Maintenance switch, maintenance switch control method, and storage medium

Abstract

This application provides a maintenance switch, a maintenance switch control method, and a storage medium. The maintenance switch includes: an upper housing with a first high-voltage terminal; a lower housing detachably connected to the upper housing, the lower housing including a second high-voltage terminal for electrical connection with the first high-voltage terminal; a first locking element for locking the upper and lower housings; an identity information input device for receiving and verifying the identity information input by the operator; and a controller for controlling the unlocking of the first locking element of the maintenance switch in response to the operator's first identity verification information being passed and the high-voltage system of the equipment to be maintained being in a non-operating state, so that the upper and lower housings can be separated. With the solution of this application, only authorized operators can unlock or lock the maintenance switch during maintenance, preventing unauthorized personnel from operating the maintenance switch and thus avoiding safety accidents such as electric shock to the operator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of control method technology, and more specifically to a maintenance switch, a maintenance switch control method, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] New energy vehicles use power batteries as their power source, and are equipped with high-voltage systems. Therefore, high-voltage safety issues must be considered during maintenance. New energy vehicles are equipped with high-voltage maintenance switches, which can be manually turned off during maintenance to disconnect the high-voltage system and ensure the safety of maintenance personnel. However, in related technologies, if the high-voltage maintenance switch is accidentally closed by maintenance personnel during maintenance, it could potentially cause electric shock or other safety accidents. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application is made in order to address the aforementioned problems.

[0004] According to one aspect of this application, a maintenance switch is provided, the maintenance switch comprising:

[0005] The upper housing includes the first high-voltage terminal;

[0006] The lower housing is detachably connected to the upper housing, and the lower housing includes a second high-voltage terminal for electrical connection with the first high-voltage terminal;

[0007] The first locking element is used to lock the upper housing and the lower housing;

[0008] An identity information input device is used to receive and verify the identity information input by the operator.

[0009] The controller is configured to, in response to the operator's first authentication information being passed and the high-voltage system of the equipment to be repaired being in a non-operating state, control the first locking element of the unlocking maintenance switch to allow the upper housing and the lower housing to be separated.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, the maintenance switch further includes: a cover structure disposed in the lower housing for covering or opening the second high-voltage terminal;

[0011] The controller is also used to control the sealing structure to seal the second high-voltage terminal after the upper housing and the lower housing are separated.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the controller is further configured to, in response to the operator's second authentication information, control the cover structure to open the second high-voltage terminal, thereby connecting the upper housing to the lower housing, and

[0013] After the upper housing is connected to the lower housing, the first locking member is controlled to lock the upper housing and the lower housing.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, the maintenance switch includes a memory for storing the identity information.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the first locking member includes a protruding structure located on the upper housing and a locking tongue located on the lower housing. The protruding structure is provided with a locking hole. When the upper housing and the lower housing are closed, the protruding structure extends into the lower housing, and the locking tongue extends into the locking hole of the protruding structure. When the locking tongue extends out of the locking hole, the upper housing and the lower housing can be separated.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the maintenance switch further includes a first motor;

[0017] The controller is also configured to, in response to the first identity verification information of the operator being passed, control the first motor to start, the first motor to drive the locking tongue to rotate, the locking tongue to rotate out of the first locking member, so that the upper box and the lower box can be separated; the controller is also configured to, in response to the second identity verification information of the operator being passed again, control the first motor to drive the locking tongue to insert into the locking hole, so that the upper box is locked onto the lower box.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the sealing structure further includes a cover plate and a second motor;

[0019] The second motor is used to drive the cover plate to slide to the first position or the second position;

[0020] The cover plate is located in the lower housing and has a through hole. When the cover plate is in the first position, the first high-voltage terminal passes through the through hole and is connected to the second high-voltage terminal. When the cover plate is in the second position, the second high-voltage terminal is covered by the cover plate.

[0021] The controller is also used to control the start of the second motor so that the second motor drives the cover plate to slide to the first position or the second position.

[0022] In one embodiment of this application, the maintenance switch further includes a second locking element, which is used to detect whether the upper housing and the lower housing are closed;

[0023] The second locking element includes a pin and a connector. The pin is fixed to the upper housing and extends out of the upper housing towards the surface of the lower housing. The connector is located in the lower housing. When the pin is inserted into the connector, the second locking element generates an interlock signal. When the pin is separated from the connector, the interlock signal of the second locking element is disconnected.

[0024] In one embodiment of this application, the authentication information includes at least one of the following: password, fingerprint, iris scan, and voiceprint.

[0025] In one embodiment of this application, the maintenance switch further includes an indicator light, which is used to indicate to the operator whether the switch to be maintained is currently in an openable or closed state.

[0026] According to another aspect of this application, a maintenance switch control method is provided. The maintenance switch includes an upper housing, a lower housing, and a first locking member. The upper housing includes a first high-voltage terminal, and the lower housing includes a second high-voltage terminal for electrical connection with the first high-voltage terminal. The first locking member is used to lock the upper housing and the lower housing. The method includes:

[0027] In response to the operator's first identity verification information being passed and the high-voltage system of the equipment to be repaired being in a non-working state, the first locking element is unlocked to allow the upper housing and the lower housing to be separated.

[0028] In response to the operator's second identity verification information being passed, the first locking element is controlled to lock the upper housing and the lower housing.

[0029] In one embodiment of this application, the maintenance switch includes a cover structure, the cover structure including a cover plate for covering or opening the second high-voltage terminal;

[0030] After controlling the unlocking of the first locking element, the method further includes;

[0031] The cover plate of the sealing structure is controlled to slide to a first position so that the cover plate seals the second high-voltage terminal.

[0032] In one embodiment of this application, before controlling the locking of the first locking member, the method further includes:

[0033] The cover plate of the sealing structure is controlled to slide to a second position so that the cover plate opens the second high-voltage terminal.

[0034] In one embodiment of this application, before controlling the unlocking of the first locking member, the method further includes:

[0035] The interlock signal is checked for validity; wherein the validity of the interlock signal indicates that the maintenance switch is closed.

[0036] In one embodiment of this application, before controlling the unlocking of the first locking member, the method further includes:

[0037] When the interlock signal is valid, it is detected whether the high-voltage system is in working condition.

[0038] In one embodiment of this application, after detecting whether the high-voltage system is in operation, the method further includes:

[0039] When the high-voltage system is in operation, control the high-voltage system to stop working in order to disconnect the high-voltage circuit.

[0040] In one embodiment of this application, before disconnecting the high-voltage circuit, the method further includes:

[0041] Detect whether the equipment to be repaired is in a working state; and

[0042] When the equipment to be repaired is in working condition, control the equipment to be repaired to stop working.

[0043] In one embodiment of this application, verifying the operator's first authentication information includes:

[0044] Obtain the first identity verification information of the operator collected by the data entry device;

[0045] The first authentication information is compared with the pre-entered third authentication information. When the first authentication information matches the third authentication information, the first authentication is successful.

[0046] In one embodiment of this application, verifying the operator's second authentication information includes:

[0047] Obtain the second identity verification information collected by the data entry device;

[0048] The second authentication information is compared with the pre-entered third authentication information. When the second authentication information matches the third authentication information, the second authentication is successful.

[0049] In one embodiment of this application, the equipment to be repaired includes a vehicle;

[0050] Detecting whether the equipment to be repaired is in a working state includes:

[0051] The system detects whether the current speed of the vehicle is 0. If the current speed is 0, the system determines that the vehicle is in a non-operating state.

[0052] In one embodiment of this application, the first authentication information, the second authentication information, and the third authentication information each include at least one of the following: password, fingerprint, iris scan, and voiceprint.

[0053] According to another aspect of this application, a storage medium is provided, on which a computer program is stored, which, when run by a controller, causes the controller to perform the above-described maintenance switch control method.

[0054] According to the maintenance switch, maintenance switch control method and storage medium of this application, during the maintenance process, it is necessary to verify the identity of the operator. Only after the identity verification is passed can the operator obtain the authority to unlock or lock the maintenance switch. This can prevent people other than the operator from operating the maintenance switch and causing the operator to suffer safety accidents such as electric shock. Attached Figure Description

[0055] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the more detailed description of the embodiments of this application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided to further illustrate the embodiments of this application and form part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of this application to explain this application and do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings, unless otherwise specified, the same reference numerals generally represent the same components or steps.

[0056] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the structure of the maintenance switch in the high-voltage system operating state under the first locking member locking state according to an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 2 This diagram shows a structural schematic of the maintenance switch in the high-voltage system operating state under the first locking member locked state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the structure of the maintenance switch in the state where the first locking element is unlocked and the upper and lower housings are separated, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the cover plate in the self-locking and unlocking state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the second position of the cover plate in the self-locking state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 6 A schematic block diagram of the control system according to an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0062] Figure 7A schematic flowchart illustrating a maintenance switch control method according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0063] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application more apparent, exemplary embodiments according to this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that this application is not limited to the described exemplary embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application described herein, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0064] In new energy vehicles, the structural diagram of the high-voltage system 100 is as follows: Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the high-voltage system 100 includes at least one maintenance switch 200, a high-voltage contactor 101, and a battery pack 102.

[0065] In one example, the maintenance switch 200 includes a positive maintenance switch and a negative maintenance switch, which are identical except for their positions in the circuit. This example is for illustrative purposes only; in other examples, the high-voltage system may be connected to one or more maintenance switches.

[0066] The first terminal of the positive maintenance switch is connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage power supply, the second terminal of the positive maintenance switch is connected to the first terminal of the high-voltage contactor 101, the second terminal of the high-voltage contactor 101 is connected to the positive terminal of the battery pack 102, the negative terminal of the battery pack 102 is connected to the first terminal of the negative maintenance switch, and the second terminal of the negative maintenance switch is connected to the negative terminal of the high-voltage power supply.

[0067] When the high-voltage contactor 101 is closed, the battery pack 102, the maintenance switch 200, and the load (not shown) form a high-voltage circuit. The battery pack 102 supplies power to the on-board equipment, and the load equipment is energized. To perform maintenance operations on the load equipment, the high-voltage contactor must be disconnected to break the high-voltage circuit.

[0068] However, if other personnel accidentally turn on the high-voltage switch during equipment maintenance, putting the equipment under maintenance in a powered-on state, it could lead to electric shock and personal injury to the maintenance personnel. Furthermore, the high-voltage switch lacks status indicators for maintenance personnel or other relevant personnel, leaving them unaware of its actual status during operation.

[0069] In order to solve at least one of the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a maintenance switch 200, which on the one hand solves the danger of power-on caused by misoperation by personnel other than maintenance personnel, and on the other hand provides status indication of the switch for operators and other personnel.

[0070] The following describes in detail the maintenance switch scheme according to embodiments of this application with reference to the accompanying drawings. Without conflict, the features of the various embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0071] Figure 2 and Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a maintenance switch according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the upper and lower boxes in their closed state. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the separation of the upper and lower boxes.

[0072] like Figure 2 As shown, the maintenance switch 200 includes: an upper housing 201, a lower housing 202, a memory 203, a controller 204, and an identity information entry device 2023.

[0073] The upper housing 201 includes an upper housing body 2012, a first high-voltage terminal 2011, a first locking member 2027 and a second locking member 2029.

[0074] In this embodiment, the first high-voltage terminal 2011 and the first locking member 2027 are both fixed and protrude from the side of the upper housing 201 facing the lower housing 202. The top of the upper housing body 2012 has a handle that is fixed to or integrally formed with the upper housing body 2012, which is used to facilitate the operator to separate the upper housing 201 from the lower housing 202 after the high-voltage switch is unlocked.

[0075] The lower housing 202 includes an input device 2023 for receiving and verifying the identity information input by the operator, a second high-voltage terminal 2021 corresponding to the position of the first high-voltage terminal 2011, a control motor, a locking tongue, and a controller.

[0076] The identity information entry device 2023 is used to collect the input information of the operator and determine whether the operator has the right to operate.

[0077] In one implementation, the collection, storage, and verification of operator identity information are integrated into a single device. Specifically, the identity information input device 2023 includes a memory for storing operator identity verification information, an input device for receiving first operator identity verification information, and a processor for comparing the received first operator input information with the operator identity verification information stored in the memory to verify whether the received first operator identity information matches the stored operator identity verification information.

[0078] In another implementation, the collection, storage, and verification of the operator's identity information are handled by separate devices. That is, the identity information entry device 2023 includes a separately configured memory, input device, and processor. Of course, in other implementations, the above devices can be arbitrarily integrated and combined, and this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0079] The controller controls the first motor 2026 (e.g., based on the opening and closing states of the first high-voltage terminal 2011 and the second high-voltage terminal 2021) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The circuit is activated (as shown in M1) to lock the first locking element 2027. Once the first high-voltage terminal 2011 and the second high-voltage terminal 2021 are disconnected, it is determined that the high-voltage line has been cut off.

[0080] In this embodiment, in response to successful operator authentication, the controller starts the first motor 2026, which drives the locking tongue to rotate. The locking tongue rotates out the first locking member 2027, thereby unlocking the upper and lower housings. The operator can then separate the upper and lower housings. Specifically, the first locking member 2027 of the upper housing 201 protrudes and is housed in the lower housing. The protruding structure is provided with a locking hole. When the first locking member 2027 is controlled to perform a locking operation, the protruding structure extends into the lower housing, the first motor 2026 drives the locking tongue 2022 to insert into the locking hole, and the upper housing 201 is locked onto the lower housing 202, preventing the upper housing 201 from moving away from the lower housing 202. When the first locking member 2027 is controlled to perform the unlocking operation, the first motor 2026 drives the locking tongue 2022 to exit the locking hole, and the upper box 201 can be moved away from the lower box 202 by the operator using external force, thereby realizing the separation of the upper and lower boxes.

[0081] Of course, the above-described method of unlocking and locking the upper and lower housings by providing a receiving space for the bolt in the first locking member 2027 is merely an illustrative example. Furthermore, the positions of the locking member and the bolt are not limited to being located separately in the upper and lower housings. It should be understood that other methods of unlocking and locking the upper and lower housings also fall within the scope of this application; this application does not employ an exhaustive approach.

[0082] The maintenance switch 200 also includes: a cover structure disposed on the lower housing 202 for covering or opening the second high-voltage terminal 2021; the controller 204 is also used to control the cover structure to cover the second high-voltage terminal 2021 after the upper housing 201 and the lower housing 202 are separated.

[0083] The controller 204 is also configured to, in response to the operator’s second authentication information, open the second high-voltage terminal 2021 by controlling the cover structure to connect the upper housing 201 to the lower housing 202, and, after the upper housing 201 is connected to the lower housing 202, control the first locking member 2027 to lock the upper housing 201 and the lower housing 202.

[0084] The sealing structure includes a cover plate 2024 and a second motor 2025 (e.g., Figure 2 and Figure 3 (As shown in M2). The second motor 2025 controls the opening and closing of the cover plate 2024, driving the cover plate 2024 to slide to a first position or a second position. The cover plate 2024 is used to cover or open the second high-voltage terminal 2021 to allow or block the connection between the first high-voltage terminal 2011 and the second high-voltage terminal 2021. The controller 204 is also used to control the start of the second motor 2025 so that the second motor 2025 controls the cover plate 2024 to slide in the plane between the upper and lower housings, so that the cover plate 2024 slides to the first position or the second position to allow or block the connection between the first high-voltage terminal 2011 and the second high-voltage terminal 2021.

[0085] The lower housing 202 detects the insertion and separation of the second locking member 2029. When the second locking member 2029 moves away from the lower housing, it is determined that the upper housing 201 moves away from the lower housing 202, and the controller 204 controls the start of the second motor 2025, thereby driving the cover plate 2024 to slide.

[0086] In a specific example, the second locking element 2029 includes pins and a connector. The pins are fixed to the upper housing and extend from the surface of the upper housing towards the lower housing. The connector is located in the lower housing 202. When the pins are inserted into the connector, the second locking element 2029 generates an interlock signal. When the pins are separated from the connector, the interlock signal of the second locking element 2029 is released. The controller 204 can determine whether the upper and lower housings are separated based on the interlock signal.

[0087] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram illustrates two states of sliding of the cover plate 2024. The cover plate 2024 in the diagram includes a through hole 205. When the cover plate 2024 is in a first preset position (e.g....), Figure 4 The first high-voltage terminal can extend through the through hole 205 and connect to the second high-voltage terminal 2021. At this time, the upper and lower housings are not separated. When the cover plate 2024 is controlled to slide to the second preset position (e.g., Figure 5The through hole 205 of the cover plate 2024 is misaligned with the insertion position of the first high-voltage terminal 2011, blocking the insertion of the first high-voltage terminal 2011 and thus preventing the connection between the first high-voltage terminal 2011 and the second high-voltage terminal 2021. This prevents personnel other than maintenance personnel from accidentally turning on the high-voltage switch and causing a safety accident.

[0088] In one implementation, the cover plate 2024 may also include a locking pin 206, which, when locked, prevents the cover plate 2024 from sliding, thus placing the maintenance switch 200 in a stable state. The locking pin 206 is controlled by a second motor 2025. When the locking pin 206 is unlocked, the cover plate 2024 can slide back and forth to switch the cover plate 2024 closed or open.

[0089] In another implementation, the lower housing 202, at the location where the second locking member 2029 is housed, is equipped with a detection device to detect the insertion and retraction of the second locking member 2029, thereby detecting whether the upper and lower housings are separated. When it is determined that the second locking member 2029 is detected as retracting from the lower housing, that is, the upper housing 201 is detected as retracting from the lower housing 202, the detection device transmits a signal indicating that the second locking member 2029 is retracting from the lower housing to the controller. In response to the confirmation of the retraction signal, the controller starts the second motor 2025.

[0090] In addition, a high-voltage connector 2028 is provided at the lower end of the second high-voltage terminal 2021, which is used to connect the load.

[0091] Additionally, according to embodiments of this application, a maintenance switch control system 600 is also provided. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the maintenance switch control system 600 includes, as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 3 The maintenance switch 200 shown includes a controller 204, a memory 203, an input device 2023, a first motor 2026, a first locking element 2027, a vehicle speed collector 601, and a high-voltage contactor. The system 600 also includes a vehicle speed collector 601 and a high-voltage contactor 101. The controller is used to receive the vehicle speed collected by the vehicle speed collector 601. When the vehicle speed is 0 and the high-voltage contactor 101 is open, it controls the unlocking or locking of the first locking element 2027 of the maintenance switch 200.

[0092] In one example, the maintenance switch 200 also includes an output device that can output various information (such as images or sounds) to the outside (e.g., an operator), and may include one or more of a display device, a speaker, etc.

[0093] For example, the maintenance switch includes at least one indicator light disposed on the lower housing 202, which is used to indicate the current status of the maintenance switch. For example, green indicates that the first high-voltage terminal 2011 is disconnected from the second high-voltage terminal 2021, the first locking member 2027 is unlocked, and the upper and lower housings can be separated. Red indicates that the upper and lower housings have been separated and the cover plate 2024 slides to cover the through hole 205. Of course, the above is only an exemplary implementation of this embodiment, and this application does not limit it.

[0094] The communication interface can be any known communication protocol interface, such as a wired interface or a wireless interface. The communication interface may include one or more serial ports, USB interfaces, Ethernet ports, WiFi, wired networks, DVI interfaces, device integrated interconnect modules, or other suitable ports, interfaces, or connections.

[0095] In one example, the upper housing 201 includes a first locking element 2027 and a first motor 2026 (e.g., Figure 2 and Figure 3 (As shown in M1); the controller 204 is also used to control the first motor 2026 to start, so as to unlock or lock the first locking member 2027.

[0096] like Figure 6 As shown, the control system 600 includes one or more memories 203, one or more controllers 204, and communication interfaces, etc., which are interconnected via a bus system and / or other forms of connection mechanisms (not shown). It should be noted that... Figure 6 The components and structure of the control system 600 shown are merely exemplary and not limiting; the maintenance switch 200 may also have other components and structures as needed.

[0097] Memory 203 is used to store various data and executable program instructions generated during train operation, such as algorithms for storing various applications or implementing various specific functions. It may include one or more computer program products, which may include various forms of computer-readable storage media, such as volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. The volatile memory may include, for example, random access memory (RAM) and / or cache memory. The non-volatile memory may include, for example, read-only memory (ROM), hard disk, flash memory, etc.

[0098] The controller 204 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other processing units with data processing and / or instruction execution capabilities, and may also be able to maintain other components in the switch 200 to perform the desired functions.

[0099] This application also provides a control method 700 for a maintenance switch. Figure 7 A schematic flowchart illustrating a maintenance switch control method according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 7 As shown, the maintenance switch control method 700 according to an embodiment of this application includes steps such as S701 and S702.

[0100] In step S701, in response to the operator's first identity verification information being passed and the high-voltage system of the equipment to be maintained being in a non-working state, the first locking element is unlocked to allow the upper housing and the lower housing to be separated.

[0101] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 3 The maintenance switch 200 includes an upper housing 201, a lower housing 202, and a first locking member 2027. The upper housing 201 includes a first high-voltage terminal 2011, and the lower housing 202 includes a second high-voltage terminal 2021 for electrical connection with the first high-voltage terminal 2011. The first locking member 2027 is used to lock the upper housing 201 and the lower housing 202.

[0102] In one example, verifying the operator's initial authentication information may include:

[0103] A1, Obtain the first identity verification information of the operator collected by the data entry device 2023;

[0104] A2. Compare the first authentication information with the pre-entered authentication information. When the first authentication information matches the authentication information, the first authentication is successful.

[0105] In this embodiment of the application, before the equipment to be repaired is repaired, the operator's identity verification information needs to be pre-registered. Only operators with pre-registered identity verification information can obtain the right to operate the repair switch. Personnel who have not registered their identity verification information cannot operate the repair switch.

[0106] Both the first and second identity verification information can include biometric information such as fingerprints, irises, and voiceprints, or password information.

[0107] When the first authentication information is a fingerprint, the data entry device may include a fingerprint recognition device. After collecting fingerprint information, the fingerprint recognition device sends the fingerprint information to the controller to compare it with pre-recorded fingerprint information to authenticate the operator.

[0108] In one implementation, if the first authentication information is password information, the data entry device may include a device such as a password acquisition device.

[0109] In addition, this application embodiment can also indicate the operator's operation and the status of the maintenance switch. For example, an indicator light can be set on the maintenance switch, and the indicator light flashing red indicates that the first authentication failed. Alternatively, in some implementations, the red light indicates that the upper and lower housings are separated and the high-voltage switch is in maintenance status, and the indicator light is used to display the status of the high-voltage switch to provide a reference for non-maintenance personnel.

[0110] In this embodiment, the operator gains permission to operate the maintenance switch upon first entering authentication information. At this time, the maintenance switch's memory already stores the authentication information. When the input device collects the first authentication information, it compares it with the existing authentication information. If the two sets of authentication information match, the operator can operate the maintenance switch. If they do not match, the maintenance switch can send a notification to the operator, informing them that they do not have permission to operate the maintenance switch.

[0111] In other embodiments of this application, when authenticating operators, the method is not limited to using the operator's biometric information; other methods may also be used, such as authentication via account and password, smart card, or Universal Serial Bus Key (USB Key). This embodiment does not limit this method.

[0112] In one embodiment of this application, the maintenance switch includes a cover structure, the cover structure including a cover plate for covering or opening the second high-voltage terminal. Accordingly, after controlling the unlocking of the first locking member, the method further includes: controlling the cover plate of the cover structure to slide to a first position, so that the cover plate covers the second high-voltage terminal.

[0113] The cover plate in this embodiment can seal the connection of the second high-voltage terminal to prevent the first high-voltage terminal from connecting to the second high-voltage terminal, thus avoiding a high-voltage circuit continuity and posing a safety risk if maintenance personnel perform maintenance operations while the circuit is energized. Furthermore, the cover plate can seal the second high-voltage terminal to prevent it from being exposed and causing an electric shock accident.

[0114] In other embodiments of this application, before controlling the first locking element of the unlocking maintenance switch, the method further includes: detecting whether an interlock signal is valid; wherein the valid interlock signal indicates that the maintenance switch is closed.

[0115] In one example, before unlocking the first locking element of the maintenance switch under the control of the operator, the method further includes: detecting whether the high-voltage system is in operation when the interlock signal is valid.

[0116] In one example, after detecting whether the high-voltage system is in operation, the method further includes: when the high-voltage system is in operation, controlling the high-voltage system to stop operating to disconnect the high-voltage circuit.

[0117] Before performing maintenance, this application embodiment needs to check whether the high-voltage system of the equipment to be maintained is in working condition, or whether the equipment to be maintained is under high voltage power-on condition. If the high-voltage system of the equipment to be maintained is in working condition, the high-voltage system needs to be disconnected first to prevent the high-voltage system of the equipment to be maintained from unlocking the first locking element of the maintenance switch under load when it is working, which would damage the equipment to be maintained.

[0118] High-voltage systems are typically equipped with high-voltage contactors for disconnecting or connecting high-voltage circuits. When the high-voltage system is in operation, the high-voltage contactor can be disconnected first to break the high-voltage circuit.

[0119] In one specific embodiment, the equipment to be repaired may include a vehicle.

[0120] Accordingly, detecting whether the equipment to be repaired is in a working state includes: detecting whether the current speed of the vehicle is 0; when the current speed is 0, it is determined that the vehicle is in a non-working state. Then, when it is determined that the vehicle is not in a working state, the high-voltage system can be disconnected to prepare for repair. In this embodiment, the high-voltage system is disconnected only when the vehicle speed is 0, to prevent the high-voltage system from unlocking the first locking element of the maintenance switch under load when it is working, which could damage the equipment to be repaired.

[0121] The vehicle includes a speed collector 601 (e.g., Figure 6 As shown in the figure, the vehicle speed collector can collect the vehicle speed and send the vehicle speed to the controller so that the controller can control the vehicle.

[0122] In this embodiment of the application, if the maintenance switch is unlocked while the vehicle's high-voltage system is in operation, the high-voltage system will be disconnected while energized, and the maintenance switch will be easily burned and damaged. At the same time, the load connected to the high-voltage system will have its high-voltage circuit cut off, which also poses a risk of damage.

[0123] The first locking element 2027 for controlling the unlocking and maintenance switch includes a first motor for controlling the maintenance switch, which moves the upper housing away from the lower housing to disconnect the first high-voltage terminal from the second high-voltage terminal.

[0124] In step S702, in response to the second authentication information of the operator being passed, the first locking member is controlled to lock, so that the upper box and the lower box are locked.

[0125] In this embodiment of the application, when the maintenance is completed and the first locking element of the maintenance switch needs to be locked, the operator needs to be authenticated a second time to ensure that only authorized operators can lock the maintenance switch.

[0126] In one example, verifying the operator's second authentication information includes:

[0127] C1, obtain the second identity verification information collected by the data entry device;

[0128] C2. Compare the second authentication information with the pre-entered third authentication information. If the second authentication information matches the third authentication information, the second authentication is successful. When the second authentication information matches the third authentication information, it indicates that the operator has the authority to operate the maintenance switch.

[0129] Here, the second authentication information may include biometric information such as fingerprints, irises, and voiceprints.

[0130] Generally, the types of the first biometric feature and the second biometric feature are the same. However, in other embodiments of this application, the first authentication and the second authentication can use different authentication methods. For example, the first authentication can be performed by swiping a smart card, while the second authentication can be performed by biometric verification. Both methods can achieve the purpose of this invention.

[0131] In one example, indicator lights can also be used to guide operator actions. For instance, a flashing green indicator light on a maintenance switch might indicate that a second authentication attempt failed.

[0132] In one example, before controlling the locking of the first locking member, the method further includes: controlling the cover plate of the sealing structure to slide to a second position so that the cover plate opens the second high-voltage terminal, thereby connecting the first high-voltage terminal to the second high-voltage terminal.

[0133] In this embodiment of the application, during the maintenance process, it is necessary to verify the identity of the operator. Only after the identity verification is passed can the operator obtain the authority to unlock or lock the maintenance switch. This can prevent people other than the operator from operating the maintenance switch and causing the operator to suffer safety accidents such as electric shock.

[0134] The maintenance switch, maintenance switch control system, and storage medium of the present application embodiments have the same advantages as the aforementioned maintenance switch control method because they can implement the aforementioned maintenance switch control method.

[0135] Although exemplary embodiments have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Various changes and modifications can be made therein by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this application. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this application as claimed in the appended claims.

[0136] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0137] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0138] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification provided herein. However, it will be understood that embodiments of this application may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.

[0139] Similarly, it should be understood that, in order to streamline this application and aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects, features of this application may sometimes be grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof in the description of exemplary embodiments of this application. However, this approach should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed application requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the corresponding claims, its inventive point lies in solving the corresponding technical problem with features fewer than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into that detailed description, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of this application.

[0140] Those skilled in the art will understand that, apart from the mutual exclusion of features, all features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) and all processes or units of any method or apparatus so disclosed can be combined in any combination. Unless otherwise expressly stated, each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature that serves the same, equivalent, or similar purpose.

[0141] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features but not others included in other embodiments, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, in the claims, any one of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0142] The various component embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware, or as software modules running on one or more controllers, or a combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that microcontrollers or digital signal controllers (DSPs) can be used in practice to implement some or all of the functions of some modules according to the embodiments of this application. This application can also be implemented as an apparatus program (e.g., a computer program and computer program product) for performing part or all of the methods described herein. Such an implementation of this application can be stored on a computer-readable medium, or can be in the form of one or more signals. Such signals can be downloaded from an Internet website, provided on a carrier signal, or provided in any other form.

[0143] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative of this application and not restrictive, and that those skilled in the art can devise alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in the claims. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. This application can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the unit claims enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc., does not indicate any order. These words can be interpreted as names.

[0144] The above description is merely a specific embodiment or illustration of the embodiments of this application. The scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. The scope of protection of this application shall be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A maintenance switch, characterized in that, The maintenance switch includes: The upper housing includes the first high-voltage terminal; The lower housing is detachably connected to the upper housing, and the lower housing includes a second high-voltage terminal for electrical connection with the first high-voltage terminal; The first locking element is used to lock the upper housing and the lower housing; An identity information input device is used to receive and verify the identity information input by the operator. The controller is configured to control the first locking element of the maintenance switch to unlock in response to the first authentication information of the operator being passed and the high voltage system of the equipment to be maintained being in a non-operating state, so that the upper housing and the lower housing can be separated. A sealing structure is disposed on the lower housing and is used to seal or open the second high-voltage terminal; the controller is also used to control the sealing structure to seal the second high-voltage terminal after the upper housing and the lower housing are separated. The second locking element is used to detect whether the upper housing and the lower housing are separated. The second locking element includes a pin and a connector. The pin is fixed to the upper housing and extends out of the upper housing surface facing the lower housing. The connector is located in the lower housing. When the pin is inserted into the connector, the second locking element generates an interlock signal. When the pin is separated from the connector, the interlock signal of the second locking element is disconnected. The controller can determine whether the upper housing and the lower housing are separated based on the interlock signal.

2. The maintenance switch as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is also configured to, in response to the operator's second authentication information, open the second high-voltage terminal by controlling the sealing structure to connect the upper housing to the lower housing, and After the upper housing is connected to the lower housing, the first locking member is controlled to lock the upper housing and the lower housing.

3. The maintenance switch as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The maintenance switch includes a memory for storing the identity information.

4. The maintenance switch as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first locking member includes a protruding structure located on the upper housing and a locking tongue located on the lower housing. The protruding structure is provided with a locking hole. When the upper housing and the lower housing are closed, the protruding structure extends into the lower housing, and the locking tongue extends into the locking hole of the protruding structure. When the locking tongue extends out of the locking hole, the upper housing and the lower housing can be separated.

5. The maintenance switch as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The maintenance switch also includes a first motor; The controller is also configured to, in response to the first authentication information of the operator being verified, control the first motor to start, the first motor driving the locking tongue to rotate, the locking tongue rotating out of the locking hole, so that the upper housing and the lower housing can be separated; the controller is also configured to, in response to the second authentication information of the operator being verified again, control the first motor to drive the locking tongue to insert into the locking hole, so that the upper housing is locked onto the lower housing.

6. The maintenance switch as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing structure also includes a cover plate and a second motor; The second motor is used to drive the cover plate to slide to the first position or the second position; The cover plate is located in the lower housing and has a through hole. When the cover plate is in the first position, the first high-voltage terminal passes through the through hole and is connected to the second high-voltage terminal. When the cover plate is in the second position, the second high-voltage terminal is covered by the cover plate. The controller is also used to control the start of the second motor so that the second motor drives the cover plate to slide to the first position or the second position.

7. The maintenance switch as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The lower end of the second high-voltage terminal is provided with a high-voltage connector for connecting the load.

8. The maintenance switch as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The maintenance switch also includes an indicator light, which is used to indicate to the operator whether the maintenance switch is currently in an openable or closed state.

9. The maintenance switch as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The authentication information includes at least one of the following: password, fingerprint, iris scan, and voiceprint.

10. A maintenance switch control method, characterized in that, The maintenance switch includes an upper housing, a lower housing, a first locking element, a cover structure, and a second locking element. The upper housing includes a first high-voltage terminal, and the lower housing includes a second high-voltage terminal for electrical connection with the first high-voltage terminal. The first locking element is used to lock the upper housing and the lower housing. The cover structure is disposed on the lower housing and is used to cover or open the second high-voltage terminal. The second locking element is used to detect whether the upper housing and the lower housing are separated. The second locking element includes a pin and a connector. The pin is fixed to the upper housing and extends out of the upper housing towards the surface of the lower housing. The connector is located in the lower housing. When the pin is inserted into the connector, the second locking element generates an interlock signal. When the pin is separated from the connector, the interlock signal of the second locking element is disconnected. The method includes: In response to the operator's first identity verification information being passed and the high-voltage system of the equipment to be repaired being in a non-working state, the first locking element is unlocked to allow the upper housing and the lower housing to be separated. In response to the interlock signal of the second locking member being released, the sealing structure is controlled to seal the second high-voltage terminal; In response to the operator's second identity verification information being passed, the first locking element is controlled to lock the upper housing and the lower housing.

11. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The sealing structure includes a cover plate for sealing or opening the second high-voltage terminal; After controlling the unlocking of the first locking element, the method further includes; The cover plate of the sealing structure is controlled to slide to a first position so that the cover plate seals the second high-voltage terminal.

12. The method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, Before controlling the locking of the first locking member, the method further includes: The cover plate of the sealing structure is controlled to slide to a second position so that the cover plate opens the second high-voltage terminal.

13. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Before controlling the unlocking of the first locking member, the method further includes: The interlock signal is checked for validity; wherein the validity of the interlock signal indicates that the maintenance switch is closed.

14. The method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, Before controlling the unlocking of the first locking member, the method further includes: When the interlock signal is valid, it is detected whether the high-voltage system is in working condition.

15. The method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, After detecting whether the high-voltage system is in operation, the method further includes: When the high-voltage system is in operation, control the high-voltage system to stop working in order to disconnect the high-voltage circuit.

16. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, Before disconnecting the high-voltage circuit, the method further includes: Detect whether the equipment to be repaired is in a working state; and When the equipment to be repaired is in working condition, control the equipment to be repaired to stop working.

17. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Verify the operator's primary identity verification information, including: Obtain the first identity verification information of the operator collected by the data entry device; The first authentication information is compared with the pre-entered third authentication information. When the first authentication information matches the third authentication information, the first authentication information is approved.

18. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Verify the operator's secondary identity verification information, including: Obtain the second identity verification information collected by the data entry device; The second authentication information is compared with the pre-entered third authentication information. When the second authentication information matches the third authentication information, the second authentication information is approved.

19. The method as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The equipment to be repaired includes vehicles; Detecting whether the equipment to be repaired is in a working state includes: The system detects whether the current speed of the vehicle is 0. If the current speed is 0, the system determines that the vehicle is in a non-operating state.

20. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The first authentication information, the second authentication information, and the third authentication information each include at least one of the following: password, fingerprint, iris scan, and voiceprint.

21. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program that, when run by the controller, causes the controller to perform the maintenance switch control method as described in any one of claims 10 to 20.

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