Positioning member, battery replacement device and unlocking method using battery replacement device

Abstract

The application discloses a positioning piece, a battery replacing device and an unlocking method using the battery replacing device. The positioning piece is arranged on the battery replacing device and is used for positioning the battery replacing device and an electric vehicle when the battery replacing device replaces a battery of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle is provided with a positioning matching piece. The positioning piece comprises a positioning piece body, and a containing area is formed in the positioning piece body. The positioning piece further comprises a detection element arranged in the containing area. The detection element is used for detecting whether the positioning piece and the positioning matching piece are matched in place when the battery replacing device replaces the battery of the electric vehicle and the battery replacing device comprising the same and a corresponding unlocking method. The positioning piece is used in cooperation with the positioning matching piece on the vehicle body. Whether the positioning piece and the positioning matching piece are matched in place is detected by using the detection element, that is, whether the spacing between the positioning piece and the positioning matching piece meets the requirements, so that a stable matching state between the positioning piece and the positioning matching piece is achieved, the purpose of reliable unlocking and locking is achieved, and the unlocking success rate is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle battery swapping, and particularly to a positioning element, a battery swapping device, and a method for unlocking the device. Background Technology

[0002] Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular with consumers. In this era of widespread electric vehicle adoption, battery swapping, as a feasible solution to the range anxiety problem, offers the advantages of convenience and speed and is now widely used. However, when swapping batteries, in addition to the battery pack's capacity and safety factors, the most important factors are the success rate of the swap and the lifespan of the swapping components within the entire system.

[0003] The battery pack is locked to the vehicle by a locking mechanism. Existing technology replaces the battery pack in the electric vehicle using a battery swapping device. The battery swapping device is equipped with an unlocking mechanism to unlock the locking mechanism. However, existing technology has the problem that inaccurate alignment between the battery swapping device and the electric vehicle can prevent the unlocking mechanism from unlocking the locking mechanism.

[0004] However, in the existing technology, due to the different models of electric vehicles, the structural design of the vehicles themselves is also different. Therefore, when the battery swapping equipment performs the unlocking operation, the height of the unlocking mechanism on the battery swapping equipment relative to the horizontal plane will also be different. If the battery swapping equipment cannot be properly matched with the vehicle body bracket and battery pack in the height direction, it will lead to unlocking failure, which will greatly affect the success rate of unlocking. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the technical problem of low unlocking success rate caused by the mismatch between the positioning component on the battery swapping device and the positioning matching component on the electric vehicle. The present invention provides a positioning component, a battery swapping device, and an unlocking method using the battery swapping device, which can improve the unlocking success rate.

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

[0007] A positioning component is installed on a battery swapping device for positioning the battery swapping device and the electric vehicle during battery replacement. The electric vehicle is equipped with a positioning matching component. The positioning component includes a positioning component body with a receiving area, and further includes:

[0008] The detection element disposed within the accommodating area is used to detect whether the positioning component and the positioning matching component are properly engaged when the battery swapping equipment replaces the battery of the electric vehicle.

[0009] In this invention, the above-described structure employs a positioning component that works in conjunction with a positioning matching component (secondary lock or positioning block) on the vehicle. A detection element is used to detect whether the positioning component and the positioning matching component are properly engaged, i.e., whether the distance between the positioning component and the positioning matching component meets the requirements. This ensures a stable engagement between the positioning component and the positioning matching component before the battery swapping equipment performs the unlocking operation, facilitating the battery swapping equipment to engage the locking mechanism on the electric vehicle and improving the unlocking success rate.

[0010] Preferably, the positioning element body is provided with a mounting structure, and the positioning element is mounted on the battery swapping equipment through the mounting structure;

[0011] The mounting structure is provided with at least one position adjustment mechanism, which is used to adjust the relative position of the positioning component body with respect to the positioning matching component in the horizontal direction.

[0012] In this invention, the above-described structural form provides a connection structure for installing the positioning element and enables the horizontal adjustment of the position of the positioning element body relative to the positioning matching element, thereby allowing for flexible adjustment of the horizontal distance between the positioning element body and the positioning matching element.

[0013] Preferably, the position adjustment mechanism is an adjustment hole provided on the mounting structure, the extension direction of the adjustment hole is perpendicular to the vertical plane where the positioning and matching part is located, and the adjustment hole is set on the battery swapping equipment by fasteners.

[0014] In this invention, a specific embodiment of a position adjustment structure is provided to realize the horizontal position adjustment of the positioning component body relative to the positioning matching component, ensuring that the positioning component body can be smoothly inserted between the battery pack and the vehicle body bracket when unlocking. If it is found that the positioning component body cannot be inserted between the battery pack and the vehicle body bracket, the fastener can be loosened, the position of the positioning component body can be adjusted, and then the fastener can be tightened again.

[0015] Preferably, the mounting structure is a mounting plate, and the end of the positioning element body away from the receiving area is connected to the mounting plate;

[0016] There are at least two adjustment holes, located on both sides of the positioning component body.

[0017] In this invention, by adopting the above-described positioning member structure and by providing multiple position adjustment holes on both sides of the positioning member body, the positioning member body can be more stably fixed.

[0018] Preferably, a receiving opening is provided at the first end of the positioning component body, which is recessed towards the interior of the positioning component body, for accommodating the positioning matching component, and the second end of the positioning component body is disposed on the power swapping device.

[0019] The receiving port constitutes the receiving area.

[0020] In this invention, by employing the above-described positioning component structure, the detection element detects whether the positioning component is properly engaged with the positioning matching component.

[0021] Preferably, the receiving port is provided with a detection port recessed toward the positioning body, and the detection port is used to receive the detection element.

[0022] In this invention, by setting a detection port to accommodate the detection element, the detection element is protected, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the detection results.

[0023] Preferably, the surface of the detection element does not protrude from the inner wall of the receiving port.

[0024] In this invention, by adopting the above structure, the detection element is completely disposed inside the detection port, protecting the detection element and preventing it from being damaged due to rigid contact with the positioning and matching parts, so as to ensure the stability and reliability of the detection results.

[0025] Preferably, the positioning component body has a cable routing hole that communicates with the detection port, through which the signal line of the detection element passes.

[0026] In this invention, by adopting the above-mentioned positioning component structure, the cable routing hole allows the signal line of the detection element to pass through, thereby facilitating wiring by electrical engineers and eliminating the need to purchase additional cable wrapping tape.

[0027] Preferably, there are two wiring holes, which are opened on the side wall of the detection port, and the two wiring holes are respectively located on both sides of the detection element.

[0028] In this invention, the above-described structure allows signal lines to be arranged from different directions according to the different circuit layouts of electrical engineers.

[0029] Preferably, the receiving port has an open end for the positioning and matching member to enter the receiving port, and the inner wall of the receiving port is provided with two opposing first inclined surfaces near the open end;

[0030] Along the direction from the second end of the positioning element body to the first end of the positioning element body, the two first inclined surfaces gradually move away from each other.

[0031] In this invention, the first inclined surface can play a guiding role when the positioning member and the positioning matching member approach each other for matching.

[0032] Preferably, the connection between the first inclined surface and the first end of the positioning element body is a smooth transition.

[0033] In this invention, by adopting the above-mentioned positioning component structure, the unlocking range that can achieve positioning guidance is increased, the requirements for positioning accuracy are further reduced, and the service life of the positioning component is extended.

[0034] Preferably, the first end of the positioning component body has two sides near the first inclined surface with a second inclined surface, and the plane of the second inclined surface is inclined relative to the plane of the positioning component body.

[0035] In this invention, by employing the aforementioned positioning component structure, collisions between the positioning component and the battery pack can be avoided during the approach of the positioning component and the positioning matching component, thus significantly reducing the requirements for positioning accuracy, due to the different sizes and battery placement positions of the battery pack. Furthermore, the second inclined surface also serves as a guide when the positioning component extends into the gap between the battery pack and the vehicle body support.

[0036] Preferably, the receiving area includes a bottom wall and side walls, and the detection element is disposed on the bottom wall for measuring the distance between the positioning mating part and the detection element.

[0037] In this invention, by adopting the above-described positioning component structure, a method for setting a detection element is provided, and the positioning matching component and the positioning component are determined to be in place by detecting the distance between the positioning matching component and the detection element.

[0038] Preferably, the receiving area includes a bottom wall and a side wall, and the detection element is disposed on the side wall. When the positioning matching part and the positioning part are in place, the detection element is in a triggered state.

[0039] In this invention, by adopting the above-described positioning component structure, a method for setting a detection element is provided, which determines whether the positioning matching component and the positioning component are properly engaged by detecting whether the positioning matching component triggers the detection element.

[0040] Preferably, the detection element includes at least one of a vision sensor, a Hall sensor, or a photoelectric sensor.

[0041] Preferably, the positioning and matching component is a positioning block of the battery pack or a secondary lock.

[0042] A battery swapping device includes a vehicle positioning unit and a battery positioning unit. The vehicle positioning unit is used for positioning the battery swapping device and the vehicle, and the battery positioning unit is used for carrying the battery pack and moving the battery pack. The vehicle positioning unit is provided with the positioning element described above.

[0043] In this invention, the above-described structure enables the battery swapping device to position the positioning matching component in the height direction using the positioning component, and to accurately detect whether the positioning matching component is in place, thereby improving the unlocking success rate of the battery swapping device and achieving reliable unlocking.

[0044] An unlocking method using the above-mentioned battery swapping equipment for replacing a vehicle's battery includes the following steps:

[0045] S1: Adjust the position of the battery swapping equipment relative to the vehicle in the horizontal direction so that the receiving area of ​​the positioning component is aligned with the positioning matching component on the vehicle.

[0046] S2: Adjust the position of the battery swapping equipment relative to the vehicle in the height direction. Detect whether the positioning matching part and the positioning part are properly matched by the detection element. If they are, the battery swapping equipment will perform an unlocking operation.

[0047] In this invention, the above steps enable the unlocking method to begin unlocking only when the positioning matching part and the positioning part are properly engaged. That is, the unlocking operation can only be performed after ensuring that the unlocking mechanism of the battery swapping equipment and the locking mechanism on the vehicle body bracket are matched in the height direction, which greatly improves the unlocking success rate and achieves the purpose of reliable unlocking.

[0048] Preferably, the step S2, in which the detection element detects whether the positioning and matching parts and the positioning parts are properly engaged, specifically involves:

[0049] The detection element obtains the relative distance L1 between itself and the positioning matching part, and determines whether the relative distance L1 is within the preset distance range.

[0050] In this invention, since the frame size, height, and position of different vehicle models may vary, a preset distance range is set between the detection element and the positioning matching part. When the distance between the detection element and the positioning matching part is within the preset distance range, it is considered that the positioning part and the positioning matching part are in a properly matched state, thereby ensuring the success rate of subsequent unlocking operations.

[0051] Preferably, the step S2, in which the detection element detects whether the positioning and matching parts and the positioning parts are properly engaged, specifically involves:

[0052] Obtain the status of the detection element; if the detection element is in a triggered state.

[0053] In this invention, the above steps provide another way to determine whether the positioning matching component and the positioning component are properly engaged.

[0054] Preferably, the vehicle is equipped with a primary lock, which has a primary lock slot and a primary lock bolt. The unlocking operation in step S2 includes:

[0055] S31: The battery swapping equipment moves the battery pack a first distance away from the opening of the primary lock slot, creating a gap between the primary lock tongue and the lock shaft of the battery pack.

[0056] In this invention, by adopting the above steps, the locking shaft of the battery pack and the corresponding primary or secondary locking tongue are separated before unlocking, so that the primary or secondary locking tongue can open the primary or secondary locking groove under the action of the unlocking mechanism on the battery swapping equipment, preventing the locking shaft and the corresponding primary or secondary locking tongue from being in contact during unlocking, which would cause wear to both.

[0057] Preferably, the unlocking process also includes:

[0058] S32: After the battery swapping equipment moves the battery pack a second distance toward the opening of the primary lock slot, the battery pack detaches from the vehicle.

[0059] In this invention, by adopting the above steps, the position of the locking shaft of the battery pack in the primary locking groove is moved by the battery tray until the locking shaft moves above the opening of the primary locking groove. At this point, since the primary locking groove no longer provides support for the locking shaft, the battery pack presses down on the battery tray on the battery swapping device under the action of gravity, thereby disengaging the locking shaft from the primary locking groove, that is, the battery pack falls off the vehicle.

[0060] Preferably, the battery swapping device includes an unlocking component, and the primary lock has a locking link connected to the primary bolt. The locking link is used to open or lock the opening of the primary lock slot by actuating the primary bolt. After the battery swapping device moves the battery pack a first distance away from the opening of the primary lock slot in step S31, the following steps are included:

[0061] S311: The unlocking component lifts the locking lever, which in turn moves the primary bolt and opens the primary lock slot.

[0062] In this invention, by adopting the above steps, an unlocking method is provided that can conveniently and quickly open the first-level lock groove under the action of the elastic support force provided by the unlocking component.

[0063] Preferably, when the detection element detects that the positioning matching part and the positioning part are in place in step S2, the unlocking part is in a compressed state.

[0064] In this invention, by adopting the above steps, the unlocking rod is compressed and stored before unlocking, which ensures the success rate of unlocking while avoiding wear on the primary lock tongue and lock shaft.

[0065] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows: the positioning component is used in conjunction with the positioning matching component (secondary lock or positioning block) on the vehicle. The detection element detects whether the positioning component and the positioning matching component are properly matched, that is, whether the distance between the positioning component and the positioning matching component meets the requirements, so as to achieve a stable matching state between the positioning component and the positioning matching component, realize the purpose of reliable unlocking and locking, and ensure the success rate of unlocking. Attached Figure Description

[0066] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the overall structure of the positioning component in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 2 This is a side view of the positioning component and the secondary lock in position according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the positioning component and the secondary lock in position according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the positioning element in Embodiment 1 of the present invention when it is set in the vehicle positioning part.

[0070] Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of the detection port of the positioning element in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 6 This is a partial schematic diagram of the lifting portion at the upper end of the positioning member in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 7 This is a partial schematic diagram of the unlocking component and the first-level lock in Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of the unlocking method for the battery swapping device in Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the unlocking method for the battery swapping device in Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

[0075] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0076] Positioning component 100

[0077] Positioning component body 101

[0078] Level 2 lock 210

[0079] Secondary lock slot 211

[0080] Level 2 locking tongue 212

[0081] Activity terminal 212a

[0082] Shaft end 212b

[0083] Container 3

[0084] Accommodation area 31

[0085] Inner wall 32

[0086] Side wall 321

[0087] Bottom wall 322

[0088] Detection port 4

[0089] Detection element 5

[0090] Mounting plate 61

[0091] Adjustment hole 62

[0092] Cable hole 7

[0093] Signal line 8

[0094] First inclined plane 91

[0095] Second slope 92

[0096] Rounded corner transition area 93

[0097] Vehicle positioning unit 300

[0098] Body bracket 400

[0099] Level 1 lock 500

[0100] Unlock Block 510

[0101] Locking rod 520

[0102] Level 1 lock slot 530

[0103] Level 1 locking tongue 540

[0104] Locking shaft 550

[0105] Unlocking part 600 Detailed Implementation

[0106] 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.

[0107]

Example 1

[0108] This embodiment provides a battery swapping device for replacing the battery of an electric vehicle. The device includes a positioning component 100. A vehicle positioning unit 300 is used to position the battery swapping device relative to the vehicle. A battery positioning unit, also called a battery tray, carries the battery pack and moves it. The positioning component is located on the vehicle positioning unit 300. The electric vehicle has a locking mechanism, and the battery pack is locked to the electric vehicle via this mechanism, which is mounted on the vehicle's body support 400. The battery swapping device has an unlocking mechanism, which unlocks the locking mechanism to release the battery pack from the electric vehicle or locks the battery pack to the electric vehicle. The positioning component also enables positioning between the battery swapping device and the vehicle during battery replacement.

[0109] Specifically, such as Figure 1-4 As shown, the positioning component 100 in this embodiment is an example. The positioning component 100 includes a plate-shaped positioning component body 101, and a receiving area 31 is provided in the positioning component body 101. The electric vehicle is provided with a positioning matching component, and the positioning component 100 also includes a detection element 5 disposed in the receiving area 31. The detection element 5 is used to detect whether the positioning component 100 and the positioning matching component on the vehicle are properly engaged when the battery pack of the electric vehicle is replaced by the battery swapping equipment.

[0110] In this embodiment, the positioning and matching component is the secondary lock 210 of the locking mechanism. The detection element 5 is used to detect whether the positioning component 100 and the secondary lock 210 are properly engaged, that is, whether the distance between the two meets the requirements, so as to achieve a stable engagement state between the positioning component 100 and the secondary lock 210, thereby achieving the purpose of reliable unlocking and locking and ensuring the success rate of unlocking.

[0111] Specifically, such as Figure 1-4 As shown, a recessed receiving opening 3 is provided at the first end (i.e., the upper end) of the positioning component body 101, which is used to receive the secondary lock 210 on the vehicle body bracket 400. The secondary lock 210 on the vehicle body bracket 400 extends into and matches the positioning component. The second end (i.e., the lower end) of the positioning component body 101 is mounted on the vehicle positioning part 300 of the battery swapping equipment via a mounting structure, and the receiving opening 3 constitutes the receiving area 31. In other words, the positioning component body 101 is provided with a mounting structure, and the positioning component 100 is mounted on the vehicle positioning part 300 of the battery swapping equipment via the mounting structure. At least one position adjustment mechanism is provided on the mounting structure. In this embodiment, there are six position adjustment mechanisms, which are used to adjust the relative position of the positioning component body 101 with respect to the secondary lock 210 in the horizontal direction.

[0112] In other specific embodiments, the number of position adjustment mechanisms on the mounting structure is not limited to this example, and can be increased or decreased according to the actual situation, which will not be elaborated here.

[0113] Specifically, such as Figure 1-4As shown, the mounting structure is a mounting plate 61, with the positioning component body 101 vertically positioned in the middle of the mounting plate 61. Specifically, the mounting plate 61 extends outwards to both sides of the positioning component body 101, and the end of the positioning component body 101 furthest from the receiving area is connected to the mounting plate 61. The position adjustment mechanism consists of adjustment holes 62 formed on the mounting plate 61. These adjustment holes 62 are elongated holes. The extension direction of the adjustment holes 62 is perpendicular to the vertical plane where the secondary lock 210 is located; that is, the extension direction of the adjustment holes 62 is the same as the outward extension direction of the mounting plate 61. The six adjustment holes 62 are divided into two groups, located on opposite sides of the positioning component body 101. Specifically, three adjustment holes 62 are formed on the mounting plate 61 corresponding to the first side of the positioning component body 101, and three more adjustment holes 62 are formed on the mounting plate 61 corresponding to the second side of the positioning component body 101. Each adjustment hole 62 is fastened to the vehicle positioning part 300 of the battery swapping equipment using a fastener. In this embodiment, the fastener is a bolt. By providing multiple adjustment holes 62 on the mounting plate 61, the fixing effect of the positioning component body 101 can be made more stable, preventing the positioning component 100 from shifting or rotating under bumps, impacts, etc. At the same time, if it is found that the positioning component 100 cannot be inserted between the battery pack and the vehicle body bracket 400 due to shifting, the bolts can be loosened first, the positioning component body 101 can be adjusted to a suitable position, and then the bolts can be tightened to position the positioning component body 101. This allows for horizontal adjustment of the positioning component body 101 relative to the secondary lock 210. The adjustment process is relatively simple, ensuring that the positioning component body 101 can be smoothly inserted between the battery pack and the vehicle body bracket 400 when unlocking or locking.

[0114] In other specific embodiments, the number of adjustment holes 62 may be two, three, four or even more, or these adjustment holes 62 may all be arranged on the same side of the positioning member body, as long as the positioning member body 101 can be fixed on the vehicle positioning part 300 by the mounting structure and the horizontal position adjustment can be realized, which will not be elaborated here.

[0115] For ease of assembly, the positioning component body 101 of the positioning component 100 is integrally formed with the mounting structure. Of course, it is also possible to implement the positioning component body 101 and the mounting structure separately.

[0116] like Figure 1-4 As shown, in this embodiment, the receiving port 3 is provided with a detection port 4 recessed toward the positioning body 101. The inner wall 32 of the receiving area 31 includes a bottom wall 322 and a side wall 321. At this time, the detection port 4 is set at the position of the bottom wall 322 corresponding to the travel path of the secondary lock 210. The detection element 5 is set in the detection port 4 and is used to measure the distance between the secondary lock 210 and the detection element 5.

[0117] When the secondary lock 210 enters the receiving area 31, the detection element 5 measures the distance between itself and the secondary lock 210. Since the receiving area 31 needs to accommodate the secondary lock 210 during the detection process, the upper surface of the detection element 5 does not protrude beyond the inner wall 32 of the receiving opening 4; that is, the detection element 5 is completely located within the detection opening 4. This avoids collision between the detection element 5 and the lock base of the secondary lock 210, effectively preventing damage to the detection element 5 due to excessive displacement of the secondary lock 210 in the event of a malfunction. In other words, at least when the secondary lock 210 is displaced to the bottom wall 322 of the receiving opening 3, the detection element 5 will not be impacted or squeezed. In this embodiment, the detection element 5 is a Hall sensor, and the secondary lock 210 is equipped with a magnet. In other specific embodiments, the secondary lock 210 may not be equipped with a magnet but may be made of magnetic material. The Hall sensor is matched with the secondary lock 210 to obtain the distance between the detection element 5 and the secondary lock 210 in real time, thereby determining whether the secondary lock 210 and the positioning member 100 have reached a stable engagement state.

[0118] The detection principle is as follows: When the magnet approaches or moves away from the Hall sensor, the Hall sensor can determine the distance between the magnet and the Hall sensor based on the change in magnetic induction intensity, and use this as a basis to determine whether the secondary lock 210 and the positioning component 100 have been properly engaged.

[0119] Those skilled in the art should understand that the location and type of the detection element 5 are related to the detection method. For different detection requirements, those skilled in the art can use different detection methods, different types of detection elements 5, or place them in different locations.

[0120] like Figure 2 As shown in the figure, this embodiment provides a specific structure for the secondary lock 210 on the vehicle. The secondary lock 210 has a secondary lock groove 211 and a secondary lock tongue 212. The positioning member 100 acts on the movable end 212a of the secondary lock tongue 212, that is, the protruding end of the secondary lock tongue 212, to open the channel for the battery pack lock shaft 550 to enter and exit the secondary lock groove 211.

[0121] The unlocking process of the secondary lock 210 in cooperation with the positioning element 100 is as follows:

[0122] At this time, the battery pack locking shaft 550 is located in the secondary lock groove 211 of the secondary lock 210. The bottom of the secondary lock 210 enters the receiving area 31 during the matching process. After the secondary lock 210 enters the receiving area 31, the positioning member 100 pushes up the movable end 212a of the secondary lock tongue 212. At this time, the secondary lock tongue 212 rotates around the pivot end 212b, thereby opening the opening of the secondary lock groove 211 and completing the unlocking process of the secondary lock 210. Thus, the battery pack locking shaft 550 can be disengaged from the opening of the secondary lock groove 211, and finally the battery pack is separated from the vehicle body bracket 400.

[0123] The locking process of the secondary lock 210 in conjunction with the positioning element 100 is as follows:

[0124] At this time, the locking shaft 550 of the battery pack is located outside the secondary lock groove 211 of the secondary lock 210. The bottom of the secondary lock 210 enters the receiving area 31 during the matching process. After the secondary lock 210 enters the receiving area 31, the positioning member 100 pushes up the movable end 212a of the secondary lock tongue 212. At this time, the secondary lock tongue 212 rotates around the rotating shaft end 212b, thereby opening the opening of the secondary lock groove 211. Thus, the locking shaft 550 of the battery pack can enter the secondary lock groove 211 from the opening of the secondary lock groove 211, and finally lock the battery pack on the vehicle body bracket 400.

[0125]

Example 2

[0126] like Figure 5 As shown, this embodiment provides a battery swapping device with a structure similar to that of Embodiment 1. Its overall structure and function are basically the same as those of the battery swapping device in Embodiment 1, with the difference being:

[0127] In this embodiment, the detection element 5 needs to be connected to the control unit in the battery swapping station via a circuit. Therefore, the positioning body 101 of the positioning element 100 is provided with a cable routing hole 7 that communicates with the detection port 4. The cable routing hole 7 allows the signal line 8 of the detection element 5 to pass through. Specifically, there are two cable routing holes 7, which are opened on the side wall of the detection port 4, and the two cable routing holes 7 are located on both sides of the detection element 5.

[0128] Considering the requirements of circuit wiring, without affecting the structural strength of the positioning component 100, this embodiment provides through-holes 7 on the side walls of the detection port 4, allowing the signal line 8 to pass through the detection port 4 and through the cable routing holes 7 to the outside of the positioning component 100. Furthermore, since this embodiment provides cable routing holes 7 on both sides of the detection port 4, engineers can choose any cable routing hole 7 to thread the signal line 8 according to different circuit layouts during on-site installation, arranging the signal line 8 from different directions. This facilitates wiring for electrical engineers. Additionally, providing these cable routing holes 7 eliminates the need to purchase additional cable ties for positioning the signal line 8 during on-site installation.

[0129] In other specific embodiments, a cable routing hole 7 can be opened on only one side wall of the detection port 4, which can also serve to accommodate the signal line 8 of the detection element 5. This will not be elaborated here.

[0130]

Example 3

[0131] This embodiment provides a battery swapping device with a structure similar to that of Embodiment 1 or 2. Its overall structure and function are basically the same as those of the battery swapping device in Embodiment 1 or 2, with the difference being:

[0132] In this embodiment, combined with Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the receiving port 3 has an open end for the positioning and matching component to enter the receiving port 3. The inner wall 32 of the receiving port 3 is provided with two opposing first inclined surfaces 91 near the open end of the receiving port 3, along the direction from the second end of the positioning component body 101 to the first end of the positioning component body 101 (i.e., Figure 6 (in the vertically upward direction), the two first inclined surfaces 91 gradually move away from each other. The first inclined surface 91 and the first end of the positioning body 101 (in the vertically upward direction), the two first inclined surfaces 91 gradually move away from each other. Figure 6 The connection at the upper end of the positioning component body 101 is smoothly transitioned.

[0133] Specifically, in this embodiment, the upper edge of the inner wall 32 of the receiving opening 3, that is, the upper edge of the side wall 321 of the receiving opening 3 of the positioning member 100, has a first inclined surface 91. The first inclined surface 91 is inclined outwards from the receiving opening 3 and is angled upwards. This structure can act as a guide when the positioning matching member enters the receiving area 31. Even if there is a slight error in the initial position of the positioning matching member, the first inclined surface 91 can smoothly guide it into the receiving area 31.

[0134] In this embodiment, the connection between the first inclined surface 91 and the upper end of the positioning member 100 is a smooth transition, and the transition area is rounded. During the process of guiding the positioning matching member at the upper end of the positioning member 100, the rounded transition area 93 further reduces the requirements for positioning accuracy, and at the same time can minimize the wear of the positioning member 100 and the positioning matching member, and extend the service life of the positioning member 100.

[0135] To ensure that the positioning component 100 can more smoothly enter between the battery pack and the vehicle body bracket 400 during locking and unlocking, such as Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the upper end of the positioning member 100 is provided with two sides near the first inclined surface 91, and the plane where the second inclined surface 92 is located is inclined relative to the plane where the positioning member 100 is located. Specifically, along the opening direction of the receiving port 3, the two second inclined surfaces 92 gradually approach each other.

[0136] In this embodiment, due to the different sizes of the battery packs and the different battery placement positions, the positioning member 100 may collide with the battery pack or the vehicle body bracket 400 during the process of the positioning member 100 and the positioning matching member approaching each other. The second inclined surface 92 can effectively guide the positioning member 100 to avoid the battery pack or the vehicle body bracket 400, thereby greatly reducing the requirements for positioning accuracy. At the same time, the second inclined surface 92 can also play a guiding role when the positioning member 100 extends into the gap between the battery pack and the vehicle body bracket 400.

[0137]

Example 4

[0138] This embodiment provides a battery swapping device with a structure similar to any of the battery swapping devices in embodiments 1-3. Its overall structure and function are basically the same as any of the battery swapping devices in embodiments 1-3, with the difference being:

[0139] In this embodiment, the detection element 5 is disposed on the side wall 321 of the receiving area 31, rather than on the bottom wall 322. This detection element 5 is used to measure whether the positioning and matching component and the positioning component 100 are properly engaged. Specifically, the detection port 4 is also disposed on the side wall 321, and the detection element 5 is completely contained within the detection port 4.

[0140] The principle by which the detection element 5 in this embodiment determines whether the positioning and matching parts are properly engaged with the positioning parts is as follows:

[0141] When the positioning and matching component enters the receiving area 31, the detection element 5 on the side wall 321 detects whether the front of the detection element 5 is blocked by the positioning and matching component. If it is blocked, the detection element 5 is triggered, and at this time it is considered that the positioning component 100 and the positioning and matching component are properly engaged.

[0142] In this embodiment, the detection element 5 is a photoelectric sensor, specifically an infrared sensor. When the positioning matching component reaches a preset position, the photoelectric sensor is precisely blocked, allowing it to determine that the positioning matching component is in place. Clearly, to achieve this function, the photoelectric sensor in this embodiment needs to be positioned on the side wall 321 of the receiving area 31, corresponding to the position where the positioning matching component and the positioning component 100 are properly engaged. Typically, testing is required after installation to verify if the positioning matching component cannot be detected. Within the allowable error range, slight adjustments can be made to improve the detection success rate of the photoelectric sensor.

[0143] In other embodiments, the detection element 5 may also be a vision sensor, a laser sensor, or other photoelectric sensors, which will not be described in detail here.

[0144]

Example 5

[0145] like Figure 8As shown, this embodiment provides an unlocking method for a battery swapping device, used to replace the battery of a vehicle. It is applicable to any of the battery swapping devices in embodiments 1-3, and includes a vehicle positioning part 300 and a battery positioning part. The vehicle positioning part 300 is used for positioning the battery swapping device and the vehicle. The vehicle positioning part 300 of the battery swapping device is also provided with an unlocking mechanism, which includes an unlocking component 600. That is, both the unlocking component 600 and the positioning component 100 are disposed on the vehicle positioning part 300. The locking mechanism on the vehicle's body support 400 includes a primary lock 500 in addition to a secondary lock 210. The unlocking component 600 is used to unlock or lock the primary lock 500.

[0146] Specifically, such as Figure 7 As shown, the primary lock 500 includes a primary lock groove 530, a primary lock tongue 540, and a locking rod 520 connected to the primary lock tongue 540. The unlocking component 600 cooperates with the unlocking block 510 on the locking rod 520 to open or lock the primary lock tongue 540, thereby unlocking or locking the primary lock 500. The primary lock tongue 540 is connected to the locking rod 520, and unlocking is achieved by the top of the unlocking component 600 lifting the locking rod 520, which in turn drives the primary lock tongue 540. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the secondary lock 210 includes a secondary lock groove 211 and a secondary lock tongue 212. The upper end of the positioning member 100 acts on the movable end 212a of the secondary lock tongue 212 of the secondary lock 210, that is, the protruding end of the secondary lock tongue 212, to unlock the lock by rotating the secondary lock tongue 212.

[0147] In the locked state, the multiple locking shafts 550 on the battery pack are correspondingly confined within the primary locking groove 530 or the secondary locking groove 211 at their respective positions.

[0148] like Figure 8 As shown, the unlocking method in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0149] S1: Adjust the position of the battery swapping equipment relative to the vehicle in the horizontal direction so that the receiving area 31 of the positioning component is aligned with the positioning matching component on the vehicle. In this embodiment, the positioning matching component is a secondary lock 210.

[0150] In step S1 above, by adjusting the position of the vehicle positioning part 300 relative to the vehicle along the length direction of the electric vehicle, the unlocking part 100 on the vehicle positioning part 300 corresponds to the unlocking block 510 of the primary lock 500, and the receiving area 31 of the positioning part 100 on the vehicle positioning part 300 is aligned with the secondary lock 210 on the vehicle body bracket 400, so as to improve the unlocking success rate of the unlocking mechanism.

[0151] S2: Adjust the position of the battery swapping equipment relative to the vehicle in the height direction. Detect whether the positioning matching part and the positioning part are properly matched by the detection element. If they are, the battery swapping equipment will perform an unlocking operation.

[0152] Specifically, the step in step S2 where the detection element detects whether the secondary lock 210 and the positioning component are properly engaged is as follows: the detection element obtains the relative distance L1 between itself and the positioning component, and determines whether the relative distance L1 is within a preset distance range.

[0153] The unlocking method in this embodiment ensures that the unlocking process of the primary lock 500 and the secondary lock 210 only begins when the secondary lock 210 and the positioning member 100 are properly engaged, thereby achieving the purpose of reliable unlocking.

[0154] Furthermore, since the frame size, height, and position may vary for different vehicle models, a preset distance range L0 needs to be set between the detection element and the secondary lock 210. When the distance L1 between the detection element and the secondary lock 210 is within the preset distance range (i.e., L1≤L0), it can be considered that the positioning component 100 and the secondary lock 210 are properly engaged, thus ensuring the success rate of subsequent unlocking operations. For example, if the preset distance range L0 is 10mm, as the secondary lock 210 and the positioning component 100 continuously approach each other, the detection element continuously detects the distance L1 between the detection element and the secondary lock 210 and judges the relationship between L0 and L1 in real time. When the detection element obtains L1 = 9.5mm at a certain moment, and the first judgment results in L1≤L0, it is considered that the secondary lock 210 and the positioning component 100 are properly engaged, and the adjustment of the height position of the secondary lock 210 and the positioning component 100 is stopped, and the unlocking of the battery pack begins.

[0155] Furthermore, such as Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the unlocking operation in step S2 includes the following steps:

[0156] S31: The battery swapping equipment moves the battery pack a first distance away from the opening of the first-level lock slot 530, so that there is a gap between the first-level lock tongue 540 and the lock shaft 550 of the battery pack.

[0157] S32: After the battery swapping equipment moves the battery pack a second distance toward the opening of the first lock slot, the battery pack is detached from the vehicle.

[0158] Furthermore, after the battery swapping device in step S31 moves the battery pack a first distance away from the opening of the primary lock slot 530, the process further includes:

[0159] S311: The unlocking component 600 lifts the locking rod 520, and the locking rod 520 drives the primary bolt 540 to move and open the opening of the primary lock groove 530.

[0160] In this embodiment, before unlocking, step S31 first moves the battery pack a first distance away from the opening of the primary lock slot 530, thus pre-pushing the locking shaft 550 of the battery pack. This separates the locking shaft 550 from the primary lock tongue 540, preventing wear caused by them remaining in contact during unlocking. Then, in step S311, since the unlocking component 600 has already pushed up the locking linkage 520, the primary lock tongue 540, after losing the force of the locking shaft 550 preventing its rotation following step S31, rotates upward, opening the opening of the primary lock slot 530. Finally, in step S32, the battery pack moves a second distance closer to the opening of the primary lock slot 530. At this point, the locking shaft 550 of the battery pack is above the opening of the primary lock slot 530. Since the primary lock slot 530 no longer provides support for the locking shaft 550, the battery pack detaches from the vehicle under gravity. Thus, the battery pack to be unlocked is separated from the vehicle, completing the entire unlocking process. The unlocking process of the secondary lock 210 and the positioning component 100 is the same as the unlocking process of the primary lock 500 and the unlocking component 600.

[0161] In this embodiment, the unlocking component 600 includes an unlocking push rod and a spring, the spring being compressed in the opposite direction to the direction the locking link 520 is pushed up. Based on the above configuration, the spring remains compressed throughout the process of the unlocking push rod pushing up the locking link 520.

[0162] Furthermore, when the detection element detects that the positioning matching part and the positioning part are in place in step S2, the unlocking push rod is in a compressed state.

[0163] In other words, the unlocking rod has already entered a compressed state before the positioning component 100 and the secondary lock 210 are properly engaged. Therefore, compressing and storing energy in the unlocking rod before unlocking ensures a high success rate while preventing wear between the primary locking tongue 540 and the locking shaft 550, and between the secondary locking tongue 212 and the locking shaft 550.

[0164]

Example 6

[0165] like Figure 9 As shown, this embodiment provides a method for unlocking a battery swapping device to enable battery replacement in a vehicle, which is applicable to the battery swapping device in Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

[0166] Since the battery swapping device in Embodiment 4 of the present invention is substantially the same as the battery swapping device in Embodiments 1-3, the unlocking method of the battery swapping device in this embodiment is also substantially the same as that in Embodiment 5, with the difference being:

[0167] The specific steps in step S2 for detecting whether the positioning and matching parts and the positioning parts are properly engaged are as follows: obtain the state of the detection element and determine whether the detection element is in a triggered state.

[0168] Since the working principles and installation positions of sensors are different, the specific steps for detecting whether the positioning matching component and the positioning component are properly matched in this embodiment have been adjusted according to the working principle of the sensor.

[0169] In Embodiment 4 of the present invention, when the detection element is installed on the side wall 321, the determination of whether the secondary lock 210 obstructs the detection element is used as the basis for determining whether the positioning element and the secondary lock 210 are properly engaged.

[0170]

Example 7

[0171] Example 7 discloses another specific implementation of a battery swapping device, whose overall structure and function are basically the same as those of the battery swapping devices in Examples 1-4, the difference being:

[0172] In this embodiment, the positioning element 100 is disposed on the battery positioning part, and the positioning element 100 is not used in conjunction with the secondary lock 210, but with the positioning block on the battery pack. The positioning block is a square body and is disposed on the side of the battery pack, between the side of the battery pack and the vehicle body bracket 400.

[0173] During the unlocking and locking process of the locking mechanism, when the positioning block and positioning element 100 are in the correct height alignment in the vertical direction, the locking mechanism can be unlocked or locked. The specific unlocking or locking process is the same as in Examples 1 to 4, and will not be repeated here.

[0174] The unlocking method of the battery swapping device in this embodiment can also be divided into two types according to the different positions of the detection elements and the different working principles, corresponding to the examples of Embodiment 5 or Embodiment 6 respectively, which will not be described again here.

[0175] 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 positioning component, disposed on a battery swapping device, for positioning the battery swapping device and the electric vehicle during battery swapping, wherein the electric vehicle is provided with a positioning matching component, the positioning component comprising a positioning component body, the positioning component body having a receiving area, characterized in that, Also includes: The detection element is set in the accommodating area and is used to detect whether the positioning component and the positioning matching component are properly engaged when the battery swapping equipment replaces the battery of the electric vehicle. The first end of the positioning component body has a recessed receiving opening for accommodating the positioning matching component, and the second end of the positioning component body is disposed on the power swapping device. The receiving port constitutes the receiving area; The receiving port is provided with a detection port that is recessed toward the positioning component body, and the detection port is used to receive the detection element; The surface of the detection element does not protrude from the inner wall of the receiving port; The receiving port has an opening end for the positioning and matching component to enter the receiving port, and the inner wall of the receiving port is provided with two opposing first inclined surfaces near the opening end; Along the direction from the second end of the positioning element body to the first end of the positioning element body, the two first inclined surfaces gradually move away from each other.

2. The positioning element as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The positioning component body is provided with an installation structure, and the positioning component is installed on the battery swapping equipment through the installation structure. The mounting structure is provided with at least one position adjustment mechanism, which is used to adjust the relative position of the positioning component body with respect to the positioning matching component in the horizontal direction.

3. The positioning element as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The position adjustment mechanism is an adjustment hole formed on the mounting structure. The extension direction of the adjustment hole is perpendicular to the vertical plane where the positioning and matching part is located. The adjustment hole is set on the battery swapping equipment by fasteners.

4. The positioning element as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The mounting structure is a mounting plate, and one end of the positioning component body away from the receiving area is connected to the mounting plate; There are at least two adjustment holes, which are located on both sides of the positioning component body.

5. The positioning element as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The positioning component body has a cable hole that communicates with the detection port, and the cable hole allows the signal line of the detection element to pass through.

6. The positioning element as described in claim 5, characterized in that: There are two wiring holes, which are opened on the side wall of the detection port, and the two wiring holes are respectively located on both sides of the detection element.

7. The positioning element as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The connection between the first inclined surface and the first end of the positioning component body is smoothly transitioned.

8. The positioning element as described in claim 1 or 7, characterized in that: The first end of the positioning component body is provided with a second inclined surface on both sides near the first inclined surface, and the plane where the second inclined surface is located is inclined relative to the plane where the positioning component body is located.

9. The positioning element as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The receiving area includes a bottom wall and side walls, and the detection element is disposed on the bottom wall for measuring the distance between the positioning matching part and the detection element.

10. The positioning element as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The accommodating area includes a bottom wall and a side wall. The detection element is disposed on the side wall. When the positioning matching part and the positioning part are in place, the detection element is in a triggered state.

11. The positioning element as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The detection element includes at least one of a vision sensor, a Hall sensor, or a photoelectric sensor.

12. The positioning element as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The positioning and matching component is a positioning block for the battery pack or a secondary lock.

13. A battery swapping device, comprising a vehicle positioning unit and a battery positioning unit, wherein the vehicle positioning unit is used for positioning the battery swapping device between itself and a vehicle, and the battery positioning unit is used for carrying a battery pack and moving the battery pack, characterized in that, The vehicle positioning unit is provided with a positioning element as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A method for unlocking a battery swapping device as described in claim 13, used to replace a vehicle's battery, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: Adjust the position of the battery swapping equipment relative to the vehicle in the horizontal direction so that the receiving area of ​​the positioning component is aligned with the positioning matching component on the vehicle. S2: Adjust the position of the battery swapping equipment relative to the vehicle in the height direction. Detect whether the positioning matching part and the positioning part are properly matched by the detection element. If they are, the battery swapping equipment will perform an unlocking operation.

15. The unlocking method as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The specific steps in step S2, where the detection element detects whether the positioning and matching parts and the positioning parts are properly engaged, are as follows: The detection element obtains the relative distance L1 between itself and the positioning matching part, and determines whether the relative distance L1 is within a preset distance range.

16. The unlocking method as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The specific steps in step S2, where the detection element detects whether the positioning and matching parts and the positioning parts are properly engaged, are as follows: The state of the detection element is obtained, and it is determined whether the detection element is in a triggered state.

17. The unlocking method as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The vehicle is equipped with a primary lock, which has a primary lock slot and a primary lock tongue. The unlocking operation in step S2 includes: S31: The battery swapping equipment moves the battery pack a first distance away from the opening of the primary lock slot, creating a gap between the primary lock tongue and the lock shaft of the battery pack.

18. The unlocking method as described in claim 17, characterized in that: The unlocking operation also includes: S32: After the battery swapping equipment moves the battery pack a second distance toward the opening of the primary lock slot, the battery pack detaches from the vehicle.

19. The unlocking method as described in claim 17, characterized in that: The battery swapping device includes an unlocking component. The primary lock has a locking link connected to the primary bolt. The locking link is used to drive the primary bolt to open or lock the opening of the primary lock slot. After the battery swapping device moves the battery pack a first distance away from the opening of the primary lock slot in step S31, the following steps are included: S311: The unlocking component lifts the locking lever, which in turn moves the primary bolt and opens the primary lock slot.

20. The unlocking method as described in claim 19, characterized in that: When the detection element detects that the positioning matching part and the positioning part are in place in step S2, the unlocking part is in a compressed state.

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