Cleaning device, battery transfer device and battery swap station

CN118635174BActive Publication Date: 2026-09-11AULTON NEW ENERGY AUTOMOBILE TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202311287841.0
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-09-28
Publication Date
2026-09-11
Estimated Expiration
2043-09-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

这通常需要专门的技术人员和设备,耗费时间和人力资源

Benefits of technology

[0026] The present invention also discloses a battery swapping station, which includes the battery transfer equipment described above.

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Abstract

This invention provides a cleaning device, a battery transfer device, and a battery swapping station. The device, mounted on the battery transfer device, is used to clean the electrical connectors of a battery pack retrieved by the device's extension mechanism. It is characterized by comprising: a cleaning brush, positioned towards the electrical connector and movable relative to the length of the battery pack, having a first position and a second position. In the first position, the cleaning brush can contact and clean the electrical connector of the battery pack; in the second position, the cleaning brush can avoid the battery pack. A first driving mechanism drives the cleaning brush and switches it between the first and second positions. During battery pack transfer, the battery transfer device retrieves the battery pack for transfer, and the cleaning brush cleans the electrical connector in the first position, eliminating the need for manual operation and improving cleaning efficiency. Each battery pack is cleaned during transfer, preventing any omissions.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery swapping stations, and particularly to a cleaning device, battery transfer equipment, and battery swapping station. Background Technology

[0002] During use, battery packs may accumulate dust, dirt, and corrosive substances. In particular, these contaminants can adhere to the electrical connectors of the battery pack, affecting its electrical conductivity when connected to the battery swapping vehicle or the charging rack. In severe cases, this can even prevent the battery pack from providing power to the vehicle or from charging at the charging rack due to a lack of conductivity. Therefore, regular cleaning and maintenance of the battery pack is necessary.

[0003] Currently, battery pack cleaning and maintenance mainly relies on periodic manual processes, involving manual inspection and cleaning to ensure the battery packs are in good condition. This typically requires specialized technicians and equipment, consuming significant time and human resources. As the number of battery packs and the frequency of vehicle battery swapping continue to increase, manual handling of battery packs becomes increasingly difficult and time-consuming. Furthermore, manual handling is prone to overlooking certain areas during cleaning, placing considerable pressure on the operation and maintenance of battery swapping stations. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the defects of the prior art and provide a cleaning device, a battery transfer device, and a battery swapping station.

[0005] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution: a cleaning device, disposed on a battery transfer device, for cleaning the electrical connector of the battery pack retrieved by the extension mechanism of the battery transfer device, characterized in that it comprises:

[0006] A cleaning brush is provided, which is positioned toward the electrical connector and is movable relative to the length of the battery pack and has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the cleaning brush can contact the electrical connector of the battery pack and clean the electrical connector. In the second position, the cleaning brush can avoid the battery pack.

[0007] A first driving mechanism is used to drive the cleaning brush and enable the cleaning brush to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0008] In this solution, during battery pack transfer, the extension mechanism of the battery transfer equipment retrieves the battery pack for transfer. The battery pack stays on the transfer equipment for a certain period of time. Because the cleaning brush is positioned towards the electrical connector of the battery pack, the first drive mechanism can drive the cleaning brush to clean the electrical connector at a first position and then move to a second position to avoid interfering with the transfer of the battery pack. This automated cleaning process ensures that the electrical connector of the battery pack is cleaned in a timely manner during its stay, eliminating the need for manual operation and improving the efficiency of battery pack cleaning. It also ensures that each battery pack is cleaned during the transfer process, preventing any missed cleaned battery packs from affecting its usability.

[0009] Preferably, the cleaning device further includes a control unit, which controls the first drive mechanism to switch the cleaning brush from the second position to the first position when the extension mechanism moves the battery pack along the width direction of the battery pack to a preset position.

[0010] In this solution, the control unit controls the state switching of the cleaning brush when the battery pack moves to the preset position with the extension mechanism, ensuring the timing of the cleaning operation. This allows for timely cleaning of the battery pack's electrical connectors at the appropriate position while avoiding interference with the battery pack's transport, maximizing the cleaning time during the battery pack's stay and further improving the automation and efficiency of battery pack cleaning.

[0011] Preferably, the cleaning device further includes a second drive mechanism for driving the cleaning brush to move relative to the width direction of the battery pack. After the cleaning brush switches from the second position to the first position, the control unit also controls the second drive mechanism to drive the cleaning brush to move along the width direction of the battery pack.

[0012] In this solution, after the first drive mechanism switches the cleaning brush to the first position, the second drive mechanism can control the cleaning brush to move along the width direction of the battery pack to clean the electrical connector. The cleaning process no longer depends on the movement of the extension mechanism of the battery transfer device, and the cleaning device can operate more independently, providing greater flexibility.

[0013] Preferably, the cleaning device further includes:

[0014] The cleaning brush is mounted on the connecting part, and the connecting part is connected to the output shaft of the first drive mechanism;

[0015] A guiding mechanism, comprising a guide rail and a guide groove, wherein one of the guide rail and the guide groove is disposed on the connecting portion and the other is connected to the battery transfer device, the guide rail and the guide groove cooperating to guide the connecting portion when the cleaning brush switches between the first position and the second position.

[0016] In this solution, the connecting part connects the cleaning brush to the output shaft of the first drive mechanism. The guide mechanism, through the cooperation of the guide rail and the guide groove, allows the cleaning brush to move along a preset path. When the first drive mechanism controls the cleaning brush to switch between the first position and the second position, the guide mechanism ensures the accurate guidance of the cleaning brush to maintain the precision of the cleaning operation.

[0017] Preferably, the cleaning brush is installed at the middle position of the connecting part, and the output shafts of the guide mechanism and the first drive mechanism are located on both sides of the cleaning brush along the length direction of the battery pack.

[0018] In this design, the cleaning brush is installed in the middle of the connecting part, while the output shafts of the guide mechanism and the first drive mechanism are located on both sides of the cleaning brush. They can simultaneously control the movement of the cleaning brush, enabling the cleaning brush to move and position more stably along the length of the battery pack, which helps to improve the stability and accuracy of the cleaning operation.

[0019] Preferably, the cleaning device includes a mounting plate fixed to the battery transfer device and located on the side of the connection portion opposite to the cleaning brush. One end of the guide rail is fixed to the mounting plate, and the other end passes through the connection portion. The first drive mechanism is mounted on the mounting plate to drive the cleaning brush through the output shaft.

[0020] In this design, the mounting plate is fixed to the battery transfer device and located on the opposite side of the cleaning brush, ensuring a tight connection between the cleaning device and the battery transfer device. This allows the guide rail to more accurately guide the cleaning brush, and the first drive mechanism to more reliably drive the cleaning brush through the output shaft, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of the cleaning brush operation.

[0021] Preferably, the cleaning device further includes a fixing part, and the mounting plate has a mounting opening for the fixing part and the first drive mechanism to pass through. The fixing part includes a connecting plate connected to the side wall of the first drive mechanism and lugs located on both sides of the first drive mechanism. The lugs are used to connect with the mounting plate.

[0022] In this design, the drive mechanism is mounted in the mounting port of the mounting plate via the connecting plate and lug of the fixing part, making the structure more compact and achieving a tighter connection. This helps to reduce the overall size and space occupied by the device. Since the drive mechanism is tightly fixed in the mounting port of the mounting plate, unnecessary vibration is reduced, and the stability of the cleaning device is improved.

[0023] The present invention also discloses a battery transfer device, which includes the cleaning device described above.

[0024] Preferably, the battery transfer device includes a frame and an extension mechanism disposed within the frame, the extension mechanism being extendable or retractable within the frame to obtain and transfer the battery pack, the cleaning device being fixed to the frame and located above the extension mechanism at a position corresponding to the electrical connector of the battery pack, and the cleaning brush being disposed toward the electrical connector.

[0025] In this solution, the battery transfer equipment not only effectively transports battery packs but also cleans the electrical connectors of the battery packs. The cleaning device is located above the extension mechanism and aligned with the electrical connectors, allowing cleaning to be performed simultaneously with battery pack retrieval and transfer, thus improving the equipment's versatility and efficiency. Since the cleaning operation is carried out concurrently with battery pack retrieval and transfer, no additional human intervention is required, saving time and manpower and helping to reduce the cost of battery pack cleaning and maintenance. The automated cleaning process reduces the opportunity for operators to come into contact with the battery pack's electrical connectors, thereby reducing operational risks and improving operational safety.

[0026] The present invention also discloses a battery swapping station, which includes the battery transfer equipment described above.

[0027] In this solution, the battery swapping station not only includes battery transfer equipment, but also has the function of connectors for cleaning battery packs. This allows the batteries to be retrieved, transported and cleaned at the same station, improving the integration and efficiency of battery pack handling and reducing the operating costs of the battery swapping station.

[0028] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows: During the battery pack transfer process, the extension mechanism of the battery transfer device retrieves the battery pack for transfer. The battery pack stays on the battery transfer device for a certain period of time. Because the cleaning brush is positioned towards the electrical connector of the battery pack, the first drive mechanism can drive the cleaning brush to clean the electrical connector at a first position and avoid it at a second position, without affecting the transfer of the battery pack. The automated cleaning process ensures that the electrical connector of the battery pack is cleaned in a timely manner during the stay, eliminating the need for manual operation and improving the efficiency of battery pack cleaning. Simultaneously, it ensures that each battery pack is cleaned during the transfer process, avoiding omissions that could affect the use of individual battery packs due to uncleanliness. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram (I) of the electrical connector and cleaning device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram (II) of the electrical connector and cleaning device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the battery transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the battery transfer device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0035] Battery transfer equipment 100

[0036] Cleaning device 10

[0037] Cleaning Brush 101

[0038] First drive mechanism 102

[0039] Output shaft 1021

[0040] Connecting part 103

[0041] Guiding mechanism 104

[0042] Guide rail 1041

[0043] Guide groove 1042

[0044] Mounting plate 105

[0045] Fixing part 106

[0046] Connector 1061

[0047] 1062 protruding ears

[0048] Framework 11

[0049] Extending mechanism 12

[0050] Battery pack 200

[0051] Electrical connector 20

[0052] Positioning unit 30

[0053] L of the battery pack

[0054] The width direction W of the battery pack Detailed Implementation

[0055] The present invention will be described more clearly and completely below with reference to a preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings.

[0056] Example 1

[0057] like Figures 1-5 As shown, this embodiment discloses a battery transfer device 100, which is provided with a cleaning device 10. The cleaning device 10 is used to clean the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200 retrieved by the extension mechanism 12 of the battery transfer device 100. The cleaning device 10 further includes: a cleaning brush 101, which is disposed toward the electrical connector 20 and can move relative to the length direction L of the battery pack and has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the cleaning brush 101 can contact the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200 and clean the electrical connector 20. In the second position, the cleaning brush 101 can avoid the battery pack 200; and a first driving mechanism 102, which is used to drive the cleaning brush 101 and can drive the cleaning brush 101 to switch between the first position and the second position.

[0058] Specifically, during the transfer of the battery pack 200, the extension mechanism 12 of the battery transfer device 100 will retrieve the battery pack 200 for transfer. The battery pack 200 stays on the battery transfer device 100 for a certain period of time. Since the cleaning brush 101 is set towards the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200, the first drive mechanism 102 can drive the cleaning brush 101 to clean the electrical connector 20 at the first position and avoid it at the second position, so as not to affect the transfer of the battery pack 200. The automated cleaning process ensures that the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200 is cleaned in a timely manner during the stay, without the need for manual operation, thus improving the cleaning efficiency of the battery pack 200.

[0059] Specifically, in the second position, the first drive mechanism 102 drives the cleaning brush 101 to move 10-15mm toward the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200 to reach the first position. The distance between the first and second positions relative to the electrical connector 20 is set so that the cleaning brush 101 can contact the electrical connector 20 for cleaning in the first position, while avoiding the battery pack 200 in the second position. It should be noted that the displacement of the cleaning brush 101 driven by the first drive mechanism 102 can be set according to the actual situation, for example, different displacement amounts can be set based on different battery pack sizes.

[0060] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 10 also includes a control unit (not shown in the figure). When the extension mechanism 12, carrying the battery pack 200, moves along the width direction W of the battery pack to a preset position, the control unit controls the first drive mechanism 102 to drive the cleaning brush 101 to switch from a second position to a first position. The control unit controls the state switching of the cleaning brush 101 when the battery pack 200 moves with the extension mechanism 12 to the preset position, ensuring the timing of the cleaning operation. This allows for timely cleaning of the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200 at appropriate locations while avoiding interference with the transport of the battery pack 200. This maximizes the cleaning time during the battery pack 200's dwell period, further improving the automation and efficiency of the battery pack 200 cleaning. Simultaneously, it ensures that each battery pack is cleaned during transport, preventing omissions that could affect the use of individual battery packs due to uncleanliness.

[0061] In this embodiment, the preset position is any position between the positioning part 30 and the electrical connector 20. The positioning part 30 is a structure on the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200 that guides the battery pack 20 to cooperate with the connector or battery rack at the vehicle end. In this position, the cleaning brush 101 corresponds to the position of the electrical connector 20. The control unit monitors the position and movement of the battery pack 200 through sensors and determines whether it has reached the preset position. Once the control unit detects that the extension mechanism 12 has moved the battery pack 200 along the width direction of the battery pack 200 to the preset position, the control unit will trigger the first drive mechanism 102. Under the action of the first drive mechanism 102, the cleaning brush 101 moves to the first position, that is, the cleaning brush 101 contacts the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200. Since the extension mechanism 12 moves the battery pack 200 along the width direction of the battery pack 200, the bristles on the cleaning brush 101 begin to clean the electrical connector 20, removing dust, dirt and corrosion. When the extension mechanism 12 is fully returned to the battery transfer device, that is, when the extension mechanism 12 returns to its original position, the control unit controls the first drive mechanism 102 to drive the cleaning brush 101 to move to the second position. This position will not affect the transfer of the battery pack 200, and the cleaning brush 101 will not interfere with the normal operation of the extension mechanism 12.

[0062] In other embodiments, when the battery packs are of the same size, since the moving speed of the extension mechanism is fixed, it is possible to determine how long the extension mechanism will move before the battery pack moves to the preset position based on the size of the battery pack and the moving speed of the extension mechanism. In other words, it is not necessary to use a sensor to directly determine that the extension mechanism has driven the battery pack to move to the preset position after the extension mechanism has moved for a preset time. The control unit controls the first drive mechanism to drive the cleaning brush to switch from the second position to the first position.

[0063] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first driving mechanism 102 is driven by electromagnetic force. Of course, in other alternative embodiments, a motor, hydraulic cylinder, or other driving method may also be used.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, the cleaning device 10 further includes: a connecting part 103, on which the cleaning brush 101 is mounted, and the connecting part 103 is connected to the output shaft 1021 of the first drive mechanism 102; and a guiding mechanism 104, which includes a guide rail 1041 and a guide groove 1042, one of which is disposed on the connecting part 103 and the other is connected to the battery transfer device 100. The guide rail 1041 and the guide groove 1042 cooperate to guide the connecting part 103 when the cleaning brush 101 switches between a first position and a second position.

[0065] Specifically, in this embodiment, the guide groove 1042 is disposed on the connecting part 103, the guide rail 1041 is connected to the battery transfer device 100, the connecting part 103 connects the cleaning brush 101 to the output shaft 1021 of the first drive mechanism 102, and the guide mechanism 104, through the cooperation of the guide rail 1041 and the guide groove 1042, enables the cleaning brush 101 to move along a preset path. When the first drive mechanism 102 controls the cleaning brush 101 to switch between the first position and the second position, the guide mechanism 104 ensures the accurate guidance of the cleaning brush 101 to maintain the precision of the cleaning operation.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the cleaning brush 101 is mounted in the middle of the connecting portion 103, and the output shafts 1021 of the guide mechanism 104 and the first drive mechanism 102 are respectively located on both sides of the cleaning brush 101 along the length direction of the battery pack 200. The cleaning brush 101 is mounted in the middle of the connecting portion 103, while the guide mechanism 104 and the output shafts 1021 of the first drive mechanism 102 are respectively located on both sides of the cleaning brush 101. They can simultaneously control the movement of the cleaning brush 101, allowing the cleaning brush 101 to move and position more stably along the length direction of the battery pack 200, contributing to the stability and accuracy of the cleaning operation. Of course, in other alternative embodiments, the guide mechanism 104 and the output shaft 1021 may also be located on the same side of the connecting portion 103, or one of the guide mechanism 104 and the output shaft 1021 may be positioned opposite the cleaning brush 101.

[0067] like Figure 3The cleaning device 10 includes a mounting plate 105 fixed on the battery transfer device 100 and located on the side of the connecting part 103 away from the cleaning brush 101. One end of the guide rail 1041 is fixed on the mounting plate 105, and the other end passes through the connecting part 103. The connecting part 103 is provided with a guide groove 1042. The first drive mechanism 102 is mounted on the mounting plate 105 to drive the cleaning brush 101 through the output shaft 1021.

[0068] Specifically, the mounting plate 105 is fixed to the battery transfer device 100 and located on the opposite side of the cleaning brush 101. The guide rail 1041 is connected to the battery transfer device 100 via the mounting plate 105, ensuring a tight connection between the cleaning device 10 and the battery transfer device 100. This allows the guide rail 1041 to guide the cleaning brush 101 more accurately, and the first drive mechanism 102 to drive the cleaning brush 101 more reliably via the output shaft 1021, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of the cleaning operation of the cleaning brush 101. Of course, in other alternative embodiments, the guide rail 1041 and the first drive mechanism 102 can also be directly fixed to the battery transfer device 100.

[0069] In other embodiments, the guide rail 1041 may be fixed at one end to the connecting part 103 and the other end may pass through the mounting plate 105, and the mounting plate 105 may be provided with a guide groove 1042.

[0070] like Figure 3 As shown, the cleaning device 10 also includes a fixing part 106. The mounting plate 105 has mounting openings for the fixing part 106 and the first drive mechanism 102 to pass through. The fixing part 106 includes a connecting plate 1061 connected to the side wall of the first drive mechanism 102 and lugs 1062 located on both sides of the first drive mechanism 102. The lugs 1062 are used to connect with the mounting plate 105. Mounting the drive mechanism within the mounting opening of the mounting plate 105 via the connecting plate 1061 and lugs 1062 of the fixing part 106 makes the structure more compact and achieves a tighter connection, helping to reduce the overall size and space occupied by the device. Because the drive mechanism is tightly fixed within the mounting opening of the mounting plate 105, unnecessary vibration is reduced, improving the stability of the cleaning device 10.

[0071] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the battery transfer device 100 includes a frame 11 and an extension mechanism 12 disposed within the frame 11. The extension mechanism 12 can extend or retract within the frame 11 to obtain and transfer the battery pack 200. The cleaning device 10 is fixed on the frame 11 and located above the extension mechanism 12 at a position corresponding to the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200. The cleaning brush 101 is disposed facing the electrical connector 20.

[0072] Specifically, the battery transfer device 100 not only effectively transports the battery pack 200, but also cleans the electrical connectors of the battery pack 200. The cleaning device 10 is located above the extension mechanism 12 and aligned with the position of the electrical connectors 20, allowing cleaning to be performed simultaneously with the retrieval and transfer of the battery pack 200, thus improving the versatility and efficiency of the equipment. Since the cleaning operation is carried out simultaneously with the retrieval and transfer of the battery pack 200, no additional human intervention is required, thereby saving time and human resources and helping to reduce the cost of cleaning and maintaining the battery pack 200. The automated cleaning process reduces the opportunity for operators to come into contact with the electrical connectors 20 of the battery pack 200, thereby reducing operational risks and improving operational safety.

[0073] The cleaning steps of the battery transfer device 100 during the process of picking up and placing the battery pack 200 are as follows: The extension mechanism 12 of the battery transfer device 100 is activated, extending to the outside to pick up the battery pack 200, which is usually removed from an electric vehicle or battery rack; the control unit continuously monitors the position and movement of the extension mechanism or the battery pack 200, and confirms whether the extension mechanism or the battery pack 200 has reached the preset position. When the extension mechanism or the battery pack 200 has reached the preset position, the control unit controls the first drive mechanism 102 to start the automated cleaning process of the cleaning brush 101. Under the action of the first drive mechanism 102, the cleaning brush 101 is moved to the first position, and the extension mechanism 12 retracts to cooperate with the cleaning brush 101 to clean the electrical connector 20 of the battery pack 200. When the control unit detects that the battery pack 200 has reached the preset position, it controls the first drive mechanism 102 to drive the cleaning brush 101 to switch to the second position, and the cleaning is completed.

[0074] Example 2

[0075] The battery transfer device 100 provided in this embodiment has a structure that is largely the same as that in Embodiment 1, with the main difference being:

[0076] The cleaning device 10 further includes a second drive mechanism (not shown in the figure), which drives the cleaning brush 101 to move relative to the width direction of the battery pack 200. After the cleaning brush 101 is switched from the second position to the first position, the control unit also controls the second drive mechanism to drive the cleaning brush 101 to move along the width direction of the battery pack 200. After the first drive mechanism 102 switches the cleaning brush 101 to the first position, the second drive mechanism can control the cleaning brush 101 to move along the width direction of the battery pack 200 to clean the electrical connector 20. The cleaning process no longer depends on the movement of the extension mechanism 12 of the battery transfer device 100, and the cleaning device 10 can operate more independently, providing greater flexibility.

[0077] Specifically, in this embodiment, the preset position is that the extension mechanism 12, carrying the battery pack 200, is completely returned to the battery transfer device, that is, the extension mechanism 12 returns to its original position and stops moving. The control unit controls the second drive mechanism to drive the cleaning brush 101 to move along the width direction of the battery pack 200 to clean the electrical connector 20. In this solution, the cleaning process does not require the extension and retraction of the extension mechanism 12.

[0078] In this embodiment, the second drive mechanism is driven by electromagnetic force. Of course, in other alternative embodiments, a motor, hydraulic cylinder, or other drive method may also be used.

[0079] Specifically, the cleaning steps of the battery transfer device 100 during the process of picking up and placing the battery pack 200 are as follows: The extension mechanism 12 of the battery transfer device 100 is activated, extending to the outside to pick up the battery pack 200, which is usually removed from an electric vehicle or battery rack; the control unit confirms whether the extension mechanism has reached its original position. When the extension mechanism has reached its original position, the control unit controls the first drive mechanism 102 to start the automated cleaning process of the cleaning brush 101. Under the action of the first drive mechanism 102, the cleaning brush 101 is moved to the first position. Then, the control unit controls the second drive mechanism to drive the cleaning brush 101 to move along the width direction of the battery pack 200 to clean the electrical connection 20. After cleaning is completed, the control unit controls the second drive unit to stop driving the cleaning brush 101. Then, the control unit controls the first drive unit to drive the cleaning brush 101 from the first position back to the second position.

[0080] Example 3

[0081] This embodiment also discloses a battery swapping station, which includes the battery transfer equipment 100 provided in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2. The battery swapping station not only includes the battery transfer equipment 100, but also has the function of a cleaning connector 20 for the battery pack 200, enabling the battery to be retrieved, transported, and cleaned at the same station, improving the integration and efficiency of battery pack 200 processing, and reducing the operating cost of the battery swapping station.

[0082] Of course, in other alternative embodiments, the cleaning device 10 may also be installed on other transfer or storage equipment of battery pack 200, such as battery swapping equipment or battery racks in a battery swapping station.

[0083] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A cleaning device, disposed on a battery transfer device, for cleaning the electrical connector of a battery pack retrieved by the extension mechanism of the battery transfer device, characterized in that, It includes: A cleaning brush is provided, which is positioned toward the electrical connector and is movable relative to the length of the battery pack and has a first position and a second position. In the first position, the cleaning brush can contact the electrical connector of the battery pack and clean the electrical connector. In the second position, the cleaning brush can avoid the battery pack. A first driving mechanism is used to drive the cleaning brush and can drive the cleaning brush to switch between the first position and the second position. The cleaning device also includes a control unit. When the extension mechanism moves the battery pack along the width direction of the battery pack to a preset position, the control unit controls the first drive mechanism to drive the cleaning brush to switch from the second position to the first position. The extension mechanism retracts to cooperate with the cleaning brush to clean the electrical connector of the battery pack.

2. The cleaning device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning device further includes a second drive mechanism for driving the cleaning brush to move relative to the width direction of the battery pack. After the cleaning brush switches from the second position to the first position, the control unit also controls the second drive mechanism to drive the cleaning brush to move along the width direction of the battery pack.

3. The cleaning device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The cleaning device also includes: The cleaning brush is mounted on the connecting part, and the connecting part is connected to the output shaft of the first drive mechanism; A guiding mechanism, comprising a guide rail and a guide groove, wherein one of the guide rail and the guide groove is disposed on the connecting portion and the other is connected to the battery transfer device, the guide rail and the guide groove cooperating to guide the connecting portion when the cleaning brush switches between the first position and the second position.

4. The cleaning device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The cleaning brush is installed in the middle of the connecting part, and the output shafts of the guide mechanism and the first drive mechanism are located on both sides of the cleaning brush along the length of the battery pack.

5. The cleaning device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The cleaning device includes a mounting plate fixed to the battery transfer device and located on the side of the connection portion away from the cleaning brush. One end of the guide rail is fixed to the mounting plate, and the other end passes through the connection portion. The first drive mechanism is mounted on the mounting plate to drive the cleaning brush through the output shaft.

6. The cleaning device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The cleaning device further includes a fixing part, and the mounting plate has an installation port for the fixing part and the first drive mechanism to pass through. The fixing part includes a connecting plate connected to the side wall of the first drive mechanism and lugs located on both sides of the first drive mechanism. The lugs are used to connect with the mounting plate.

7. A battery transfer device, characterized in that, It includes the cleaning device as described in any one of claims 1-6.

8. The battery transfer device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The battery transfer device includes a frame and an extension mechanism disposed within the frame. The extension mechanism can extend or retract within the frame to obtain and transfer the battery pack. The cleaning device is fixed to the frame and located above the extension mechanism at a position corresponding to the electrical connector of the battery pack. The cleaning brush is positioned toward the electrical connector.

9. A battery swapping station, characterized in that, It includes the battery transfer device as described in claim 7 or 8.

Citation Information

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