Battery pack assembly and electric vehicle

Abstract

The application discloses a battery pack assembly and an electric vehicle. The battery pack assembly comprises a plurality of battery packs arranged along the length direction of the electric vehicle. Each battery pack is hung from bottom to top along the vertical direction and independently locked at the bottom of the vehicle beam of the electric vehicle. The plurality of battery packs arranged along the length direction of the electric vehicle ensure the required power of the electric vehicle while reducing the mass of each battery pack. During the process of assembling or disassembling the battery pack on the electric vehicle, the battery pack is replaced from the bottom of the electric vehicle. The center of gravity of the electric vehicle remains stable, so that the electric vehicle is not prone to tilting. The locking efficiency of the battery pack is improved. The locking part is arranged on the side wall of the battery pack. The unlocking mechanism of the battery replacement equipment can be unlocked along the gap between the battery packs. The locking mechanism is connected and locked from bottom to top along the vertical direction. The lifting process and the locking process of the single battery pack are combined, and the locking efficiency of the single battery pack is further improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery swapping, and particularly to a battery pack assembly and an electric vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, new energy vehicles have developed rapidly. Electric vehicles, which rely on batteries as their driving energy, have the advantages of zero emissions and low noise. As the market share and usage frequency of electric vehicles are increasing, electric commercial vehicles, such as electric heavy-duty trucks and electric light-duty trucks, are also gradually appearing in their respective application scenarios.

[0003] Currently, the battery packs in electric vehicles are all located above the vehicle beam, and the entire battery pack powers the vehicle. They are quite heavy. When the battery pack needs to be replaced, a top-mounted crane is currently used for the replacement. However, the battery pack is prone to shaking and is difficult to align with the electric vehicle, making battery pack replacement difficult and resulting in low locking efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art in which the replacement of the entire battery pack of electric vehicles is difficult due to the easy shaking during hoisting, resulting in low locking efficiency. The present invention provides a battery pack assembly and an electric vehicle.

[0005] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0006] A battery pack assembly includes multiple battery packs arranged along the length of an electric vehicle, each battery pack being vertically attached from bottom to top and independently locked to the bottom of the vehicle's beam.

[0007] In this design, multiple battery packs arranged along the length of the electric vehicle ensure sufficient power while minimizing the mass of each pack. During installation and removal of the battery packs, replacement is performed from below, maintaining a stable center of gravity and preventing tilting or uneven loading. This improves the locking efficiency of the battery packs and prevents uneven loading even when only a portion of the battery pack is mounted. The design offers greater flexibility and wider applicability. Furthermore, locking mechanisms on the side walls of the battery packs allow the unlocking mechanism on the swapping device to unlock along the gaps between the packs. The swapping device moves from the side of the vehicle to the bottom without interfering with the battery packs, achieving vertical bottom-up locking. This combines the lifting and locking processes of individual battery packs, further enhancing the locking efficiency of each pack.

[0008] Preferably, at least a portion of the battery pack is located below the vehicle beam.

[0009] In this design, at least a portion of the battery pack is located below the vehicle beam, and the space between the two sides of the beam can also be utilized, or the space between the two sides of the beam and the space on both sides of the beam can be utilized.

[0010] Preferably, the upper surface of the battery pack is located below the vehicle beam; or,

[0011] The upper part of the battery pack is located between the beams of the electric vehicle and / or at least on one side.

[0012] In this design, the upper surface of the battery pack is located below the vehicle beam, and the outer surface structure of the battery pack is flat, which facilitates the manufacturing of the battery pack. The upper part of the battery pack is located between the vehicle beams, on one side, or on both sides, making full use of the space between the vehicle beams and the sides to increase the overall volume of the battery pack, thereby increasing the power supply capacity of the battery pack. Alternatively, under the same power supply capacity, the longitudinal height of the battery pack can be reduced, and the vertical distance between the bottom of the battery pack and the ground can be increased, reserving sufficient height space for the battery pack replacement operation of the battery swapping equipment.

[0013] Preferably, the battery pack assembly also includes a quick-change bracket mounted on the beam of the electric vehicle, the battery pack being detachably connected to the quick-change bracket;

[0014] Along the width direction of the electric vehicle, each battery pack has multiple locking parts on its side wall; the quick-change bracket is provided with a locking mechanism, which is arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with the locking parts, so as to lock the battery pack vertically from bottom to top to the vehicle beam.

[0015] In this solution, the battery pack is detachably connected to the quick-change bracket of the electric vehicle. Multiple locking parts are provided along the width direction of the electric vehicle. The multiple locking parts can increase the connection points between the battery pack and the quick-change bracket, thereby reducing the shear stress at a single connection point, making the connection between the battery pack and the quick-change bracket more stable and reliable, and improving the reliability of the connection between the battery pack and the quick-change bracket.

[0016] Preferably, the quick-change bracket includes a symmetrically arranged left bracket and a right bracket, which are respectively connected to the sidewalls of the corresponding sides of the vehicle beam;

[0017] Along the length of the electric vehicle, both the locking part and the locking mechanism are located on both sides of the vehicle beam.

[0018] In this solution, by adopting the above structure, the battery pack and quick-change bracket are connected on the outside of the vehicle beam. The connection between the locking part and the locking mechanism is more convenient and it is also easier to disassemble the battery pack and the quick-change bracket. Furthermore, the left bracket and the right bracket are symmetrically arranged, which helps to maintain the balance of the vehicle's center of gravity.

[0019] Preferably, the locking mechanism includes a locking member rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket and a first channel extending along the direction of gravity on the quick-change bracket, the first channel extending to the lower surface of the quick-change bracket so that the locking part can vertically enter and exit the first channel;

[0020] The locking member is configured to lock the locking portion when the locking portion moves upward to a predetermined position in the first channel; and the locking mechanism is configured to release the locking portion so that the locking portion moves downward to disengage from the first channel; the locking portion includes a horizontally arranged locking shaft.

[0021] In this design, a locking element and a first channel are installed on the quick-change bracket. The locking element is rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket. When the locking shaft moves upward to a predetermined position within the first channel, the locking element locks the shaft. Moving the shaft downward disengages it from the locking element, completing the battery pack disassembly. During the locking or unlocking process of the battery pack, the locking shaft only needs to move upward or downward within the first channel, without requiring adjustments to the battery pack in other directions. This combination of lifting and locking the battery pack results in high locking efficiency.

[0022] Preferably, the locking element is disposed inside the quick-change bracket.

[0023] In this design, the locking element is located inside the quick-change bracket, thereby protecting the locking element and preventing it from being damaged by collision with other components.

[0024] Preferably, the locking shaft extends along the length of the electric vehicle; or,

[0025] The locking shaft extends along the width direction of the electric vehicle.

[0026] In this design, the locking shaft enables locking between the battery pack and the locking mechanism. Extending along the length of the electric vehicle, the locking shaft further reduces the lateral swaying of the battery pack; extending along the width of the electric vehicle further reduces the longitudinal swaying of the battery pack.

[0027] Preferably, a buffer is provided between the quick-change bracket and the battery pack; the buffer is located between the side wall of the battery pack and the quick-change bracket, and is connected to at least one of them.

[0028] In this design, the buffer can be positioned along the length and / or width of the electric vehicle to reduce the swaying of the battery pack during the electric vehicle's operation and prevent impact on the quick-change bracket.

[0029] Preferably, the battery pack assembly further includes a battery-side electrical connector and a vehicle-side electrical connector, the battery-side electrical connector being disposed on the battery pack and the vehicle-side electrical connector being disposed on the quick-change bracket; when the battery pack is installed on the quick-change bracket, the battery-side electrical connector and the vehicle-side electrical connector are electrically connected.

[0030] In this solution, the battery pack and the electric vehicle can be electrically connected through the battery-side electrical connector and the vehicle-side electrical connector to supply power to the electric vehicle.

[0031] Preferably, the battery-side electrical connector is disposed on the top of the battery pack, the vehicle-side electrical connector is disposed on the lower surface of the quick-change bracket, and the battery-side electrical connector and the vehicle-side electrical connector are vertically connected.

[0032] In this solution, by adopting the above structure, when the locking part moves vertically and connects with the locking mechanism, the battery end electrical connector can also be connected to the vehicle end electrical connector in the vertical direction simultaneously, thus completing the electrical connection between the battery pack and the electric vehicle.

[0033] Preferably, along the width direction of the electric vehicle, the battery-side electrical connector is disposed at the end of the battery pack, and the quick-change bracket is provided with a position adjustment mechanism, which is used to drive the vehicle-side electrical connector to rotate so that the vehicle-side electrical connector is connected or disconnected from the battery-side electrical connector.

[0034] In this solution, the upward movement of the battery pack is converted into the rotation of the vehicle-side electrical connector toward the battery-side electrical connector by a position adjustment mechanism, eliminating the need for an additional drive source and saving costs.

[0035] Preferably, the position adjustment mechanism includes a rotating part on which the vehicle-end electrical connector is mounted and a driving part that moves with the vertical movement of the battery pack, the rotating part being rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket;

[0036] The rotating part is connected to the driving part. The upward movement of the battery pack drives the driving part to move upward, thereby driving the rotating part to rotate in the direction of the battery pack, so that the vehicle-end electrical connector rotates relative to the battery-end electrical connector.

[0037] In this solution, the drive unit can move along with the battery pack. When the battery pack moves upward under the drive of the battery swapping equipment, the drive unit moves upward as well, thereby driving the rotating part to rotate, which in turn drives the vehicle-end electrical connector to rotate to approach the battery-end electrical connector and connect with it, and vice versa.

[0038] Preferably, the driving part includes a rack slidably connected vertically to the quick-change bracket; the rotating part includes a rotating plate for mounting the vehicle-end electrical connector, a rotating shaft fixedly connected to the rotating plate, and a gear sleeved and fixedly connected to the rotating shaft, the rotating plate being rotatably connected to the side of the quick-change bracket via the rotating shaft; the rack and the gear mesh and drive each other, the rack moving vertically with the battery pack to drive the gear to rotate.

[0039] In this solution, the rack drives the gear to rotate, causing the rotating plate with the vehicle-side electrical connector mounted on it to rotate toward the quick-change bracket, bringing the vehicle-side electrical connector closer to the battery-side electrical connector until electrical connection is established. The rack and gear of this position adjustment mechanism can be purchased externally, eliminating the need for in-house mold manufacturing and reducing costs.

[0040] Preferably, the end of the quick-change bracket near the vehicle-end electrical connector is provided with at least two rotating seats, and the rotating shaft passes through the rotating seats and can rotate along its own axis.

[0041] In this solution, the rotating shaft and the quick-change bracket are rotatably connected by a rotating seat, and the rotating shaft is supported at multiple points by setting at least two rotating seats, thus ensuring the stability of the rotating shaft during rotation.

[0042] Preferably, a guide block is provided on the side of the rack away from the gear, and a vertically extending guide rail is provided on the quick-change bracket. A vertically extending guide groove is provided on the guide rail, and the guide block is located in the guide groove and can move in the vertical direction.

[0043] In this design, the guide groove makes the vertical movement of the gear smoother. Through the sliding cooperation of the guide rail and the guide block, the rack experiences less frictional resistance during vertical movement, resulting in smoother movement.

[0044] Preferably, the left bracket includes a first connecting plate connected to the vehicle beam and a vertically arranged mounting plate for mounting the locking mechanism. One end of the mounting plate is connected to the first connecting plate and extends along the width direction of the electric vehicle so that the locking mechanism is arranged opposite to the locking part.

[0045] In this design, the mounting plate extends along the width of the electric vehicle, allowing the locking mechanism to be positioned corresponding to the locking part, and the mounting plate is connected to the vehicle beam via the first connecting plate.

[0046] Preferably, the left bracket further includes a horizontal plate connected between the first connecting plate and the mounting plate, and located above the battery pack.

[0047] In this design, the horizontal plate enhances the structural strength of the quick-change bracket and serves as a mounting plate for other components, such as the adjustment mechanism.

[0048] Preferably, the top of the rack passes upward through the horizontal plate, and a limiting seat is provided above the horizontal plate at the position corresponding to the top of the rack. The rack is elastically connected to the limiting seat by an elastic element.

[0049] In this design, the guide rail guides the rack in the vertical direction through the guide groove and guide block. The elastic element prevents the rack from falling off the quick-change bracket. The elastic element can act on the rack to apply a downward force, thereby keeping the rotating plate in the upward-facing state.

[0050] Preferably, the limiting seat is an inverted U-shaped plate structure, the lower end of the limiting seat is connected to the upper end face of the horizontal plate, and at least part of the rack and guide rail extends into the opening of the limiting seat.

[0051] In this design, the fact that part of the rack and guide rail extends into the opening of the limiting seat can protect the top of the rack and guide rail.

[0052] Preferably, the elastic element is a compression spring, and the rack is connected to the top inner wall of the limiting seat via the compression spring.

[0053] In this solution, the elastic element is a compression spring, which is low in cost. The rack is connected to the top inner wall of the limiting seat through the compression spring, so that the compression spring provides a certain elastic force as the rack moves away from the top inner wall of the limiting seat.

[0054] Preferably, the top of the rack is provided with a horizontally arranged second connecting plate, and the upper end surface of the second connecting plate is connected to the top inner wall of the limiting seat through at least two spaced elastic elements.

[0055] In this solution, the elastic force on the rack is increased by increasing the number of elastic elements, ensuring that the rotating plate can remain in the upward-tilted state.

[0056] An electric vehicle comprising a battery pack assembly as described above.

[0057] In this design, the electric vehicle beam includes a battery pack assembly, which comprises multiple battery packs arranged along the length of the electric vehicle. This design ensures sufficient power for the electric vehicle while minimizing the mass of each battery pack. During the installation and removal of the battery packs from the vehicle, replacement is performed from below, maintaining the vehicle's center of gravity and preventing tilting. This also improves the locking efficiency of the battery packs. Furthermore, by incorporating locking components on the side walls of each battery pack, a vertical locking mechanism is established from bottom to top, combining the lifting and locking processes of individual battery packs to further enhance their locking efficiency.

[0058] Preferably, the electric vehicle is an electric truck.

[0059] In this scheme, the electric vehicle is an electric truck, which uses the aforementioned battery pack. Under the same range, the weight of a single battery pack is reduced, making it easier to replace.

[0060] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows:

[0061] Multiple battery packs arranged along the length of the electric vehicle ensure sufficient power while minimizing the weight of each pack. During installation and removal, the battery packs are replaced from below, maintaining the vehicle's center of gravity and preventing tilting. This also improves the locking efficiency of the battery packs. Furthermore, by incorporating locking mechanisms on the side walls of each battery pack, a vertical locking mechanism is established from bottom to top, combining the lifting and locking processes of individual battery packs to further enhance their locking efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0062] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the battery pack assembly and the vehicle beam according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 2 This is a partial structural diagram of the locking mechanism and quick-change bracket according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a position adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the limiting seat in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 5 This is a partial structural diagram of the quick-change bracket and the vehicle beam in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of a battery terminal electrical connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the position adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0070] Battery pack assembly 1

[0071] Battery terminal connector 10

[0072] Battery Pack 2

[0073] Locking part 21

[0074] Locking shaft 210

[0075] Locking mechanism 22

[0076] First Channel 2201

[0077] Car beam 3

[0078] Quick-change bracket 30

[0079] Position adjustment mechanism 300

[0080] Rotating part 3001

[0081] Drive Unit 3002

[0082] Rack 30021

[0083] Rotating plate 30022

[0084] Rotating shaft 30023

[0085] Gear 30024

[0086] Rotary seat 301

[0087] Left support 31

[0088] First connecting plate 310

[0089] Mounting plate 311

[0090] Horizontal plate 312

[0091] Limit seat 313

[0092] Elastic component 314

[0093] Compression Spring 3140

[0094] Second connecting plate 315

[0095] Right bracket 32

[0096] Guide block 33

[0097] Guide rail 34

[0098] Guide groove 35 Detailed Implementation

[0099] 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.

[0100] This embodiment discloses an electric vehicle, which includes a battery pack assembly 1, such as... Figures 1-7 As shown. The battery pack assembly 1 includes multiple battery packs 2 arranged along the length of the electric vehicle, ensuring sufficient power for the electric vehicle while minimizing the mass of each battery pack 2. Each battery pack 2 is vertically attached from bottom to top and independently locked to the bottom of the electric vehicle's frame.

[0101] During the installation and removal of battery pack 2 from the electric vehicle, the battery pack 2 is replaced from below, maintaining the stability of the electric vehicle's center of gravity and preventing tilting, thus improving the locking efficiency of battery pack 2. Simultaneously, locking parts 21 are provided on the side walls of battery pack 2, allowing it to connect and lock vertically from bottom to top with the locking mechanism 22. This combines the lifting and locking processes of individual battery pack 2, further improving the locking efficiency of each battery pack 2 and ensuring reliable installation and removal.

[0102] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, the electric vehicle is an electric truck. Because electric trucks are heavy, they consume more electricity per unit distance. Therefore, a larger capacity battery pack 2 should be placed in the limited space between the two beams 3 of the electric truck. Using the aforementioned battery pack 2 can maximize the electric truck's range. At the same time, with the same range, the battery pack 2 of the electric truck is arranged in the same way along the length of the vehicle body. It is easier to replace a single battery pack 2. If a single battery pack 2 is damaged, the other battery packs 2 can continue to power the electric vehicle. Only the damaged battery pack 2 needs to be replaced, which reduces the maintenance cost when the battery pack 2 is damaged and improves the reliability of the power supply of the battery pack 2.

[0103] Among them, such as Figure 1 As shown, at least a portion of the battery pack 2 is located below the vehicle beam 3. Specifically, the battery pack 2 can be entirely located below the vehicle beam 3, meaning the upper surface of the battery pack 2 is located below the vehicle beam 3, and the outer surface structure of the battery pack 2 is flat, facilitating its manufacturing.

[0104] In other specific embodiments, the battery pack 2 may also utilize the space between the beams or the space on both sides of the beams, that is, the upper part of the battery pack 2 is located between the beams 3 of the electric vehicle and at least one side of the electric vehicle, or the upper part of the battery pack 2 is located between the beams 3 of the electric vehicle or at least one side of the electric vehicle.

[0105] The upper surface of the battery pack 2 is located below the vehicle beam 3, and the outer surface structure of the battery pack 2 is flat, which facilitates the manufacturing of the battery pack 2. The upper part of the battery pack 2 is located between, on one side or on both sides of the vehicle beam 3, making full use of the space between the vehicle beam 3 and the side, increasing the overall volume of the battery pack 2, thereby increasing the power supply capacity of the battery pack 2, or, under the same power supply capacity, reducing the longitudinal height of the battery pack 2 and increasing the vertical distance between the bottom of the battery pack 2 and the ground, thus reserving sufficient height space for the battery pack 2 replacement operation of the battery swapping equipment.

[0106] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 , Figure 4 As shown, the battery pack assembly 1 also includes a quick-change bracket 30 mounted on the vehicle beam 3 of the electric vehicle. The battery pack 2 is detachably connected to the quick-change bracket 30. Along the width direction of the electric vehicle, each battery pack 2 has multiple locking parts 21 on its side wall. The quick-change bracket 30 is provided with a locking mechanism 22, which is arranged one-to-one with the locking parts 21 to lock the battery pack 2 vertically from bottom to top to the vehicle beam 3. The battery pack is detachably connected to the quick-change bracket 30 of the electric vehicle. The multiple locking parts 21 on the battery pack 2 along the width direction of the electric vehicle increase the number of connection points between the battery pack 2 and the quick-change bracket 30, thereby reducing the shear stress at a single connection point. This makes the connection between the battery pack 2 and the quick-change bracket 30 more stable and reliable, improving the reliability of the connection between the battery pack assembly 1 and the quick-change bracket 30.

[0107] In other preferred embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, each battery pack 2 has a locking part 21 on both side walls along the width direction of the electric vehicle. The locking part 21 on both sides of the battery pack 2 allows both sides of the long side of the battery pack 2 to be connected to the quick-change bracket 30, thereby further improving the reliability of the connection between the battery pack 2 and the vehicle beam 3.

[0108] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 , Figure 5As shown, the quick-change bracket 30 includes a symmetrically arranged left bracket 31 and a right bracket 32, which are respectively connected to the side walls of the corresponding sides of the vehicle beam 3. Along the length of the electric vehicle, the locking part 21 and the locking mechanism 22 are located on both sides of the vehicle beam 3. By adopting the above structure, the battery pack 2 is connected to the quick-change bracket 30 on the outside of the vehicle beam 3. The connection between the locking part 21 and the locking mechanism 22 is more convenient, and it also facilitates the disassembly and reassembly of the battery pack 2 and the quick-change bracket 30. Furthermore, the symmetrical arrangement of the left bracket 31 and the right bracket 32 ​​helps to maintain the vehicle's center of gravity balance and prevents the vehicle from overturning during unstable turns.

[0109] In this embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, the locking mechanism 22 includes a locking member rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket 30 and a first channel 2201 extending along the direction of gravity on the quick-change bracket 30. The first channel 2201 extends to the lower surface of the quick-change bracket 30 so that the locking part can vertically enter and exit the first channel 2201. The locking member is configured to rotate to lock the locking part 21 in the predetermined position when the locking part 21 moves upward to the predetermined position of the first channel 2201, thereby locking the battery pack 2. When the battery pack 2 is replaced, the locking member rotates, and the locking mechanism 22 is configured to release the locking of the locking part 21 so that the locking part 21 moves downward to disengage from the first channel 2201, thereby allowing the battery pack 2 to be removed from the quick-change bracket 30.

[0110] The locking mechanism 22 and locking part 21 in this embodiment are described in Chinese invention patent CN202022210681.8. The locking component in this example is the locking mechanism 22 in the above patent, and the first channel 2201 is the channel in the above patent, which will not be described again here.

[0111] In this embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, the locking part 21 includes a horizontally arranged locking shaft 210. One end of the locking shaft 210 is connected to the battery pack 2 and is connected to the battery pack 2 via a flange. The locking shaft 210 extends outward along an end face perpendicular to the battery pack 2. During the locking or unlocking process of the battery pack 2, the battery pack 2 only needs to move the locking shaft 210 upward or downward within the first channel 2201, without needing to adjust the battery pack 2 in other directions. This combines the processes of lifting and locking the battery pack 2, resulting in high locking efficiency.

[0112] In this embodiment, the locking member is disposed inside the quick-change bracket 30. The locking member is disposed inside the quick-change bracket 30 to protect it, preventing it from colliding with other components on the outside of the battery pack 2 and causing damage, or preventing the outside of the battery pack 2 from affecting the normal rotation of the rotating part of the locking member.

[0113] In this embodiment, the locking shaft 210 extends along the length of the electric vehicle. The locking shaft 210 enables locking between the battery pack 2 and the locking mechanism 22. The extension of the locking shaft 210 along the length of the electric vehicle further reduces the lateral swaying of the battery pack 2 along the vehicle's length.

[0114] In other preferred embodiments, the locking shaft 210 extends along the width direction of the electric vehicle. Extending the locking shaft 210 along the width direction of the electric vehicle further reduces the swaying of the battery pack 2 in the front-to-back direction of the electric vehicle; however, the direction of the locking mechanism 22 needs to be adjusted synchronously with the locking shaft 210. In these other embodiments, the locking mechanism 22 can be any structure capable of vertically (straight up and down) attaching the battery pack 2 to the electric vehicle, such as a bolt-type locking mechanism, a ball-type locking mechanism, a T-lock locking mechanism, a hook-type locking mechanism, etc.

[0115] In this embodiment, a buffer is also provided between the quick-change bracket 30 and the battery pack 2; the buffer is located between the side wall of the battery pack 2 and the quick-change bracket 30, and is connected to at least one of the quick-change bracket 30 and the battery pack 2. Specifically, the buffer can be arranged along the length and / or width direction of the electric vehicle, thereby reducing the shaking of the battery pack 2 during the operation of the electric vehicle and avoiding impact on the quick-change bracket 30.

[0116] In this embodiment, as Figure 6 As shown, the battery pack assembly 1 also includes a battery-side electrical connector 10 and a vehicle-side electrical connector. The battery-side electrical connector 10 is disposed on the battery pack 2, and the vehicle-side electrical connector is disposed on the quick-change bracket 30. When the battery pack 2 is installed on the quick-change bracket 30, the battery-side electrical connector 10 and the vehicle-side electrical connector are electrically connected. The battery-side electrical connector 10 and the vehicle-side electrical connector enable the electrical connection between the battery pack 2 and the electric vehicle, so that the battery pack 2 can supply power to the electric vehicle.

[0117] In other preferred embodiments, the battery-side electrical connector 10 is disposed on the top of the battery pack 2, and the vehicle-side electrical connector is disposed on the lower surface of the quick-change bracket 30. The battery-side electrical connector 10 and the vehicle-side electrical connector are vertically connected. By adopting the above structure, when the locking part 21 moves vertically and connects with the locking mechanism 22, the battery-side electrical connector 10 can also simultaneously connect vertically with the vehicle-side electrical connector, completing the electrical connection between the battery pack 2 and the electric vehicle. The lifting and electrical connection of the battery pack 2 are completed in one process, improving the installation efficiency of the battery pack 2.

[0118] In this embodiment, along the width direction of the electric vehicle, the battery-side electrical connector 10 is disposed at the end of the battery pack 2. A position adjustment mechanism 300 is provided on the quick-change bracket 30. The position adjustment mechanism 300 is used to drive the vehicle-side electrical connector to rotate, so that the vehicle-side electrical connector is connected or disconnected from the battery-side electrical connector 10. Specifically, the position adjustment mechanism 300 transforms the upward movement of the battery pack 2 into a rotational movement of the vehicle-side electrical connector toward the battery-side electrical connector 10. Furthermore, the electrical connection between the battery pack 2 and the electric vehicle does not require an additional drive source, saving the operating costs associated with the electrical connection between the battery pack 2 and the electric vehicle.

[0119] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the position adjustment mechanism 300 includes a rotating part 3001 on which the vehicle-end electrical connector is mounted and a driving part 3002 that moves with the vertical movement of the battery pack 2. The rotating part 3001 is rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket 30. The rotating part 3001 is connected to the driving part 3002. When the battery pack 2 moves upward, it drives the driving part 3002 to move upward, thereby driving the rotating part 3001 to rotate in the direction of the electrical connector of the battery pack 2, so that the vehicle-end electrical connector rotates along the direction close to the battery-end electrical connector 10 and relative to the battery-end electrical connector 10. The drive unit 3002 can move along with the battery pack 2. When the battery pack 2 moves upward under the drive of the battery swapping equipment, the drive unit 3002 moves upward with the battery pack 2. The drive unit 3002 rotates, thereby driving the rotating part 3001 to rotate. As a result, the vehicle-end electrical connector can rotate to approach the battery-end electrical connector 10 and connect with the battery-end electrical connector 10. Conversely, when the battery pack 2 is disassembled, the battery pack 2 moves downward, driving the drive unit 3002 to move downward. The downward movement of the drive unit 3002 drives the rotating part 3001 to rotate away from the battery-end electrical connector 10, thereby disconnecting the battery-end electrical connector 10 from the vehicle-end electrical connector.

[0120] Specifically, such as Figure 7As shown, the drive unit 3002 includes a rack 30021 vertically slidably connected to the quick-change bracket 30; the rotating unit 3001 includes a rotating plate 30022 for mounting the vehicle-end electrical connector, a rotating shaft 30023 fixedly connected to the rotating plate 30022, and a gear 30024 sleeved and fixedly connected to the rotating shaft 30023. The rotating plate 30022 is rotatably connected to the side of the quick-change bracket 30 via the rotating shaft 30023. The rack 30021 and the gear 30024 mesh and drive each other. The rack 30021 moves vertically with the battery pack 2 to drive the gear 30024 to rotate. The rotation of the gear 30024 drives the rotating unit 3001 to rotate toward the battery-end electrical connector 10. In this design, gear 30024 and rack 30021 are positioned near the top of battery pack 2. Reducing the size of gear 30024 and rack 30021 makes the position adjustment mechanism 300 more compact. The rack 30021 drives gear 30024 to rotate, causing the rotating plate 30022, which is equipped with the vehicle-end electrical connector, to rotate toward quick-change bracket 30, ensuring the reliability and stability of the transmission. During the rotation of gear 30024, the vehicle-end electrical connector approaches the battery-end electrical connector 10 until electrical connection is established, and then gear 30024 stops rotating. The rack 30021 and gear 30024 of this position adjustment mechanism 300 can be purchased externally, eliminating the need for in-house mold manufacturing and reducing costs.

[0121] The rack 30021 is set on the quick-change bracket 30 to avoid setting the rack 30021 on the battery pack 2, which would make the structure of the battery pack 2 complicated. It also avoids the rack 30021 being exposed to the external space and worn when the battery pack 2 is transferred between the electric vehicle and the charging equipment.

[0122] In this embodiment, as Figure 5 As shown, the quick-change bracket 30 has at least two rotating seats 301 at its end near the vehicle-side electrical connector. The rotating shaft 30023 passes through the rotating seats 301 and can rotate along its own axis. The rotating seats 301 enable the rotating shaft 30023 to be rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket 30. The presence of at least two rotating seats 301 provides multi-point support for the rotating shaft 30023, ensuring that it always rotates around the same axis, reducing fluctuations during rotation, improving the stability of the rotating shaft 30023, and enabling the vehicle-side electrical connector and the battery-side electrical connector 10 to successfully complete the electrical connection.

[0123] In this embodiment, a guide block 33 is provided on the side of the rack 30021 away from the gear 30024, and a vertically extending guide rail 34 is provided on the quick-change bracket 30. A vertically extending guide groove 35 is opened on the guide rail 34, and the guide block 33 is located in the guide groove 35 and can move in the vertical direction. The guide groove 35 makes the vertical movement of the gear more stable; through the sliding cooperation of the guide rail 34 and the guide block 33, the frictional resistance encountered by the rack 30021 during the vertical movement is small, and the movement is smoother, so that the upward movement distance of the battery pack 2 is equal to the upward movement distance of the rack 30021.

[0124] In this embodiment, as Figure 5 As shown, the left bracket 31 includes a first connecting plate 310 connected to the vehicle beam 3 and a vertically arranged mounting plate 311 for mounting the locking mechanism 22. One end of the mounting plate 311 is connected to the first connecting plate 310 and extends along the width direction of the electric vehicle so that the locking mechanism 22 is positioned opposite to the locking part 21. The mounting plate 311 extends along the width direction of the electric vehicle, allowing the locking mechanism 22 to be positioned at a position corresponding to the locking part 21. This allows the upward movement of the battery pack 2 to allow the locking part 21 to enter the locking mechanism 22. The mounting plate 311 is connected to the vehicle beam 3 via the first connecting plate 310, improving the overall structural strength of the quick-change bracket 30 and the vehicle beam 3.

[0125] In this embodiment, the left bracket 31 further includes a horizontal plate 312, which is connected between the first connecting plate 310 and the mounting plate 311 and is located above the battery pack 2. The horizontal plate 312 enhances the structural strength of the quick-change bracket 30 and prevents deformation of the left bracket 31.

[0126] In this embodiment, as Figure 4 As shown, the top of the rack 30021 passes upward through the horizontal plate 312. A limiting seat 313 is provided above the top position of the rack 30021 on the horizontal plate 312. The rack 30021 is elastically connected to the limiting seat 313 via an elastic element 314. The guide rail 34 guides the rack 30021 vertically via a guide groove 35 and a guide block 33. The elastic element 314 prevents the rack 30021 from falling off the quick-change bracket 30. The elastic element 314 acts on the rack 30021, applying a downward force to it, thereby keeping the rotating plate 30022 in an upward-facing state.

[0127] In this embodiment, the limiting seat 313 is an inverted U-shaped plate structure. The lower end of the limiting seat 313 is connected to the upper end face of the horizontal plate 312, and part of the rack 30021 and the guide rail 34 extend into the opening of the limiting seat 313. The fact that part of the rack 30021 and the guide rail 34 extend into the opening of the limiting seat 313 can protect the top of the rack 30021 and the guide rail 34.

[0128] In this embodiment, the elastic element 314 is a compression spring 3140, and the rack 30021 is connected to the top inner wall of the limiting seat 313 via the compression spring 3140. The compression spring 3140 is a low-cost elastic element, and the connection of the rack 30021 to the top inner wall of the limiting seat 313 via the compression spring 3140 allows the rack 30021 to move away from the top inner wall of the limiting seat 313. The compression spring 3140 provides a certain elastic force, and the elastic element 314 can apply a downward elastic restoring force, causing the rack 30021 to move downwards. This, in turn, moves the vehicle-end electrical connector away from the battery-end electrical connector 10, separating the two electrical connectors and facilitating the disassembly of the battery pack 2.

[0129] Furthermore, in order to improve the elastic restoring force at the rack 30021, a horizontally arranged second connecting plate 315 is provided at the top of the rack 30021, and the upper end face of the second connecting plate 315 is connected to the top inner wall of the limiting seat 313 through at least two spaced elastic elements 314.

[0130] 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 battery pack assembly, characterized in that, The battery pack assembly includes multiple battery packs, which are arranged along the length of the electric vehicle. Each battery pack is hung vertically from bottom to top and independently locked to the bottom of the vehicle beam. The battery pack assembly is configured to lock or unlock the battery pack during the process of raising or lowering the battery pack in a vertical direction. The battery pack assembly also includes a quick-change bracket mounted on the beam of the electric vehicle, and the battery pack is detachably connected to the quick-change bracket; Along the width direction of the electric vehicle, each battery pack has multiple locking parts on its side wall; the quick-change bracket is provided with a locking mechanism, which is arranged one-to-one with the locking parts to lock the battery pack vertically from bottom to top to the vehicle beam; The battery pack assembly also includes a battery-side electrical connector and a vehicle-side electrical connector. The battery-side electrical connector is disposed on the battery pack, and the vehicle-side electrical connector is disposed on the quick-change bracket. After the battery pack is installed on the quick-change bracket, the battery end electrical connector is electrically connected to the vehicle end electrical connector; Along the width direction of the electric vehicle, the battery end electrical connector is disposed at the end of the battery pack, and the quick-change bracket is provided with a position adjustment mechanism. The position adjustment mechanism is used to drive the vehicle end electrical connector to rotate so that the vehicle end electrical connector is connected or disconnected from the battery end electrical connector. Specifically, the position adjustment mechanism can convert the upward movement of the battery pack into a movement state in which the vehicle-end electrical connector rotates toward the battery-end electrical connector, and can convert the downward movement of the battery pack into a movement state in which the vehicle-end electrical connector rotates away from the battery-end electrical connector.

2. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the battery pack is located below the vehicle beam.

3. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The upper surface of the battery pack is located below the vehicle beam; Alternatively, the upper part of the battery pack is located between the beams of the electric vehicle and / or at least on one side.

4. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The quick-change bracket includes a symmetrically arranged left bracket and a right bracket, which are respectively connected to the sidewalls of the corresponding sides of the vehicle beam; Along the length of the electric vehicle, both the locking part and the locking mechanism are located on both sides of the vehicle beam.

5. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The locking mechanism includes a locking member rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket and a first channel extending along the direction of gravity on the quick-change bracket. The first channel extends to the lower surface of the quick-change bracket so that the locking part can vertically enter and exit the first channel. The locking member is configured to lock the locking portion when the locking portion moves upward to a predetermined position in the first channel; and the locking mechanism is configured to release the locking portion so that the locking portion moves downward to disengage from the first channel. The locking part includes a horizontally arranged locking shaft.

6. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The locking element is located inside the quick-change bracket.

7. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The locking shaft extends along the length of the electric vehicle; Alternatively, the locking shaft extends along the width direction of the electric vehicle.

8. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, A buffer is also provided between the quick-change bracket and the battery pack; the buffer is located between the side wall of the battery pack and the quick-change bracket, and is connected to at least one of them.

9. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The battery-side electrical connector is located on the top of the battery pack, and the vehicle-side electrical connector is located on the lower surface of the quick-change bracket. The battery-side electrical connector and the vehicle-side electrical connector are vertically connected.

10. The battery pack assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The position adjustment mechanism includes a rotating part on which the vehicle-end electrical connector is mounted and a driving part that moves with the vertical movement of the battery pack. The rotating part is rotatably connected to the quick-change bracket. The rotating part is connected to the driving part. The upward movement of the battery pack drives the driving part to move upward, thereby driving the rotating part to rotate in the direction of the battery pack, so that the vehicle-end electrical connector rotates relative to the battery-end electrical connector.

11. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The drive unit includes a rack that is vertically slidably connected to the quick-change bracket; The rotating part includes a rotating plate for mounting the vehicle-end electrical connector, a rotating shaft fixedly connected to the rotating plate, and a gear sleeved and fixedly connected to the rotating shaft. The rotating plate is rotatably connected to the side of the quick-change bracket through the rotating shaft. The rack and the gear mesh and drive each other, with the rack moving vertically along with the battery pack to drive the gear to rotate.

12. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The quick-change bracket has at least two rotating seats at the end near the vehicle-end electrical connector, and the rotating shaft passes through the rotating seats and can rotate along its own axis.

13. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 11, characterized in that, A guide block is provided on the side of the rack away from the gear, and a vertically extending guide rail is provided on the quick-change bracket. A vertically extending guide groove is opened on the guide rail, and the guide block is located in the guide groove and can move in the vertical direction.

14. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The quick-change bracket includes a symmetrically arranged left bracket and a right bracket, which are respectively connected to the sidewalls of the corresponding sides of the vehicle beam; Along the length of the electric vehicle, both the locking part and the locking mechanism are located on both sides of the vehicle beam; The left bracket includes a first connecting plate connected to the vehicle beam and a vertically arranged mounting plate for mounting the locking mechanism. One end of the mounting plate is connected to the first connecting plate and extends along the width direction of the electric vehicle so that the locking mechanism is arranged opposite to the locking part.

15. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The left bracket also includes a horizontal plate, which is connected between the first connecting plate and the mounting plate and is located above the battery pack.

16. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The top of the rack passes upward through the horizontal plate, and a limiting seat is provided above the horizontal plate at the position corresponding to the top of the rack. The rack is elastically connected to the limiting seat by an elastic element.

17. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The limiting seat is an inverted U-shaped plate structure. The lower end of the limiting seat is connected to the upper end face of the horizontal plate, and at least part of the rack and the guide rail extend into the opening of the limiting seat.

18. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The elastic element is a compression spring, and the rack is connected to the top inner wall of the limiting seat through the compression spring.

19. The battery pack assembly as described in claim 17, characterized in that, The top of the rack is provided with a horizontally arranged second connecting plate, and the upper end surface of the second connecting plate is connected to the top inner wall of the limiting seat through at least two spaced elastic elements.

20. An electric vehicle, characterized in that, The electric vehicle includes a battery pack assembly as described in any one of claims 1-19.

21. The electric vehicle as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The electric vehicle in question is an electric truck.

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