Battery swapping station and battery swapping method thereof

Abstract

The application provides a battery replacement station and a battery replacement method thereof. The battery replacement station comprises at least one parking position, a battery compartment, a first battery replacement device and a second battery replacement device. The battery compartment stores at least a first battery pack for a first electric vehicle and a second battery pack for a second electric vehicle. The first battery pack is installed on the first electric vehicle through a first locking mechanism, and the second battery pack is installed on the second electric vehicle through a second locking mechanism. The first battery replacement device and the second battery replacement device are used to go back and forth between the parking position and the battery compartment to replace the battery pack of the first electric vehicle or the second electric vehicle. The first battery replacement device is used to lock or unlock the first locking mechanism, and the second battery replacement device is used to lock or unlock the second locking mechanism. The battery replacement station and the battery replacement method thereof can replace battery packs of various types and different locking types, and can adapt to the battery replacement of various electric vehicles. The compatibility of the battery replacement station is higher, and the application range is wider.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent filed on May 25, 2021, with application number 202110572261.0 and titled "Battery Swapping Station and Battery Swapping Method Thereof". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a battery swapping station and a battery swapping method thereof. Background Technology

[0003] With the increasing supply pressure and exhaust pollution caused by the depletion of traditional fossil fuels, the development of traditional gasoline-powered vehicles has entered a period of stagnation. Favoring the prospects of green energy, electric vehicles, with their energy-saving and environmentally friendly advantages, have experienced explosive growth in recent years. However, the short charging time of electric vehicles has led to the emergence of quick-swap electric vehicles, which involves rapidly replacing the battery pack, removing a depleted battery pack and installing a fully charged one. Because electric vehicles require a certain range, their battery packs are very heavy. Therefore, battery pack replacement requires specialized equipment, leading to the emergence of battery swapping stations as professional service locations for electric vehicle battery pack replacement.

[0004] However, current battery swapping stations are all custom-made according to the different models and battery pack specifications of each car manufacturer. In other words, a battery swapping station can only replace battery packs of the same specifications and with the same locking method, which greatly limits the development prospects of battery swapping stations. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the defect that existing battery swapping stations can only replace one type of battery pack, and to provide a battery swapping station and its battery swapping method.

[0006] The present invention solves the above-mentioned technical problems through the following technical solution:

[0007] This invention provides a battery swapping station for replacing battery packs in electric vehicles, the battery swapping station comprising:

[0008] At least one parking space;

[0009] The battery compartment stores at least a first battery pack for a first electric vehicle and a second battery pack for a second electric vehicle. The first battery pack is mounted on the first electric vehicle via a first locking mechanism, and the second battery pack is mounted on the second electric vehicle via a second locking mechanism.

[0010] A first battery swapping device and a second battery swapping device are used to travel between the parking position and the battery compartment to swap the battery pack of the first electric vehicle or the second electric vehicle. The first battery swapping device is used to lock and unlock the first locking mechanism, and the second battery swapping device is used to lock and unlock the second locking mechanism.

[0011] The battery compartments are distributed on both sides of the parking position, namely a first battery compartment and a second battery compartment. The first battery compartment is used to hold the first battery pack, and the second battery compartment is used to hold the second battery pack. The first battery swapping device travels back and forth between the first battery compartment and the parking position to replace the battery pack of the first electric vehicle, and the second battery swapping device travels back and forth between the second battery compartment and the parking position to replace the battery pack of the second electric vehicle.

[0012] The battery swapping station is provided with a clearance area, which is located between the battery compartment and the parking position or on the other side of the parking position relative to the battery compartment. The clearance area is used to allow the first battery swapping device and the second battery swapping device to avoid each other during movement.

[0013] In this technical solution, by placing a first battery pack and a second battery pack within the battery compartment, and configuring a first battery swapping device and a second battery swapping device capable of unlocking and locking the first and second battery packs, the battery swapping station can replace at least two types of battery packs, thus ensuring compatibility with at least the first and second electric vehicles. By placing the first battery pack in the first battery compartment and the second battery pack in the second battery compartment, with the first and second battery compartments located on opposite sides of the parking position, the two types of battery packs have independent storage areas. Furthermore, the first battery swapping device and the first battery compartment are located on the same side, and the second battery swapping device and the second battery compartment are located on the same side, optimizing the structure of the battery swapping station and the battery pack retrieval process design. By setting up avoidance zones, mutual interference between the first and second battery swapping devices during movement can be avoided.

[0014] Preferably, the battery swapping station further includes a vehicle identification device for identifying the battery pack type and locking mechanism type of the electric vehicle to be swapped.

[0015] The vehicle identification device is also used to send a first battery swapping signal to the first battery swapping device when the locking mechanism type is the first locking mechanism, and to send a second battery swapping signal to the second battery swapping device when the locking mechanism type is the second locking mechanism;

[0016] The first battery swapping device and the second battery swapping device perform battery pack replacement operations according to the first battery swapping signal and the second battery swapping signal, respectively.

[0017] In this technical solution, by setting up a vehicle identification device, the battery pack type and locking mechanism type of the electric vehicle that drives into the parking position can be identified, thereby controlling the corresponding battery swapping equipment to perform the subsequent battery swapping process.

[0018] Preferably, the battery swapping station further includes a vehicle platform for lifting or lowering the first electric vehicle located at the parking position to a first height; the vehicle platform is also used for lifting or lowering the second electric vehicle located at the parking position to a second height.

[0019] In this technical solution, the vehicle platform can adjust the parking position to different heights according to the type of electric vehicle parked in the parking position, that is, lift the electric vehicle to different heights, so as to adapt to the height space requirements of battery pack installation and removal during the battery swapping process of different types of battery packs.

[0020] Preferably, the battery compartment has a battery access port, and the avoidance zone is located on either side of the walking path between the parking position and the battery access port.

[0021] In this technical solution, when the battery compartment has only one battery loading and unloading port, the first battery swapping device and the second battery swapping device have overlapping walking paths, and the avoidance area is set on either side of the walking path, which can realize the avoidance of the first battery swapping device or the second battery swapping device to the other battery swapping device.

[0022] Preferably, the battery compartment has two battery access ports, and the avoidance area of ​​one battery access port is the walking path between the other battery access port and the parking position.

[0023] In this technical solution, when the battery compartment has two battery loading and unloading ports, the first battery swapping device and the second battery swapping device can each be designed with a separate, non-overlapping walking path. In this way, the walking path corresponding to one battery loading and unloading port and the parking position can serve as a clearance area between the other battery loading and unloading port and the parking position.

[0024] Preferably, the first battery compartment and the second battery compartment each have a battery loading / unloading port, and the first battery swapping device and the second battery swapping device exchange battery packs through the corresponding battery loading / unloading port.

[0025] In this technical solution, by setting a battery pick-and-place port for the first battery compartment and the second battery compartment respectively, the first battery swapping device and the second battery swapping device can exchange battery packs through the corresponding battery pick-and-place ports, making the battery swapping process of the first battery pack and the battery swapping process of the second battery pack independent of each other, and further optimizing the design of the battery swapping station and the battery swapping process.

[0026] Preferably, the first battery swapping device is also used to lock and unlock the second locking mechanism, and the second battery swapping device is also used to lock and unlock the first locking mechanism.

[0027] In this technical solution, both the first and second battery swapping devices can lock and unlock the first and second locking mechanisms, enabling them to be compatible with the replacement of the first and second battery packs, thus improving battery swapping efficiency.

[0028] Preferably, there are multiple parking locations, and there are also multiple first and second battery swapping devices.

[0029] In this technical solution, the parking location, the number of the first battery swapping device, and the number of the second battery swapping device can be designed according to the actual battery swapping needs.

[0030] This invention provides a battery swapping method, wherein the battery swapping station used in the battery swapping method is as described in the above technical solution, and the battery swapping method includes the following steps:

[0031] Obtain the type of electric vehicle that has entered the parking space and the type of locking mechanism for the battery pack;

[0032] The first or second battery swapping device, which is matched with the type of locking mechanism, is controlled to remove the depleted battery pack of the electric vehicle.

[0033] In this technical solution, by using the above-mentioned battery swapping method, after obtaining the type of electric vehicle and the corresponding locking mechanism type of the battery pack, the matching battery swapping equipment can be controlled to remove the old battery pack of the electric vehicle, so that the battery swapping station can be compatible with the removal of battery packs of different types of battery swapping vehicles.

[0034] Preferably, the battery swapping method further includes the following step: controlling the first battery swapping device or the second battery swapping device to install a fully charged battery pack onto the electric vehicle.

[0035] In this technical solution, the battery pack of an electric vehicle can be swapped using the aforementioned battery swapping method. Furthermore, the first and second battery swapping devices are compatible with the disassembly and installation of the first and second battery packs, further improving swapping efficiency and enhancing the flexibility of the swapping process.

[0036] Based on common knowledge in the field, the above-mentioned preferred conditions can be combined arbitrarily to obtain various preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows:

[0038] The aforementioned battery swapping station and its swapping method, by placing multiple types of battery packs in the battery compartment and configuring swapping equipment that can unlock and unlock multiple types of battery packs, enable the battery swapping station to replace multiple types of battery packs and adapt to the battery swapping of various electric vehicles. Compared with existing battery swapping stations that can only replace one type of battery pack, this battery swapping station has higher compatibility and a wider range of applications. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of a battery swapping station according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of a battery swapping station according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of a battery swapping station according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of the battery swapping station according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of a battery swapping station according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of a battery swapping station according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of the battery swapping station according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of the battery swapping station according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the layout of the battery swapping station according to Embodiment 9 of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the steps of the battery swapping method of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 10 of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the steps of the battery swapping method of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 11 of the present invention.

[0050] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0051] Parking Platform 1

[0052] Parking space 11

[0053] First parking spot 111

[0054] Second parking space 112

[0055] Battery compartment 2

[0056] Battery insertion / removal port 21

[0057] First loading / unloading port 211

[0058] Second loading / unloading port 212

[0059] Third loading / unloading port 213

[0060] Fourth pick-up / drop-off port 214

[0061] First battery compartment 22

[0062] Second battery compartment 23

[0063] First battery swapping equipment 3

[0064] Second battery swapping equipment 4

[0065] Vehicle identification device 5

[0066] Walking Path 6

[0067] First walking path 61

[0068] Second walking path 62

[0069] Third walking path 63

[0070] Fourth walking path 64

[0071] Avoidance Zone 7

[0072] First avoidance zone 71

[0073] Second avoidance zone 72

[0074] Palletizer 8 Detailed Implementation

[0075] The present invention will be further illustrated by way of embodiments below, but the present invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0076] Example 1

[0077] Figure 1 The diagram shows Embodiment 1 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. This battery swapping station is used to replace the battery packs of electric vehicles. There are two types of electric vehicles available for battery swapping: a first electric vehicle and a second electric vehicle. There are also two types of battery packs available for battery swapping: a first battery pack and a second battery pack. The first battery pack is mounted on the first electric vehicle via a first locking mechanism, and the second battery pack is mounted on the second electric vehicle via a second locking mechanism.

[0078] like Figure 1As shown, the battery swapping station includes a parking platform 1 and a battery compartment 2 located on one side of the parking platform 1. The parking platform 1 has a parking space 11, and the battery compartment 2 stores a first battery pack and a second battery pack. The battery swapping station also includes a first battery swapping device 3 and a second battery swapping device 4.

[0079] The first battery swapping device 3 is used to travel between the parking position 11 and the battery compartment 2 to replace the battery pack of the first electric vehicle. The first battery swapping device 3 is also used to lock and unlock the first locking mechanism. Specifically, the first battery swapping device 3 can remove the first battery pack from the battery compartment 2 and move it onto the first electric vehicle, lock the first locking mechanism to fix the first battery pack onto the first electric vehicle; at the same time, the first battery swapping device 3 can also unlock the first locking mechanism to detach the first battery pack from the first electric vehicle and then move the first battery pack into the battery compartment 2.

[0080] The second battery swapping device 4 is used to travel between the parking position 11 and the battery compartment 2 to replace the battery pack of the second electric vehicle. The second battery swapping device 4 is also used to lock and unlock the second locking mechanism. Specifically, the second battery swapping device 4 can remove the second battery pack from the battery compartment 2 and move it onto the second electric vehicle, lock the second locking mechanism to fix the second battery pack onto the second electric vehicle; at the same time, the second battery swapping device 4 can also unlock the second locking mechanism to detach the second battery pack from the second electric vehicle and then move the second battery pack into the battery compartment 2.

[0081] By setting up a battery compartment 2 that stores two types of battery packs, and configuring corresponding battery swapping devices (i.e., first battery swapping device 3 and second battery swapping device 4) for the two types of battery packs respectively, the battery swapping station can swap battery packs of two types of electric vehicles (i.e., first electric vehicle and second electric vehicle), thus achieving compatibility with the battery swapping function of two types of battery packs and improving the compatibility of the battery swapping station.

[0082] To improve battery swapping efficiency, the first battery swapping device 3 is also used to lock and unlock the second locking mechanism. That is, the first battery swapping device 3 can lock the second locking mechanism to allow the second battery pack to be installed on the second electric vehicle, and at the same time, the first battery swapping device 3 can also unlock the second locking mechanism to allow the second battery pack to be detached from the second electric vehicle.

[0083] Similarly, in order to improve battery swapping efficiency, the second battery swapping device 4 is also used to lock and unlock the first locking mechanism. That is, the second battery swapping device 4 can lock the first locking mechanism to allow the first battery pack to be installed on the first electric vehicle, and at the same time, the second battery swapping device 4 can also unlock the first locking mechanism to allow the first battery pack to be detached from the first electric vehicle.

[0084] To ensure compatibility between the first battery swapping device 3 and the second locking mechanism, thus enabling the replacement of both the first and second battery packs, the first battery swapping device 3 is equipped with both a first disassembly / removal mechanism and a second disassembly / removal mechanism. When the first battery pack needs to be replaced, the first disassembly / removal mechanism on the first battery swapping device 3 is used to engage and disengage the first locking mechanism; when the second battery pack needs to be replaced, the second disassembly / removal mechanism on the first battery swapping device 3 is used to engage and disengage the second locking mechanism.

[0085] Similarly, to ensure compatibility between the second battery swapping device 4 and both the first and second locking mechanisms, thus enabling the replacement of both the first and second battery packs, the second battery swapping device 4 is also equipped with a first disassembly / removal mechanism and a second disassembly / removal mechanism. When the first battery pack needs to be replaced, the first disassembly / removal mechanism on the second battery swapping device 4 is used to engage or disengage the first locking mechanism; when the second battery pack needs to be replaced, the second disassembly / removal mechanism on the second battery swapping device 4 is used to engage or disengage the second locking mechanism.

[0086] Since the first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4 is equipped with a first disassembly and assembly mechanism and a second disassembly and assembly mechanism, the battery swapping of the first battery pack and the second battery pack can be completed using only one battery swapping device (the first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4).

[0087] In other embodiments, there can be multiple types of battery packs, and correspondingly, there can be multiple battery swapping devices, each corresponding to the swapping of one type of battery pack. Each battery swapping device corresponds to at least one type of battery pack. To improve the compatibility and efficiency of the battery swapping devices, one device can also correspond to the swapping of multiple battery packs.

[0088] The aforementioned parking spaces 11 can be multiple, allowing multiple electric vehicles to be parked in multiple spaces, thus improving battery swapping efficiency. Correspondingly, there can also be multiple first battery swapping devices 3 and second battery swapping devices 4, with each parking space 11 equipped with one of these devices. Alternatively, the first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4 can be equipped with a first disassembly / removal mechanism and a second disassembly / removal mechanism, or only one battery swapping device (first battery swapping device 3 or second battery swapping device 4) can be used to complete the swapping of the first and second battery packs, meaning one battery swapping device is provided for each parking space 11. In situations where space is limited at the battery swapping station or the swapping frequency is low, one battery swapping device can be used for multiple parking spaces 11. The number of battery swapping devices and parking spaces is determined based on the actual battery swapping needs of the battery swapping station.

[0089] like Figure 1 As shown, the battery swapping station also includes a vehicle identification device 5, which is used to identify the battery pack type and locking mechanism type of the electric vehicle to be swapped.

[0090] The vehicle identification device 5 is also used to send a first battery swapping signal to the first battery swapping device 3 when the locking mechanism is of the first locking mechanism type, i.e., the electric vehicle parked in parking position 11 is the first electric vehicle, and the battery pack to be replaced is the first battery pack. The first battery swapping device 3 then performs a battery pack replacement operation based on the first battery swapping signal, i.e., replaces the first battery pack of the first electric vehicle. At this time, if the second battery swapping device 4 is also compatible with the function of replacing the first battery pack, the vehicle identification device 5 can also send a first battery swapping signal to the second battery swapping device 4. The second battery swapping device 4 then performs a battery pack replacement operation based on the first battery swapping signal, i.e., replaces the first battery pack of the first electric vehicle.

[0091] The vehicle identification device 5 is also used to send a second battery swapping signal to the second battery swapping device 4 when the locking mechanism is a second locking mechanism, i.e., the electric vehicle parked in parking position 11 is a second electric vehicle, and the battery pack to be replaced is a second battery pack. The second battery swapping device 4 then performs a battery pack replacement operation based on the second battery swapping signal, i.e., replaces the second battery pack of the second electric vehicle. At this time, if the first battery swapping device 3 is also compatible with the function of replacing the second battery pack, the vehicle identification device 5 can also send a second battery swapping signal to the first battery swapping device 3. The first battery swapping device 3 then performs a battery pack replacement operation based on the second battery swapping signal, i.e., replaces the second battery pack of the second electric vehicle.

[0092] By installing the vehicle identification device 5, the battery pack type and locking mechanism type of the electric vehicle entering the parking space 11 can be identified, thereby determining the subsequent battery swapping process. The vehicle identification device 5 can be installed at the entrance of the parking platform 1. In this way, when an electric vehicle enters the parking platform 1, the battery pack type and locking mechanism type of the electric vehicle can be identified immediately.

[0093] The height of the battery pack removal or installation position varies depending on the model of the electric vehicle. During the battery swapping process, the height of the electric vehicle needs to be adjusted according to its model (i.e., battery pack type and locking mechanism type). Therefore, the battery swapping station also includes a vehicle platform. Parking position 11 is located on the upper surface of the vehicle platform. The height of parking position 11 can be adjusted by lifting and moving the vehicle platform. Specifically, the height of parking position 11 can be adjusted during lifting or lowering using a lifting mechanism located at the bottom of the vehicle platform. The lifting mechanism can adjust parking position 11 to different heights according to the type of electric vehicle parked at parking position 11, that is, lift the electric vehicle to different heights. For example, when the electric vehicle in parking position 11 is the first electric vehicle, the lifting mechanism lifts the first electric vehicle in parking position 11 to a first height, which is suitable for the battery swapping process of the first battery pack; as another example, when the electric vehicle in parking position 11 is the second electric vehicle, the lifting mechanism lifts the second electric vehicle in parking position 11 to a second height, which is suitable for the battery swapping process of the second battery pack; the battery swapping process includes battery removal and battery installation.

[0094] In another embodiment, the first height may include a first sub-height, a second sub-height, a third sub-height, and a fourth sub-height, corresponding to four height positions of the vehicle platform during battery removal or installation. These four height positions adjust the height of the parking position 11. Specifically: the first sub-height is the initial height position of the electric vehicle entering the vehicle platform; the second sub-height is the height position at which the vehicle platform lifts the electric vehicle so that the unloaded battery swapping device can enter and exit the bottom of the electric vehicle; the third sub-height is the height position at which the vehicle platform lowers the electric vehicle so that the battery swapping device can remove the battery from the bottom of the electric vehicle or install the battery onto the bottom of the electric vehicle; and the fourth sub-height is the height position at which the vehicle platform lifts the electric vehicle so that the battery swapping device carrying the battery can enter and exit the bottom of the electric vehicle. Similarly, the second height may also include four sub-heights.

[0095] In another embodiment, the first height and / or the second height can be the initial height position of the electric vehicle when it enters the vehicle platform. The electric vehicle then removes or installs the battery at this initial height position. During the battery removal or installation process, the position of the battery swapping equipment and the bottom of the electric vehicle is changed by adjusting the height position of the corresponding battery swapping equipment.

[0096] In other embodiments, there can be multiple models of electric vehicles (i.e., battery pack type and locking mechanism type). Correspondingly, the lifting mechanism can also be adjusted to the corresponding height according to the battery swapping needs of different electric vehicles.

[0097] like Figure 1As shown, the battery compartment 2 has a battery rack for placing battery packs. The side of the battery compartment 2 facing the parking platform 1 has a battery loading / unloading port 21. A palletizer 8 is installed inside the battery compartment 2. The palletizer 8 is used to move the battery packs in the battery compartment 2 between the battery loading / unloading port 21 and the battery rack. A first battery swapping device 3 or a second battery swapping device 4 removes or places the battery packs from the battery loading / unloading port 21. Specifically, when removing an old battery pack from the electric vehicle, the first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4 transfers the old battery pack from the battery loading / unloading port 21 to the palletizer 8, which places the old battery pack on the battery rack. When installing a new battery pack into the electric vehicle, the palletizer 8 removes the new battery pack from the battery rack and moves it to the battery loading / unloading port 21. The first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4 removes the new battery pack from the palletizer 8 from the battery loading / unloading port 21 and then moves it to the parking position 11 to install the new battery pack into the electric vehicle.

[0098] A walking path 6 is formed between parking position 11 and battery access port 21 of battery compartment 2. This walking path 6 is used for the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 to travel back and forth between parking position 11 and battery access port 21. In order to avoid mutual interference between the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 during their movement on the walking path 6, a clearance area 7 is also provided between battery compartment 2 and parking position 11. The clearance area 7 does not overlap with the walking path 6 and is connected to it. The clearance area 7 is used to park the first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4.

[0099] The avoidance area 7 is used to allow the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 to avoid each other during movement. For example, while the first battery swapping device 3 is moving, the second battery swapping device 4 can move into the avoidance area 7, allowing the first battery swapping device 3 to move unobstructed along the walking path 6. Conversely, while the second battery swapping device 4 is moving, the first battery swapping device 3 can move into the avoidance area 7, allowing the second battery swapping device 4 to move unobstructed along the walking path 6. In this embodiment, there are two avoidance areas 7, located on one side of the walking path 6.

[0100] Example 2

[0101] Figure 2 The diagram shows Embodiment 2 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. Most of the structure of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 2 is the same as that in Embodiment 1, except that the two avoidance zones 7 are located on the opposite side of the walking path 6 as in Embodiment 1.

[0102] Example 3

[0103] Figure 3The diagram shows Embodiment 3 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. Most of the structure of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 3 is the same as that in Embodiment 1, except that: two avoidance areas 7 are respectively set on both sides of the walking path 6, and the two avoidance areas 7 are staggered, that is, the intersection points of the two avoidance areas 7 and the walking path 6 are at two positions on the walking path 6.

[0104] Example 4

[0105] Figure 4 The following is an embodiment 4 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. Most of the structure of the battery swapping station in embodiment 4 is the same as that in embodiment 1, except that: two avoidance areas 7 are respectively set on both sides of the walking path 6, and the two avoidance areas 7 are aligned with each other, that is, the intersection of the two avoidance areas 7 and the walking path 6 converges at one position on the walking path 6.

[0106] Example 5

[0107] Figure 5 The diagram shows Embodiment 5 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. The structure of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 5 is largely the same as that in Embodiment 1, except that: the walking path 6 passes through the parking position 11 to the side of the parking position 11 away from the battery compartment 2, meaning that the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 can pass under the electric vehicle and move to the side of the parking position 11 away from the battery compartment 2. The two avoidance areas 7 are a first avoidance area 71 and a second avoidance area 72. The first avoidance area 71 is located between the battery compartment 2 and the parking position 11 and is situated on one side of the walking path 6; while the second avoidance area 72 is located on the side of the parking position 11 away from the battery compartment 2 and is situated at the end of the walking path 6.

[0108] The location of the avoidance area 7 described in embodiments 1 to 5 above can be selected based on the movement paths of the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 during the battery swapping process at the battery swapping station. A well-designed avoidance area 7 can simplify the battery swapping process and save swapping time.

[0109] Example 6

[0110] Figure 6The diagram shows Embodiment 6 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. The structure of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 6 is largely the same as that in Embodiment 1, except that: the battery compartment 2 has two battery loading / unloading ports 21, namely a first loading / unloading port 211 and a second loading / unloading port 212; there are also two walking paths 6, namely a first walking path 61 and a second walking path 62. The first walking path 61 connects the parking position 11 and the first loading / unloading port 211, and the second walking path 62 connects the parking position 11 and the second loading / unloading port 212. The first battery swapping device 3 travels on the first walking path 61, and the second battery swapping device 4 travels on the second walking path 62. Since the first walking path 61 and the second walking path 62 do not overlap, the first walking path 61 is a clearance area relative to the second battery swapping device 4, and the second walking path 62 is a clearance area relative to the first battery swapping device 3.

[0111] By setting two battery loading and unloading ports 21, the movement of the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 is relatively independent, so that the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 do not need to avoid each other, thus improving the battery swapping efficiency.

[0112] Example 7

[0113] Figure 7 The diagram shows Embodiment 7 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. The structure of the parking platform and the battery compartment of Embodiment 7 are the same as those of Embodiment 1, except that:

[0114] There are two battery compartments 2, namely a first battery compartment 22 and a second battery compartment 23. The first battery compartment 22 and the second battery compartment 23 are distributed on both sides of the parking position 11. The first battery compartment 22 is used to hold the first battery pack, and the second battery compartment 23 is used to hold the second battery pack. The first battery swapping device 3 travels back and forth between the first battery compartment 22 and the parking position 11 to replace the battery pack of the first electric vehicle, and the second battery swapping device 4 travels back and forth between the second battery compartment 23 and the parking position 11 to replace the battery pack of the second electric vehicle.

[0115] The first battery compartment 22 and the second battery compartment 23 each have a battery loading / unloading port 21. The two battery loading / unloading ports 21 are a third loading / unloading port 213 and a fourth loading / unloading port 214, respectively. That is, the first battery compartment 22 has a third loading / unloading port 213 and the second battery compartment 23 has a fourth loading / unloading port 214. The first battery swapping device 3 swaps battery packs through the third loading / unloading port 213 and the second battery swapping device 4 swaps battery packs through the fourth loading / unloading port 214.

[0116] Correspondingly, there are two walking paths 6: a third walking path 63 and a fourth walking path 64. The third walking path 63 extends from the third access port 213 to the parking position 11; the first battery swapping device 3 travels along the third walking path 63, shuttling between the third access port 213 of the first battery compartment 22 and the parking position 11. The fourth walking path 64 extends from the fourth access port 214 to the parking position 11; the second battery swapping device 4 travels along the fourth walking path 64, shuttling between the fourth access port 214 of the second battery compartment 23 and the parking position 11.

[0117] Since the first battery compartment 22 and the second battery compartment 23 are located on both sides of the parking position 11, the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 will not interfere with each other during the battery swapping process. There is no need to set up a avoidance area, which improves the battery swapping efficiency and simplifies the battery swapping process.

[0118] Example 8

[0119] Figure 8 The diagram shows Embodiment 8 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. Most of the structure of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 8 is the same as that in Embodiment 7, except that:

[0120] There are two parking positions 11, namely the first parking position 111 and the second parking position 112. A third travel path 63 extends from the third access port 213 to the first parking position 111; the first battery swapping device 3 travels along the third travel path 63, shuttling between the third access port 213 of the first battery compartment 22 and the first parking position 111. A fourth travel path 64 extends from the fourth access port 214 to the second parking position 112; the second battery swapping device 4 travels along the fourth travel path 64, shuttling between the fourth access port 214 of the second battery compartment 23 and the second parking position 112.

[0121] When the electric vehicle that enters the parking platform 1 is the first electric vehicle, the first electric vehicle is parked in the first parking position 111 and the first battery swapping device 3 is used for battery swapping; when the electric vehicle that enters the parking platform 1 is the second electric vehicle, the second electric vehicle is parked in the second parking position 112 and the second battery swapping device 4 is used for battery swapping.

[0122] By designing corresponding first parking positions 111 and second parking positions 112 for the first electric vehicle and the second electric vehicle, the parking positions can be customized to meet the battery swapping needs of different electric vehicles, such as the height and area of ​​the parking positions.

[0123] For example, in another embodiment, the first parking position 111 and the second parking position 112 can be arranged side by side, that is, different from Figure 8Instead of being arranged front and rear on the vehicle platform, the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 are arranged side by side between the first battery compartment 22 and the second battery compartment 23. Correspondingly, the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 can respectively travel between the third access port 213 of the first battery compartment 22 and the first parking position 111, and between the fourth access port 214 of the second battery compartment 23 and the second parking position 112. In addition, the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 can also travel on the same path, which extends sequentially from the third access port 213 of the first battery compartment 22 to the first parking position 111, the second parking position 112, and the fourth access port 214 of the second battery compartment 23. A clearance area can be set on this path for the first battery swapping device 3 and / or the second battery swapping device 4 to ensure that the other battery swapping device can travel normally.

[0124] In other embodiments, the number of parking locations 11 can be more than two to accommodate the battery swapping needs of various types of electric vehicles.

[0125] In other embodiments, the battery swapping equipment does not necessarily correspond one-to-one with the parking location; one parking location may correspond to multiple battery swapping equipment, and multiple battery swapping equipment may correspond to one parking location. The number of battery swapping equipment and parking locations can be adjusted according to the actual battery swapping needs.

[0126] Example 9

[0127] Figure 9 The diagram shows Embodiment 9 of the battery swapping station of the present invention. Most of the structure of the battery swapping station in Embodiment 9 is the same as that in Embodiment 8, except that:

[0128] The third travel path 63 extends from the third pick-up / placement port 213 through the first parking position 111 to the fourth pick-up / placement port 214. The fourth travel path 64 extends from the fourth pick-up / placement port 214 through the second parking position 112 to the third pick-up / placement port 213. The third travel path 63 and the fourth travel path 64 are connected end-to-end to form a loop. The first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 can travel on the loop and can reach the third pick-up / placement port 213, the first parking position 111, the fourth pick-up / placement port 214, and the second parking position 112. This allows the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 to be compatible with swapping the first battery pack and the second battery pack, thus improving the battery swapping efficiency.

[0129] Example 10

[0130] Figure 10 The following is an embodiment 10 of the present invention, which provides a battery swapping method for a battery swapping station. The battery swapping method includes the following steps:

[0131] S1. Obtain the type of electric vehicle that has entered parking position 11 and the type of locking mechanism of the battery pack;

[0132] S2. The first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4, which is matched with the control and locking mechanism type, removes the depleted battery pack of the electric vehicle.

[0133] In step S2, if the electric vehicle is the first electric vehicle, the first battery swapping device 3 is controlled to remove the depleted first battery pack of the first electric vehicle; if the electric vehicle is the second electric vehicle, the second battery swapping device 4 is controlled to remove the depleted second battery pack of the second electric vehicle.

[0134] When the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 are compatible with the disassembly of the first battery pack and the second battery pack, if the electric vehicle is the first electric vehicle, the second battery swapping device 4 can also be controlled to disassemble the depleted first battery pack of the first electric vehicle; if the electric vehicle is the second electric vehicle, the first battery swapping device 3 can also be controlled to disassemble the depleted second battery pack of the second electric vehicle.

[0135] The battery swapping method described above at the battery swapping station allows for the removal of old battery packs from electric vehicles. Furthermore, the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 are compatible with the removal of both the first and second battery packs, further improving swapping efficiency and enhancing the flexibility of the swapping process.

[0136] Example 11

[0137] Figure 11 The following is an embodiment 11 of the present invention, which provides a battery swapping method for a battery swapping station, the method comprising the following steps:

[0138] S1. Obtain the type of electric vehicle that has entered parking position 11 and the type of locking mechanism of the battery pack;

[0139] S2. The first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4, which is matched with the control and locking mechanism type, removes the depleted battery pack of the electric vehicle.

[0140] S3. Control the first battery swapping device 3 or the second battery swapping device 4 to install the fully charged battery pack onto the electric vehicle.

[0141] If the electric vehicle is the first electric vehicle, in step S2, the first battery swapping device 3 is controlled to remove the depleted first battery pack of the first electric vehicle, and in step S3, the first battery swapping device 3 is controlled to install the fully charged first battery pack onto the first electric vehicle.

[0142] If the electric vehicle is the second electric vehicle, in step S2, the second battery swapping device 4 is controlled to remove the depleted second battery pack of the second electric vehicle, and in step S3, the second battery swapping device 4 is controlled to install the fully charged second battery pack onto the second electric vehicle.

[0143] When the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 are compatible with the disassembly and installation of the first battery pack and the second battery pack, in step S2, if the electric vehicle is the first electric vehicle, the second battery swapping device 4 can also be controlled to disassemble the depleted first battery pack of the first electric vehicle; if the electric vehicle is the second electric vehicle, the first battery swapping device 3 can also be controlled to disassemble the depleted second battery pack of the second electric vehicle. In step S3, if the electric vehicle is the first electric vehicle, the second battery swapping device 4 can also be controlled to install the fully charged first battery pack onto the first electric vehicle; if the electric vehicle is the second electric vehicle, the first battery swapping device 3 can also be controlled to disassemble the depleted second battery pack of the second electric vehicle.

[0144] The battery swapping method described above at the battery swapping station enables the swapping of battery packs for electric vehicles. Furthermore, the first battery swapping device 3 and the second battery swapping device 4 are compatible with the disassembly and installation of the first and second battery packs, further improving swapping efficiency and enhancing the flexibility of the swapping process.

[0145] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A battery swap station for swapping a battery pack for an electric vehicle, the battery swap station comprising: The battery swap station comprises: at least one parking position; a battery compartment storing at least a first battery pack for a first electric vehicle and a second battery pack for a second electric vehicle, the first battery pack being mounted on the first electric vehicle by a first locking mechanism, and the second battery pack being mounted on the second electric vehicle by a second locking mechanism; a first battery swap device and a second battery swap device for going back and forth between the parking position and the battery compartment to replace the battery pack of the first electric vehicle or the second electric vehicle, wherein the first battery swap device is used to lock or unlock the first locking mechanism, and the second battery swap device is used to lock or unlock the second locking mechanism; the battery compartment is distributed on both sides of the parking position, i.e., a first battery compartment and a second battery compartment, the first battery compartment is used to place the first battery pack, and the second battery compartment is used to place the second battery pack, the first battery swap device goes back and forth between the first battery compartment and the parking position to replace the battery pack of the first electric vehicle, and the second battery swap device goes back and forth between the second battery compartment and the parking position to replace the battery pack of the second electric vehicle; the battery swap station is provided with an avoiding area between the battery compartment and the parking position or on the other side of the parking position relative to the battery compartment, and the avoiding area is used to avoid the first battery swap device and the second battery swap device from each other during walking. 2.The battery swap station of claim 1, wherein, The battery swap station further comprises a vehicle identification device for identifying the type of battery pack and the type of locking mechanism of the electric vehicle to be replaced, the vehicle identification device is further used to send a first battery swap signal to the first battery swap device when the type of locking mechanism is the first locking mechanism, and to send a second battery swap signal to the second battery swap device when the type of locking mechanism is the second locking mechanism; the first battery swap device and the second battery swap device perform battery pack replacement operation according to the first battery swap signal and the second battery swap signal, respectively. 3.The battery swap station of claim 1, wherein, The battery swap station further comprises a vehicle loading platform for lifting or lowering the first electric vehicle at the parking position to a first height, and for lifting or lowering the second electric vehicle at the parking position to a second height. 4.The battery swapping station of claim 1, wherein, The battery compartment has one battery taking and placing opening, and the avoiding area is arranged on any one side or both sides of the walking path between the parking position and the battery taking and placing opening. 5.The battery swapping station of claim 1, wherein, The battery compartment has two battery taking and placing openings, and the avoiding area of one battery taking and placing opening is the walking path between the other battery taking and placing opening and the parking position. 6.The battery swapping station of claim 1, wherein, The first battery compartment and the second battery compartment each have one battery taking and placing opening, and the first battery swap device and the second battery swap device exchange battery packs through the corresponding battery taking and placing openings, respectively. 7.The battery swapping station of claim 1, wherein: The first battery swap device is further used to lock or unlock the second locking mechanism, and the second battery swap device is further used to lock or unlock the first locking mechanism. 8.The battery swapping station of claim 1, wherein, The number of the parking positions is multiple, and / or the number of the first battery swap device and the second battery swap device is also multiple.

9. A battery replacement method, wherein a battery replacement station used in the battery replacement method is as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The battery swap method comprises the following steps: Obtaining the type of the electric vehicle entering the parking position and the type of the locking mechanism of the battery pack; Controlling the first battery swap device or the second battery swap device matching the type of the locking mechanism to disassemble the depleted battery pack of the electric vehicle. 10.The battery replacing method of claim 9, wherein, The battery swap method further comprises the following steps: Controlling the first battery swap device or the second battery swap device to install the full battery pack to the electric vehicle.

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