Battery swapping system

Abstract

The application discloses a battery replacing system, which comprises a station control device and an information output device. The station control device is used for controlling the information output device to output guide information, and the guide information is used for guiding a driver of a target vehicle to complete a battery replacing preparation operation. The station control device is also used for performing a battery replacing operation on the target vehicle after detecting that the battery replacing preparation operation is completed. The station control device outputs the guide information through the information output device, guides the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery replacing preparation operation, and performs the battery replacing operation on the target vehicle after detecting that the battery replacing preparation operation is completed, so that the personnel of the battery replacing station and the driver do not need to communicate face to face for guidance, and the convenience of the battery replacing operation is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle battery swapping control technology, and in particular to a battery swapping system. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, battery swapping stations are designed to address the range limitations of new energy vehicles. However, the swapping process requires face-to-face communication between the station staff and the driver to guide them through the process, which is quite inconvenient. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to various embodiments of this application, a battery swapping system is provided that can improve the convenience of battery swapping operations.

[0004] This application provides a battery swapping system, which includes station control equipment and information output device;

[0005] The station control equipment is used to control the information output device to output guidance information, which is used to guide the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operation.

[0006] The station control equipment is also used to perform a battery swapping operation on the target vehicle after detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed.

[0007] The aforementioned battery swapping system uses station control equipment to output guidance information through information output devices to guide the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operation. After detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed, the system performs the battery swapping operation on the target vehicle. This eliminates the need for on-site communication and guidance between the battery swapping station personnel and the driver, thus improving the convenience of the battery swapping operation.

[0008] In one embodiment, the battery swapping system further includes: an information collection device and a cloud server;

[0009] An information acquisition device is used to acquire image information of the target vehicle and send the image information to the cloud server;

[0010] The cloud server is used to obtain the vehicle identifier of the target vehicle based on the image information and send the vehicle identifier to the station control equipment;

[0011] The station control equipment is also used to verify the target vehicle based on the vehicle identification of the target vehicle, and after the verification is successful, control the information output device to output the guidance information.

[0012] Image information of the target vehicle is collected by an information collection device. The cloud server then obtains the vehicle identification of the target vehicle based on the image information and sends it to the station control equipment. The station control equipment verifies the target vehicle based on the vehicle identification and outputs guidance information after successful verification, thereby preventing unauthorized vehicles from entering the battery swapping station and improving the safety of vehicle battery swapping.

[0013] In one embodiment, the cloud server is configured to obtain license plate information based on the image information, obtain the VIN code of the target vehicle based on the license plate information, and send the VIN code as the vehicle identifier to the station control equipment. Using the license plate information to obtain the VIN code of the target vehicle for vehicle verification is simple and fast, improving authentication efficiency.

[0014] In one embodiment, the cloud server is further configured to acquire the communication information of the target vehicle based on the image information and send the communication information to the station control equipment; the station control equipment is configured to establish a communication connection with the target vehicle based on the communication information. The cloud server acquires the communication information of the target vehicle based on the image information, and the station control equipment establishes a communication connection with the target vehicle based on the communication information, so as to facilitate subsequent data communication with the target vehicle.

[0015] In one embodiment, the battery swapping system further includes an entry gate; the station control equipment is used to receive battery information sent by the target vehicle based on the communication connection, verify the legality of the target vehicle's battery according to the battery information, and control the entry gate to open after successful verification. After verifying the target vehicle, the system also verifies the legality of the target vehicle's battery based on the acquired battery information. After successful battery verification, the system controls the entry gate to open, allowing the target vehicle to enter the battery swapping station for battery swapping. Simultaneously, authentication is performed using vehicle identification and battery information to avoid inconsistencies between the license plate and vehicle identification, battery information, and recorded information, thereby improving battery swapping security.

[0016] In one embodiment, the battery swapping system further includes a positioning identification device; the positioning identification device is used to collect the location information of the target vehicle and send the location information to the station control equipment; the station control equipment is further used to control the information output device to output the guidance information after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location based on the location information. After confirming that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location based on the location information, the station control equipment controls the information output device to output the guidance information to guide the driver of the target vehicle to perform battery swapping preparation operations so that the vehicle can be swapped after the battery swapping preparation operations are completed.

[0017] In one embodiment, the alignment recognition device includes a radar device and / or a laser alignment device. The specific vehicle position detection method can be selected according to actual needs, making detection convenient and reliable.

[0018] In one embodiment, the station control equipment is further configured to activate the battery swapping permission of the client bound to the target vehicle after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location. Once the target vehicle has reached the battery swapping location, the battery swapping permission of the client bound to the target vehicle is activated, allowing the driver to initiate a battery swapping request through the client.

[0019] In one embodiment, the station control equipment includes a station control host and a battery swapping device. The station control host, upon detecting the completion of the battery swapping preparation operation, receives a battery swapping request sent by the client, the request including information about the target battery to be replaced. The station control host then sends a battery swapping instruction to the battery swapping device based on the battery swapping request. The battery swapping device executes the battery swapping operation according to the instruction. The station control host generates a battery swapping instruction based on the client's request and sends it to the battery swapping device, which then swaps the battery of the target vehicle according to the instruction, thus achieving autonomous battery swapping control of the vehicle based on battery swapping needs.

[0020] In one embodiment, the battery swapping device is configured to retrieve replacement batteries from the battery compartment according to the target battery quantity N in the battery swapping instruction, and replace the target battery with the replacement battery. By selecting batteries from the battery compartment based on the actual required number of replacement batteries, the battery swapping device better meets actual battery swapping needs.

[0021] In one embodiment, the battery swapping device is used to retrieve N replacement batteries and M empty battery packs from the battery compartment when the number of target batteries is less than the total number P of batteries in the target vehicle; the charge of the replacement batteries is greater than a preset charge threshold and the state of charge (SOC) of the replacement batteries is less than a preset SOC threshold, where N + M = P. When partial battery replacement of the target vehicle is required, the battery swapping device selects not only the required number of replacement batteries but also the corresponding number of empty battery packs to replace all batteries in the target vehicle, avoiding the voltage difference between the replaced and unreplaced batteries affecting power supply safety and improving the safety of vehicle battery swapping.

[0022] In one embodiment, the battery swapping device is configured to retrieve P replacement batteries from the battery compartment when the number of target batteries equals the total number P batteries in the target vehicle; the replacement batteries have a charge greater than a preset charge threshold and a state of charge (SOC) less than a preset SOC threshold. When a complete battery replacement of the vehicle is required, the battery swapping device selects suitable replacement batteries from the battery compartment to replace all batteries in the vehicle, ensuring the safety of power supply to the vehicle.

[0023] In one embodiment, the station control equipment is further configured to receive vehicle status information reported by the target vehicle and determine whether the battery swapping preparation operation is complete based on the vehicle status information. After outputting guidance information, the station control equipment maintains communication with the target vehicle to obtain the target vehicle's vehicle status information and analyze whether the battery swapping preparation operation is complete, so as to automatically perform the battery swapping operation on the target vehicle after the battery swapping preparation operation is completed.

[0024] In one embodiment, the station control equipment is further configured to restrict high-voltage access to the target vehicle after detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed. By restricting high-voltage access to the target vehicle after the battery swapping preparation operation is completed, the station control equipment prevents the vehicle from accidentally triggering the high-voltage operation during battery replacement, thereby improving the safety of the battery swapping operation.

[0025] In one embodiment, the battery swapping system further includes a battery acquisition device and a mobility device;

[0026] The station control equipment is used to control the battery acquisition device to remove the replacement battery from the battery compartment and place the replacement battery in the mobile device;

[0027] The station control equipment is also used to control the mobile device to transport the replacement battery to the battery swapping location of the target vehicle.

[0028] When the station control equipment performs a battery swapping operation, it controls the battery acquisition device to take out the replacement battery from the battery compartment, and the mobile device transports the replacement battery to the battery swapping location of the vehicle, realizing automatic battery selection and facilitating battery replacement for the vehicle.

[0029] In one embodiment, the battery swapping system further includes an exit gate;

[0030] The station control equipment is also used to send the battery replacement information to the target vehicle after the battery replacement operation is completed, so that the target vehicle can establish a communication connection with the battery replacement based on the battery replacement information and perform a battery replacement self-test.

[0031] The station control equipment is also used to control the exit gate to open after receiving the replacement success information sent by the target vehicle.

[0032] After the battery is replaced, the station control equipment sends the battery replacement information to the target vehicle. After the target vehicle reports the successful replacement, it confirms that the battery replacement was successfully completed and controls the exit gate to open so that the vehicle can leave the battery swapping station.

[0033] In one embodiment, the station control equipment is further configured to perform the battery swapping operation again after receiving a battery swapping failure message from the target vehicle. If the battery swapping fails, the station control equipment will reselect the battery location on the vehicle and perform the swapping again, thereby improving the success rate of battery swapping.

[0034] In one embodiment, the station control equipment is further configured to control the exit gate to open and control the information output device to output a prompt message after the number of battery swapping operations exceeds a preset threshold, or after the execution time of the battery swapping operation exceeds a preset time threshold. The prompt message is used to remind the driver to leave the battery swapping station. When the number of battery swaps exceeds a preset threshold or the execution time of the battery swapping operation exceeds a preset time threshold, the exit gate is controlled to open and the vehicle is prompted to leave the battery swapping station to avoid affecting the battery swapping of the next vehicle.

[0035] Details of one or more embodiments of this application are set forth in the following drawings and description. Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of a battery swapping system in one embodiment;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping system in one embodiment;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping system in another embodiment;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping system in another embodiment;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the station control equipment in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0044] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0045] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0046] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0048] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0049] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] With the development of technology and the continuous progress of society, the application fields of power batteries are constantly expanding. They are not only used in electric vehicles such as electric bicycles, electric motorcycles, and electric cars, but also in military equipment and aerospace, among other fields. Power batteries provide the power source for these vehicles, and are commonly used in valve-sealed lead-acid batteries, open-type tubular lead-acid batteries, and lithium iron phosphate batteries, characterized by high energy, high power, and high energy density. Taking electric vehicles as an example, during the use of electric vehicles, it is necessary to enter a battery swapping station to replace the battery to ensure that the vehicle's driving range and power meet the required standards.

[0051] Traditional battery swapping processes require face-to-face communication between staff and drivers to guide them through pre-swap preparations, which is highly inconvenient. Therefore, this application proposes a battery swapping system, including station control equipment and an information output device. The station control equipment outputs guidance information through the information output device to guide the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operations. Upon detecting the completion of these preparations, the system performs the battery swapping operation on the target vehicle, eliminating the need for face-to-face communication between station staff and drivers, thus improving the convenience of the battery swapping operation.

[0052] The battery swapping system provided in this application embodiment can be applied to, for example... Figure 1In the application environment shown, client 300 and station control equipment 110 communicate with cloud server 130 via a network, and vehicle 200 communicates with station control equipment 110. Specifically, cloud server 130 obtains vehicle identification and communication information of the target vehicle based on image information and sends it to station control equipment 110. Station control equipment 110 verifies the target vehicle based on the vehicle identification. After successful verification, it establishes a communication connection with the target vehicle based on the communication information, obtains the target vehicle's battery information to verify battery legitimacy, and outputs guidance information through an information output device after successful verification, guiding the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operation. After detecting the completion of the battery swapping preparation operation, station control equipment 110 performs the battery swapping operation on the target vehicle according to the battery swapping request sent by client 300. Station control equipment 110 can be a collection of one or more control devices, and cloud server 130 can be implemented using a standalone server or a server cluster composed of multiple servers. Client 300 can be, but is not limited to, various personal computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and portable wearable devices, such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, and head-mounted devices.

[0053] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, a battery swapping system is provided, including a station control device 110 and an information output device 120. The station control device 110 is used to control the information output device 120 to output guidance information. The station control device 110 is also used to perform a battery swapping operation on the target vehicle after detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed.

[0054] The guidance information is used to guide the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operation. When a battery swapping operation is required for the target vehicle, the station control equipment 110 controls the information output device 120 to output guidance information, guiding the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operation and detecting the vehicle's status. Once it is determined that the target vehicle has completed the battery swapping preparation operation, the battery swapping operation is performed on the target vehicle. The specific structure of the information output device 120 is not unique; the method of outputting guidance information varies depending on the structure of the information output device 120. Specifically, the information output device 120 may include one or more of the following: indicator lights, speakers, and a battery swapping station display screen. Furthermore, when outputting information through the battery swapping station display screen, one or two of the following can be displayed on the screen: text and graphics, to guide the driver to complete the battery swapping preparation operation for the target vehicle. It is understood that the specific content of the battery swapping preparation operation is not unique and can be set according to actual needs. During the driver's battery swapping preparation operation, the station control equipment 110 communicates with the target vehicle to detect the vehicle's status. After determining that the target vehicle's battery swapping preparation operation is complete based on the vehicle status, the battery swapping operation is performed on the target vehicle.

[0055] In the aforementioned battery swapping system, the station control equipment 110 outputs guidance information through the information output device 120 to guide the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operation. After detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation is completed, the system performs the battery swapping operation on the target vehicle. This eliminates the need for the battery swapping station personnel to communicate with the driver in person for guidance, thus improving the convenience of the battery swapping operation.

[0056] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the battery swapping system also includes an information acquisition device 140 and a cloud server 130. The information acquisition device 140 is used to acquire image information of the target vehicle and send the image information to the cloud server 130. The cloud server 130 is used to obtain the vehicle identifier of the target vehicle based on the image information and send the vehicle identifier to the station control equipment 110. The station control equipment 110 is also used to verify the target vehicle based on its vehicle identifier and, after successful verification, control the information output device 120 to output guidance information.

[0057] The information acquisition device 140 can acquire image information of the target vehicle in various ways, including through cameras or scanning equipment. Specifically, the information acquisition device 140 can use a snapshot camera to capture images of the target vehicle, which are then uploaded to the cloud server 130. The cloud server 130 analyzes the image information to extract the vehicle identifier and sends it to the station control equipment 110 for vehicle authentication. The vehicle identifier is a unique identification information for the vehicle, used for vehicle authentication. The specific type of vehicle identifier is also not unique; it can be the vehicle's license plate number or related information obtained from the license plate number. Specifically, the cloud server 130 can store the license plate number and corresponding related information. This related information can include vehicle-related information and information about the battery installed in the vehicle. Vehicle-related information can include vehicle communication address information and the vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Vehicle communication address information can be Bluetooth address information, WIFI address information, etc., and information about the battery installed in the vehicle can include battery code and battery communication address. When performing vehicle identification, you can select specific information as the vehicle identifier according to the actual situation to perform the vehicle identification operation.

[0058] In the above embodiment, the image information of the target vehicle is collected by the information collection device 140, and then the cloud server 130 obtains the vehicle identification of the target vehicle based on the image information and sends it to the station control device 110. The station control device 110 verifies the target vehicle based on the vehicle identification, and after the verification is successful, it controls the information output device 120 to output guidance information to prevent illegal vehicles from entering the battery swapping station for battery swapping and improve the safety of vehicle battery swapping.

[0059] In one embodiment, the cloud server 130 obtains license plate information based on image information, retrieves the VIN code of the target vehicle based on the license plate information, and sends the VIN code as a vehicle identifier to the station control device 110. The VIN code contains information such as the vehicle's manufacturer, year, and model. The cloud server 130 stores the license plate number and associated VIN code. The cloud server 130 extracts the VIN code of the target vehicle based on the captured license plate information and sends it to the station control device 110 for vehicle authentication, analyzing whether the target vehicle is a registered vehicle. For example, the station control device 110 may check whether the VIN code is in a preset list of registered vehicles. If the VIN code is in the list, the target vehicle is considered a registered vehicle, and the authentication is successful. Using license plate information to obtain the target vehicle's VIN code for vehicle verification is simple and fast, improving authentication efficiency.

[0060] In one embodiment, the cloud server 130 is also used to obtain the communication information of the target vehicle based on the image information and send the communication information to the station control device 110; the station control device 110 is used to establish a communication connection with the target vehicle based on the communication information. The communication information may specifically be Bluetooth address information, WIFI address information, etc. Specifically, taking Bluetooth address information as an example, the cloud server 130 also stores the license plate number and associated vehicle Bluetooth address information. Based on the captured license plate information, the cloud server 130 simultaneously extracts the target vehicle's Bluetooth address information and sends it to the station control device 110, so that the station control device 110 can establish a Bluetooth communication connection with the target vehicle based on the Bluetooth address information. In this embodiment, the cloud server 130 obtains the target vehicle's communication information based on the image information, and the station control device 110 establishes a communication connection with the target vehicle based on the communication information, so as to conduct subsequent data communication with the target vehicle.

[0061] Furthermore, in one embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, the battery swapping system also includes an entrance gate 150. The station control equipment 110 is used to receive battery information sent by the target vehicle based on the communication connection, verify the legality of the target vehicle's battery based on the battery information, and control the entrance gate 150 to open the gate after the verification is successful.

[0062] The battery information refers to the unique identification information of the battery, used to verify the legality of the battery in the target vehicle. Battery information can include battery code, battery communication address, etc. Specifically, the information collection device 140 can be set up at the entrance gate 150 to acquire image information of the target vehicle and upload it to the cloud server 130. The cloud server 130 extracts the VIN code and Bluetooth address information of the target vehicle based on the captured license plate information and sends them to the station control device 110. After analyzing the VIN code and confirming that the target vehicle is a registered vehicle, the station control device 110 establishes Bluetooth communication with the vehicle based on the vehicle's Bluetooth address information, obtains the battery information sent by the target vehicle, and verifies the legality of the target vehicle's battery based on the battery information. For example, the station control device 110 can check whether the battery information is in a preset list of factory-issued batteries. If the battery information is in the list, the battery is considered legal. After the battery legality verification is passed, the station control device 110 controls the entrance gate 150 to open, allowing the target vehicle to enter the battery swapping station.

[0063] In the above embodiments, after verifying the target vehicle, the legality of the target vehicle's battery is also verified by combining the obtained battery information. After the battery verification is passed, the gate 150 is opened to allow the target vehicle to enter the battery swapping station for battery swapping. At the same time, authentication is performed by combining vehicle identification and battery information to avoid inconsistencies between the license plate and vehicle identification, battery information and the recorded information, thereby improving the security of battery swapping.

[0064] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the battery swapping system also includes a positioning identification device 160. The positioning identification device 160 is used to collect the location information of the target vehicle and send the location information to the station control equipment 110. The station control equipment 110 is also used to control the information output device 120 to output guidance information after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping position based on the location information. The type of positioning identification device 160 is not unique; it may include radar devices and / or laser positioning devices. The specific vehicle position detection method can be selected according to actual needs to make detection convenient and reliable.

[0065] Taking the alignment recognition device 160, which includes both a radar device and a laser alignment device, as an example, the radar device can be set at the entrance gate 150, and the laser alignment device can be set at the battery swapping location. The radar at the entrance gate 150 detects the position of the target vehicle and reports it to the station control equipment 110. The laser alignment device is used to perform V-groove laser alignment detection on the vehicle's tires. After the station control equipment 110 determines that the vehicle has entered the battery swapping location based on the radar's sensing signal and that the vehicle has completed alignment based on the detection signal from the laser alignment device, the station control equipment 110 controls the information output device 120 to output guidance information to guide the driver to prepare for the battery swapping operation.

[0066] In the above embodiment, after the station control equipment 110 confirms that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location based on the location information, it controls the information output device 120 to output guidance information to guide the driver of the target vehicle to perform battery swapping preparation operations so that the vehicle can be swapped after the battery swapping preparation operations are completed.

[0067] In one embodiment, the station control device 110 is further configured to activate the battery swapping permission of the client bound to the target vehicle after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location. Specifically, after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location, the station control device 110 also forwards control commands to the client bound to the target vehicle via the cloud server 130, activating the battery swapping permission of the APP (Application) on the client. It can be understood that the activation of the client's battery swapping permission by the station control device 110 after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location, and the output of guidance information by the control information output device 120, can be performed synchronously or asynchronously, as long as the client's battery swapping permission is activated before the battery swapping operation. When the target vehicle has reached the battery swapping location, the battery swapping permission of the client bound to the target vehicle is activated so that the driver can initiate a battery swapping request through the client.

[0068] Furthermore, in one embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, the station control equipment 110 includes a station control host 112 and a battery swapping device 114. The station control host 112 is used to receive a battery swapping request sent by the client after detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed. The station control host 112 is also used to send a battery swapping instruction to the battery swapping device 114 according to the battery swapping request. The battery swapping device 114 is used to perform the battery swapping operation according to the battery swapping instruction.

[0069] The battery swapping request includes information about the target battery to be replaced, which may include battery location, quantity, etc. The type of battery swapping device 114 is not unique; it can specifically be a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). The station control host 112 connects to the battery swapping device 114, the information output device 120, the entrance gate 150, and the alignment recognition device 160, and communicates with the cloud server 130. The station control host 112 is used for vehicle verification and battery legitimacy verification, controls the opening and closing of the entrance gate 150, and controls the information output device 120 to output guidance information. After detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation is complete, the station control host 112 sends a battery swapping command to the battery swapping device 114 based on the battery swapping request sent by the client, controlling the battery swapping device 114 to execute the battery swapping operation.

[0070] In the above embodiment, the station control host 112 generates a battery swapping instruction based on the battery swapping request sent by the client and sends it to the battery swapping device 114. The battery swapping device 114 then swaps the battery of the target vehicle according to the battery swapping instruction, thereby realizing autonomous battery swapping control of the vehicle based on the battery swapping demand.

[0071] In one embodiment, the battery swapping device 114 is used to retrieve replacement batteries from the battery compartment according to the target battery quantity N in the battery swapping instruction, and then replace the target batteries using the replacement batteries. The battery swapping device 114 determines the number of batteries to be replaced according to the battery swapping instruction, and selects batteries from the battery compartment for replacement based on the actual number of batteries required, which better meets the actual battery swapping needs.

[0072] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the battery swapping device 114 is used to retrieve N replacement batteries and M empty battery packs from the battery compartment when the number of target batteries is less than the total number P of batteries in the target vehicle.

[0073] In this system, the battery capacity to be replaced is greater than a preset capacity threshold, and the SOC (State of Charge) of the replaced battery is less than a preset SOC threshold, where N + M = P. An empty battery pack refers to a battery that has not stored any electrical energy and does not have a power supply function. The specific values ​​of the preset capacity threshold and the preset SOC threshold are not unique and can be adjusted according to actual conditions. In this embodiment, the preset SOC threshold is 2%. When the number of batteries N to be replaced is less than the total number of batteries P in the target vehicle, the battery swapping device 114 controls relevant equipment to obtain N replacement batteries from the battery compartment and selects the number of empty batteries corresponding to the number M of batteries in the target vehicle excluding the target battery. The replacement batteries and empty batteries are then used to replace all batteries in the target vehicle. For example, if the target vehicle has two batteries, and there is only one target battery, the battery swapping device 114 selects one replacement battery and one empty battery pack to replace both batteries installed in the target vehicle simultaneously.

[0074] In the above embodiments, when it is necessary to partially replace the battery of the target vehicle, the battery swapping device 114 selects a corresponding number of replacement batteries that meet the requirements, and also selects a corresponding number of empty battery packs to replace all the batteries of the target vehicle. This avoids the situation where only part of the battery is replaced, which could affect the power supply safety due to the voltage difference between the replaced and unreplaced batteries, and improves the safety of battery swapping in the vehicle.

[0075] Furthermore, if there are two or more target batteries, the battery swapping device 114 selects batteries from the battery compartment that have a charge greater than a preset charge threshold, a state of charge (SOC) less than a preset SOC threshold, and a voltage difference between the batteries less than a set differential voltage threshold as replacement batteries, further improving the power supply stability of the swapped batteries. The specific value of the set differential voltage threshold is not unique; in this embodiment, the set differential voltage threshold is 5V.

[0076] In another embodiment, the battery swapping device 114 is used to retrieve P replacement batteries from the battery compartment when the number of target batteries equals the total number P batteries of the target vehicle.

[0077] Specifically, the battery to be replaced must have a charge level greater than a preset charge threshold and a state of charge (SOC) less than a preset SOC threshold. If all batteries in the target vehicle need to be replaced, the battery swapping device 114 selects the appropriate number of replacement batteries from the battery compartment. Similarly, if more than two batteries need to be replaced, the battery swapping device 114 selects batteries from the battery compartment that have a charge level greater than a preset charge threshold, an SOC less than a preset SOC threshold, and a voltage difference between the batteries less than a set voltage difference threshold as replacement batteries.

[0078] In the above embodiments, when it is necessary to replace all the batteries in the vehicle, the battery swapping device 114 selects a suitable replacement battery from the battery compartment to replace all the batteries in the vehicle, ensuring the safety of power supply to the vehicle.

[0079] In one embodiment, the station control device 110 is further configured to receive vehicle status information reported by the target vehicle and determine whether the battery swapping preparation operation is complete based on the vehicle status information. Specifically, during the driver's battery swapping preparation operation based on guidance information, the station control host 112 in the station control device 110 maintains Bluetooth communication with the target vehicle, obtains the vehicle status information reported by the target vehicle, and determines that the battery swapping preparation operation is complete after determining that all relevant operation items have been executed based on the vehicle status information. The operation items may include at least one of the following: deactivating the high voltage on the vehicle, disconnecting the vehicle from the battery, shifting the vehicle into neutral (N) gear, straightening the steering wheel, releasing the brake pedal, and closing the vehicle door.

[0080] In the above embodiment, after outputting guidance information, the station control equipment 110 maintains communication with the target vehicle, obtains the vehicle status information of the target vehicle, analyzes whether the battery swapping preparation operation is completed, so as to automatically perform the battery swapping operation on the target vehicle after the battery swapping preparation operation is completed.

[0081] In one embodiment, the station control device 110 is further configured to restrict high-voltage access to the target vehicle after detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed. Specifically, the station control host 112 in the station control device 110, after determining that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed based on the vehicle status information, sends a command to the target vehicle via Bluetooth communication to restrict high-voltage access to the target vehicle. Then, based on the battery swapping request sent by the client, it sends a battery swapping command to the battery swapping device 114 to control the battery swapping device 114 to perform the battery swapping operation. In this embodiment, the station control device 110 restricts high-voltage access to the target vehicle after the battery swapping preparation operation is completed, preventing the vehicle from accidentally triggering the high-voltage operation during battery replacement and improving the safety of the battery swapping operation.

[0082] In one embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, the battery swapping system also includes a battery acquisition device 170 and a moving device 180. The station control equipment 110 is used to control the battery acquisition device 170 to remove the replacement battery from the battery compartment and place the replacement battery in the moving device 180; the station control equipment 110 is also used to control the moving device 180 to transport the replacement battery to the battery swapping location of the target vehicle.

[0083] The battery acquisition device 170 can be a palletizer, and the mobile device 180 can be an RGV (Rail Guided Vehicle) or an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle). Specifically, the battery swapping device 114 in the station control equipment 110 connects the battery acquisition device 170 and the mobile device 180. After determining the number of target batteries to be replaced, the battery swapping device 114 controls the battery acquisition device 170 to take out the corresponding number of batteries that meet the requirements from the battery compartment and place them in the mobile device 180. The battery swapping device 114 then controls the mobile device 180 to transport the replacement batteries to the battery swapping location of the target vehicle.

[0084] In the above embodiments, when the station control equipment performs a battery swapping operation, it controls the battery acquisition device to take out the replacement battery from the battery compartment, and the mobile device transports the replacement battery to the battery swapping location of the vehicle, thereby realizing automatic battery selection and facilitating battery replacement for the vehicle.

[0085] In one embodiment, continue to refer to Figure 4 The battery swapping system also includes an exit gate 190. The station control equipment 110, after completing the battery swapping operation, sends battery replacement information to the target vehicle, allowing the target vehicle to establish a communication connection with the replacement battery and perform a self-test. The station control equipment 110 also controls the exit gate 190 to open after receiving a successful battery swapping message from the target vehicle. The battery replacement information may include the battery's location and communication information, specifically the battery's Bluetooth MAC (Media Access Control) address. After the battery swapping device 114 completes the battery swapping operation, the station control host 112 sends the battery replacement information to the target vehicle via Bluetooth. The target vehicle establishes Bluetooth communication with the replacement battery based on the received information and performs a self-test. Upon successful self-testing, it sends a successful battery swapping message back to the station control host 112, which then controls the exit gate 190 to open.

[0086] In the above embodiment, after the battery is replaced, the station control equipment 110 sends the battery replacement information to the target vehicle. After the target vehicle reports the replacement success information, the station control equipment 110 confirms that the battery replacement was successfully performed and controls the exit gate 190 to open the gate so that the vehicle can leave the battery swapping station.

[0087] In one embodiment, the station control device 110 is further configured to perform the battery swapping operation again after receiving a battery swapping failure message from the target vehicle. Specifically, if the station control host 112 receives a battery swapping failure message from the target vehicle, it determines that the battery swapping has failed and controls the battery swapping device 114 to perform another battery swapping operation, selecting the appropriate number of replacement batteries from the battery compartment to swap the batteries of the target vehicle. In this embodiment, if the battery swapping fails, the station control device 110 reselects batteries to the vehicle's battery swapping location and performs the swapping again, thereby improving the vehicle battery swapping success rate.

[0088] In addition, in one embodiment, the station control device 110 is also used to control the exit gate 190 to open and control the information output device 120 to output prompt information after the number of times the battery swapping operation is executed exceeds a preset number threshold, or after the execution time of the battery swapping operation exceeds a preset time threshold.

[0089] The prompt message is used to remind the driver to leave the battery swapping station. The values ​​of the preset number of swaps and the preset duration threshold are not unique; for example, the preset number of swaps threshold can be set to 2. When the station control host 112 performs a battery swapping operation on the target vehicle exceeding the preset number of swaps threshold, or when the total battery swapping time for the target vehicle exceeds the preset duration threshold, it controls the exit gate 190 to open and outputs a prompt message through the information output device 120 to remind the driver of the target vehicle to leave the battery swapping station. In this embodiment, when the vehicle's battery swapping exceeds the preset number of swaps or the vehicle's battery swapping execution time exceeds the preset duration, the exit gate 190 is opened and the vehicle is prompted to leave the battery swapping station to avoid affecting the battery swapping of the next vehicle.

[0090] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0091] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery replacement system, characterized by, The battery swapping system includes station control equipment and information output devices; The station control equipment is used to control the information output device to output guidance information, which is used to guide the driver of the target vehicle to complete the battery swapping preparation operation. The station control equipment is also used to perform a battery swapping operation on the target vehicle after detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed. The station control equipment includes a station control host and a power swapping device; The station control host is used to receive a battery swap request sent by a client bound to the target vehicle after detecting that the battery swap preparation operation has been completed. The battery swap request includes information about the target battery to be replaced. The station control host is also used to send a battery swapping instruction to the battery swapping device according to the battery swapping request, wherein the battery swapping instruction includes the number N of target batteries; The battery swapping device is used to retrieve N replacement batteries and M empty battery packs from the battery compartment when the number N of the target batteries is less than the total number P of the batteries in the target vehicle; the charge of the replacement batteries is greater than a preset charge threshold and the state of charge (SOC) of the replacement batteries is less than a preset SOC threshold, where N + M = P; the empty battery packs include batteries that do not store electrical energy and do not have a power supply function.

2. The battery replacement system of claim 1, wherein, The battery swapping system also includes: an information collection device and a cloud server; An information acquisition device is used to acquire image information of the target vehicle and send the image information to the cloud server; The cloud server is used to obtain the vehicle identifier of the target vehicle based on the image information and send the vehicle identifier to the station control equipment; The station control equipment is also used to verify the target vehicle based on the vehicle identification of the target vehicle, and after the verification is successful, control the information output device to output the guidance information.

3. The battery replacement system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cloud server is used to obtain license plate information based on the image information, obtain the VIN code of the target vehicle based on the license plate information, and send the VIN code as the vehicle identifier to the station control equipment.

4. The battery swapping system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cloud server is also used to obtain the communication information of the target vehicle based on the image information, and send the communication information to the station control equipment; The station control equipment is used to establish a communication connection with the target vehicle based on the communication information.

5. The battery replacement system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The battery swapping system also includes an entrance gate; The station control equipment is used to receive battery information sent by the target vehicle based on the communication connection, verify the legality of the target vehicle's battery based on the battery information, and control the entrance gate to open after the verification is successful.

6. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The battery swapping system also includes a positioning identification device; The alignment recognition device is used to collect the location information of the target vehicle and send the location information to the station control equipment; The station control equipment is also used to control the information output device to output the guidance information after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location based on the location information.

7. The battery replacement system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The alignment recognition device includes a radar device and / or a laser alignment device.

8. The battery swapping system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The station control equipment is also used to activate the battery swapping permission of the client bound to the target vehicle after determining that the target vehicle is located at the battery swapping location.

9. The battery replacement system of claim 1, wherein, The battery swapping device is further configured to acquire P replacement batteries from the battery compartment when the number of target batteries is equal to the total number P batteries of the target vehicle; the charge of the replacement batteries is greater than a preset charge threshold and the SOC of the replacement batteries is less than a preset SOC threshold.

10. The battery swapping system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The station control equipment is also used to receive vehicle status information reported by the target vehicle and determine whether the battery swapping preparation operation is completed based on the vehicle status information.

11. The battery swapping system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The station control equipment is also used to restrict the high voltage access of the target vehicle after detecting that the battery swapping preparation operation has been completed.

12. The battery replacement system of claim 1, wherein, The battery swapping system also includes a battery acquisition device and a mobility device; The station control equipment is used to control the battery acquisition device to remove the replacement battery from the battery compartment and place the replacement battery in the mobile device; The station control equipment is also used to control the mobile device to transport the replacement battery to the battery swapping location of the target vehicle.

13. The battery replacement system of claim 12, wherein, The battery swapping system also includes an exit gate; The station control equipment is also used to send the battery replacement information to the target vehicle after the battery replacement operation is completed, so that the target vehicle can establish a communication connection with the battery replacement based on the battery replacement information and perform a battery replacement self-test. The station control equipment is also used to control the exit gate to open after receiving the replacement success information sent by the target vehicle.

14. The battery replacement system of claim 13, wherein, The station control equipment is also used to perform the battery swapping operation again after receiving the battery swapping failure information sent by the target vehicle.

15. The battery replacement system according to claim 14, characterized in that, The station control equipment is also used to control the exit gate to open after the number of times the battery swapping operation is executed exceeds a preset number threshold, or after the execution time of the battery swapping operation exceeds a preset time threshold, and to control the information output device to output prompt information, the prompt information being used to prompt the driver to leave the battery swapping station.

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