Connection system for outboard motor

Abstract

The invention relates to an outboard motor, in particular to an outboard motor with an improved and simplified connection system for a shaft head and a battery. Correspondingly, an outboard motor for a ship is proposed, comprising a shaft head defining a longitudinal axis and a housing of a battery that can be detachably connected to the shaft head. The spindle nose has a guide for connecting a housing of the battery, wherein a guide element extends at an end region of the housing. The guide elements are arranged in such a way that, when the housing is connected to the shaft head, the guide elements engage with the respective guide portions. According to the invention, the guide part and the guide element are designed in such a way that, for connection to the spindle head, the housing is first pivoted on the spindle head and then moved relative to the spindle head, the housing and the spindle head each have an electrical connection element, which is arranged such that the guide part and the guide element are connected to the spindle head. The connecting elements are connected to one another in an electrically conductive manner by means of a moving movement when the housing is connected to the spindle nose.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an outboard motor, in particular to a connection system between a shaft head and a battery housing of an outboard motor for an electrically driven boat. Background Art

[0002] In electrically driven boats or ships, outboard motors are usually used, which are fastened to the transom or stern of the boat. Here, a shaft with a shaft head at one longitudinal end and a propeller at the opposite longitudinal end is usually first fastened to the flat roof of the boat by means of thumb screws. The tiller handle and the housing of the battery are then subsequently connected to the shaft head.

[0003] In this way, the installation or removal of the outboard motor can be facilitated and parts of the outboard motor can also be removed without having to completely dismantle the outboard motor. Thus, for example, the housing of the tiller and the battery can be removed in order to prevent unauthorized third parties from controlling the drive device or to enable external charging and storage of the battery.

[0004] However, current solutions require the tiller arm and the motor to be connected to the housing of the battery via separate plug connections, wherein in order to achieve a waterproof connection, a locking nut must additionally be tightened at the respective plug connection. In addition, a latch is provided to mechanically fix the housing of the battery, which latch is inserted through the housing of the battery and the shaft head in order to thereby provide a latching and secure fastening of the housing of the battery on the shaft head. Therefore, the connection of the battery requires a plurality of steps that must be carried out manually and, for example, repeated when replacing the battery.

[0005] The conductive connection to the battery can also be prone to errors. Because, in order to avoid damage, tensile stresses and squeezing of the corresponding cables should be prevented in principle. Likewise, the pins of the electrical plug connection should be precisely oriented relative to each other in order to avoid possible bending of the pins, especially when using excessive forces. Likewise, the lock nut should be arranged straight in order to prevent the corresponding thread from being damaged when tightening. As a result, installation can be cumbersome and also requires the operator to use both hands. Summary of the invention

[0006] Based on the known prior art, the object of the invention is to provide an improved and, in particular, simplified connection for an outboard motor.

[0007] The object is achieved by an outboard motor having the features of the invention. Advantageous developments are apparent from the description and the drawings.

[0008] Correspondingly, an outboard motor for a boat is proposed, which includes a shaft head defining a longitudinal axis and a housing of a battery that can be detachably connected to the shaft head. The shaft head here has a guide portion for connecting the housing of the battery. A guide element extends at an end region of the housing, wherein the guide element is arranged so that when the housing is connected to the shaft head, the guide element engages with the corresponding guide portion. According to the present invention, it is also proposed that the guide portion and the guide element are configured so that the housing is first pivoted at the shaft head and then moved relative to the shaft head in order to be connected to the shaft head, wherein the housing and the shaft head respectively have electrical connecting elements, which are arranged so that the connecting elements are connected to each other in an electrically conductive manner by a displacement movement when the housing is connected to the shaft head.

[0009] By means of an initial pivoting movement of the housing, the battery can first be connected to the shaft head in a simple manner, for example by inserting a guide element and continuously rotating or turning the housing. The subsequent displacement movement also has the particular advantage that a safe electrically conductive connection can be established between the components of the outboard motor when the housing is connected. In this case, it is advantageously not necessary to manually hold the weight of the accumulator or battery. This is because the battery can then be simply moved during the displacement movement after the initial connection. In this way, the connecting elements can also be connected to one another in an electrically conductive manner, in particular by means of a simple plug connection. In this case, when the housing is connected to the shaft head, the plug connection is carried out virtually automatically. Correspondingly, a wireless connection can be provided and, for example, cumbersome screwing of a lock nut can be omitted.

[0010] The housing of the battery can also be understood as an outer housing, wherein one or more battery cells are arranged in the interior of the housing. The battery or battery cell is respectively connected to the shaft head by means of the housing and is not accommodated by another container or housing. In this way, the housing is in direct contact with the environment, so that the housing forms a protection for the battery cell against direct external influences.

[0011] Preferably, the connecting elements are arranged at the end sides and are arranged in such a way that they are spaced apart from one another during the pivoting movement and are oriented concentrically relative to one another during the displacement movement. The concentric orientation can further facilitate the plug connection. The initial spacing of the connecting elements ensures that the connecting elements do not touch one another during the initial connection of the housing, so that a possible distortion of the corresponding contact elements can be avoided, which would occur, for example, if the battery was only connected rotatably relative to the shaft head and not continuously linearly displaced.

[0012] In particular, the respective end faces of the shaft head and the housing each have a separate electrical connection element, which provides an electrically conductive connection for the tiller arm and the motor which can be connected to the shaft head. As a result, a separate connection piece can be omitted and a more compact design can be provided. The contact pins required for the respective electrically conductive connection can be provided in the corresponding insulating area on the respective connection element. Preferably, the connection element is designed as a socket or a plug.

[0013] By virtue of the fact that the connecting elements are preferably located at the corresponding end sides, the connecting elements can also be better protected from external influences, mechanical and / or fluid influences. Preferably, the shaft head is surrounded by a corresponding section of the housing and is at least partially accommodated in the housing, wherein the end sides are in particular surrounded by the housing or are surrounded on both sides. In this way, the connecting elements can be covered so that accidental contact can be avoided. In addition, improved protection against mechanical influences and improved fluid sealing can be provided thereby, in that a direct interaction of the connecting elements with the external environment is effectively avoided. For example, seals can be provided at the corresponding end sides and / or contours, wherein the seals at least surround or surround the corresponding connecting elements. In the connected state of the housing or the battery, a corresponding linear pressing force can be provided by a displacement movement, which linear pressing force enables a safe seal between the connecting elements.

[0014] Preferably, the guide is arranged on opposite sides of the outer surface of the shaft head and defines a first connecting section for the guide element and a second connecting section adjacent to the first connecting section, wherein the second connecting section extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis and linearly, and the first connecting section is inclined relative to the second connecting section. The first connecting section can be configured in particular for pivotably supporting the housing, and the second connecting section can be configured in particular for movably supporting the housing.

[0015] The design of the connecting sections makes it possible that when the housing is connected to the axle stub, the guide element first engages with the first connecting section by a pivoting or rotating movement and can then be linearly guided in the second connecting section. The linear guidance substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis particularly advantageously leads to an improved delimitation of the guide element and the corresponding outer housing of the housing of the battery in the longitudinal direction, so that the housing can be supported more firmly on the axle stub. Likewise, the inclination of the first connecting section relative to the second connecting section prevents the guide element from being easily separated from the corresponding guide part in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0016] In other words, even if the guide element moves toward the first connecting section by an unintentional displacement movement, a further pivoting movement at an angle to the vertical is required in order to be able to disconnect the housing from the axle stub. In this way, the handling of the housing of the battery can also be facilitated during installation, in particular the housing can be simply coupled to the first connecting section at the axle stub via the guide element, and the housing is then securely held by the guide. Removal of the housing can also be facilitated in this way, wherein both the connection and the disconnection of the housing can advantageously be carried out with one hand.

[0017] The lateral arrangement of the guide is to be understood as a transverse arrangement, so that the guide is not at the end of the longitudinal side of the shaft head. That is, the guide is arranged at the corresponding side of the shaft head, which side preferably extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. By arranging the guide and preferably also the two sides of the guide element, an unintentional tilting of the housing of the battery relative to the shaft head can be prevented, and at the same time, an improved support can be provided by the linear guide in the second connecting section. In addition, the initial connection of the housing of the battery to the shaft head is facilitated thereby, in particular the first connecting section of the guide predetermines the relative orientation of the housing of the battery for connection with the shaft head. Advantageously, due to the guide, the positioning and orientation of the connecting elements relative to each other can be predetermined, wherein the second connecting section preferably enables the linear movement of the connecting elements relative to each other during connection, so as to facilitate the provision of the plug connection. When connecting the housing to the shaft head, the connecting elements are preferably spaced apart from each other when guided in the first connecting section, and the connecting elements are preferably oriented concentrically relative to each other when guided in the second connecting section, so that the connecting elements are conductively connected to each other as plug connections in the connected state of the battery.

[0018] Depending on the design of the guide and the guide element, the housing of the battery can be pushed into, pushed onto or plugged into the shaft head or onto the shaft head accordingly. Preferably, the corresponding guide is designed as a groove and the corresponding guide element is designed as a projection, wherein the corresponding groove preferably has an opening and / or a widening for introducing the corresponding projection at the end region of the first connecting section opposite the second connecting section.

[0019] The groove can be correspondingly provided as a groove at the shaft head or as an opposite wall extending from the outside of the shaft head, wherein the size of the groove is preferably determined so that the corresponding projection is bounded by the groove. Preferably, the groove is configured so that the corresponding projection can only move linearly, especially in the second connecting section or during a displacement movement, and a rotation or lateral movement of the projection is prevented.

[0020] The projection is preferably designed in a semicircular, block-shaped or pin-shaped manner and can be correspondingly dimensioned as a so-called tongue for the recess.

[0021] The opening can be provided at the end of the first connecting section which is opposite the end adjacent to the second connecting section in the guide direction. Preferably, the opening is enlarged or widened in this case so that the opening is provided at the corresponding end region and, for example, the corresponding recess is provided at the lower wall section of the groove. The opening and / or the first connecting section can in particular be adjacent to the end face of the shaft head in order to facilitate coupling to the guide element or to the battery housing.

[0022] Through the opening of the groove, the corresponding projection can be introduced into the groove in a simple manner and the housing can be coupled to the outer surface of the shaft head accordingly. The widening can also serve as a visual support and indicate the area to be introduced, wherein the widening is preferably designed so that the corresponding projection is supported by the groove at least on one side when introduced into the corresponding groove and is guided into the groove.

[0023] Preferably, the first connecting section is designed to be nonlinear or curvilinear. This makes it possible to avoid unfavorable edges for the guide and in particular to provide a gradual transition to the linear guide in the second connecting section, which can further facilitate the coupling of the housing to the shaft head. This design is particularly advantageous in that the transition of the guide element in the first connecting section to the second connecting section can be supported by gravity in the case of a corresponding tilt, so that the pivoting movement can be facilitated and predetermined by the transition area of ​​the guide. In addition, this can prevent an accidental disconnection or at least make it more difficult.

[0024] As described above, the inclination of the first connecting section relative to the second connecting section preferably points upward or toward the end of the longitudinal axis that is opposite the propeller mounted on the shaft. In order to further facilitate the initial coupling between the housing of the battery and the shaft head or the housing and the outer side of the shaft head, the inclination of the first connecting section relative to the longitudinal axis is preferably in an angular range of between 10° and 80°, particularly preferably between 20° and 70°. Thus, guidance parallel to the longitudinal axis is avoided, thereby facilitating the handling of the housing and the one-handed connection of the battery housing or the battery to the shaft head.

[0025] The preferred angular range can be combined with a curved design of the first connecting section in such a way that both the initial coupling of the guide element to the corresponding guide and the transition to the second connecting section can be facilitated.

[0026] In order to further facilitate the initial coupling of the guide element to the corresponding guide portion or the transition to the second connecting portion, it can also be provided that the corresponding guide element is rounded or arcuate and / or the guide portion is rounded in the adjacent region of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

[0027] By means of corresponding roundings, in which, for example, rounded projections and / or rounded walls of the grooves can be provided, the guide element can slide along the guide and be guided toward the second connecting section. By means of the arc shape, which can also be configured as a rounded trapezoidal shape, it can also be advantageously achieved that the guide element is guided toward the second connecting section due to the corresponding rounding in the transition area and then engages with the second connecting section. In this way, according to a preferred design, after the initial connection, the housing can be held by the guide. Particularly preferably, the guide and the guide element at least partially have corresponding geometries, so that the guide element is held in a form-fitting manner by the corresponding guide in the connected state. For example, the end region of the second connecting section opposite the first connecting section can have corresponding roundings and dimensions of the abutting guide element, so that the guide element can be held via corresponding contact surfaces and a rotation or rotation of the guide element and thus of the housing can be effectively avoided.

[0028] Preferably, the corresponding guide is L-shaped or J-shaped. For example, the second connecting section can be configured as an extended section of the guide so that a corresponding linear guide path can be provided. The extended linear guide path can be advantageous, for example, for a corresponding displacement movement or push-in movement of the housing of the battery relative to the shaft head in order to provide a continuous locking of the housing or contact of the connecting element. The shorter first connecting section has the advantage that the guide for the initial coupling can be shortened, thereby reducing the dimensions at the shaft head and making it easier to operate the housing or the battery. The upward pivoting of the battery or accumulator can also prevent that if the battery is not held, the battery slides backward in an undesirable manner and may fall into the water. In other words, the upward pivoting requires active manipulation or operation of the battery.

[0029] The L-shaped or J-shaped shape is preferably configured so that the guide portion does not have an orientation parallel to the longitudinal axis or does not have an obvious orientation parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the guide portion is rounded in the adjacent area of ​​the first connecting section and the second connecting section. As described above, the shorter section that preferably defines the first connecting section can have an opening and / or a widening portion at the end area. Here, the widened opening that exists not only at the end of the guide portion arranged in the guiding direction but also at the corresponding end area can extend from the rounded portion of the guide portion. Here, the section of the guide portion can optionally be oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, but the actual guide portion can be formed substantially by the rounded portion and the adjacent opening. In other words, this section that extends at least partially parallel to the longitudinal axis can optionally provide a limit for the corresponding guide element. However, in this design, the continued guidance of the guide element is preferably mainly preset by the rounded portion and the opening.

[0030] The corresponding guide and the corresponding guide element can also be designed so that the housing of the battery can only be connected to the shaft head in a single predetermined orientation relative to the shaft head. Incorrect connections between the housing and the shaft head can thus be prevented, so that possible damage to the housing and / or the shaft head can be avoided. The connection itself is also simplified thereby, particularly preferably, the initial coupling is only possible in one orientation of the housing relative to the shaft head, and the continuous guidance allows an intuitive connection without cognitive or mechanical effort.

[0031] For example, the predetermined orientation can be defined on the one hand by means of a rounding and / or the size of the guide element and on the other hand by means of the shape and / or size of the opening of the guide, for example the first connecting section, so that they jointly provide a positive connection.

[0032] In order to improve the holding of the battery housing on the axle head, it can be provided that the respective guide and the respective guide element are designed such that the respective guide element forms two spaced-apart line contacts or at least one contact surface for the respective guide in the connected state of the battery housing.

[0033] For example, if the guide element is designed as a corresponding projection and the guide is designed as a corresponding groove, the projection can be dimensioned so that it is held by the opposite side or wall of the groove via a corresponding contact surface. Alternatively or additionally, a rounding can also be provided to facilitate the introduction into the groove, for example the first connecting section, and the transition to the second connecting section. As a result, the projection in the transition area and / or the second connecting section can also engage with the groove at two edge areas, for example via two corresponding linear contacts. The transition area at the first connecting section and the second connecting section adjacent to the first connecting section can be shaped, for example, so that the groove forms a rotation section or rotation axis for the projection, wherein the projection engages during rotation to guide linearly at the opposite wall.

[0034] Preferably, the corresponding guide and the corresponding guide element are configured such that the corresponding guide element is positively held by the corresponding guide in the connected state of the housing. As described above, this can be provided, for example, by corresponding roundings or alternative geometries.

[0035] In order to facilitate the coupling of the guide element with the corresponding guide portion, two arms spaced laterally apart from each other preferably extend at the end region of the housing, wherein the guide element is arranged at the corresponding arm. The arms of the external housing are preferably configured in this way so that the shaft head is at least partially surrounded by the housing or at least partially accommodated in the housing when connected to the housing. In this way, the connection of the housing of the battery to the shaft head can be facilitated, in particular the shaft head itself approximately defines the guide portion for correctly orienting the external housing. As mentioned above, the housing should be understood as the housing that is in direct contact with the environment in the connected state and is not accommodated in other housings accordingly. Correspondingly, the outer wall of the housing can be substantially aligned with the outside of the shaft head.

[0036] The arm can extend substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction or longitudinal axis in the connected state and is preferably arranged at the corresponding side of the housing. In particular, the arm can extend from the housing at the end side, preferably at the end area of ​​the housing opposite to the handle arranged at the housing.

[0037] The preferred arrangement also has the advantage that a more compact design of the outboard motor can be provided, wherein at the same time, if necessary, contacts, such as connecting elements, arranged at the mutually adjacent end sides of the shaft head and the housing can be better and more effectively protected from mechanical influences and water. In addition, the lever action of the housing relative to the shaft head can be reduced or lowered by a favorable arrangement, so that batteries with greater weight and corresponding power can be used due to the optimized support. In order to further reduce potential lever actions, in a corresponding design of the guide, the second connecting section can, for example, extend vertically, in particular in a manner facing away from the outer end side.

[0038] Although the guide already enables the housing of the battery to be supported, further support can be provided based on the design of the axle head and the housing, in order to further support batteries with higher power, for example in the event of vibrations or impacts. Accordingly, the outer surface of the axle head at the end side can have a profile in cross section that is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis and that corresponds at least partially to the profile of the end side of the housing that abuts in the connected state.

[0039] In other words, the outer surface and the outer housing can approximately form chamfers at the adjoining end sides, which chamfers are geometrically matched to one another so that they directly adjoin and contact one another. Since a part of the housing thus rests against the outer surface and is supported by the outer surface in a planar manner, forces acting on the housing can be better absorbed and distributed, in particular, but preferably not only in the longitudinal direction. In this way, for example, vibrations at the housing can be absorbed or damped, so that the forces acting on the guide can be reduced.

[0040] As an alternative or additional support, the axle head can also have a frame-shaped or plate-shaped holding device extending from its outer surface, which holding device is arranged in such a way that the base section of the housing is at least partially supported by the holding device in the connected state.

[0041] The holding device preferably extends from the end side of the shaft head. As described above for the contour of the corresponding end side, an improved force distribution or load distribution in the longitudinal direction can be provided by the holding device. The longitudinal direction can be predetermined by the shaft and oriented in particular upward and downward in the Z axis so that forces can be absorbed substantially perpendicularly to the substantially horizontally extending guide. Thus, for example, the adverse effects of torques on the guide and guide elements, for example when a boat hits the water, can be reduced. In this way, it is also possible to connect batteries with higher power and correspondingly additional weight to the shaft head.

[0042] Providing such a holding device also has the advantage that the connection of the battery is facilitated by the holding device defining a predetermined orientation of the housing and enabling further support of the housing of the battery during initial connection. Preferably, the holding device here has recesses at least partially on opposite sides, which are arranged and designed such that in the connected state they engage with corresponding projections on the bottom side of the housing and the housing is delimited by the holding device in at least one direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0043] The recess or alternatively formed guide on the holding device makes it possible here that the connection can be further facilitated and the housing can be held in a predetermined orientation. Preferably, the recess is formed in such a way that the housing of the battery is bounded or supported by the holding device in two longitudinal directions. Thus, for example, the recess can have continuous walls that are spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction, the walls extending essentially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and wherein the spacing of the walls is dimensioned to accommodate the projection on the bottom side.

[0044] However, the groove can also be divided and, for example, arranged in sections, wherein only an upper wall is provided at one section and only a lower wall is provided at an adjacent or spaced-apart section, in order to provide a delimitation in the longitudinal direction upwards (on the shaft head side) or downwards (on the propeller side). It can also be provided that the groove is designed as a single wall only in one section. For example, the retaining device can have a groove with only one upper wall directly at the end side of the shaft head and a double-walled groove at the opposite end region. In this way, unintentional upward movements of the housing of the battery can be advantageously limited, and the housing can be completely, preferably at least partially, locked around the end region and held in both longitudinal directions.

[0045] In order to provide an improved connection between the housing of the battery and the axle head and to avoid accidental disconnection as much as possible, the axle head preferably comprises a rotatably mounted lever which is prestressed into a closed position by the energy store. The lever comprises at least one locking element which, in the connected state and in the closed position of the lever, engages with an edge extending in the longitudinal direction on the housing so that the housing is delimited in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0046] Thus, the housing can be reliably held in the second connection section by the locking element and the corresponding edge, in particular the locking element limiting the linear or horizontal or vertical movement of the edge, and thus the housing of the battery. The edge is preferably held by the locking element in a form-fitting manner. The locking element can be designed in particular in a hook-like manner and engage with the edge by rotating or opening the rod, a linear displacement movement of the housing to the shaft head and subsequently positioning the rod in the closed position. In this regard, the energy storage device causes: the rod is prevented from being opened accidentally, and the locking element and the edge are preloaded into a closed engagement arrangement. The energy storage device, which is preferably designed as a mechanical spring, can achieve a detachable connection here, so that when bridging the corresponding energy, in particular the spring force, a rotation of the rod can be achieved and the housing can be moved away from the shaft head by the edge no longer engaging with the locking element.

[0047] The arrangement of the lever is preferably such that in the closed position the lever is oriented parallel to the bottom plate or cover side of the housing of the battery and / or the upper side of the axle head. Preferably, the lever is designed in such a way that the end of the lever is aligned with the outer longitudinal side of the axle head. In this way, a particularly advantageous design with a compact design can be provided, wherein the risk of accidental actuation of the lever can be further reduced.

[0048] In order to further facilitate the fixing of the battery housing to the shaft head during connection, the locking element and the edge can have corresponding chamfers, which are arranged so that when the housing is connected to the shaft head, the chamfers abut each other at least in sections during the movement, preferably in the second connecting section of the guide, and pre-tighten the rod into the open position and / or are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction in the connected state.

[0049] Correspondingly, when the housing moves linearly relative to the axle head, the chamfers can slide on one another or engage with one another, thereby causing a movement of the rod in the longitudinal direction, so that when a force acts on the housing accordingly, the rod is preloaded into the open position. Conversely, in the absence of a corresponding force action or in the case of an opposing force action and in the open position of the rod, a linear displacement movement, for example in the second connecting section of the guide, can be supported by means of the chamfer. The chamfer and the preload force provided by the energy storage device on the rod can facilitate the movement of the housing away from the axle head to disconnect the battery.

[0050] By spacing the chamfers in the connected state, it can be ensured that, for example, a positive fit can be ensured and unintentional pretensioning into the open position of the rod can be avoided. The chamfers can preferably have longitudinal edges that abut against each other in the connected state, wherein the longitudinal edges form edges of the housing or at least partially form locking elements of the rod.

[0051] According to a further alternative embodiment, the lever can have a lever arm which extends from the lever in the longitudinal direction, wherein the lever arm in the connected state engages with the end face of the housing and is torque-coupled to the lever.

[0052] Thus, by contact with the end side and torque coupling with the lever, a rotation of the lever causes a rotation of the arm, thereby providing a linear translation of the housing, preferably in the second connecting section of the guide. In this way, a lever effect can be provided on the housing, which supports the decoupling of the battery from the axle head. The lever arm of the lever can, for example, achieve a corresponding displacement of the end side of the housing away from the axle head when the lever is opened or released, in that a corresponding torque causes a linear displacement of the housing due to a corresponding linear displacement of the projection accommodated in the recess. Correspondingly, the design of the lever in particular supports the ejection of the housing of the battery or its guide element.

[0053] Here, the axis of rotation is preferably provided at the lever arm. Correspondingly, the shaft head can also have a recess, wherein the recess not only enables the accommodation of the lever arm, but also enables the rotation of the rod around the offset axis of rotation. It can also be proposed that the opening of the corresponding guide part or the guide part is arranged in a manner offset to the end side of the shaft head, wherein the opening can be arranged at the upper side of the shaft head, for example. This can further amplify the leverage provided by the lever arm or the rod. The provided lever arm can correspondingly facilitate decoupling, so that one-handed operation is further supported when the battery has a large power. Likewise, in the described manner, the battery can also be optionally pushed out in a one-handed manner or at least the pushing out of the battery is facilitated. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] The following description of the drawings will explain in detail other preferred embodiments of the present invention. Here, it is shown:

[0055] Figure 1 An outboard motor according to the invention with a shaft head and a battery is shown in a side view in a preferred embodiment in different connection states;

[0056] Figure 2 Show according to Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the shaft head;

[0057] Figure 3 Show according to Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a battery housing;

[0058] Figure 4 In the side view, the Figure 1 The shaft head;

[0059] Figure 5 A perspective view of the shaft head is shown in an alternative embodiment;

[0060] Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of an outboard motor having a shaft head of a battery, wherein the shaft head is in a connected state with a housing of a battery;

[0061] Figure 7 Show according to Figure 6 A cutaway view of an outboard motor in an open lever position;

[0062] Figure 8 Show according to Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of an outboard motor in a fully rotated rod position; and

[0063] Fig. 9 A top view of a connecting element with different contact regions is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] In the following, preferred embodiments are described with reference to the drawings. In the different drawings, identical, similar or identically acting elements are provided with the same reference numerals and the description of the elements is partially omitted in order to avoid redundancy.

[0065] exist Figure 1 , an outboard motor with a shaft head 10 and a battery 30 is shown, wherein a preferred process for connecting the housing 32 of the battery 30 to the shaft head 10 is shown in the corresponding side view. As indicated by means of arrows, the housing 32 can first be pivoted or rotated at or relative to the shaft head 10 in order to provide an initial connection. Subsequently, the housing 32, which includes one or more battery cells in the interior of the housing, is moved toward the shaft head 10, wherein the movement is carried out essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft or shaft head 10. The battery 30 or the battery housing 32 is firmly connected to the shaft head 10 by the movement.

[0066] An electrical connecting element 22 is also provided at the end side of the shaft head 10, which is used to connect the shaft head 10 or a tiller (not shown) to the battery 30 in an electrically conductive manner. It can be seen that during the pivoting movement, the housing 32 does not contact the connecting element 22. Correspondingly, when the battery 30 is initially connected to the shaft head 10, an unintentional bending of the connecting element 22 can be avoided. Subsequently, the housing 32 then moves linearly or vertically toward the shaft head 10. Through the displacement movement, the corresponding connecting element 22 at the end side of the housing 32 can be electrically connected to the connecting element 22 of the shaft head 10. In particular, if the connecting elements 22 are, for example, oriented concentrically relative to each other after the initial pivoting movement, the connecting elements can provide a plug connection. Correspondingly, it is advantageous that the connection between the battery 30 and the shaft head 10 or the tiller can be provided approximately automatically by the mechanical connection of the housing 32 to the shaft head 10.

[0067] The pivoting movement of the housing 32 or the battery 30 can be achieved here by means of a guide 13, wherein the guide 13 is arranged outside the shaft head 10. The guide 13 comprises a first connecting section 14 and a second connecting section 16, which are in the present case designed as continuous grooves. The corresponding grooves are arranged on the opposite sides or laterally outside the shaft head 10.

[0068] The first connecting section 14 is designed to be inclined relative to the second connecting section 16 - in the present embodiment, the two connecting sections 14, 16 enclose an angle of approximately 90°. However, the groove in the first connecting section 14 is not formed continuously by two opposite walls, but has an opening in the end region and a recess at the end, which thus forms a widening of the groove. The opening and the widening facilitate the introduction of a corresponding guide element, such as a protrusion of the housing 32 of the battery, as described below with regard to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As described. The opening and the widening extend here from a transition region 15, which is formed by the adjacent regions of the first and second connecting sections 14, 16. The transition region 15 is also rounded, wherein the lower wall of the recess in the first connecting section 14 extends from the adjacent second connecting section 16 at an angle of between approximately 60° and 80° with respect to the longitudinal direction predetermined by the longitudinal axis. For example, the introduction of a corresponding projection of the housing 32 of the battery 30 can be further facilitated or improved guidance to the second connecting section 16 can be provided by the rounding and the corresponding angular range. At the same time, when the projection is accommodated in the second connecting section 16, a delimitation for the projection can be provided in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, as is provided in the connected state of the battery 30.

[0069] Thus, a guide element of the housing 32, in particular in the form of a projection, can first be introduced into the first connecting section 14 and here at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft head 10, after which the housing 32 is first pivoted in the transition region 15 between the first and second connecting sections 14, 16. For example, the pivoting movement can be supported by a handle 34 provided on the housing 32 for an operator of the battery 30. The pivoting or rotation is also facilitated by a corresponding rounding of the transition region 15 or the boundary region and an initial hold is already provided, in particular the projection is already engaged with the second connecting section 16.

[0070] Subsequently, due to the design of the second connecting section 16, the housing 32 is then moved linearly toward the shaft head 10 until the corresponding projection comes to abutment at the end region of the second connecting section 16. In this position, due to the corresponding geometry, the projection is held in a form-fitting manner by the corresponding groove. By means of a linear displacement movement, the connecting element 22 arranged at the end side can be connected to a corresponding connecting element at the end side of the housing 32 of the battery 30 and in particular form a plug connection therewith. The extension of the second connecting section 16 is preferably also selected here so that during the initial connection in the first connecting section 14, the connecting elements do not touch each other.

[0071] In addition to the guide 13, the battery 30 is also at least partially held by the end side of the shaft head 10 in the connected state in that the side region of the end side is inclined and has a profile in cross section that corresponds to the profile of the adjoining contact surface of the end side of the housing 32. Correspondingly, the support can advantageously be provided by the engagement of the housing 32 at the outer contour of the end side and by the engagement of the projection with the corresponding guide 13.

[0072] Alternatively or in addition to the contour, an optional retaining device 26 at the lower region of the axle head 10 also enables the weight of the battery to be supported and not just borne by the guide or the second connecting section 16. This is referred to below in Figure 2 Describe in detail.

[0073] exist Figure 2 According to Figure 2 The shaft stub 10 is arranged at the upper end of the shaft (not shown) and is connected to a tiller 11, which serves to preset the direction and the rotation direction and motor power of a propeller (not shown) arranged at the lower end of the shaft. The propeller is arranged, for example, on a propeller shaft, which is driven by an electric motor arranged in a motor compartment at the lower end of the shaft. The tiller 11 is fixed to the shaft stub 10 by means of a locking device 12.

[0074] exist Figure 2In FIG. 1 , the guide 13 of the housing for accommodating the battery is shown in more detail on the outside of the shaft head 10. It can therefore be seen in particular that the first connecting section 14 is configured obliquely relative to the second connecting section 16. As described above with reference to Figure 1 As described, the groove in the first connecting section 14 is formed by two opposite walls, wherein the groove has an opening 14A at one end. The lower wall of the groove is not formed continuously here, but has a recess at the end region, wherein the opening 14B and the recess together form a widened portion 14B or an enlarged end region of the groove. The opening 14A and the widened portion 14B facilitate the introduction of a corresponding protrusion of the housing 32 of the battery 30.

[0075] In order to enable an improved connection of the housing 32 of the battery 30 to the axle head 10, the axle head 10 also has a rod 18, wherein the rod 18 is shown in the closed position and is preloaded into the closed position by an energy store, preferably a preloaded mechanical spring (not shown). The locking element of the rod 18 is at least partially formed by a chamfer 20 on the end side. The chamfer 20 makes it possible to support the movement of the rod 18 into the open position when the housing 32 of the battery 30 is connected or pushed into the housing 32, so that the connection with the axle head 10 by means of the second connecting section 16 becomes easier. The rod 18 is also arranged in alignment with the outside, so that the rod 18 does not protrude from the outside and additionally has a corresponding recess to facilitate the actuation of the rod 18.

[0076] When connecting the housing 32 of the battery 30 to the axle head 10, the housing 32 is moved in correspondence with the battery toward the end side 24 of the axle head, wherein the displacement movement takes place linearly and perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis due to the second connecting section 16 extending away from the end side 24. As a result, the connecting element 22 arranged at the end side 24 can be connected to a corresponding connecting element at the end side of the housing of the battery and in particular form a plug connection therewith.

[0077] In accordance with Figure 2 In the perspective view of FIG. 1 , an optional holding device 26 at the lower region of the axle head 10 is also shown in an improved manner. This also enables the weight of the battery to be supported and not only borne by the guide 13 or the second connecting section 16. In the present example, the holding device 26, which is designed in a frame-shaped manner, extends from the end side 24 of the axle head 10 and has a groove 28, which engages with a projection on the bottom side of the housing 32 in the connected state. The groove 28 is currently divided into two areas spaced apart from each other, wherein the area adjacent to the end side 24 has an upper wall, and the opposite end area has an upper wall and a lower wall spaced apart from the upper wall, wherein these walls are at least partially arranged around. Correspondingly, the connected housing 32 of the battery 30 can be locked at the end area of ​​the holding device 26, and the housing 32 is supported or held by the holding device 26 in two longitudinal directions.

[0078] exist Figure 3 , a corresponding battery 30 of an outboard motor according to the invention is shown, wherein the housing 32 of the battery 30 is shown in more detail. A handle 34 is provided at the end region of the housing 32 to facilitate the handling and coupling or disconnection of the battery 30. At the opposite ends of the housing 32, two connecting arms 36 extend from the corresponding end sides 40, each of which has a guide element in the form of a protrusion 38. The protrusion 38 is currently arranged on the inner surface of the corresponding arm 36, so that the protrusion 38 can be introduced into the outer groove of the shaft head or the first connecting section 14, and the arm 36 surrounds or accommodates the shaft head 10. In the present example, the protrusion 38 is rounded or semicircular, thereby facilitating the introduction into the first connecting section 14 and the initial pivoting movement for connecting the housing 32 or the battery 30 to the shaft head 10. In addition, the transition to the second connecting section 16 is also facilitated thereby.

[0079] When the housing 32 of the battery 30 is linearly moved or displaced relative to the axle stub 10 by means of the second connecting section 16, the rod 18 can be preloaded into the open position due to the chamfer 20 of the contact edge 42 of the rod 18, so that the housing 32 can be securely fastened to the axle stub 10. For example, it can be provided that after the linear movement, the projection 38 engages with the end region or stop of the second connecting section 16, wherein the projection 38 is positively held by the corresponding groove by means of a corresponding geometry. Therefore, the opposite end region of the second connecting section 16 can have a similar or substantially identical rounding and size to the projection 38, so that the projection 38 can be held via the corresponding contact surface. In order to prevent the projection 38 from accidentally moving linearly away from the corresponding end region, the locking element of the rod 18 preferably also has an edge (not shown) in addition to the chamfer 20: the edge is adjacent to the edge 42 in the connected state and is held or delimited by the edge 42 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0080] The housing 32 of the battery 30 also has a connecting element 22 on its end side 40, wherein the connecting element 22 is arranged so that, due to the advantageous concentric orientation, it forms a plug connection with the connecting element 22 of the shaft head 10 during a linear displacement in the second connecting section 16. In this way, a reliable electrically conductive connection between the battery 30 and the shaft head 10 or with the tiller 11 and the motor of the outboard motor can be provided without requiring a separate screwing device or connecting cable for this purpose.

[0081] Furthermore, projections 44 are provided on both sides on the bottom side of the housing 32 , which projections engage in the grooves 28 of the shaft head 10 in the connected state of the housing 32 , so that they provide a further bearing device in addition to the guide 13 .

[0082] In accordance with Figure 4 , the extension of the guide 13 and the relative arrangement of the connecting element 22 and the recess 28 of the holding device 26 are also shown in an improved manner. Correspondingly, the guide 13 is preferably J-shaped (or L-shaped), wherein a shorter section, which is partially bent and obliquely formed relative to the second connecting section 16, forms the first connecting section 14. It is also clear from the figure that the linear extension of the second connecting section 16 enables a linear plug-in connection of the connecting element 22 and an optional, additional support by the holding device 26. In the connected state of the housing 32 of the battery 30, the end sides 24, 40 can also abut against each other here, so that a very compact design is provided overall without noticeable gaps or projections protruding from the outside.

[0083] In accordance with Figure 5 An alternative or supplementary embodiment of the rod 18 is shown in a perspective view of FIG. In this example, it can be seen that the locking element can have an optional chamfer 20, wherein the chamfer and the longitudinal edge connected thereto together form a hook shape. The longitudinal edge can here engage with an adjacent edge of the housing 32, as will be described below with reference to FIG. Figures 6 to 8 Furthermore, the lever 18 has a lever arm 46 which is arranged at the end in a corresponding receptacle on the outside and is arranged such that, in the connected state of the housing 32 of the battery 30 , it engages with or contacts the end side 40 of the housing 32 .

[0084] In order to amplify the lever action, the guide 13 is arranged at a certain offset from the end face 24, wherein the opening 14A opens to the upper side of the shaft head 10. The opening 14A also forms a widening of the first connecting section 14, so that the end region of the first connecting section 14 is approximately funnel-shaped or trapezoidal. In this way, it is also possible to facilitate the introduction of the projection 38 on the housing 32.

[0085] The contact and action mode of the lever arm 36 is Figures 6 to 8 The cross-sectional view of FIG. Figure 6 In the embodiment of the present invention, the lever 18 is in the closed position, wherein both the lever 18 and the lever arm 46 are accommodated in the receptacle of the axle stub 10. The lever 18 is designed in this case so that it is aligned with the outer surface at the top side of the axle stub 10, wherein a small recess is provided next to the chamfer 20 to facilitate engagement in the recess of the lever 18 in order to actuate the lever 18. When the lever 18 is actuated and placed in the open position, as in Figure 7As shown in FIG, due to the contact of the end side 40 with the lever arm 46, the housing 32 is pushed away from the shaft head 10 in the guide 13, wherein the rotation and the corresponding torque cause a linear translation of the housing 32. In the figure, the edge 42 can also be seen, which in the connected state and in the closed position of the lever 18 engages with the longitudinal edge of the chamfer 20 of the hook-shaped locking element, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The edge 42 is also shown with an optional chamfer 48 which, during a linear displacement movement of the housing 32 toward the shaft head 10 , allows sliding together with the chamfer 20 on one another and optionally allows prestressing into the open position of the lever 18 .

[0086] In the fully rotated lever position, as in Figure 8 As shown in the figure, the projection 38 is located in the transition area 15 between the first and second connecting sections 14, 16, so that the battery 30 can be rotated out of the first connecting section 14 by means of the handle 34 on the housing 32 and can be separated or disconnected from the shaft head 10. It can also be seen here that the linear translation can achieve a nearly automatic separation of the connecting element 22, so that the connecting element 22 can be separated from the shaft head 10. Figure 6 The plug connection shown in the figure can be disconnected in a safe and predefined manner. Correspondingly, due to the advantageous design of the guide 13 and the corresponding arrangement of the connecting element 22 and the predefined rod 18, the disconnection of the separate screw part can be omitted and the ejection of the mechanical latch can also be omitted.

[0087] exist Fig. 9 An example of an advantageous design of the connecting element 22 is shown in a top view. Accordingly, the connecting element 22 can be designed as a socket or a plug and have different contact areas that are insulated from one another. Thus, if the connecting element 22 is designed as a socket and the corresponding contact areas for the plug unit are designed as corresponding contact pins, the contact area 50 can be provided as a motor connection for an outboard motor and in particular in the form of two receptacles for corresponding contact pins or contact pins. Likewise, two contact areas 52 are provided for a plurality of, in the present case respectively four, contact pins, wherein the contact areas 52 are provided for connecting the battery 30 to the tiller 11. Correspondingly, power control can be provided, for example, via the contact area 52.

[0088] As far as applicable, all individual features shown in the exemplary embodiments may be combined with one another and / or interchanged without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0089] Reference numerals list

[0090] 10-axis head

[0091] 11 Tiller

[0092] 12 Locking device

[0093] 13. Guidance

[0094] 14 First connecting section

[0095] 14A Opening

[0096] 14B widening section

[0097] 15 Transition Zone

[0098] 16 Second connecting section

[0099] 18 shots

[0100] 20Chamfer

[0101] 22Connection elements

[0102] 24 side

[0103] 26 Holding device

[0104] 28 grooves

[0105] 30 Battery

[0106] 32 Shell

[0107] 34 handles

[0108] 36 arms

[0109] 38 Protrusion

[0110] 40 side

[0111] 42 edges

[0112] 44 protrusion

[0113] 46 lever arm

[0114] 48 Chamfer

[0115] 50 contact area motor

[0116] 52 Contact Area Tiller

Claims

1. An outboard motor for a boat, the outboard motor comprising: a shaft head (10) defining a longitudinal axis, and a housing (32) of a battery (30) which can be detachably connected to the shaft head (10), wherein the shaft head (10) has a guide portion (13) for connecting a housing (32) of the battery (30), and wherein a guide element extends at an end region of the housing (32), wherein the guide element is arranged so that when the housing (32) is connected to the shaft head (10), the guide element engages with a corresponding guide portion, It is characterized in that The guide portion (13) and the guide element are designed so that the housing (32) is first pivoted on the shaft head (10) and then moved relative to the shaft head (10) in order to connect it to the shaft head (10), wherein the housing (32) and the shaft head (10) each have an electrical connecting element (22) which is arranged so that the connecting elements are connected to each other in an electrically conductive manner by a displacement movement when the housing (32) is connected to the shaft head (10).

2. An outboard motor according to claim 1, wherein the connecting elements (22) are respectively arranged on the end sides and are arranged so that the connecting elements are spaced apart from each other during the pivoting movement and are oriented concentrically relative to each other during the moving movement.

3. An outboard motor according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the end side (24) of the shaft head (10) and the end side (40) of the housing (32) respectively have separate electrical connecting elements (22), which provide an electrically conductive connection for a tiller handle (12) and a motor that can be connected to the shaft head (10).

4. An outboard motor according to any one of the above claims, wherein the guide portion (13) is arranged on opposite sides of the outside of the shaft head (10) and defines a first connecting section (14) for the guide element and a second connecting section (16) adjacent to the first connecting section, wherein the second connecting section (16) is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extends linearly, and the first connecting section (14) is inclined relative to the second connecting section (16).

5. The outboard motor according to claim 4, wherein the first connecting section (14) is configured to pivotally support the housing (32), and the second connecting section (16) is configured to movably support the housing (32).

6. An outboard motor according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the corresponding guide portion (13) is configured as a groove and the corresponding guide element is configured as a protrusion (38), wherein the corresponding groove has an opening (14A) and / or a widened portion (14B) for introducing the corresponding protrusion (38) at an end region of the first connecting section (14) opposite to the second connecting section (16).

7. The outboard motor according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the first connecting section (14) is designed to be nonlinear or curvilinear.

8. An outboard motor according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the inclination of the first connecting section (14) relative to the longitudinal axis is within an angular range between 10° and 80°, preferably between 20° and 70°.

9. An outboard motor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the corresponding guide element is rounded or arc-shaped, and / or wherein the guide portion (13) is rounded in the transition area (15) between the first and the second connecting sections (14, 16).

10. The outboard motor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the respective guide portion (13) is designed in an L-shape or a J-shape.

11. An outboard motor according to any one of the above claims, wherein the corresponding guide portion (13) and the corresponding guide element are designed so that the housing (32) of the battery (30) can only be connected to the shaft head (10) in a unique preset orientation relative to the shaft head (10).

12. An outboard motor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the corresponding guide portion (13) and the corresponding guide element are constructed so that in the connected state of the housing (32), the corresponding guide element and the corresponding guide portion (13) form two line contact portions or at least one contact surface spaced apart from each other.

13. An outboard motor according to any one of the above claims, wherein the corresponding guide portion (13) and the corresponding guide element are constructed so that the corresponding guide element is held in a shape-fitting manner by the corresponding guide portion (13) in a connected state of the housing (32).

14. An outboard motor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein two arms (36) spaced laterally apart from each other extend at the end region of the housing (32), wherein the guide element is arranged at the corresponding arm (36), and wherein the arm (36) of the outer housing (32) is configured such that the shaft head (10) is at least partially surrounded by the housing (32) or at least partially accommodated in the housing (32) when connected to the housing (32).

15. An outboard motor according to any one of the above claims, wherein the outer side of the end side (24) of the shaft head (10) has a profile inclined relative to the longitudinal axis in cross section, and the profile at least partially corresponds to the profile of the adjacent end side (40) of the housing (32) in the connected state.

16. An outboard motor according to any one of the above claims, wherein the shaft head (10) also has a frame-shaped or plate-shaped retaining device (26) extending from the outside thereof, and the retaining device is configured so that the bottom section of the housing (32) is at least partially supported by the retaining device (26) in the connected state.

17. An outboard motor according to claim 16, wherein the retaining device (26) at least partially has a groove (28) on the opposite side, the groove being arranged and constructed so that the groove engages with the corresponding protrusion (44) on the bottom side of the shell (32) in the connected state and the shell (32) is limited by the retaining device (26) in at least one direction along the longitudinal axis.

18. An outboard motor according to any one of the above claims, wherein the shaft head (10) includes a rotatably supported rod (18), which is pre-tensioned into a closed position by an energy storage device, wherein the rod (18) includes at least one locking element, which in the connected state and in the closed position of the rod (18) engages with an edge (42) extending in the longitudinal direction of the housing (32), so that the housing (32) is limited in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

19. An outboard motor according to claim 18, wherein the locking element and the edge (42) have corresponding chamfers (20, 48), which are arranged so that when the housing (32) is connected to the shaft head (10), the chamfers abut each other at least in sections during the moving movement and preload the rod (18) into an open position and / or are spaced apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction in the connected state.

20. An outboard motor according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the rod (18) has a rod arm (46) which extends from the rod (18) in a longitudinal direction, wherein the rod arm (46) in the connected state is engaged with the end side (40) of the housing (32) and is torque-coupled to the rod (18).

Images