 have a detection plate 380 at their second end, while others do not. In actual setup, the positioning status of all guide shafts 310 or individual guide shafts 310 can be detected as needed. Alternatively, detection plates 380 can be installed at the second end of all guide shafts 310, or on some guide shafts 310, or none at all.

[0085] like Figure 4 and Figure 9 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the sensor is a proximity switch, and the diameter of the detection plate 380 is not less than two-thirds of the diameter of the sensor. A larger diameter detection plate 380 can cover the signal area of ​​the sensor as much as possible, increasing the intensity of the reflected signal from the sensor.

[0086] like Figures 10-12 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the floating plate 100 includes a floating panel 110 and a connecting plate 120 fixed to the floating panel 110. An electrical connector 200 is mounted on the floating panel 110. The connecting plate 120 is connected to the base 500 via first elastic members 410 and second elastic members 420. Specifically, multiple first elastic members 410 connect the connecting plate 120 to both sides of the base 500 along the length direction X, and multiple second elastic members 420 connect the connecting plate 120 to both sides of the base 500 along the width direction Y. The connecting plate 120 is configured to be adjustable relative to the floating panel 110 along the width direction Y, ensuring that the first elastic members 410 on both sides of the length direction X are subjected to balanced forces and that the electrical connector 200 is held in a preset position for electrical connection with the battery box. The connecting plate 120 can also move relative to the floating panel 110 while connected to it. Therefore, with the relative initial positions of the connecting plate 120 and the base 500 fixed, the position of the floating panel 110 relative to the connecting plate 120 can be adjusted to keep the electrical connector 200 on the floating panel 110 in its preset position for easy connection with the electrical interface of the battery box. Furthermore, because the forces on each of the first elastic members 410 on both sides along the length direction X are balanced, the floating amount of the first elastic members 410 in the width direction Y can be provided to the floating panel 110, eliminating the need to correct their own position before floating.

[0087] like Figure 10As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the floating plate 100 further includes a connecting component 800 to connect the connecting plate 120 and the floating panel 110. The connecting plate 120 and the floating panel 110 are respectively provided with a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole for the connecting component 800 to pass through and be fixed. In this embodiment, the first mounting hole on the connecting plate 120 is an oblong hole 122, with its long axis corresponding to the width direction Y. The second mounting hole on the floating panel 110 is a round hole. In other embodiments, the first mounting hole on the connecting plate 120 may be a round hole, and the second mounting hole on the floating panel 110 may be an oblong hole. The connecting component 800 enables the connection and mutual movement of the connecting plate 120 and the floating panel 110, allowing the position of the floating panel 110 to be adjusted so that the electrical connector 200 is in a preset position. Simultaneously, the oblong hole 122 guides the connecting component 800 and the floating panel 110, i.e., guides them along the width direction Y. In this embodiment, the connecting component is preferably a bolt and nut. In other embodiments, it can also be other sliding and fixed components, such as a slider or other fastener fixed to the connecting plate 120 or the floating panel 110 and slidable relative to the waist-shaped hole 122.

[0088] like Figure 10 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the floating plate 100 further includes adjustment components 600. There are at least two adjustment components 600, which abut against both ends of the connecting plate 120 along the width direction Y to adjust the position of the connecting plate 120 relative to the floating panel 110. The adjustment components 600 simplify operation, allowing adjustment of the floating panel 110 simply by operating them. Each of the adjustment components 600 at both ends can push the connecting plate 120 towards the other end, thereby achieving bidirectional adjustability of the connecting plate 120 in the width direction Y. Simultaneously, the adjusted adjustment components 600 on both sides abut against the sides of the connecting plate 120, keeping the position of the connecting plate 120 relative to the floating panel 110 fixed in the width direction Y.

[0089] like Figure 10 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the adjustment assembly 600 includes a fixing part 610 and an adjustment part 620. The fixing part 610 is disposed on the floating panel 110, and the adjustment part 620 passes through the fixing part 610. One end of the adjustment part 620 abuts against the end face of the connecting plate 120, and the other end of the adjustment part 620 is configured to be force-applied, allowing the adjustment part 620 to move relative to the fixing part 610 to adjust the position of the connecting plate 120 relative to the floating panel 110. The position of the connecting plate 120 can be adjusted by applying force to the adjustment part 620, simplifying the adjustment operation. Figure 12As shown, the adjustment part 620 can be seen through the gap between the floating panel 110 and the base 500. When the adjustment part 620 is further configured as a bolt or other tool-adjustable component, a tool such as a screwdriver can be inserted into the interior while avoiding contact with other positions such as the floating panel 110 and the connecting plate 120. The adjustment bolt can be rotated using a tool such as a screwdriver to achieve adjustment in the narrow internal space.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, four connecting components 800 and four adjusting components 600 are provided. The floating panel 110 has two electrical connectors 200 arranged along the width direction Y. Four connecting components 800 are provided in the area between the two electrical connectors 200. The connecting components 800 are also arranged in an inverted trapezoidal shape along the width direction Y. The connecting plate 120 has a bent plate 121 extending toward the base 500. The adjusting part 620 of the adjusting component 600 abuts against the bent plates 121 on both sides along the width direction Y. The specific adjustment method is as follows: When it is necessary to adjust the position of the floating panel 110 relative to the connecting plate 120, the bolts and nuts can be loosened relatively first, so that the floating panel 110 and the connecting plate 120 can move relative to each other. Then, the adjusting parts 620 are turned to move the connecting plate 120 relative to the floating panel 110 in the width direction Y until the adjustment is in place. Finally, the adjusting parts 620 are tightened to ensure that each adjusting part 620 abuts against the connecting plate 120. Then, the bolts and nuts are tightened to ensure that the position of the floating panel 110 relative to the connecting plate 120 is fixed. By adjusting the relative position of the floating panel 110 and the connecting plate 120, the force on each of the first elastic elements 410 on both sides of the length direction X is balanced, so that the floating amount of the first elastic element 410 in the width direction Y is given to the floating panel 110, without the need to correct its own position during the floating process.

[0091] like Figure 4 As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the base 500 includes a receiving groove 510 and a plurality of fixing plates 520 extending into the receiving groove 510. One end of the first elastic member 410 and the second elastic member 420 are respectively connected to the corresponding fixing plate 520. The receiving groove 510 enables communication between the internal space of the base 500 and the electrical connector 200, facilitating the connection and movement of the connector cable 210. The fixing plate 520 serves to connect the first elastic member 410 and the second elastic member 420, avoiding other internal structures and ensuring free expansion and contraction at both ends of the first elastic member 410 and the second elastic member 420.

[0092] like Figures 9-11As shown, in a further preferred embodiment, the connecting plate 120 has a bent plate 121 extending into the receiving groove. The other ends of the first elastic member 410 and the second elastic member 420 are respectively connected to corresponding positions on the bent plate 121, such that the two ends of the first elastic member 410 and the two ends of the second elastic member 420 remain in the same plane. This ensures that the force applied by the first elastic member 410 and the second elastic member 420 is parallel to the plane of the floating plate 100, thereby avoiding affecting the position of the floating plate 100 in other directions. Simultaneously, it ensures that the floating amount of the first elastic member 410 and the second elastic member 420 is provided to the floating panel 110, eliminating the need to correct their own position before floating.

[0093] Example 2

[0094] This embodiment also discloses a battery-swappable vessel, which includes a battery box and a multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000. The multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 on the vessel is electrically connected to the battery box to provide a power source for the battery-swappable vessel. In this embodiment, because the vessel's battery box is very large and made in the form of a container, two multi-directional floating electrical connection devices 1000 are installed side by side on the vessel to increase the discharge power of the battery box and provide sufficient power to the vessel hull.

[0095] Example 3

[0096] This embodiment discloses a charging and battery swapping station for ship fast-swap batteries, which includes a multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000. The multi-directional floating electrical connection device 1000 on the ship is electrically connected to the ship's fast-swap battery, i.e., the electrical connector 200 of the electrical connection device 1000 is connected to the electrical interface of the battery box to charge the fast-swap battery. In this embodiment, since the ship's battery box is very large and is made in the form of a container, two electrical connection devices 1000 are installed side by side in the charging area corresponding to one battery box in the charging and battery swapping station to improve the charging efficiency of the battery box and shorten the charging time.

[0097] The electrical connector 200 of this invention can float in all directions to adapt to deviations between the electrical connector 200 and the charging port, preventing damage to both. The Z-direction floating allows for a tighter connection. Furthermore, the adjustment process of the electrical connector 200 is automatic during insertion, requiring no control equipment, making it simple and quick. Simultaneously, due to this floating structure and floating amount design, the electrical connector and the electrical interface remain tightly connected even when the battery box shakes.

[0098] 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 multi-directional floating electrical connection device for electrically connecting to a battery box for charging and discharging operations, characterized in that, The multi-directional floating electrical connection device includes a floating plate, a base, a first floating component, and a second floating component. The floating plate is equipped with an electrical connector for electrical connection. The floating plate is connected to the base along its length and width directions via the first floating component, allowing the floating plate to move within its plane to adjust the electrical connector to a position where it can be electrically connected to the battery box. The second floating component is provided between the floating plate and the base, allowing the floating plate to move towards or away from the base so that it can always maintain a contact state when electrically connected to the battery box. The floating plate includes a floating panel, a connecting plate fixed to the floating panel, and an adjustment assembly. The electrical connector is installed on the floating panel. The floating plate is connected to the base through the connecting plate. There are at least two adjustment assemblies, which abut against both ends of the connecting plate along the width direction to adjust the position of the connecting plate relative to the floating panel. Each adjustment assembly includes a fixing part disposed on the floating panel and an adjustment part passing through the fixing part. One end of the adjustment part abuts against the end face of the connecting plate, and the other end of the adjustment part is configured to be force-applied so that the adjustment part can move relative to the fixing part to adjust the position of the connecting plate relative to the floating panel.

2. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first floating component includes a plurality of first elastic elements, which connect the floating plate to the base on both sides along the length direction.

3. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Multiple first elastic elements are evenly spaced along the length direction on both sides of the floating plate.

4. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first floating component includes a plurality of second elastic elements, which connect the floating plate to the base on both sides along the width direction.

5. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, A plurality of the second elastic elements are disposed at least at the middle position of the floating plate along the width direction.

6. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The connecting plate is connected to the base via the first elastic member and the second elastic member. The connecting plate is configured to be adjustable in position relative to the floating panel along the width direction so that the first elastic members on both sides along the length direction are subjected to balanced force and the electrical connector can be kept in a preset position so that the electrical connector can be electrically connected to the battery box.

7. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The floating plate also includes a connecting component to connect the connecting plate and the floating panel. The connecting plate and the floating panel are respectively provided with a first mounting hole and a second mounting hole for the connecting component to pass through and be fixed. One of the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole is a round hole and the other is an oblong hole. The long axis of the oblong hole corresponds to the width direction.

8. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second floating assembly includes a plurality of third elastic elements disposed between the opposing end faces of the floating plate and the base. The multi-directional floating electrical connection device also includes a guide shaft. The first end of the guide shaft is connected to the floating plate, and the second end of the guide shaft is configured to pass through the third elastic elements and pass through the base. Thus, when the floating plate is compressed during the electrical connection process, the floating plate and the guide shaft can move towards the base, causing the third elastic elements to be compressed, and the electrical connector can always remain in contact with the battery box when electrically connected.

9. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The multi-directional floating electrical connection device further includes a limiting sleeve, which is sleeved outside the third elastic element and the guide shaft, and located between the floating plate and the base.

10. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The first end of the guide shaft passes through the floating plate with a clearance fit, so that the floating plate tilts relative to the first end of the guide shaft.

11. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The multi-directional floating electrical connection device further includes a limiting member disposed at the first end of the guide shaft. The limiting member includes a first pad and a second pad, which are disposed opposite to each other and located on both sides of the floating plate. The distance between the first pad and the second pad is greater than the thickness of the floating plate along the extension direction of the guide shaft.

12. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The second pad is located on the side of the floating plate near the base; the second pad is fixed to the guide shaft, or the guide shaft includes a baffle, the second pad abuts against the baffle and the baffle is located on the side of the second pad facing the base.

13. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The multi-directional floating electrical connection device also includes a sensor, which is disposed on the base and is positioned opposite to the end of the second end of the guide shaft and spaced apart by a first preset distance. When the multi-directional floating electrical connection device is electrically connected to the battery box, the base moves along the electrical connection direction with the floating plate, and the floating plate abuts against the battery box and is pressed. The floating plate and the guide shaft can move a second preset distance toward the base so that the sensor detects the end of the second end of the guide shaft to confirm that the electrical connector is properly connected to the battery box.

14. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The second end of the guide shaft is also provided with a detection plate. The sensor is arranged opposite to the detection plate and spaced apart by a first preset distance. The diameter of the detection plate is larger than the diameter of the end face of the second end of the guide shaft.

15. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-directional floating electrical connection device further includes at least one guide member located near the electrical connector and disposed on the floating plate. The guide member is used to cooperate with a positioning hole disposed on the battery box to drive the floating plate to adjust its position.

16. The multidirectional floating electrical connection device as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The number of guide members is two, and they are respectively arranged at a predetermined distance between the two sides of the electrical connector, so that a sealing ring for sealing the electrical connector can be accommodated between the electrical connector and the guide member.

17. A ship with swappable battery, characterized in that, It includes a battery box and a multi-directional floating electrical connection device as described in any one of claims 1-16, the multi-directional floating electrical connection device being electrically connected to the battery box to provide a power source for the battery-swappable vessel.

18. A charging and battery swapping station for fast-swap batteries in ships, characterized in that, It has a multi-directional floating electrical connection device as described in any one of claims 1-16, wherein the multi-directional floating electrical connection device is electrically connected to the ship's quick-swap battery to charge the quick-swap battery.

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