Battery replacement system

Abstract

A battery replacement system (100) for replacing a first battery (201) attached to a vehicle (200) with a second battery (101) includes: a battery replacement mechanism (33) configured to detach the first battery from the vehicle and attach the second battery to the vehicle; and a washing device (40) configured to wash a portion of the vehicle. The cleaning device is configured to clean at least one of an area of the vehicle where the battery replacement mechanism is in contact with the vehicle and a bottom (200k) of the vehicle before the battery replacement mechanism removes the first battery.

Description

Background Art 1. Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery replacement system.

[0002] 2. Description of Related Art

[0003] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-192782 (JP2012-192782A) describes a battery replacement system that replaces a battery mounted on a vehicle with a new battery. The battery is fixed to the vehicle by a battery support portion provided with a locking mechanism. The battery replacement system attaches and detaches a battery unit from the lower side of the battery support portion. In this battery replacement system, a battery mounting portion that can move up and down is provided at a position corresponding to the battery support portion of a vehicle parked in a vehicle parking area.

[0004] When replacing the battery unit, the battery mounting portion moves to a raised position to receive the battery, the locking mechanism is unlocked, and the used battery is received from the battery support portion of the parked vehicle. Subsequently, the battery mounting portion is lowered to a standby position, the used battery is transported out, and a newly charged battery is mounted on the battery mounting portion. After that, the battery mounting portion is raised to the raised position, and the new battery is transferred to the battery support portion. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In JP2012-192782A, the battery support portion that supports the battery is provided on the underside of the vehicle. Alternatively, the battery support portion may be fixed to the side of the vehicle.

[0006] Depending on the driving road, weather, etc., foreign substances such as mud, snow, and ice may adhere to the underside or side of the vehicle or the surface of the battery. In such a case, it may be difficult to release the locking mechanism that locks the battery to the battery support portion, and as a result, there is a concern about interference with the battery replacement work. When foreign substances such as snow and ice adhere, it is necessary to remove the foreign substances by using hot water, hot air, snow melting agents, etc.

[0007] For example, when positioning the battery mounting portion and the battery by engaging a positioning pin provided for the battery mounting portion with a positioning hole provided on the underside of the vehicle, there is a concern that the positioning pin cannot be inserted into the positioning hole due to foreign substances adhering to the positioning hole. In addition, when foreign substances fall into the work area for replacing the battery and / or the battery mounting portion, there is a concern about damage to the operation of the battery mounting portion. Further, when foreign substances adhere to the battery when storing the removed battery in a warehouse, there is a concern about contamination of the warehouse by the foreign substances.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a battery replacement system capable of reducing the influence caused by foreign objects attached to a vehicle.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a battery replacement system. The battery replacement system is configured to replace a first battery attached to a vehicle with a second battery. The battery replacement system includes: a battery replacement mechanism configured to remove the first battery from the vehicle and attach the second battery to the vehicle; and a cleaning device configured to clean a part of the vehicle. The cleaning device is configured to clean at least one of an area where the battery replacement mechanism contacts the vehicle and the bottom of the vehicle before the battery replacement mechanism removes the first battery.

[0010] With the above configuration, at least one of the area where the battery replacement mechanism contacts the vehicle and the bottom of the vehicle is cleaned before the first battery is removed. Therefore, even when the vehicle gets dirty due to foreign objects during driving, battery replacement can be performed in a state where the foreign objects are removed. Thus, damage to battery replacement caused by foreign objects is suppressed.

[0011] The battery replacement system according to the above aspect may include a vehicle docking area where the vehicle docks. The cleaning device may be arranged to be able to clean the vehicle docked in the vehicle docking area.

[0012] With the above configuration, the vehicle can be cleaned while the vehicle is docked in the vehicle docking area. Therefore, compared with the case of cleaning the vehicle in a moving state, foreign objects attached to the vehicle can be removed more reliably.

[0013] In the battery replacement system according to the above configuration, the vehicle docking area may have an opening allowing the battery replacement mechanism to pass through and a shutter configured to openably close the opening. The cleaning device may be configured to clean the bottom of the vehicle in a state where the opening is closed by the shutter.

[0014] With the above configuration, it is possible to reduce the entry of foreign objects such as those falling from the vehicle during cleaning into the lower side of the vehicle docking area through the opening.

[0015] In the battery replacement system according to the above configuration, the vehicle docking area may have a floor facing the bottom of the vehicle. The shutter may be arranged to be at least partially above the floor in a state where the opening is closed by the shutter.

[0016] With the above configuration, in a state where the opening is closed by the shutter, foreign objects, cleaning liquid, etc. falling from the vehicle flow from the area of the shutter above the floor to the floor. Therefore, foreign objects, cleaning liquid, etc. can be guided to the outside of the opening. As a result, the entry of foreign objects, cleaning liquid, etc. into the opening is reduced.

[0017] In the battery replacement system configured as above, the cleaning device may be configured to clean the bottom of the vehicle by spraying cleaning liquid onto the vehicle. In this case, the floor may be provided with a discharge channel configured to discharge the cleaning liquid.

[0018] With the above configuration, the stagnation of the cleaning liquid for cleaning the vehicle in the vehicle docking area is suppressed, and the cleaning liquid is discharged through the discharge channel.

[0019] The battery replacement system configured as above may further include a vehicle information acquisition unit configured to acquire information from the vehicle. The vehicle information acquisition unit may be set to be able to acquire docking information regarding the docking of the vehicle in the vehicle docking area. In this case, the cleaning device may be configured to start cleaning the bottom of the vehicle after the vehicle information acquisition unit acquires the docking information.

[0020] With the above configuration, cleaning can be performed during the preparation period from when the vehicle docks to when the actual battery replacement starts on both the vehicle side and the battery replacement system side. Therefore, the battery replacement can be carried out smoothly.

[0021] The battery replacement system configured as above may further include a vehicle information acquisition unit configured to acquire information from the vehicle. The cleaning device may be set to be movable. In this case, the cleaning device may be configured to move to the cleaning position based on the information acquired from the vehicle by the vehicle information acquisition unit.

[0022] With the above configuration, the cleaning device can be placed at an appropriate cleaning position based on the information from the vehicle.

[0023] In the battery replacement system according to the above aspect, the bottom of the vehicle may have positioning holes for positioning with the battery replacement mechanism. The cleaning device may be configured to clean the positioning holes.

[0024] With the above configuration, when cleaning the positioning holes to remove dirt from the positioning holes, the battery replacement mechanism and the vehicle can be positioned smoothly.

[0025] In the battery replacement system configured as above, the battery replacement mechanism may have an insertion portion configured to be inserted into the positioning holes. In this case, the battery replacement system may further include an insertion detector configured to detect whether the insertion portion is inserted into the positioning holes. The cleaning device may be configured to clean the positioning holes when the insertion detector detects that the insertion portion is not inserted into the positioning holes.

[0026] With the above configuration, when the insertion portion cannot be inserted into the positioning holes due to insufficient cleaning after cleaning the positioning holes, the positioning holes can be cleaned again.

[0027] The battery replacement system configured as above may further include a warning notification unit configured to notify a warning when the insertion detector repeatedly detects that the insertion part is not inserted in the positioning hole and after the cleaning device repeatedly cleans the positioning hole, the insertion detector detects that the insertion part is not inserted in the positioning hole.

[0028] With the above configuration, when repeatedly cleaning the positioning hole, the warning notification unit can notify that foreign matters have not been completely removed by the cleaning.

[0029] In the battery replacement system according to the above aspect, the cleaning device may be configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a cleaning medium onto the vehicle. The cleaning medium may include a liquid or a gas.

[0030] With the above configuration, the bottom of the vehicle can be cleaned using a liquid or a gas.

[0031] In the battery replacement system according to the above aspect, the liquid may include hot water or a highly volatile cleaning liquid.

[0032] With the above configuration, when cleaning with hot water, foreign matters such as snow and ice can be melted, and when cleaning with a highly volatile cleaning liquid, drying of the vehicle after cleaning can be omitted.

[0033] In the battery replacement system according to the above aspect, the cleaning device may be configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a liquid onto the vehicle. In this case, the battery replacement system may further include a drying device configured to dry the vehicle cleaned by the cleaning device.

[0034] With the above configuration, the liquid attached to the vehicle can be dried using the drying device after cleaning.

[0035] In the battery replacement system according to the above aspect, the cleaning device may be configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a liquid onto the vehicle. In this case, the battery replacement system may further include a wiping device configured to wipe the liquid attached to the vehicle cleaned by the cleaning device.

[0036] With the above configuration, the liquid attached to the vehicle can be wiped using the wiping device after cleaning.

[0037] In the battery replacement system according to the above aspect, the cleaning device may be configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a cleaning medium onto the vehicle. In this case, the battery replacement system may further include a heating device configured to heat the cleaning medium.

[0038] With the above configuration, when the cleaning medium is heated using the heating device, foreign matters such as snow and ice can be melted when cleaning the vehicle.

[0039] In a battery replacement system according to the above aspects, the first battery can be releasably fixed to the vehicle body by a plurality of fastening devices. The battery replacement mechanism can include a fixing release portion configured to release the fixed state in which the first battery is fixed to the vehicle body by the plurality of fastening devices. In this case, the cleaning device can be configured to clean the area where the fixing release portion contacts the fastening device.

[0040] With the above configuration, when cleaning the area where the fixing release portion contacts the fastening device, the fixed state formed by the fastening device can be easily released by using the fixing release portion.

[0041] In a battery replacement system according to the above aspects, the first battery can be fastened to the bottom from the lower side by a plurality of fastening bolts. Each of the plurality of fastening bolts can have a head on the lower side. The battery replacement mechanism can include a fastening release portion configured to release the fastening of the plurality of fastening bolts. In this case, the cleaning device can be configured to clean the head of each of the plurality of fastening bolts.

[0042] With the above configuration, when cleaning the head of each fastening bolt, the fastening of the fastening bolt can be easily released by using the fastening release portion.

[0043] In a battery replacement system according to the above configuration, the cleaning device can be configured to further clean the bottom of the vehicle in a state where the first battery is removed by the battery replacement mechanism before the second battery is attached to the vehicle.

[0044] With the above configuration, the area where the first battery overlaps on the bottom of the vehicle can be cleaned.

[0045] The battery replacement system according to the above aspects can further include a vehicle docking area where the vehicle docks. In this case, the cleaning device can be provided in front of the vehicle docking area.

[0046] With the above configuration, the bottom of the vehicle can be cleaned before the vehicle enters the vehicle docking area.

[0047] In a battery replacement system according to the above aspects, the cleaning device can be configured to clean the vehicle by spraying liquid onto the vehicle. The battery replacement system can further include a drying device configured to dry the vehicle cleaned by the cleaning device. In this case, the cleaning device and the drying device can be placed in front of the vehicle docking area so as to be arranged along the direction in which the vehicle enters. The drying device can be placed closer to the vehicle docking area than the cleaning device.

[0048] With the above configuration, before the vehicle enters the vehicle parking area, the vehicle can be washed by the washing device and then dried. As a result, foreign matter attached to the vehicle can be reduced from entering the vehicle parking area.

[0049] The battery replacement system according to the above configuration may further include a position detection mechanism configured to detect the position of the vehicle. In this case, the washing device may be configured to wash the vehicle when the position detection mechanism detects that the vehicle is above the washing device.

[0050] With the above configuration, since the washing is performed after the position detection mechanism detects the position of the vehicle, loss of the washing medium can be reduced and the vehicle can be reliably washed.

[0051] In the battery replacement system according to the above aspect, the washing device may be arranged to be able to wash the surface of the first battery.

[0052] With the above configuration, foreign matter attached to the surface of the first battery can be removed. As a result, storing the first battery in the warehouse in a state where foreign matter is attached to the removed first battery can be reduced.

[0053] According to this aspect of the present disclosure, a battery replacement system capable of reducing the influence caused by foreign matter attached to the bottom of the vehicle can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] Features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and in which:

[0055] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a battery replacement system according to a first embodiment;

[0056] Figure 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of the bottom of a vehicle according to a first embodiment;

[0057] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle according to a first embodiment;

[0058] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of a battery replacement station of a battery replacement system according to a first embodiment;

[0059] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an underfloor configuration of a battery replacement system according to a first embodiment;

[0060] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a battery mounting base of a battery replacement mechanism according to a first embodiment;

[0061] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the battery replacement process of the battery replacement system according to the first embodiment;

[0062] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the process of cleaning the bottom of a vehicle during the battery replacement process shown in Figure 7 ;

[0063] Figure 9 is a diagram showing the state of wiping the bottom of the vehicle cleaned during the process of cleaning the bottom of the vehicle using a wiping device;

[0064] Figure 10 is a diagram showing the state of inserting the insertion portion of the battery mounting base into the positioning hole of the vehicle during the process of removing the battery;

[0065] Figure 11 is a diagram showing the state of inserting a lock-unlock tool into the tool insertion hole during the process of removing the battery;

[0066] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the state of the lock-unlock tool unlocking the fastening bolt during the process of removing the battery;

[0067] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the process of transporting the battery removed from the vehicle;

[0068] Figure 14 is a diagram showing the process of cleaning the bottom of the vehicle after removing the battery from the vehicle;

[0069] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the process of attaching a new battery to the vehicle;

[0070] Figure 16 is a floor plan showing the configuration of the battery replacement station of the battery replacement system according to the second embodiment;

[0071] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the battery replacement process of the battery replacement system according to the second embodiment; and

[0072] Figure 18 is a floor plan showing the configuration of the battery replacement station of the battery replacement system according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0073] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the embodiments described below, the same reference signs denote the same or common parts, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0074] First Embodiment

[0075] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the configuration of a battery replacement system according to a first embodiment. As Figure 1 shown, the battery replacement system 100 is a system for replacing a battery (first battery) 201 attached to a vehicle 200 with another battery (second battery) 101. The other battery 101 can be a new battery or a battery that has been replaced from the vehicle 200 at another time and recharged.

[0076] The battery replacement system 100 includes a battery replacement station 100a for performing battery replacement and a warehouse 100b for storing the other battery 101. The warehouse 100b is located next to the battery replacement station 100a. The battery replacement station 100a has a floor 39. The battery replacement system 100 has a sub-floor area S below the floor 39.

[0077] The battery replacement system 100 includes a battery replacement mechanism 33, a transport unit 36, a cleaning device 40, a cleaning medium supply unit 45, a heater 46, a supply pipe 47, a drying device 50 (see Figure 4 ), and a warning notification unit 85.

[0078] The battery replacement mechanism 33 is a device for detaching the battery 201 from the vehicle 200 and attaching the other battery 101 to the vehicle 200. The battery replacement mechanism 33 is provided in the warehouse 100b and the sub-floor area S. The battery replacement mechanism 33 includes a battery mounting base 34 and a lifting unit 35.

[0079] The battery mounting base 34 moves the battery 101 or the battery 201 between the transport unit 36 and the vehicle 200. The lifting unit 35 moves the vehicle 200 up and down between a docking position where it is to dock at the battery replacement station 100a and a predetermined height position. The transport unit 36 moves the battery 101 or the battery 201 between a temporary storage space 90 and the battery mounting base 34. The transport unit 36 can be, for example, of the type of a belt conveyor.

[0080] The transport unit 36 transfers the battery 201 removed from the vehicle 200 and mounted on the battery mounting base 34 to the temporary storage space 90. Specifically, in a state where the battery mounting base 34 on which the removed battery 201 is mounted is lowered to the same height position (position in the Z direction) as the transport unit 36, the battery 201 is transferred from the battery mounting base 34 to the transport unit 36. The battery 201 is transferred by the rotation of a roller unit 34c (see Figure 6 ) of the battery mounting base 34.

[0081] The transport unit 36 moves another battery 101 transferred from the warehouse 100b to the temporary storage space 90 to the Y2 side of the battery mounting base 34 where it is to be installed. At this time, the roller unit 34c of the battery mounting base 34 rotates in the direction opposite to the above direction, thereby transferring the battery 101 to the Y2 side of the battery mounting base 34.

[0082] The movement of the battery 101 or the battery 201 between the temporary storage space 90 and the warehouse 100b is performed by another transfer device (not shown).

[0083] A cleaning device 40, a cleaning medium supply unit 45, a heater 46, a supply pipe 47, and a warning notification unit 85 are provided in the battery replacement station 100a.

[0084] The cleaning medium supply unit 45 supplies a cleaning medium to the cleaning device 40 via the supply pipe 47. The cleaning medium may include a liquid (such as water and a cleaning liquid) or a gas. The heater 46 heats the cleaning medium. Specifically, the heater 46 heats the cleaning medium flowing through the supply pipe 47. The heater 46 may heat the cleaning medium stored on the cleaning medium supply unit 45 side.

[0085] The cleaning device 40 cleans a part of the vehicle 200 by spraying the cleaning medium onto the vehicle 200. For example, the cleaning device 40 cleans the bottom 200k.

[0086] The area of the vehicle 200 that the cleaning device 40 cleans is not limited to the bottom 200k, and may be the area where the battery replacement mechanism 33 contacts the vehicle 200. The area where the battery replacement mechanism 33 contacts the vehicle 200 refers to the area where the battery replacement mechanism 33 contacts the vehicle body 200a to release the fixed state between the vehicle body 200a and the battery 201 when the battery 201 is detached from the vehicle body 200a and its vicinity. For example, when the battery 201 is fixed to the side of the vehicle 200, the side of the vehicle 200 can be cleaned.

[0087] When the cleaning medium is heated by the heater 46 as described above, foreign substances such as snow and ice attached to the vehicle 200 can be melted when cleaning the vehicle 200. In particular, this is effective when the snow and / or ice is in the positioning hole 208 or the tool insertion hole 201f (see Figure 10 )(described later). When the cleaning medium is not heated, a cleaning medium containing a snow melting agent can be used to melt the snow and / or ice.

[0088] Alternatively, a highly volatile cleaning liquid can be used as the cleaning medium. In this case, the cleaning liquid volatilizes after cleaning, so the drying of the vehicle 200 can be simplified or omitted.

[0089] When a condition (described later) is detected, the warning notification unit 85 notifies a warning. The warning notification unit 85 includes, for example, a light source and causes the light source to blink or turn on when notifying a warning. Alternatively, the warning notification unit 85 may include a sound source and may emit a beeping sound from the sound source when notifying a warning.

[0090] The battery replacement system 100 includes a controller 10, a detection device 20, and a drive device 30. The detection device 20 is an example of an insertion detector according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0091] The controller 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, and a communication unit 13. The memory 12 stores not only programs to be run on the processor 11 but also information to be used by the programs (e.g., maps, mathematical expressions, and various parameters). The processor 11 controls the drive device 30. The drive device 30 includes a battery replacement mechanism 33, a conveyance unit 36, a cleaning device 40, a cleaning medium supply unit 45, a heater 46, a supply pipe 47, a drying device 50 (see Figure 4 ), and a warning notification unit 85.

[0092] The communication unit 13 includes various communication I / Fs. The processor 11 controls the communication unit 13. The communication unit 13 communicates with the DCM of the vehicle 200 and the like. Two-way communication is possible between the communication unit 13 and the vehicle 200. The communication unit 13 may communicate with a mobile terminal owned by the user of the vehicle 200. The communication unit 13 is an example of a vehicle information acquisition unit that acquires information from the vehicle.

[0093] When replacing the battery 201, the user operates to issue an instruction to start the battery replacement work on the navigation system (not shown) of the vehicle 200 while the vehicle 200 is parked in the vehicle parking area 103. The communication unit 13 receives an instruction signal for starting the battery replacement work from the vehicle 200. The processor 11 starts the control of the battery replacement work based on the instruction signal received by the communication unit 13.

[0094] The vehicle 200 can be operated to automatically park in the vehicle parking area 103 in the battery replacement station 100a by the user operating the navigation system outside the battery replacement station 100a, or can be parked in the vehicle parking area 103 by the user driving the vehicle 200. The vehicle 200 is parked in the vehicle parking area 103 such that the front-rear direction is the X direction and the left-right direction is the Y direction.

[0095] The detection device 20 includes a camera 61 and an image processing unit 62. Details of the detection device 20 will be described in detail later.

[0096] Figure 2is a plan view showing the configuration of the bottom of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. As Figure 2 shown, the vehicle 200 includes a vehicle body 200a, a plurality of wheels 202, and a battery 201. The vehicle body 200a has a bottom 200k.

[0097] A plurality of positioning holes 208 (described later) are provided on the bottom 200k. The positioning holes 208 are provided outside the battery 201. The battery 201 is fixed to the bottom 200k by a plurality of fastening bolts 201g. The fastening bolts 201g are respectively inserted into tool insertion holes 201f (see Figure 10 )(described later).

[0098] Figure 3 is a view showing the configuration of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. As Figure 3 shown, the vehicle 200 includes a power control unit (PCU) 203, a system main relay (SMR) 204, an electric generator (MG) 205, an auxiliary battery 206, a DC-DC converter 207, a vehicle-side connector 210, and a connector 211 of the battery 201.

[0099] When replacing the battery 201, with the vehicle 200 parked in the vehicle parking area 103 (described later), the ignition power supply (not shown) is turned off, and the SMR 204 that connects the battery 201 to the PCU 203 is turned off. Accordingly, the battery 201 is disconnected from the PCU 203 and the MG 205 electrically.

[0100] When an operation for issuing an instruction to start the battery replacement work is performed in the vehicle 200 in this state, the battery replacement system 100 starts control for the battery replacement work. Based on the operation performed, the locking between the vehicle-side connector 210 and the connector 211 of the battery 201 is released. After the SMR 204 is turned off, the power of the auxiliary battery 206 is supplied to the MG 205 and accessories such as a DCM via the DC-DC converter 207 and the PCU 203.

[0101] Figure 4 is a plan view showing the configuration of the battery replacement station of the battery replacement system according to the first embodiment. As Figure 4 shown, four sprags 31 are provided in the vehicle parking area 103. The four sprags 31 are provided to correspond to the four wheels 202 respectively.

[0102] Each wedge 31 includes a pressing member 31a, a pair of horizontal roller units 31b, and a slider 31c. The pressing member 31a is placed across the pair of horizontal roller units 31b and the slider 31c. The pressing member 31a moves the wheel 202 by pressing the wheel 202 from the outside (laterally). Thus, the wheel 202 is positioned by the wedge 31.

[0103] The horizontal roller units 31b are respectively provided on the X1 side and the X2 side of the slider 31c. Each horizontal roller unit 31b is composed of a plurality of rollers whose rotating shafts extend in the Y direction. The rollers of each horizontal roller unit 31b are arranged in the Y direction. When the rollers of the horizontal roller unit 31b rotate, the pressing member 31a moves in the Y direction.

[0104] The slider 31c moves the pressing member 31a mounted in the wedge 31 in the Y direction. The slider 31c can be, for example, of the type of a belt conveyor. The configuration of the wedge 31 is not limited to the above example. For example, it is not necessary to provide either the slider 31c or the pair of horizontal roller units 31b.

[0105] The cleaning device 40 is provided so as to be able to clean the vehicle 200 parked in the vehicle parking area 103. The cleaning device 40 includes a moving body 41, an arm 42, and a nozzle unit 43. Each moving body 41 is provided so as to be movable, for example, in the X direction and the Y direction. The moving body 41 can also be provided so as to be movable in the Z direction.

[0106] For example, each arm 42 is provided so as to be able to extend and retract in the Y direction. The arm 42 connects the moving body 41 and the nozzle unit 43. The arm 42 has a first portion 42a on its distal end side. The first portion 42a can be provided so as to be able to change the tilt angle with respect to the Z direction. A passage is provided in the arm 42 through which the cleaning medium flows.

[0107] Each nozzle unit 43 is connected to the distal end of the arm 42. The nozzle unit 43 sprays the cleaning medium supplied from the cleaning medium supply unit 45 onto the vehicle 200 (more specifically, the bottom 200k).

[0108] The vehicle parking area 103 has a floor 39. The floor 39 faces the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 parked in the vehicle parking area 103 from below. An opening 32a extending through the floor 39 and a shutter 32 is provided in the vehicle parking area 103. The opening 32a is provided to allow the battery replacement mechanism 33 to pass through. The shutter 32 opens and closes the opening 32a in an openable manner. When the shutter 32 is opened, the opening 32a is exposed. In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which the shutter 32 is a double-acting door. Alternatively, the shutter 32 can be a single-acting door.

[0109] The opening plane 32c of the opening 32a (see Figure 5 ) is located above the bottom plate 39, and the inclined portion 70 is provided around the opening 32a. The inclined portion 70 inclines from the opening plane 32c toward the floor 39.

[0110] By using the inclined portion 70, it is possible to reduce the entry of foreign matters, cleaning liquid, etc. dropped from the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 due to cleaning into the opening 32a.

[0111] A discharge path R for discharging the cleaning liquid is provided in the floor 39. The discharge path R discharges the cleaning liquid to the outside of the vehicle parking area 103. The downstream of the discharge path R may be connected to a collection unit (not shown) for collecting the cleaning liquid. The upstream of the discharge path R may be connected to the inclined portion 70. In this case, the cleaning liquid and the like flowing out from the inclined portion 70 can be directly introduced into the discharge path R. The discharge path R may be omitted.

[0112] The example of arranging the inclined portion 70 as described above has been described as a configuration for reducing the entry of liquid (such as cleaning liquid) into the opening 32a; however, this configuration is not limited thereto. For example, the opening plane 32c of the opening 32a may be set to be substantially flush with the floor 39, and the shutter 32 may be set to close the opening 32a in a shape protruding upward from the opening plane 32c. In this case, in a state where the shutter 32 closes the opening 32a, foreign matters, cleaning liquid, etc. can be guided from the top of the shutter 32 toward the floor 39.

[0113] When the opening plane 32c is located above the floor 39 as described above, a substantially vertical wall (step) may be provided around the opening 32a instead of the inclined portion 70. In this case, the shutter 32 may also be set to be substantially flush with the opening plane 32c. With such a configuration, foreign matters, cleaning liquid, etc. can also be guided along the step to the floor 39.

[0114] As described above, in a state where the opening 32a is closed by the shutter 32, at least a part of the shutter 32 is set to be located above the floor 39, so that foreign matters, cleaning liquid, etc. can be guided to the floor 39.

[0115] A drying device 50 is provided at the floor 39. The drying device 50 includes, for example, a first nozzle 51 and a second nozzle 52. The first nozzle 51 and the second nozzle 52 are placed to face each other in the Y direction across the opening 32a.

[0116] The first nozzle 51 and the second nozzle 52 alternately eject air toward the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200. Specifically, the first nozzle 51 ejects air from one side to the other side in the left-right direction of the vehicle 200. The second nozzle 52 ejects air from the other side to one side in the left-right direction of the vehicle 200. While the first nozzle 51 stops ejecting air, the second nozzle 52 ejects air.

[0117] When the first nozzle 51 and the second nozzle 52 alternately eject air in this way, the vehicle 200 washed by the cleaning device 40 can be dried.

[0118] The drying device 50 is not limited to the mode including the first nozzle 51 and the second nozzle 52 as described above, as long as the drying device 50 is configured to be able to dry the vehicle 200. The number of nozzle units can be one, or can be three or more. The positions of the nozzle units can be set as needed. The drying device 50 can eject hot air toward the vehicle 200. The drying device 50 is not limited to the mode provided at the floor 39. The drying device 50 only needs to be provided in the battery replacement station 100a.

[0119] The cameras 61 are arranged to be able to capture images of the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 respectively. The cameras 61 are placed corresponding to the tool insertion holes 201f respectively. The cameras 61 include two cameras 61 near the front of the vehicle 200 parked in the vehicle parking area 103 and two cameras 61 near the rear of the vehicle 200. The two cameras 61 near the front are respectively placed on both sides of the opening 32a in the Y direction, and the two cameras 61 near the rear are also respectively placed on both sides of the opening 32a in the Y direction.

[0120] Each camera 61 captures an image of a corresponding one of the tool insertion holes 201f. The cameras 61 have a waterproof structure to prevent the entry of cleaning liquid. The cameras 61 and the image processing unit 62 serve as an insertion detector that detects whether the positioning pins 34a (described later) are respectively inserted into the positioning holes 208. The cameras 61 and the image processing unit 62 also serve as a removal detector that detects whether the battery 201 is removed.

[0121] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram showing the configuration under the floor of the battery replacement system according to the first embodiment. As Figure 5 shown, the lifting unit 35 is arranged to be movable in the vertical direction (Z direction). The lifting unit 35 can move up and down while holding the vehicle 200 from the lower side. The lifting unit 35 is arranged to allow passage through the opening 32a in the state where the opening 32a is open.

[0122] The lifting unit 35 includes a pair of lifting rods 35a. Each lifting rod 35a is provided with two protruding portions 35b that protrude toward the Z1 side. The vehicle 200 is supported from below by the two protruding portions 35b of each lifting rod 35a (i.e., four protruding portions 35b).

[0123] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a battery mounting base of a battery replacement mechanism according to the first embodiment. As Figure 6 shown, the battery mounting base 34 is provided with two positioning pins 34a, four locking / unlocking tools 34b, and a roller unit 34c.

[0124] At the distal end of each positioning pin 34a, a tapered surface 34d is provided (see Figure 10 ). In other words, each positioning pin 34a has a tapered shape toward the Z1 side.

[0125] The battery mounting base 34 is configured to be movable in the horizontal direction below the vehicle 200. Specifically, the battery mounting base 34 can move in the X direction (X1 direction and X2 direction) and in the Y direction (Y1 direction and Y2 direction). The battery mounting base 34 can be rotated so as to change the orientation (angle) in the XY plane. Each lifting rod 35a can also be movable as in the case of the battery mounting base 34.

[0126] Battery replacement process

[0127] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a battery replacement process of a battery replacement system according to the first embodiment. The battery replacement process will be described with reference to Figure 7 .

[0128] Send vehicle information and other information: Vehicle

[0129] First, in step S21, the vehicle 200 sends information about the vehicle 200 and information about the battery 201 to the communication unit 13 of the battery replacement system 100. For example, when an operation of sending the above information is performed on a navigation system (not shown) of the vehicle 200, the information is sent to the communication unit 13. The vehicle 200 sends the information before entering the battery replacement system 100. The information can also be sent after the vehicle 200 enters the battery replacement system 100.

[0130] Obtain vehicle information and other information: Battery replacement system

[0131] Subsequently, in step S1, the communication unit 13 of the battery replacement system 100 obtains, through communication, the information about the vehicle 200 and the information about the battery 201 sent from the vehicle 200 in step S21. The obtained information is stored in the memory 12 (see Figure 1 ).

[0132] Specifically, the communication unit 13 obtains information about the dimensions (classification) of the vehicle 200. The information about the dimensions of the vehicle 200 includes information about the total length and width of the vehicle 200. In addition, the information about the dimensions of the vehicle 200 may include information about the height and ground clearance of the vehicle 200.

[0133] The communication unit 13 obtains information about the dimensions of the battery 201. Specifically, the communication unit 13 obtains information about the length and width of the battery 201. The communication unit 13 may obtain information about the height of the battery 201.

[0134] The communication unit 13 may obtain the position information of the battery 201, and may obtain information about the capacity (charge capacity) of the battery 201 and the state of charge (SOC) of the battery 201.

[0135] The vehicle enters the battery replacement station: the vehicle

[0136] When the vehicle information and battery information are sent from the vehicle 200 to the communication unit 13 in step S1, in step S22, the vehicle 200 enters the battery replacement station 100a by autonomous driving or by user driving.

[0137] The vehicle docks in the vehicle docking area: the vehicle

[0138] Subsequently, in step S23, the vehicle 200 docks in the vehicle docking area 103. The vehicle 200 docks such that the wheels 202 are respectively placed on the corresponding wedges 31.

[0139] Send an instruction signal for battery replacement work: the vehicle

[0140] Subsequently, in step S24, the vehicle 200 docked in the vehicle docking area 103 sends an instruction signal for starting the battery replacement work to the communication unit 13. After sending the instruction signal to the communication unit 13, the vehicle 200 turns off the SMR 204 (see Figure 3 ). At this time, the communication between the vehicle 200 and the communication unit 13 is maintained by the power supplied from the auxiliary battery 206 (see Figure 3 ).

[0141] Receive an indication signal for battery replacement operation: the battery replacement system

[0142] Subsequently, in step S2, the communication unit 13 receives the instruction signal sent from the vehicle 200 in step S24. In step S2, after receiving the instruction signal, the processor 11 may send instruction information for the user of the vehicle 200 to turn off the ignition power supply through the communication unit 13, etc.

[0143] Control wedge: Battery replacement system

[0144] Subsequently, in step S3, the processor 11 adjusts the position of the wedge 31 (see Figure 4 ) based on the information (vehicle information and battery information) acquired by the communication unit 13 in step S1.

[0145] Specifically, the processor 11 controls the drive of the horizontal roller unit 31b (see Figure 4 ) based on the information regarding the width of the vehicle 200. The processor 11 controls the drive of the slider 31c (see Figure 2 ) based on the total length of the vehicle 200. The processor 11 controls the wedge 31 (the horizontal roller unit 31b and the slider 31c) based on the position information of the battery 201 relative to the vehicle body 200a. Through these controls, the positions of each pressing member 31a in the X direction and in the Y direction are adjusted. The processor 11 can control each of the four wedges 31 independently of each other.

[0146] Accordingly, the position and orientation of the vehicle body 200a in the horizontal direction are adjusted, and the position and orientation of the battery 201 in the horizontal direction are adjusted. As a result, the battery 201 can be moved to a predetermined position above the opening 32a.

[0147] Detect the state of the bottom of the vehicle: Battery replacement system

[0148] Subsequently, in step S4, the state of the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 is detected. Specifically, images of the bottom 200k are respectively captured by the camera 61. The image processing unit 62 processes the captured images and detects the dirt condition of the bottom 200k. The camera 61 does not need to capture the entire image of the bottom 200k. The camera 61 only needs to respectively capture the images of the states of the positioning holes 208, the tool insertion holes 201f, or the heads of the fastening bolts 201g required for battery replacement, and detect their dirt conditions. The detected detection information (image information) is input to the processor 11.

[0149] Determine whether to clean: Battery replacement system

[0150] Subsequently, in step S5, the processor 11 determines whether to clean. Specifically, for example, when the illuminance, etc. varies within a predetermined range in the image subjected to image processing, or when a predetermined part cannot be found, the processor 11 determines that the bottom 200k is dirty and needs to be cleaned.

[0151] Specifically, when the positioning hole 208, the tool insertion hole 201f, or the head of the fastening bolt 201g is not found, or when it is determined that foreign matter is attached to the positioning hole 208, the tool insertion hole 201f, or the fastening bolt 201g, the processor 11 determines that cleaning is required.

[0152] When the processor 11 determines that cleaning is required (Yes in step S5), the processor 11 executes step S6. When the processor 11 determines that cleaning is not required (No in step S5), the processor 11 executes step S7. The process of detecting the state of the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 (steps S4 and S5) can be omitted, and the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 parked in the vehicle parking area 103 can be cleaned.

[0153] Cleaning the Bottom 200k of the Vehicle: Battery Replacement System

[0154] Figure 8 is a diagram showing Figure 7 the process of cleaning the bottom of the vehicle during the battery replacement process shown.

[0155] Subsequently, in step S6, as Figure 8 shown, the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 is cleaned before the battery 201 is removed. Specifically, while the cleaning device 40 moves in the X direction and the Y direction, the cleaning medium W is ejected from the nozzle unit 43. After the communication unit 13 acquires the docking information that the vehicle 200 has docked in the vehicle docking area 103, the cleaning device 40 starts cleaning the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200.

[0156] The cleaning device 40 cleans the bottom 200k in a state where the opening 32a is closed by the shutter 32. Therefore, when a liquid such as a cleaning liquid is used as the cleaning medium, the entry of the liquid into the underfloor area S through the opening 32a can be reduced.

[0157] During cleaning, it is not necessary to clean the entire bottom 200k, and the positioning hole 208, the tool insertion hole 201f, or the head of the fastening bolt 201g can be mainly cleaned. When the entire bottom 200k is cleaned, the soil and foreign matter attached to the bottom 200k are removed. Therefore, when the shutter 32 is opened, the soil and foreign matter falling through the opening 32a into the underfloor can be reduced. The cleaning device 40 can not only clean the bottom 200k but also clean both sides of the vehicle 200 in the left - right direction.

[0158] The cleaning device 40 can clean the surface of the battery 201 (specifically, for example, the surface of the battery 201 exposed from the vehicle 200). In this case, foreign matter attached to the surface of the battery 201 can be removed. Therefore, it is possible to reduce storing the battery 201 in the warehouse 101b during the process (described later) in a state where foreign matter is attached to the disassembled battery 201.

[0159] After cleaning with the cleaning device 40, the vehicle 200 is dried using the drying device 50. Specifically, the first nozzle 51 and the second nozzle 52 alternately spray air to dry the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 cleaned by the cleaning device 40.

[0160] Figure 9 It is a diagram showing a state of wiping the bottom of a vehicle cleaned during the process of cleaning the bottom of the vehicle using a wiping device.

[0161] As Figure 9 shown, the battery replacement system 100 can include a wiping device 55. In this case, the wiping device 55 can wipe the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 cleaned by the cleaning device 40. The wiping device 55 is constituted by, for example, a movable member (such as a brush, sponge, non-woven fabric, and wiper) configured to be movable. The wiping device 55 is, for example, arranged to be movable in the X direction. When the wiping device 55 moves as shown by the arrow AR1, the wiping device 55 wipes the bottom 200k.

[0162] Open the opening of the battery replacement station: Battery replacement system

[0163] Subsequently, in step S7, the processor 11 opens the shutter 32 to open the opening 32a. Accordingly, the battery replacement mechanism 33 is allowed to pass through the opening 32a, and thus the work for replacing the battery 201 can be started.

[0164] Keep the vehicle body horizontal: Battery replacement system

[0165] Subsequently, in step S8, the processor 11 raises the lifting rod 35a in a state where the shutter 32 is open. Accordingly, the lifting rod 35a passes through the opening 32a, and the vehicle 200 is lifted by the lifting rod 35a. The processor 11 raises the lifting rod 35a to a predetermined height position to keep the vehicle 200 parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0166] In step S8, the processor 11 can adjust the position of the lifting rod 35a based on the information obtained from the vehicle 200 in step S1. Specifically, the processor 11 can adjust the distance of raising the lifting rod 35a based on the information about the ground clearance of the vehicle 200, or can change the distance between the lifting rods 35a based on the width of the vehicle 200.

[0167] Removing the Battery: Battery Replacement System

[0168] Subsequently, in step S9, the battery 201 is removed from the vehicle body 200a of the vehicle 200.

[0169] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing a state in which a positioning pin of a battery mounting base is inserted into a positioning hole of a vehicle during the process of removing the battery.

[0170] First, the processor 11 raises the battery mounting base 34 by a distance based on the information about the height position of the battery 201 obtained in step S6. Thus, as Figure 10 shown, the positioning pin 34a is inserted into the positioning hole 208. The positioning pin 34a corresponds to an insertion portion that is configured to be insertable into the positioning hole 208.

[0171] A conical surface 34d is provided at the distal end of the positioning pin 34a. The positioning pin 34a is guided by the conical surface 34d and is inserted into the positioning hole 208.

[0172] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing a state in which a lock-unlock tool is inserted into a tool insertion hole during the process of removing the battery. As Figure 11 shown, in a state where the positioning pin 34a is guided into the positioning hole 208, the battery mounting base 34 is further raised, and as a result, the unlock-lock tool 34b is inserted into the tool insertion hole 201f.

[0173] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing a state in which the lock-unlock tool unlocks a fastening bolt during the process of removing the battery. As Figure 12 shown, in a state where the lock-unlock tool 34b is inserted into the tool insertion hole 201f, the processor 11 raises the lock-unlock tool 34b.

[0174] The fastening bolt 201g has a head on the lower side. In a state where the lock-release tool 34b engages with the head, the processor 11 drives (rotates) the lock-release tool 34b inserted into the tool insertion hole 201f. Thus, the fastening bolt 201g in the tool insertion hole 201f is unlocked. As a result, the battery 201 is removed from the vehicle body 200a and is mounted on the battery mounting base 34. The lock-release tool 34b corresponds to a fastening release portion that releases the fastening of the fastening bolt 201g.

[0175] In the above series of operations, the timing of inserting the positioning pin 34a into the positioning hole 208 and the timing of inserting the lock-unlock tool 34b into the tool insertion hole 201f may coincide with each other.

[0176] Checking the Removal of the Battery: Battery Replacement System

[0177] In step S10, the processor 11 determines whether the battery 101 has been removed.

[0178] Specifically, for example, it is detected whether the positioning pins 34a are respectively inserted into the positioning holes 208. A camera 61 can be used as an insertion detection device for detecting the insertion state. In this case, a corresponding one of the cameras 61 is used to capture whether each positioning pin 34a is inserted into a corresponding one of the positioning holes 208 or is located outside a corresponding one of the positioning holes 208. For example, a mark can be set on each positioning pin 34a, and it can be checked whether the mark is located inside the positioning hole 208 and not visible or the mark is exposed outside the positioning hole 208.

[0179] Alternatively, it can be detected whether the locking / unlocking tool 34B is inserted into the tool insertion hole 20, or whether the fastening bolts 201g in the fastened state are unlocked by the locking / unlocking tool 34B.

[0180] When the processor 11 determines that the battery 101 has been removed (Yes in step S10), the processor 11 executes steps S11 and S12. When the processor 11 determines that the battery 101 cannot be removed (No in step S10), the processor 11 executes step S10A.

[0181] Check the number of times of determining that the battery cannot be removed: Battery replacement system

[0182] Subsequently, in step S10A, the processor 11 checks whether the number of times of determining that the battery 201 cannot be removed is less than a reference value n (n is an integer greater than or equal to two).

[0183] Specifically, for example, the processor 11 checks whether the number of times that the positioning pins 34a are detected by the insertion detector (camera 61) not to be respectively inserted into the positioning holes 208 and the positioning holes 208 are cleaned by the cleaning device 40 is less than the reference value n.

[0184] The processor 11 checks whether the number of times that the locking / unlocking tool 34b is detected by the disassembly detector for detecting whether the battery 101 is removed not to be respectively inserted into the tool insertion hole 201f or it is detected that the fastening bolts 201g in the fastened state are not respectively unlocked by the locking / unlocking tool 34b, and the number of times that the positioning holes 208 are cleaned by the cleaning device 40 is less than the reference value n.

[0185] When the processor 11 determines that the number of times of determining that the battery 201 cannot be removed is less than the reference value n (Yes in step S10A), the processor 11 repeats the execution from step S6.

[0186] More specifically, when the insertion detector detects that the positioning pins 34a are not inserted into the positioning holes 208 respectively, the cleaning device 40 cleans the positioning holes 208. Similarly, when the disassembly detector detects that the lock-release tools 34b are not inserted into the tool insertion holes 201f respectively, or detects that the fastening bolts 201g in the fastened state are not unlocked respectively using the lock-release tools 34b, the cleaning device 40 cleans the tool insertion holes 201f and / or the heads of the fastening bolts 201g.

[0187] When the number of times the processor 11 determines that the battery 201 cannot be disassembled is greater than or equal to the reference value n (No in step S10A), the processor 11 executes step S10B.

[0188] Use the warning notification unit to notify a warning: Battery replacement system

[0189] In step S10B, the processor 11 uses the warning notification unit 85 to notify a warning to inform the user or the like that it is difficult to disassemble the battery 201.

[0190] Transport the battery to the warehouse: Battery replacement system

[0191] Subsequently, in step S11, the battery 201 disassembled from the vehicle body 200a in step S9 is transported to the warehouse 100b.

[0192] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the process of transporting the battery disassembled from the vehicle. As Figure 13 shown, the processor 11 lowers the battery mounting base 34 on which the battery 201 is mounted to the height position of the transport unit 36 (see Figure 1 ).

[0193] The processor 11 lowers the lifting unit 35 (lifting rod 35a) to a position below the battery mounting base 34. Accordingly, the vehicle body 200a of the vehicle 200 is mounted on the floor 39 without being held by the lifting rod 35a.

[0194] Subsequently, the processing device 11 drives the roller unit 34c of the battery mounting base 34 (see Figure 5 ). Accordingly, the battery 201 mounted on the battery mounting base 34 is transferred to the transport unit 36. The battery 201 transferred to the transport unit 36 is transported to the temporary storage space 90 and then stored in the warehouse 100b by another transport device (not shown).

[0195] Clean the bottom 200k of the vehicle: Battery replacement system

[0196] Figure 14 is a diagram showing the process of cleaning the bottom of the vehicle after disassembling the battery from the vehicle. As Figure 14As shown, in step S12, the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 is cleaned in parallel with step S11.

[0197] Specifically, in a state where the lifting unit 35 and the battery mounting base 34 are lowered to the underfloor area S, the processor 11 closes the shutter 32 to close the opening 32a. In this state, while the cleaning device 40 moves in the X direction and in the Y direction, the cleaning medium is ejected from the nozzle unit 43.

[0198] In this way, when cleaning the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 after removing the battery 201 from the vehicle 200, the area of the bottom 200k that will cover the top surface of the battery 201 can be cleaned. When cleaning the positioning holes 208 and the tool insertion holes 201f again, it is possible to avoid a situation where another battery 101 cannot be attached due to foreign matter remaining in the positioning holes 208 or the tool insertion holes 201f.

[0199] Attaching Another Battery: Battery Replacement System

[0200] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the process of attaching another battery to the vehicle. Subsequently, as Figure 15 shown, in step S13, the processor 11 controls to attach another battery 101 to the vehicle body 200a.

[0201] Specifically, the processor 11 raises the lifting unit 35 (lifting rod 35a) to hold the vehicle 200 parallel to the horizontal direction at a predetermined height position. Subsequently, the processor 11 raises the battery mounting base 34 on which another battery 101 is mounted to insert the positioning pins 34a into the positioning holes 208 respectively. In this state, the processor 11 raises the lock-unlock tool 34b to insert it into the positioning holes 208h respectively. Subsequently, the processor 11 drives (rotates) the lock-unlock tool 34b to unlock the fastening bolts in the tool insertion holes respectively.

[0202] When the locking of all the fastening bolts is detected, the vehicle-side connector 210 is locked with the connector of the battery 101. As a result, the attachment of the battery 101 to the vehicle body 200a is completed.

[0203] Retracting the Battery Mounting Base and the Lifting Unit: Battery Replacement System

[0204] Subsequently, in step S14, the processor 11 lowers the battery mounting base 34 and the lifting unit 35 to a predetermined position. The vehicle 200 is mounted on the floor 39, and the processor 11 closes the shutter 32.

[0205] Notifying Completion of Battery Replacement Operation: Battery Replacement System

[0206] Subsequently, in step S15, the processor 11 notifies the vehicle 200 via the communication unit 13 that the battery replacement work is completed. The processor 11 notifies the vehicle 200 of information regarding cleaning. Specifically, for example, the number of cleanings, the cleaning cost, or an image of the bottom 200k captured after cleaning, etc. are notified.

[0207] Receiving notification of completion of battery replacement work: vehicle

[0208] In step S25, the vehicle 200 receives the notification sent from the communication unit 13 of the battery replacement system 100 in step S15. Accordingly, the vehicle 200 is placed in a state where the ignition power supply is allowed to be turned on. After that, the process ends.

[0209] Through the above process, the battery replacement system 100 replaces the battery 201 with another battery 101.

[0210] Second Embodiment

[0211] Figure 16 is a plan view showing the configuration of a battery replacement station of a battery replacement system according to the second embodiment. Reference will be made to Figure 16 Describe the battery replacement system according to the second embodiment.

[0212] As Figure 16 shown, the battery replacement system according to the second embodiment is different from the battery replacement system 100 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a cleaning device 40A provided in front of the vehicle docking area 103.

[0213] The cleaning device 40A is arranged to be able to clean the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 entering the vehicle docking area 103. The cleaning device 40A is arranged, for example, in a straight line shape so as to extend in the Y direction.

[0214] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the battery replacement process of the battery replacement system according to the second embodiment. Reference will be made to Figure 17 Describe the battery replacement process of the battery replacement system according to the second embodiment.

[0215] In the second embodiment, the battery replacement is basically performed according to the battery replacement process according to the first embodiment. The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that step 1A is provided between step S1 and step S2.

[0216] In step S1A, before the vehicle 200 enters the vehicle docking area 103, the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 is cleaned using the cleaning device 40A. Thus, the vehicle 200 can be cleaned before starting the battery replacement. In addition, since the cleaning device 40A is provided in front of the vehicle docking area 103, the entry of cleaning liquid into the vehicle docking area 103 can be reduced.

[0217] Since the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 is cleaned in step S1A, steps S4, S5, S6, S10, S10A, S10B, and S12 in the battery replacement process according to the first embodiment can be omitted in the second embodiment.

[0218] Third Embodiment

[0219] Figure 18 is a plan view showing the configuration of a battery replacement station of a battery replacement system according to the third embodiment. Reference will be made to Figure 18 Describe the battery replacement system according to the third embodiment.

[0220] As Figure 18 shown, the battery replacement system according to the third embodiment is different from the battery replacement system according to the second embodiment in that it further includes a drying device 50B and a position detection mechanism 65. The remaining configurations are substantially the same.

[0221] The drying device 50B is placed between the vehicle docking area 103 and the cleaning device 40A. In other words, the cleaning device 40A and the drying device 50B are placed in front of the vehicle docking area (on the upstream side in the vehicle entry direction) so as to be arranged in the vehicle entry direction. The drying device 50B is placed closer to the vehicle docking area 103 than the cleaning device 40A. The drying device 50B has a configuration substantially similar to that of the drying device 50.

[0222] With the drying device 50B configured as such, the vehicle 200 cleaned using the cleaning device 40A can be dried before the vehicle 200 enters the vehicle docking area 103.

[0223] The position detection mechanism 65 is provided to be able to detect the position of the vehicle 200. The position detection mechanism 65 detects that the vehicle 200 is located above the cleaning device 40A. The position information of the vehicle 200 detected by the position detection mechanism 65 is input to the processor 11.

[0224] The position detection mechanism 65 includes, for example, a plurality of cameras. The position detection mechanism 65 captures an image of the vehicle 200 using the cameras to detect whether the vehicle 200 is located above the cleaning device 40A. The position detection mechanism 65 is not limited to cameras and can be a weight sensor, radar, etc.

[0225] When a weight sensor is used as the position detection mechanism 65, the position of the vehicle 200 is detected by detecting the weight of the vehicle 200. For example, when a radar is used as the position detection mechanism 65, the position of the vehicle 200 is detected by detecting the distance between the vehicle parking area 103 and the vehicle 200.

[0226] In the third embodiment, battery replacement is performed according to the battery replacement process of the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, in step S1A, before the vehicle 200 enters the vehicle parking area 103, the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 is cleaned by the cleaning device 40A, and the cleaned vehicle 200 is dried by the drying device 50B.

[0227] More specifically, when the position detection mechanism 65 detects that the vehicle 200 is above the cleaning device 40A, the processor 11 starts the cleaning device 40A based on the detection information. Accordingly, cleaning is performed using the cleaning device 40A. Subsequently, before the vehicle 200 enters the vehicle parking area 103, the cleaned vehicle 200 is dried by the drying device 50B. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the amount of cleaning liquid or the like dropping from the vehicle 200 into the vehicle parking area 103.

[0228] Also in the third embodiment, since the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 can be cleaned in step S1A, steps S4, S5, S6, S10, S10A, S10B, and S12 in the battery replacement process according to the first embodiment can be omitted in the third embodiment. In this case, the cleaning device 40 and the drying device 50 according to the first embodiment can be omitted.

[0229] In the first to third embodiments, examples have been described in which the battery 201 is fixed to the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 and the bottom 200k of the vehicle 200 is cleaned using the cleaning device 40 or the cleaning device 40A; however, this configuration is not limited thereto. When the battery 201 is fixed to the side of the vehicle 200, the side of the vehicle 200 can be cleaned using the cleaning device 40 or the cleaning device 40A. In this way, it is only necessary to clean at least one of the area where the battery replacement mechanism 33 of the vehicle 200 contacts the vehicle 200 and the bottom 200k.

[0230] Furthermore, in the first to third embodiments, examples have been described in which the battery 101 or the battery 201 is detachably fixed to the vehicle body 200a using the fastening bolt 201g as a fastening device; however, this configuration is not limited thereto. The battery 101 or the battery 201 can be detachably fixed to the vehicle body 200a using a latch structure, a magnet, or the like as a fastening device.

[0231] In this way, the content of the present disclosure can be applied to a vehicle 200 in which a battery 201 is fixed to a vehicle body 200a by a plurality of fastening devices such that the battery can be unlocked. In this case, the battery replacement system includes a fixing release portion that releases the fixed state in which the battery 201 is fixed to the vehicle body 200a by the plurality of fastening devices. The cleaning device 40 or the cleaning device 40A can be arranged to be able to clean the area where the fixing release portion contacts the fixing portion in any one of step S1, step S6, and step S12 in the battery replacement process.

[0232] The above embodiments are illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims. The scope of the present disclosure includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery replacement system (100) for replacing a first battery (201) attached to a vehicle (200) with a second battery (101), the battery replacement system comprising: A battery replacement mechanism (33) configured to detach the first battery from the vehicle and attach the second battery to the vehicle; And A cleaning device (40) configured to clean a part of the vehicle, wherein the cleaning device is configured to clean at least one of an area where the battery replacement mechanism contacts the vehicle and the bottom (200k) of the vehicle before the battery replacement mechanism detaches the first battery.

2. The battery replacement system according to claim 1 further includes a vehicle docking area (103) where the vehicle docks, wherein, The cleaning device is arranged to be able to clean the vehicle parked in the vehicle parking area.

3. The battery replacement system according to claim 2, wherein: The vehicle parking area includes an opening (32a) allowing the battery replacement mechanism to pass through and a shutter (32) configured to openably close the opening; and The cleaning device is configured to clean the bottom of the vehicle in a state where the opening is closed by the shutter.

4. The battery replacement system according to claim 3, wherein: The vehicle parking area includes a floor (39) facing the bottom of the vehicle; and The shutter is arranged to be at least partially above the floor in a state where the opening is closed by the shutter.

5. The battery replacement system according to claim 4, wherein: The cleaning device is configured to clean the bottom of the vehicle by spraying a cleaning liquid onto the vehicle; and The floor is provided with a discharge channel configured to discharge the cleaning liquid.

6. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, further comprising a vehicle information acquisition unit (13) configured to acquire information from the vehicle, wherein: The vehicle information acquisition unit is arranged to be able to acquire docking information about the docking of the vehicle in the vehicle parking area; And The cleaning device is configured to start cleaning the bottom of the vehicle after the vehicle information acquisition unit acquires the docking information.

7. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, further comprising a vehicle information acquisition unit (13) configured to acquire information from the vehicle, wherein: The cleaning device is arranged to be movable; and The cleaning device is configured to move to a cleaning position based on information acquired from the vehicle by the vehicle information acquisition unit.

8. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The bottom of the vehicle includes positioning holes (208) for positioning with the battery replacement mechanism; and The cleaning device is configured to clean the positioning holes.

9. The battery replacement system according to claim 8, wherein: The battery replacement mechanism includes an insertion portion (34a) arranged to be insertable into the positioning holes; The battery replacement system further includes an insertion detector (20) configured to detect whether the insertion portion is inserted into the positioning hole; and the cleaning device is configured to clean the positioning hole when the insertion detector detects that the insertion portion is not inserted into the positioning hole.

10. The battery replacement system according to claim 9, further comprising a warning notification unit (85) configured to notify a warning when the insertion detector repeatedly detects that the insertion portion is not inserted into the positioning hole and after the cleaning device repeatedly cleans the positioning hole, the insertion detector detects that the insertion portion is not inserted into the positioning hole.

11. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: the cleaning device is configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a liquid onto the vehicle; and the battery replacement system further includes a drying device (50) configured to dry the vehicle cleaned by the cleaning device.

12. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: the cleaning device is configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a liquid onto the vehicle; and the battery replacement system further includes a wiping device (55) configured to wipe the liquid attached to the vehicle cleaned by the cleaning device.

13. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: the cleaning device is configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a cleaning medium onto the vehicle; and the battery replacement system further includes a heating device (46) configured to heat the cleaning medium.

14. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: the first battery is releasably fixed to the vehicle body (200a) by a plurality of fastening devices (201g); the battery replacement mechanism includes a fixing release portion configured to release the fixed state in which the first battery is fixed to the vehicle body by the plurality of fastening devices; and the cleaning device is configured to clean the area where the fixing release portion contacts the fastening device.

15. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The cleaning device is configured to further clean the bottom of the vehicle in a state where the first battery is disassembled by the battery replacement mechanism before the second battery is attached to the vehicle.

16. The battery replacement system according to claim 1 further includes a vehicle docking area where the vehicle docks, wherein, The cleaning device is provided in front of the vehicle docking area.

17. The battery replacement system according to claim 16, wherein: the cleaning device is configured to clean the vehicle by spraying a liquid onto the vehicle; the battery replacement system further includes a drying device (50B) configured to dry the vehicle cleaned by the cleaning device; the cleaning device and the drying device are placed in front of the vehicle docking area so as to be arranged along the direction in which the vehicle enters; and the drying device is placed closer to the vehicle docking area than the cleaning device.

18. The battery replacement system according to claim 16 or 17 further includes a position detection mechanism (65), the position detection mechanism being configured to detect the position of the vehicle, wherein, The cleaning device is configured to clean the vehicle when the position detection mechanism detects that the vehicle is above the cleaning device.

19. The battery replacement system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The cleaning device is arranged to be able to clean the surface of the first battery that is exposed from the vehicle in a state of being mounted on the vehicle.

Images