Locking mechanism and carrier assembly comprising same

Abstract

The application discloses a locking mechanism and a bracket assembly comprising the same. The locking mechanism is used for locking or unlocking a battery pack on a bracket of an electric vehicle, and comprises a locking unit arranged on the bracket. The locking unit is switchable between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking unit is provided with a limiting portion configured to cooperate with a matching portion on the battery pack to limit movement of the battery pack relative to the bracket in a vertical direction. After the battery pack enters the bracket, the locking mechanism can switch to the locked state by cooperation of the limiting portion of the locking unit with the matching portion on the battery pack, so as to fix the position of the battery pack relative to the bracket, limit shaking of the battery pack relative to the bracket in the vertical direction, improve the safety of locking, and avoid locking failure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle battery swapping, and particularly to a locking mechanism and a bracket assembly including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, electric vehicle batteries are generally installed in two ways: fixed and swappable. Fixed batteries are typically fixed to the vehicle and are charged directly from the vehicle. Swappable batteries, on the other hand, are usually mounted on a bracket in the vehicle using a movable installation method. The battery can be removed for individual replacement or charging. After the removed battery is fully charged, it is then reinstalled in the vehicle.

[0003] In the prior art, a battery pack locking mechanism is set on the bracket to lock the battery pack to the bracket. However, due to the large size and heavy weight of the battery, and the fact that the battery pack is prone to vertical swaying relative to the bracket when the electric vehicle is driving on uneven roads, the existing locking mechanism cannot limit the vertical swaying of the battery pack, thus leading to locking failure. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the defect in the prior art that the battery pack is prone to swaying relative to the bracket in the vertical direction, which leads to locking failure, and to provide a locking mechanism and a bracket assembly including the same.

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

[0006] A locking mechanism for locking or unlocking a battery pack to a bracket of an electric vehicle, the locking mechanism including a locking unit disposed on the bracket;

[0007] The locking unit can switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking unit has a limiting part that is used to cooperate with a matching part on the battery pack to limit the movement of the battery pack relative to the bracket in the vertical direction.

[0008] This locking mechanism can switch to a locked state after the battery pack enters the bracket by engaging the matching part on the battery pack with the limiting part of its locking unit. This fixes the position of the battery pack relative to the bracket, restricts the vertical swaying of the battery pack relative to the bracket, improves the safety of the locking, and avoids locking failure.

[0009] Preferably, the locking unit includes a locking block, the limiting portion is formed on the locking block, and the locking block contacts the side of the mating portion of the battery pack through the limiting portion;

[0010] When the locking unit switches to the locking state, the limiting part of the locking block is used to restrict the battery pack from disengaging from the bracket in the vertical direction.

[0011] With the above structural design, a locking block is installed at the bracket. The limiting part on the locking block contacts the side of the battery pack, so that the positional relationship between the battery pack and the bracket can be fixed, preventing the battery pack from detaching from the bracket in the vertical direction. This is especially important during vehicle bumps, preventing the battery pack from falling off the bracket when bumpy.

[0012] Preferably, the limiting portion is a limiting groove, which has a beveled portion, a flat portion and a beveled portion arranged in sequence.

[0013] With the above structural design, the groove fits into the side of the battery pack, improving the fixing effect. The three angled surfaces of the groove respectively conform to the surface of the battery pack for fixing, and abut against the mating part from both above and below, forming a covering effect on the mating part, improving the reliability of locking and limiting.

[0014] Preferably, the opening angle of the limiting groove is in the range of 90° to 150°.

[0015] The above structural design ensures that the opening angle of the groove is within a reasonable range. An opening angle greater than 90° ensures that the groove fits smoothly against the surface of the battery pack, while an opening angle less than 150° improves the firmness of the groove in fixing the battery pack.

[0016] Preferably, the bottom edge of the locking block is curved.

[0017] By making the bottom edge of the locking block arc-shaped, the bottom of the locking block can be prevented from rubbing or scratching against the bracket during the switching between the locked and unlocked states, thus avoiding any impact on the smoothness of the locking block's movement.

[0018] The above structural design improves the reliability and success rate of the locking block switching between locked and unlocked states.

[0019] Preferably, the bottom of the locking block also has an abutment portion, which has two inclined surfaces set at an angle.

[0020] With the above structural design, two angled inclined surfaces are provided at the bottom of the locking block. By having other components contact the inclined surfaces of the locking block, the locking block is limited, allowing it to move within the range of locked and unlocked states.

[0021] Preferably, the locking unit further includes a buffer structure disposed on the bracket and located below the locking block. The buffer structure contacts the locking block when the locking block is switched to the locked state to buffer and support the locking block.

[0022] By using the above-mentioned structural design, and by setting a flexible buffer structure to contact and limit the bottom of the locking block, it is possible to avoid abnormal noise, wear of parts or structural damage caused by rigid collision between the locking block and the bracket during the limiting process.

[0023] At the same time, by making the locking block flexibly contact the buffer structure when it is locked, the buffer structure can exert its own compression on the locking block, allowing the locking block to move towards the unlocked position without external force.

[0024] Preferably, when the battery pack is placed on the bracket, the battery pack contacts the contact surface of the locking block, causing the locking block to switch to the locked state.

[0025] With the above structural design, the contact between the battery pack and the locking block causes the locking block to switch to the locked state, and the force exerted by the battery pack on the bracket drives the locking block to switch to the locked state. The locking process is simple and reliable. Furthermore, no additional mechanism is needed to drive the locking block to switch to the locked state, making the overall locking mechanism simpler.

[0026] Preferably, the locking block is rotatably connected to the bracket via a flip shaft, which is located away from the battery pack relative to the limiting portion.

[0027] With the above structural design, when the battery pack acts on the limiting part, it can drive the locking block to rotate relative to the bracket, so that the locking block switches to the locking state.

[0028] Preferably, the center of gravity of the locking block is far from the battery pack relative to the flip axis, and the center of gravity of the locking block is higher than the flip axis.

[0029] The above structure enables the locking block to flip outward (away from the battery pack) under its own gravity to switch to the unlocked state. This allows the locking block to automatically switch to the unlocked state when the battery pack is not acting on it, without the need for an additional driving mechanism. The structure is simple and highly reliable.

[0030] Preferably, a torsion spring is provided on the flipping shaft, the torsion spring being used to drive the locking block to flip to the unlocked state when the locking block is not subjected to external force.

[0031] With the above structural design, the torsion spring acts on the locking block to drive the locking block to flip to the unlocked state when the battery pack does not act on the locking block, thereby achieving the purpose of automatic reset of the locking block. The structure is simple and reliable.

[0032] Preferably, an elastic element is provided at the bottom of the locking block, one end of which acts on the locking block in a vertical direction. The elastic element is used to drive the locking block to flip to the unlocked state when the locking block is not subjected to external force.

[0033] With the above-mentioned structure, the spring acts on the locking block to drive the locking block to flip to the unlocked state when the battery pack does not act on the locking block, thereby achieving the purpose of automatic reset of the locking block. The structure is simple and reliable.

[0034] Preferably, the locking mechanism further includes a locking tongue that is movable relative to the locking unit and approaches and abuts against the locking unit when the locking unit is in the locked state, so as to lock the locking unit in the locked state.

[0035] With the above structural design, the locking tongue abuts against the locking unit to maintain the locked state, preventing the locking unit from accidentally switching to the unlocked state due to unexpected factors, improving the reliability of locking the battery pack, and effectively adapting to scenarios such as bumpy vehicle driving.

[0036] Preferably, the latch includes a latch body and a limiting member. The latch body moves relative to the locking unit in a straight line and contacts the locking unit to lock the locking unit in a locked state. The limiting member is used to limit the travel of the latch body in the horizontal direction.

[0037] With the above structural design, the movement range of the latch body is limited by the limiting component. When the latch body moves toward the locking unit, it can prevent the latch body from getting too close to the locking unit, which could lead to the locking unit and the latch body getting stuck.

[0038] Preferably, the latch body has an abutment surface, which is an inclined surface.

[0039] With the above structural design, the locking tongue body restricts the locking unit by contacting it at an angle, forming a limiting method similar to a mortise and tenon connection, effectively preventing the locking unit from overcoming the limiting of the locking tongue body and switching to the unlocked state.

[0040] Preferably, the limiting member is connected to the latch body and located above the latch body. When the latch body moves toward the locking unit, the limiting member can contact the locking unit and restrict the displacement of the latch body.

[0041] With the above structural design, by placing the limiting member on the bolt body, the movement range of the bolt body is limited by the contact of the limiting member with the locking unit, resulting in a simple and reliable structure.

[0042] Preferably, the angle between the direction of the force transmitted by the locking unit to the bolt and the direction of movement of the bolt away from the locking unit is greater than or equal to 75°.

[0043] The above structural design provides a preferred structural configuration that prevents the locking unit from being restricted by the locking tongue when subjected to a large external force.

[0044] Preferably, the locking mechanism further includes a reset member, one end of which is connected to the latch and applies a force to the latch to move in the direction of the locking unit.

[0045] By setting up the above structure, the reset component applies a force to the locking tongue as it approaches the locking unit, which improves the reliability of locking and prevents unexpected factors from causing the locking unit to switch to the unlocked state.

[0046] Preferably, the reset element is a spring, one end of which is fixed to the bracket, and the other end of which is connected to the locking tongue.

[0047] With the above structural design, the force of the spring acting on the locking tongue drives the locking tongue to move towards the locking unit, thus preventing the battery pack from falling off the bracket due to accidental unlocking.

[0048] Preferably, the spring is detachably connected to the latch via a hook at its end.

[0049] The above structural design facilitates spring replacement and improves the maintainability of the entire locking mechanism.

[0050] Preferably, the locking mechanism further includes a push rod or lead screw and nut mechanism connected to the latch, the push rod or lead screw and nut mechanism being used to input external force to the latch to drive the latch to move away from the locking unit.

[0051] The above structural design provides a preferred structural solution, which uses a push rod or lead screw and nut mechanism to drive the locking tongue to move, resulting in high reliability.

[0052] Preferably, the locking block moves horizontally toward or away from the battery pack relative to the bracket.

[0053] With the above structural design, the movement trajectory of the locking block is simple, which facilitates structural design and maintenance, and can also improve the reliability of locking or unlocking the battery pack.

[0054] Preferably, the locking block achieves horizontal movement relative to the bracket by means of a push rod or a lead screw and nut mechanism, the bracket is provided with a horizontally extending guide rail, and the locking block is disposed on the guide rail.

[0055] The above structural design provides a preferred structural solution, which utilizes a push rod or lead screw nut mechanism to lock the block in a straight line, resulting in high reliability.

[0056] A bracket assembly comprising a bracket and a locking mechanism as described above.

[0057] The bracket assembly employs the aforementioned locking mechanism. After the battery pack enters the bracket, the locking mechanism engages with the matching part on the battery pack through the limiting part of its locking unit to switch to a locked state, fixing the position of the battery pack relative to the bracket and preventing the battery pack from leaving the bracket. This allows the bracket assembly to quickly fix the battery pack.

[0058] Preferably, the locking mechanism is disposed on the base plate of the bracket.

[0059] With the above structural design, the locking mechanism is set on the base plate of the bracket, so that the battery pack is directly connected and fixed to the base plate of the bracket through the locking mechanism. During vehicle operation, the inertial force of the battery pack acts directly on the base plate of the bracket, which can avoid structural damage caused by local stress.

[0060] Preferably, there are multiple locking mechanisms, and the locking units of the multiple locking mechanisms are distributed on both sides of the bracket along the width direction.

[0061] By adopting the above structural design, the number of locking mechanisms on the bracket is increased, improving the bracket assembly's ability to secure the battery pack. Distributing multiple locking mechanisms evenly across the bracket makes the connection between the bracket and the battery pack more reliable.

[0062] Preferably, the locking units of the plurality of locking mechanisms are disposed near the electrical connection plug of the bracket.

[0063] With the above-mentioned structural design, the battery pack is reliably fixed near the electrical connection plug by the locking mechanism, so that the electrical connection between the battery pack and the bracket is reliable and stable.

[0064] Preferably, the back plate of the bracket is fixed to the side surface of the chassis beam of the electric vehicle.

[0065] With the above structural design, the bracket is reliably connected to the electric vehicle, preventing deformation of the bracket during long-term use.

[0066] Preferably, the crossbeam of the bracket is fixed to the lower surface of the chassis beam of the electric vehicle.

[0067] With the above structural design, the bracket is reliably connected to the electric vehicle, preventing deformation of the bracket during long-term use.

[0068] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows:

[0069] In the locking mechanism and the bracket assembly containing it, after the battery pack enters the bracket, the limiting part of its locking unit engages with the matching part on the battery pack to switch to the locking state, fix the position of the battery pack relative to the bracket, limit the vertical swaying of the battery pack relative to the bracket, improve the safety of locking, and avoid locking failure. Attached Figure Description

[0070] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the bracket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention (I).

[0071] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of part A in the middle.

[0072] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the bracket assembly in use according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of part B in the middle section.

[0075] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the combination relationship between the bracket and the battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of part C in the middle.

[0077] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the state of the locking unit according to an embodiment of the present invention (I).

[0078] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram (II) of the state of the locking unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram (III) of the state of the locking unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram (four) of the state of the locking unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the bracket, fork, and battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the bracket and the fork in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 14 for Figure 13 A magnified view of part D in the middle.

[0084] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram (II) of the bracket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A magnified view of part E in the middle.

[0086] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a locking block according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the locking tongue according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 19 This is a schematic flowchart of a battery pack locking method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 20 This is a schematic flowchart of a battery pack unlocking method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0091] Bracket 10

[0092] Electrical connector plug mounting base 102

[0093] 103 crossbeam

[0094] Locking unit 1

[0095] Locking block 11

[0096] Limiting part 111

[0097] Bottom edge 112

[0098] Reception Department 113

[0099] Flip axis 114

[0100] Buffer structure 12

[0101] Locking tongue 2

[0102] Lock tongue body 21

[0103] Surface 211

[0104] Limiting component 22

[0105] Stop 23

[0106] Reset component 3

[0107] Transmission component 4

[0108] Battery pack 30

[0109] Matching unit 301

[0110] Forklift 40 Detailed Implementation

[0111] The present invention will be further illustrated by way of embodiments below, but the present invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0112] like Figure 1-5 As shown, the present invention provides a bracket assembly for installation on an electric vehicle, specifically including a bracket 10 and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is used to lock or unlock the battery pack 30 onto the bracket 10, and includes a plurality of locking units 1 distributed on the base plate of the bracket 10. These locking units 1 can switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. Specifically, each locking unit 1 has a limiting portion 111 (see...). Figure 2 The limiting part 111 is used to cooperate with the matching part 301 on the side of the battery pack 30 (see...). Figure 5 This achieves the purpose of locking and engaging, thereby restricting the battery pack 30 from moving vertically relative to the bracket 10, so that the battery pack 30 cannot detach from the bracket assembly vertically when the locking unit 1 is in the locked state.

[0113] The aforementioned locking mechanism can switch to a locked state after the battery pack 30 enters the bracket 10 by engaging the matching part 301 on the battery pack 30 with the limiting part 111 of the multiple locking units 1 provided on the bracket 10, thereby fixing the position of the battery pack 30 relative to the bracket 10, thus limiting the vertical sway of the battery pack 30 relative to the bracket 10, improving the safety of the locking and preventing locking failure.

[0114] Specifically, in this embodiment, there are six locking mechanisms. Two locking mechanisms are arranged on each side along the length of the bracket 10 to make the connection between the bracket 10 and the battery pack 30 more reliable. The remaining two locking mechanisms are located near the electrical connection plug of the bracket 10, such as... Figure 1 As shown, two locking mechanisms are distributed on the left and right sides of the electrical connector mounting base 102, that is, in the middle area of ​​the bracket. The locking mechanisms reliably fix the battery pack 30 in a position close to the electrical connector, so that the electrical connection between the battery pack 30 and the bracket 10 is reliable and stable.

[0115] In this embodiment, each locking mechanism is connected to the base plate of the bracket 10. By setting the locking mechanisms on the base plate of the bracket 10, the battery pack 30 is directly connected and fixed to the base plate of the bracket 10 through the locking mechanisms. During vehicle operation, the inertial force of the battery pack 30 acts directly on the base plate of the bracket 10, which can avoid structural damage caused by localized stress. In this embodiment, the bracket 10 has a base plate composed of intersecting horizontal beams 103. Of course, in other embodiments, the base plate of the bracket 10 can also be formed by steel plates or other sheet materials.

[0116] In this embodiment, a preferred structural implementation of the locking mechanism is provided, which makes the locking mechanism simple in structure, has few driving components, low maintenance difficulty, and reliable locking.

[0117] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the locking unit 1 includes a locking block 11 that can move relative to the bracket 10. Each locking unit 1 has a limiting part 111 for restricting the movement of the battery pack 30 formed on the side surface of the locking block 11. The locking block 11 restricts the upward displacement of the battery pack 30 by contacting the matching part 301 of the battery pack 30 with its limiting part 111.

[0118] Specifically, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when locking unit 1 is switched to... Figure 7 In the locked state shown, the limiting part 111 of the locking block 11 can restrict the battery pack 30 from disengaging from the bracket 10 in the vertical direction, so that the battery pack 30 maintains a reliable connection with the bracket 10.

[0119] like Figure 7 As shown, the limiting part 111 is a limiting groove, and correspondingly, the matching part 301 on the battery pack 30 is a limiting protrusion. The limiting groove and the limiting protrusion on the side of the battery pack 30 are engaged to achieve a firm connection and improve the fixing effect. Of course, in other embodiments, the limiting part 111 can also be a limiting protrusion, and correspondingly, the matching part 301 on the battery pack 30 can be a limiting groove.

[0120] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the limiting groove has three continuous planes: a beveled portion, a flat portion, and a beveled portion. These three angled surfaces are respectively fitted against the surface of the battery pack 30 to achieve fixation, abutting the mating portion from both above and below, forming a covering effect on the mating portion 301, thus improving the reliability of locking and limiting. In other embodiments, the shape of the limiting groove can also be V-shaped or U-shaped, etc., so that the two angled or opposite surfaces of the groove are fitted against the surface of the battery pack 30 to achieve fixation. Compared with other fixing methods, the above-mentioned groove structure configurations are more reliable in fixing effect, and can prevent the battery pack 30 from detaching from the bracket 10 in the vertical direction, especially during vehicle bumps, to prevent the battery pack 30 from falling off the bracket 10.

[0121] In this embodiment, as Figure 7-9 As shown, the opening angle of the limiting groove is 90° to ensure that the opening angle of the groove is within a reasonable range. In other embodiments, the opening angle of the limiting groove can be set between 90° and 150°. Specifically, by making the opening angle greater than 90°, it ensures that the groove smoothly fits the surface of the battery pack 30, while by making the opening angle less than 150°, it improves the firmness of the groove in fixing the battery pack 30.

[0122] like Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the bottom of the locking block 11 is used to contact the bracket 10. Therefore, the bottom edge 112 of the locking block 11 is set to be arc-shaped. By making the bottom edge 112 of the locking block 11 arc-shaped, during the process of the locking block 11 switching between the locked and unlocked states by movement, the bottom of the locking block 11 can be prevented from rubbing or scratching against the bracket 10, thus avoiding affecting the smoothness of the movement of the locking block 11. Furthermore, this structural arrangement can also improve the reliability and success rate of the locking block 11 switching between the locked and unlocked states.

[0123] In addition, such as Figure 7 and Figure 17 As shown, two abutment portions 113 are also formed at the bottom of the locking block 11. These two abutment portions 113 have two inclined surfaces set at an angle. By setting two inclined surfaces at an angle at the bottom of the locking block 11, and by having other components contact the inclined surfaces of the locking block 11, the locking block 11 is limited, so that the locking block 11 can move within the range of the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0124] Specifically, in this embodiment, a buffer structure 12 is provided on the surface of the bracket 10, and an abutment portion 113 (i.e., on the bottom of the locking block 11, near the side of the battery pack 30) is provided. Figure 7The abutment part 113 on the right side can make elastic contact with the buffer structure 12 when the locking block 11 is switched to the locked state, and the locking block 11 is buffered and supported by the compression deformation of the buffer structure 12. By setting the flexible buffer structure 12 to contact and limit the bottom of the locking block 11, the abnormal noise, part wear or structural damage caused by rigid collision during the limiting process of the locking block 11 can be avoided.

[0125] In this embodiment, the buffer structure 12 also acts as an elastic element to apply force to the locking block 11. Specifically, when the locking block 11 is in the locked state, the lower surface of the locking block 11 flexibly contacts the buffer structure 12 and compresses it, causing deformation. This allows the buffer structure 12 to generate a reaction force through its own compression, which acts on the locking block 11, enabling the locking block 11 to move towards the unlocked position without external force. Of course, in other embodiments, to achieve the goal of enabling the locking block 11 to move towards the unlocked position without external force, an additional elastic element can be provided on top of the buffer structure 12 to contact the lower surface of the locking block 11, allowing the locking block 11 to move towards the unlocked position without external force. Therefore, in other embodiments, these additional elastic elements, different from the buffer structure 12, can be structures such as coil springs to provide relatively high rebound force within a relatively small compression range.

[0126] Specifically, in this embodiment, the buffer structure 12 is a rubber pad, so that the buffer structure 12 also has the rebound function of an elastic element.

[0127] In this embodiment, as Figure 10As shown, the locking block 11 of the locking unit 1 is in the unlocked state at this time. When the battery pack 30 is placed on the bracket 10 from top to bottom, the matching part 301 on the side of the battery pack 30 contacts the limiting part 111 of the locking block 11, transmitting a downward force and driving the locking block 11 to switch to the locked state. This scheme of driving the locking block 11 to switch to the locked state utilizes the contact between the battery pack 30 and the locking block 11 to switch the locking block 11 to the locked state, and utilizes the force of the battery pack 30 placed on the bracket 10 to drive the locking block 11 to switch to the locked state. The locking process is simple and reliable. Furthermore, there is no need to set up an additional mechanism to drive the locking block 11 to switch to the locked state, making the structure of the entire locking mechanism simpler. Specifically, in order to facilitate the switching of the locking block 11 from the unlocked state to the locked state by the placement of the battery pack 30, the locking block 11 in this embodiment switches between the locked and unlocked states by performing a flipping motion. Meanwhile, the trajectory of the flipping motion is clearer and more defined, which can improve the reliability of the state switching of the locking block 11. Of course, in other embodiments, the locking block 11 can also switch between the locked and unlocked states by making linear movements or specifically by using horizontal movements.

[0128] In this embodiment, the locking block 11 is rotatably connected to the base plate of the bracket 10 via the flipping shaft 114, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the flipping shaft 114 is far away from the battery pack 30 relative to the limiting part 111. Therefore, when the battery pack 30 acts on the limiting part 111, it can drive the locking block 11 to flip relative to the bracket 10, so that the locking block 11 switches to the locking state.

[0129] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the center of gravity of the locking block 11 is further away from the battery pack 30 relative to the flip axis 114, and the center of gravity of the locking block 11 is higher than that of the flip axis 114. Through the above structural arrangement, without external force, the locking block 11 can be flipped outwards (i.e., away from the battery pack 30) under its own gravity to switch to the unlocked state. Specifically, as follows... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, if in Figure 8 In this state, when the battery pack 30 is lifted relative to the bracket 10 and moves away from the bracket, the locking block 11 can move along its own weight. Figure 9 The middle arrow points outwards, automatically switching to the unlocked state, ready for the battery pack 30 to be inserted again. This structural design allows the locking block 11 to automatically switch to the unlocked state when the battery pack 30 is not in action, without the need for an additional driving mechanism, resulting in a simple and highly reliable structure.

[0130] Of course, in other embodiments, other structural arrangements can also be used to enable the locking block 11 to automatically switch to the unlocked state when the battery pack 30 is removed from the bracket 10. For example, a torsion spring can be provided on the flip shaft 114, and the torsion spring acts on the locking block 11, causing the locking block 11 to flip to the unlocked state when no external force is applied. These structural arrangements can also achieve the purpose of automatic reset of the locking block 11, and can also make the structure of the bracket assembly simple and reliable.

[0131] In this embodiment, in addition to the role of the center of gravity of the flipping shaft 114, the buffer structure 12 also helps the locking block 11 switch from the locked state to the unlocked state, as specifically as follows: Figure 7 As shown, when the locking block 11 is in the locked state, the bottom edge 112 of the locking block 11 and one of the abutment portions 113 of the locking block 11 are pressed against the surface of the buffer structure 12. At this time, the buffer structure 12 is compressed and generates a force on the locking block 11. When the battery is removed, the force exerted by the buffer structure 12 on the locking block 11 can help the locking block 11 switch to the unlocked state. In other embodiments, other elastic parts such as springs can act on the locking block 11 to apply a force to the locking block 11 when it is in the locked state, causing the locking block 11 to quickly switch to the unlocked state without being affected by the gravity of the battery pack 30.

[0132] like Figure 7 As shown, the locking mechanism in this embodiment also includes a locking tongue 2, which can move relative to the locking block 11 of the locking unit 1, and when the locking block 11 is in the locked state, it approaches and abuts against another abutment part 113 of the locking block 11 (i.e., Figure 7 The locking block 11 of the locking unit 1 is locked in the locked state by the abutment part 113 located on the left side. With the above structure, the locking tongue 2 maintains the locked state by abutting against the locking unit 1, avoiding the locking block 11 from accidentally switching to the unlocked state due to unexpected factors, improving the reliability of locking the battery pack 30, and effectively adapting to scenarios such as bumpy driving.

[0133] Specifically, in this embodiment, the latch 2 includes a latch body 21 and a limiting member 22. The latch body 21 moves back and forth in a horizontal straight direction relative to the locking block 11 and contacts the abutment portion 113 of the locking block 11 to lock the locking block 11 in a locked state. The limiting member 22 is disposed on the top of the latch body 21 and is used to limit the travel of the latch body 21 in the horizontal direction. By using the limiting member 22 to limit the range of movement of the latch body 21, that is, to limit the travel of the latch body 21 toward the locking block 11, it is possible to avoid the latch body 21 getting too close to the locking block 11, which could cause the locking block 11 to jam with the latch body 21.

[0134] like Figure 18 As shown, an abutment surface 211 is formed on the surface of the latch body 21 facing the locking block 11. The abutment surface 211 is an inclined surface, used to keep it in contact with the locking block 11 when it is in the locked state. By restricting the displacement of the locking block 11 by the inclined contact of the latch body 21, a limiting method similar to a tenon and mortise connection is formed, which effectively prevents the locking unit 1 from overcoming the limiting of the latch body 21 and switching to the unlocked state.

[0135] Specifically, such as Figure 7 As shown, after the latch body 21 abuts against the locking block 11, the abutting direction of the latch body 21 relative to the locking block 11 is perpendicular to the abutting surface 211.

[0136] In this embodiment, as Figure 7 As shown, the angle between the direction X of the force transmitted from the locking block 11 to the latch body 21 and the direction Y of the movement of the latch body 21 away from the locking block 11 is about 80°. At this time, the force transmitted from the locking block 11 to the latch body 21 will generate a large frictional force, which will prevent the latch body 21 from moving away from the locking block 11. As a result, when the locking unit 1 is subjected to a large external force, it is impossible to release the lock tongue 2 from the restriction of the locking unit 1 by transmitting the external force to the latch 2.

[0137] In other embodiments, the angle between the direction X of the force transmitted by the locking block 11 to the latch body 21 and the direction Y of the movement of the latch body 21 away from the locking block 11 can be set to 75° or more.

[0138] like Figure 2 and Figure 11 As shown, the locking mechanism also includes a reset member 3. One end of the reset member 3 is connected to the latch body 21 and applies a force to the latch body 21 in a direction closer to the locking block 11. By setting the reset member 3 to apply a force to the latch body 21 towards the locking unit 1, the reliability of locking is improved, and the locking unit is prevented from switching to the unlocked state due to unexpected factors. Specifically, in this embodiment, the reset member 3 is a spring. One end of the spring is fixed to the bracket of the bracket 10, and the other end of the spring is connected to the latch 2, so as to drive the latch body 21 to move horizontally and reset, maintaining the locking block 11 in the locked state. Figure 2 As can be seen, in this embodiment, the spring is detachably connected to the locking tongue 2 via the hook at the end. This structural design facilitates the replacement of the spring and improves the maintainability of the entire locking mechanism.

[0139] In addition, if the battery pack 30 is to be removed from the bracket 10, or if the battery pack 30 is to be placed on the bracket 10, the bolt body 21 must first be moved away from the locking block 11 before the locking block 11 can be switched to the unlocked state due to gravity, spring force and other factors.

[0140] Therefore, the locking tongue body 21 in this embodiment can move away from the locking block 11 under the drive of external force, so as to achieve the purpose of controllable unlocking by utilizing the action of external force.

[0141] In other embodiments, a mechanism such as a cylinder, push rod, or lead screw nut can be provided and connected to the latch body 21 to input the aforementioned external force to the latch 2, so that the locking block 11 can switch to the unlocked state.

[0142] In this embodiment, a relatively simple and more automated linkage mechanism is provided, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the fork 40 for transporting the battery pack 30 moves downward relative to the bracket 10, placing the battery pack 30 on the bracket 10. In this embodiment, the fork 40 for transporting the battery pack 30 generates an external force to move the locking tongue body 21. During the process of transporting the battery pack 30, the locking block 11 can be switched to the unlocked state, allowing the action of transporting the battery pack 30 to be carried out smoothly.

[0143] Specifically, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the locking mechanism also includes a transmission component 4 connected to the locking tongue 2. The transmission component 4 is used to transmit the external force generated by the forks 40 to the locking tongue 2, driving the locking tongue body 21 to move horizontally. The structure of the transmission component 4 is as follows: Figure 13-16 As shown, in this embodiment, the transmission component 4 contacts the front end 40b and side end 40a of the fork 40. The movement of the transmission component 4 is driven by the placement action of the fork 40, which in turn drives the locking tongue body 21 of the locking tongue 2 to move. By using the force generated by the contact with the front end and side end of the fork 40 to drive the locking tongue 2 to move, the structure is simple and reliable, and the switching of the unlocking state can match the action of the fork 40 to pick up and put down the battery pack 30.

[0144] To prevent the forks 40 from causing the locking tongue 2 to move excessively, such as Figure 8 As shown, a stop 23 can be provided on the rear side of the latch body 21 to limit the latch body 21, that is, to limit the travel of the latch body away from the battery pack.

[0145] Specifically, such as Figure 14As shown, in this embodiment, the two sets of locking units 1 are distributed on the side of the bracket 10. The transmission members 4 corresponding to these locking units 1 drive the locking tongue body 21 to move by contacting the side end 40a of the fork 40. Specifically, when the fork 40 moves downward or forward, the side end 40a of the fork 40 touches the end of the transmission member 4 and drives the transmission member 4 towards... Figure 14 The movement in the direction indicated by the middle arrow causes the locking tongue body 21 to move synchronously, thereby unlocking the locking block 11. This allows the locking block 11 to switch to the unlocked state under its own weight or elastic force. To further facilitate the movement of the transmission component, a protrusion with a guide slope can be provided on the side end of the fork. During the forward extension of the fork, the protrusion acts on the transmission component, causing it to move along the guide slope and move the locking tongue body away from the locking block.

[0146] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, in this embodiment, the two sets of locking units 1 are also distributed at the rear of the bracket 10. The transmission members 4 corresponding to these locking units 1 drive the locking tongue body 21 to move by contacting the front end 40b of the fork 40. Specifically, when the fork 40 moves downward or forward, the front end 40b of the fork 40 touches the end of the transmission member 4 and drives the transmission member 4 towards... Figure 16 The movement in the direction indicated by the middle arrow causes the locking tongue body 21 to move synchronously and unlock the locking block 11, so that the locking block 11 switches to the unlocked state under its own gravity or elastic force.

[0147] from Figure 14 and Figure 16 As can be seen from the figure, in this embodiment, the moving direction of the transmission component 4 and the locking tongue body 21 corresponding to the front end 40b or side end 40a of the fork 40 is consistent with the pushing direction of the fork 40 against the transmission component 4, and both are horizontal movements. This makes the direction in which the transmission component 4 drives the locking tongue 2 to move consistent with the direction in which the fork 40 extends or retracts horizontally, so as to simplify the structure of the transmission component 4 and facilitate production and maintenance.

[0148] This embodiment also provides a locking method for the battery pack 30, such as... Figure 19 As shown, the locking method of the battery pack 30 uses the aforementioned locking mechanism to lock the battery pack 30. The locking method of the battery pack 30 specifically includes the following steps:

[0149] S11, Control the battery pack 30 transport mechanism to transport the battery pack 30 above the bracket 10 (see...) Figure 12 ).

[0150] S12. Control the battery pack 30 transport mechanism to place the battery pack 30 on the bracket 10, so that the locking unit 1 of the locking mechanism switches to the locking state.

[0151] S13. The control locking unit locks the locking unit 1 in the locked state (see...). Figure 7 ).

[0152] The locking method of the battery pack 30, when the battery pack 30 is placed on the bracket 10, achieves reliable locking of the battery pack 30 by switching the locking unit 1 of the locking mechanism to the locking state, which restricts the vertical swaying of the battery pack 30 relative to the bracket 10, improves the safety of locking, and avoids locking failure.

[0153] Specifically, in the specific implementation of this embodiment, the locking unit is the locking tongue 2, which is specifically the locking tongue body 21. The locking tongue body 21 unlocks and locks the locking block 11 of the locking mechanism through the fork 40 of the transport mechanism of the battery pack 30.

[0154] Specifically, step S12 further includes: the battery pack 30 applying its own weight to the locking unit 1, causing the locking unit 1 to switch to a locked state (see...). Figure 10 and Figure 11 ).

[0155] By setting the above process steps, the locking unit is switched to the locked state by the gravity of the battery pack 30 during the placement process relative to the bracket 10, thereby achieving the purpose of self-locking and making the locking process of the battery pack 30 simpler and more reliable.

[0156] In addition, this embodiment also provides a method for unlocking the battery pack 30, such as... Figure 20 As shown, the unlocking method of the battery pack 30 uses the aforementioned locking mechanism to unlock the battery pack 30. The locking method of the battery pack 30 specifically includes the following steps:

[0157] S21, Control the locking tongue 2 to release the locking unit 1 of the locking mechanism (see...) Figure 8 ).

[0158] S22, The control battery pack 30 transport mechanism lifts the battery pack 30 relative to the bracket 10, causing the locking unit 1 to switch to the unlocked state. (See...) Figure 9 )

[0159] S23, Control the battery pack 30 transport mechanism to remove the battery pack 30 from above the bracket 10.

[0160] This method of unlocking the battery pack 30 involves switching the locking unit 1 of the locking mechanism to the unlocked state before removing the battery pack 30 from the bracket 10. This allows the battery pack 30 to be removed from the bracket 10. The structure is simple and reliable, reducing the difficulty of removing the battery pack 30 from the bracket 10.

[0161] Specifically, in step S22 of the above-mentioned unlocking method for battery pack 30, the battery pack 30 is unlocked by releasing the gravity applied to the locking unit 1. By utilizing the gravity released during the lifting process of the battery pack 30 relative to the bracket 10, the locking unit is driven to switch to the unlocked state, thereby achieving the purpose of self-locking. This makes the locking process of the battery pack 30 simpler and more reliable, with a high degree of automation in unlocking, and eliminates the need for additional drive structures.

[0162] Furthermore, such as Figure 14 As shown, in step S21 of the above-described unlocking method for the battery pack 30, the forks 40 of the battery pack 30 transport mechanism drive the locking tongue 2 to move away from the locking unit 1 to release the locking of the locking unit 1. By using the battery pack 30 transport mechanism to drive the locking tongue 2 to move, the locking unit can be switched to the unlocked state, resulting in a high degree of automation in unlocking without the need for an additional drive structure.

[0163] This embodiment also provides an electric vehicle that uses the aforementioned bracket assembly. Specifically, the crossbeam 103 of the bracket 10 is fixed to the lower surface of the chassis beam (not shown in the figure) of the electric vehicle. With this structural arrangement, the bracket 10 is reliably connected to the electric vehicle, preventing deformation of the bracket 10 during long-term use. Of course, in other embodiments, if the bracket 10 also has a back plate, the back plate of the bracket 10 can be fixed to the side surface of the chassis beam of the electric vehicle to further enhance the tightness of the connection between the bracket 10 and the electric vehicle chassis.

[0164] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A locking mechanism for locking or unlocking a battery pack onto a bracket of an electric vehicle, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes a locking unit disposed on the bracket; The locking unit can switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking unit has a limiting part, which is used to cooperate with a matching part on the battery pack to limit the movement of the battery pack relative to the bracket in the vertical direction. The locking unit includes a locking block, and the limiting part is formed on the locking block. The locking block contacts the side of the matching part of the battery pack through the limiting part. When the locking unit switches to the locking state, the limiting part of the locking block is used to restrict the battery pack from disengaging from the bracket in the vertical direction; The locking block is rotatably connected to the bracket via a flip shaft. The flip shaft is away from the battery pack relative to the limiting part. The center of gravity of the locking block is away from the battery pack relative to the flip shaft, and the center of gravity of the locking block is higher than the flip shaft. The locking mechanism further includes a locking tongue, which is movable relative to the locking unit and approaches and abuts against the locking unit when the locking unit is in the locked state, so as to lock the locking unit in the locked state.

2. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting part is a limiting groove; The limiting groove has a beveled portion, a flat portion, and a beveled portion arranged in sequence. And / or, the opening angle of the limiting groove is in the range of 90° to 150°.

3. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom edge of the locking block is curved; And / or, the bottom of the locking block also has an abutment portion, which has two beveled surfaces set at an angle.

4. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The locking unit also includes a buffer structure disposed on the bracket and located below the locking block. The buffer structure contacts the locking block when the locking block is switched to the locking state to buffer and support the locking block.

5. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, A torsion spring is provided on the flipping shaft, which is used to drive the locking block to flip to the unlocked state when the locking block is not subjected to external force.

6. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, An elastic element is also provided at the bottom of the locking block. One end of the elastic element acts on the locking block in a vertical direction. The elastic element is used to drive the locking block to flip to the unlocked state when the locking block is not subjected to external force.

7. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The latch includes a latch body and a limiting member. The latch body moves relative to the locking unit in a straight line and contacts the locking unit to lock the locking unit in a locked state. The limiting member is used to limit the travel of the latch body in the horizontal direction.

8. The locking mechanism as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The limiting member is connected to the latch body and located above the latch body. When the latch body moves toward the locking unit, the limiting member can contact the locking unit and restrict the displacement of the latch body.

9. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The angle between the direction of the force transmitted by the locking unit to the bolt and the direction of movement of the bolt away from the locking unit is greater than or equal to 75°.

10. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism further includes a reset member, one end of which is connected to the latch and applies a force to the latch to move in the direction of the locking unit.

11. The locking mechanism as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The reset element is a spring, one end of which is fixed to the bracket, and the other end of which is connected to the locking tongue.

12. The locking mechanism as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The spring is detachably connected to the latch via a hook at its end.

13. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism further includes a push rod or lead screw and nut mechanism connected to the locking tongue, the push rod or lead screw and nut mechanism being used to input external force to the locking tongue to drive the locking tongue to move away from the locking unit.

14. The locking mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The locking block moves horizontally toward or away from the battery pack relative to the bracket.

15. The locking mechanism as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The locking block achieves horizontal movement relative to the bracket by connecting a push rod or a lead screw and nut mechanism. The bracket is provided with a horizontally extending guide rail, and the locking block is disposed on the guide rail.

16. A bracket assembly, characterized in that, It includes a bracket and a locking mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-15.

17. The bracket assembly as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The locking mechanism is disposed on the base plate of the bracket.

18. The bracket assembly as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The number of locking mechanisms is multiple, and the locking units of the multiple locking mechanisms are distributed on both sides of the bracket along the width direction.

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