Battery container for electrically driven floating vessel

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery system (100) for an electrically driven floating vessel (2), comprising a battery container (6) for the electrically driven floating vessel (2) and a battery socket (8) for integration in the electrically driven floating vessel (2). The battery container (6) is configured to mate with the battery socket (8), the battery container (6) comprising a housing (6h). The power outlet (99s) is provided on the bottom side (BS) of the housing (6h) and is accessible from the outside to a power plug (99p) matching the power outlet (99s). The battery socket (8) has a housing part (8r) for housing a battery container (6), in which the battery socket (8) is provided with a power plug (99p) on a battery housing side (RS) within the housing part (8r), and the battery socket can be approached from the outside to a power socket (99s) matching the power plug (99p). The power outlet (99s) and the power plug (99p) are arranged such that an electrical connection is established between the power outlet (99s) and the power plug (99p) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery outlet (8) in operational use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery system for an electrically driven floating vessel, comprising a battery container for the electrically driven floating vessel and a battery receptacle for integration into the electrically driven floating vessel. The present invention also relates to a battery container for the electrically driven floating vessel, configured to mate with the battery receptacle. The present invention also relates to a battery receptacle having a receptacle for receiving the battery container. The present invention also relates to a floating vessel including the battery receptacle of the present invention. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, there have been increasing efforts to switch ships from fuel-powered motors to electric propulsion systems in an effort to reduce the maritime industry's CO2 footprint.

[0003] Battery-powered marine vessels, such as boats, ships, and ferries, will typically have permanently installed batteries that are charged while the vessel is at dock. Some ferries and most lightweight, high-speed vessels used to pick up and drop off passengers and vehicles spend only a few minutes quayside, which is insufficient time to charge the high-capacity batteries required for these types of marine vessels.

[0004] One type of shuttle service vessel typically operates for several hours in the morning and afternoon, remaining at the quayside during these hours. The stationary battery installations required for these hours of continuous operation require large battery containers, which adds significant weight to the vessel. Lightweight, high-speed vessels are weight-sensitive, so excessive weight loading is undesirable because it increases energy consumption.

[0005] Other high-speed vessels operate long-distance routes along the coast or land. These journeys are often several hours long, with intermediate stops along the route. Charging at these stops is often unavailable, meaning charging is only possible at the final stop, often with diesel as a range extender. These long-distance, all-electric voyages require very large, permanently installed battery containers. The weight and size of these battery containers become a factor in the vessel's size, forcing an increase in size and cost. Furthermore, the required charging power at the final stop can be very high, sometimes leading to high grid reinforcement costs. Many ports in remote areas visited by ferries lack grid power that allows for high-capacity battery charging. Therefore, "fast charging" during the few minutes the ferry is docked is not possible. The only option, then, is to "slow charge" batteries stored in these remote locations and swap them with depleted batteries onboard.

[0006] An alternative to permanently installed large battery containers could be to use smaller ones that can be swapped and charged quayside, either at the terminal or at intermediate stops, thereby minimizing the added weight. This would enable lightweight, high-speed vessels to operate continuously for up to a full day by swapping battery containers at, for example, every or every other stop. Furthermore, using smaller battery containers that can be swapped would enable normal-sized vessels to perform zero-emission, long-distance journeys in pure battery operation. Battery swapping is also ideal for retrofitting existing diesel vessels, which are generally not designed to carry the weight of large battery packs. Furthermore, multiple vessels sailing at the same quayside could share a common battery pool, reducing the total battery capacity required and benefiting from sharing economies.

[0007] Therefore, it is necessary to find a solution for replacing used batteries with rechargeable batteries when the ship is docked at the quayside. Ideally, this battery exchange should be fully automated and completed within a short time of the ship's docking.

[0008] WO 2018 / 084716 A1 describes a transport system for exchanging rechargeable batteries between a battery compartment in a floating vessel and a charging station located outside the vessel, allowing the vessel to be positioned close to the charging station. The transport system relies on a lifting platform for moving the battery container, a tower support with a movable arm configured to lift the battery container using a winch mechanism, or a conveyor belt for transporting the battery container. The system described in WO 2018 / 084716 A1 presents complex operations that are difficult to automate. Furthermore, the movement of the vessel, particularly a small vessel, can cause delays in these battery transport operations.

[0009] WO 2020 / 190147 A1 describes an autonomous battery swap system for a maritime vessel, wherein a self-propelled battery assembly is driven between a charging station on shore and a docking station on the vessel. The self-propelled battery assembly is configured to move autonomously between the docking station and the charging station. To drive back and forth between the docking station and the charging station, the self-propelled battery assembly uses the loading ramp of the maritime vessel at the quayside, which could potentially interfere with and disrupt the passage of vehicles or passengers, thereby delaying the vessel's departure.

[0010] WO 90 / 08093 describes a transport system for loading and unloading containers from a floating vessel. The transport system comprises a boom that can span the vessel, a lifting trolley that can move along the boom, and a lifting device for lifting containers suspended from the trolley. The boom is supported by two support structures: one onshore and the other on a floating foundation on the vessel's waterfront. The floating portion of the crane is detachable from the land-mounted portion.

[0011] Compared to large container ships, small offshore vessels (such as those used for passenger and vehicle shuttle services) are more susceptible to water motion when docking. The transport system described in WO 90 / 08093 is designed for large container ships and cannot adequately compensate for the roll and pitch of small vessels. Ship motion, especially for small vessels, can cause delays when transporting batteries back and forth. Therefore, this crane system is not well suited for loading and unloading small offshore vessels.

[0012] In view of the above problems, there remains a need to further develop a transport system for loading and unloading objects such as battery containers onto and from a floating vessel.

[0013] In light of this need, the present applicant has invented and developed a transport system for transporting objects, such as battery containers, to and from a storage area and a destination area. The transport system comprises: i) a base for placement in one of the storage area and the destination area; ii) a main boom pivotally connected to the base, wherein the main boom has a distal end configured to be supported by the other of the storage area and the destination area while allowing at least one rotational degree of freedom between the main boom and the other of the storage area and the destination area; and wherein the span of the main boom is passively adjustable in length, at least in a first operating mode of the transport system; iii) a transport boom connected to the main boom; and iv) an object handler guided by the transport boom and configured to handle objects transported between the storage area and the destination area. The transport system and all embodiments thereof are claimed and described in non-prepublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0014] In view of the above-mentioned developments in transport systems, the Applicant has also felt the need to develop a battery system (comprising at least one battery container with at least one corresponding battery receptacle) suitable for electrically driving a floating vessel. Summary of the Invention

[0015] It is an object of the present invention to provide a battery system that facilitates faster replacement of battery containers on floating vessels, in particular when used in conjunction with the transport system of non-prepublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0016] This object is achieved by the features specified in the following description and the attached scheme.

[0017] The invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0018] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a battery system for an electrically powered floating vessel. The battery system includes a battery container for an electrically powered floating vessel and a battery receptacle for integration into the electrically powered floating vessel. The battery container is configured to mate with the battery receptacle. The battery container includes a housing, a plurality of battery modules, and a power receptacle, with the plurality of battery modules housed within the housing. The plurality of battery modules are electrically connected together to form a battery network, which is coupled to the power receptacle to provide a supply voltage via terminals of the power receptacle. The power receptacle is disposed on the bottom side of the housing and is externally accessible to a power plug that mates with the power receptacle. The bottom side is defined as the side facing the battery receptacle, into which the battery container is placed during operation. The battery receptacle has a receptacle for receiving the battery container. The battery receptacle is provided with a power plug on a battery-receiving side within the receptacle, and the battery receptacle is externally accessible to the power receptacle that mates with the power plug. The battery-receiving side is defined as the side facing the battery container when the battery container is placed in the battery receptacle during operation. The power receptacle and the power plug are configured such that an electrical connection is established between the power receptacle and the power plug when the battery container is placed in the battery receptacle during operation. To achieve this effect, the position and orientation of the power plug matches the position and orientation of the power receptacle when the battery container is placed in the battery receptacle.

[0019] Effects of the features of the battery system according to the present invention are as follows.

[0020] First, multiple battery modules are provided, electrically connected to create the correct voltage, capacity, and power density for electrically propulsing a floating vessel. The multiple battery modules are conveniently housed within the housing. Second, a power socket is provided on the underside of the housing. This socket mates with a corresponding power plug, which is part of the battery socket, into which the battery container is placed during operation. For convenience, the battery socket is designed with a socket for accommodating the battery container. In the battery system of the present invention, the position, size, and orientation of the power socket and power plug are carefully selected so that when the battery container is placed into the battery socket (by simply lowering it into the battery socket), the battery socket's power plug automatically connects to the battery container's power socket. This connection is established automatically, without the operator having to connect the battery container to the vessel. This is a significant advantage, not only safer but also leading to faster battery container replacement on a floating vessel. It is important to note that a floating vessel can have multiple battery sockets, and there can also be more battery containers than battery sockets. This enables shore-based charging of the battery containers while the floating vessel uses its own battery containers for electric propulsion.

[0021] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, one or more expressions are further defined below.

[0022] Throughout the specification and claims, the word "object" must be interpreted as any type of cargo that can be transported between two areas. An object can be a battery container, a hydrogen tank, other modules, a box, a container, or cargo.

[0023] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "battery container" must be interpreted as a group of any number of (preferably) identical batteries or individual battery cells. They can be configured in series, parallel, or a mixture of series and parallel to deliver the desired voltage, capacity, or power density. In addition to batteries or battery cells, other components may also be present, such as temperature sensors, cooling systems, control electronics, etc. Others may also use the term "battery pack" to refer to the battery container.

[0024] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "battery receptacle" must be interpreted as a confined or defined space configured to mechanically and electrically accommodate a battery container by insertion of the battery container into a battery system when the battery container is disposed in the battery receptacle.

[0025] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "battery system" must be interpreted as a combination of a battery container and its corresponding battery socket, or a combination of a series of battery containers and their corresponding battery sockets. Obviously, in some battery systems there may be more battery containers than battery sockets, particularly when it comes to battery systems for electrically powered floating vessels.

[0026] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "object handler" must be interpreted as any type of gripping device for gripping and lifting an object. Alternative terms for object handler are docking head, remotely operated vehicle (ROV), docking hook, docking rod, docking claw, docking mushroom, vacuum cup, vacuum head, docking mechanism, cargo actuator, movable trolley, load actuator, robotic gripper, robotic arm, automatic hook, magnetic head, and latching mechanism.

[0027] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "storage area" must be interpreted as any area where an object can be placed. A storage area may be an area on shore, on a floating platform, on a floating vessel, or near a quay.

[0028] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "target area" must be interpreted as any area where an object can be placed. The storage area may be an area on shore, on a floating platform, on a floating vessel or next to a quay.

[0029] Throughout the specification and claims, the word "base" must be interpreted as any structure that can support the boom. Alternative words for base are crane support, robot arm support, beam support and boom support.

[0030] Throughout the specification and claims, the word "jib" must be interpreted as including structures comprising an arm extending in a horizontal plane. Alternative words for jib are arm, arm, member, beam.

[0031] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "passively adjustable" must be interpreted as adjustable under the influence of external forces, namely the movements of the floating vessel when docked to shore (i.e. pitch, roll, bow, heave, sway and surge). This means that when the main boom is passively adjustable due to the movements of the floating vessel, the main boom does not generate intentional reaction forces to inhibit or counteract these movements.

[0032] Throughout the description and claims, the term "transport boom" must be interpreted as including a structure comprising an arm extending in a horizontal plane, which arm can move an object handler or on which an object handler can be guided. Alternative words for transport boom are arm, manipulator, member, beam, guide.

[0033] Throughout the specification and claims, the word "coupled" must be interpreted as a connection between two booms. It can be a fixed connection or a movable or slidable connection. Alternative words for "coupled" are connected, locked or engaged.

[0034] Throughout the specification and claims the term "telescopic joint" must be interpreted as a movable connection between two components wherein one component can slide within the other. Alternative terms for telescopic joint are telescopic connection and telescopic coupling.

[0035] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "floating vessel" must be interpreted as a vessel that floats on a body of water. Alternative terms for floating vessel are sea vessel, high-speed vessel, ferry, ship, boat, barge and raft.

[0036] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "floating platform" must be interpreted as a platform that floats on a body of water. Alternative terms for floating vessel are barge, raft, pontoon, foundation and buoy.

[0037] Throughout the specification and claims, the term "transportation equipment" must be interpreted as any device that can receive an object and move it into or out of the range of an object handler. Alternative terms for transport equipment are platform, rotatable turntable, movable platform, conveyor belt, vehicle, robotic storage facility, forklift, crane, and rack and pinion system.

[0038] In an embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the underside of the housing is provided with a plurality of feet for supporting the battery container. The plurality of feet is advantageous because they stabilize the battery container when placed on a floating vessel. These feet may also be provided with grip-enhancing surfaces for improved grip on the deck of the floating vessel.

[0039] In an embodiment of the battery system according to the invention, the plurality of legs are designed to match corresponding holes in the battery socket. This embodiment provides a very secure positioning effect of the battery container.

[0040] In an embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, at least one of the plurality of legs is formed with a notch, enabling at least one of the plurality of legs to be gripped by a locking mechanism in the battery receptacle to retain the battery container within the battery receptacle during operation. Multiple legs inserted into corresponding holes provide a secure retention effect in two dimensions, but do not prevent the legs from being pulled out of the holes. The current embodiment helps address this issue because the notch can be gripped by a locking mechanism, which can be integrated into or near the hole. The more legs provided with such notches, the better the battery container can be gripped and retained in the battery receptacle.

[0041] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the housing is provided with at least one ventilation hole for allowing ventilation of the space surrounding the battery module within the housing. Battery modules typically have ventilation holes. When such a battery module is placed in a tight housing, ventilation of the battery module is reduced or completely lost. The current embodiment conveniently "transfers" the ventilation function of the battery module to the external housing of the battery container. This embodiment actually constitutes a separate invention, which can be applied without the power plug and power socket of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0042] In an embodiment of the battery system according to the invention, the housing is provided with at least one overpressure valve for allowing a certain overpressure within the housing to escape into the free air. Battery modules may fail in that they may catch fire or even explode. In order to reduce the risk, the battery modules may have one or more overpressure valves for overpressure protection. When such a battery module is placed in a tight housing, the overpressure protection may also need to be transferred to the external housing. The current embodiment conveniently performs this "transfer". This embodiment actually constitutes a separate invention, which can be applied without the power plug and power socket of the first aspect of the invention.

[0043] In an embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the top side of the housing is provided with a gripping engagement for gripping by an object handler of a transport system used to transport the battery container between the storage area and the battery receptacle. The gripping engagement facilitates transport of the battery container between a floating vessel and shore, as also explained in the non-prepublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0044] In an embodiment of a battery system according to the present invention, the housing includes a cooling system coupled to the plurality of battery modules, the cooling system being used to cool the battery modules. Some conventional battery modules are provided with channels for cooling fluids / liquids. Providing a cooling system in the housing can help cool the fluids / liquids conveyed through the channels of the battery modules, thereby maintaining the batteries at a suitable temperature during operation and during charging. The detailed description provides further details on this feature.

[0045] In an embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the receiving portion of the battery receptacle is provided with a plurality of apertures designed to mate with corresponding legs of the battery container. This embodiment is advantageous in conjunction with the previous embodiment describing the plurality of legs on the battery container. This embodiment effectively holds the battery container in place during operational use because the legs are received in the apertures.

[0046] In an embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, at least one of the plurality of apertures is provided with a locking mechanism for engaging a leg of the battery container to retain the battery container within the battery receptacle during operation. This embodiment is advantageously combined with the previously described embodiment of a recess in at least one leg. Thus, the locking mechanism engages the recess, preventing the corresponding leg from being pulled out of the aperture, thereby retaining the battery container within the battery receptacle.

[0047] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a battery container for an electrically driven floating vessel, the battery container being configured to cooperate with a battery socket. The battery container comprises a housing, a plurality of battery modules, and a power socket, wherein the plurality of battery modules are placed within the housing. The plurality of battery modules are electrically connected together to form a battery network, which is connected to the power socket to provide a supply voltage via the terminals of the power socket. The power socket is arranged on the bottom side of the housing and is accessible from the outside to a power plug that matches the power socket. The bottom side is defined as the side facing the battery socket, into which the battery container is placed during operational use. The power socket is arranged so that when the battery container is placed in the battery socket during operational use, an electrical connection is established between the power socket and the power plug. To achieve this effect, when the battery container is placed in the battery socket, the position and orientation of the power plug match the position and orientation of the power socket.

[0048] The present invention relates to a two-part system, namely, a battery container and a battery receptacle for receiving the battery container. According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to one of these two mating components, namely, the battery container. Below is an embodiment of the battery container, which has also been discussed with respect to the battery system according to the first aspect (with respect to their effects and advantages).

[0049] In an embodiment of the battery container according to the present invention, a plurality of legs for supporting the battery container are provided on the bottom side of the housing.

[0050] In an embodiment of the battery container according to the present invention, the plurality of legs are designed to mate with corresponding holes in the battery receptacle.

[0051] In an embodiment of the battery container according to the present invention, at least one of the plurality of legs is formed with a notch so that at least one of the plurality of legs can be captured by a locking mechanism in the battery socket to retain the battery container in the battery socket during operational use.

[0052] In an embodiment of the battery container according to the present invention, the housing is provided with at least one ventilation hole for allowing ventilation of the space around the battery module in the housing.

[0053] In an embodiment of the battery container according to the invention, the housing is provided with at least one overpressure valve for allowing a certain overpressure within the housing to escape into the free air.

[0054] In an embodiment of the battery container according to the invention, the top side of the housing is provided with gripping engagements for gripping by an object handler of a transport system for transporting the battery container to and from the storage area and the battery receptacle.

[0055] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a battery socket having a socket for accommodating a battery container according to any one of schemes 11 to 13. The battery socket is provided with a power plug on a battery accommodation side within a accommodating portion, and a power socket that matches the power plug is accessible from the outside. The battery accommodation side is defined as the side facing the battery container when the battery container is placed in the battery socket during operation. The power plug is arranged so that when the battery container is placed in the battery socket during operation, an electrical connection is established between the power plug and the power socket. To achieve this effect, when the battery container is placed in the battery socket, the position and orientation of the power plug match the position and orientation of the power socket.

[0056] The present invention relates to a two-part system, namely, a battery container and a battery receptacle for receiving the battery container. According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to the other of these two mating components, namely, the battery receptacle. The following are examples of the battery receptacle already discussed for the battery system according to the first aspect (with regard to their effects and advantages).

[0057] In an embodiment of the battery socket according to the present invention, the receiving portion of the battery socket is provided with a plurality of holes designed to match corresponding legs of the battery container.

[0058] In an embodiment of the battery socket according to the invention, at least one of the plurality of apertures is provided with a locking mechanism for gripping a foot of the battery container to retain the battery container within the battery socket in operational use.

[0059] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a floating vessel comprising a battery receptacle according to the third aspect of the present invention, wherein the floating vessel comprises an electric motor for propelling the floating vessel, wherein the battery receptacle is electrically coupled to the electric motor. The floating vessel is conveniently adapted to receive a battery container according to the second aspect of the present invention by providing the floating vessel with the battery receptacle according to the third aspect of the present invention.

[0060] In an embodiment of a floating vessel according to the present invention, the battery receptacle is provided on the deck of the floating vessel. As previously explained in the non-prepublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148, the inventors realized that the electrically driven battery container can be placed on the deck of the floating vessel, which allows for faster replacement of the battery container.

[0061] In an embodiment of the floating vessel according to the present invention, the battery container according to the second aspect of the present invention is provided in the battery socket for supplying power to the electric motor. This embodiment completes the floating vessel for departure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] In the following an example of embodiment is described which is shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0063] Figure 1 A transport system previously developed by the applicant is shown;

[0064] Figure 2 An embodiment of a floating vessel according to the invention is shown, which has a turntable on its deck;

[0065] Figure 3 The battery pack according to the present invention has two battery sockets and two battery containers. Figure 2 A magnified view of the turntable;

[0066] Figure 4 An embodiment of a battery container according to the present invention is shown;

[0067] Figure 5 Shown Figure 4 a battery container wherein the housing is removed;

[0068] Figure 6a-6b Shown in Figure 4 Different views of a battery module used in a battery container;

[0069] Figure 7 Shown Figure 4 A bottom module of a battery container;

[0070] Figure 8 Shown Figure 4 A perspective view of a battery container with the bottom side visible;

[0071] Figure 9 Shown Figure 7 a bottom module, wherein the bottom side is visible;

[0072] Figure 10 Shown Figure 4 a power outlet for the battery container;

[0073] Figure 11 shows a power plug used in an embodiment of a battery socket according to the present invention;

[0074] Figure 12 Shown Figure 2 a perspective view of the turntable with the battery container removed and the battery receptacle visible;

[0075] Figure 13 Shown Figure 12 A top view of the turntable, where the two battery sockets are visible, and

[0076] Figure 14 Shown Figure 4 How to place the battery container Figure 12 and Figure 13 battery socket. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] Various illustrative embodiments of the present subject matter are described below. For the sake of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. Of course, it should be understood that in the development of any such actual embodiment, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Furthermore, it should be understood that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but remains a routine task for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0078] The present subject matter will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Various systems, structures and devices are schematically depicted in the accompanying drawings for the purpose of explanation only and not to obscure the present disclosure with details well known to those skilled in the art. However, the accompanying drawings are included to describe and explain illustrative examples of the present disclosure. The words and phrases used herein should be understood and interpreted as having meanings consistent with the understanding of these words and phrases by those skilled in the relevant art. The consistent use of a term or phrase herein is not intended to imply a special definition of the term or phrase, i.e., a definition different from the ordinary and customary meaning understood by those skilled in the art. Where a term or phrase is intended to have a special meaning (i.e., a meaning different from the meaning understood by those skilled in the art), such a special definition will be clearly set forth in the specification in a definition manner that directly and clearly provides the special definition of the term or phrase.

[0079] The present invention relates to a battery system for an electrically powered vessel. This battery system includes a battery container and a corresponding battery receptacle. Some details of this transport system are repeated in this application. For all remaining details, reference is made to the previously mentioned, non-prepublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0080] The invention will be discussed in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings will be discussed primarily insofar as they differ from the previous drawings.

[0081] Figure 1 The figure shows a transport system previously developed by the applicant. The figure shows a transport system 1 on shore 3, including a platform 60. It also shows a floating vessel 2 approaching shore 3, where a storage area 4 is located. Battery containers 6 are stored on platform 60 on shore 3 and on a rotatable turntable 31 on floating vessel 2. The transport system 1 includes a base, to which a main boom 11 is pivotally mounted. The distal end 11e of the main boom 11 includes a vertical support 14, and the target area 5 on floating vessel 2 includes a support 32 configured to receive the vertical support 14, allowing the transport system 1 to rest on the floating vessel 2 and automatically follow its movements. The vertical support 14 is supported by the support 32 and pivotally coupled thereto. The main boom 11 is provided with a transport boom 12, on which an object handler 13 is mounted. The object handler 13 is used to pick up objects, such as battery containers 6, transport them, and release them.

[0082] Figure 1Also disclosed is a transport device on storage area 4. Transport device 30 includes a housing 51. Housing 51 can be raised and lowered together with platform 60. Housing 51 can also be fastened to platform 60. Housing 51 can shield battery container 6 from, for example, wind and rain during storage and charging. Housing 51 includes two slidable central doors 52, which are closed when transport system 1 is in parked mode. Housing 51 also includes side doors 53, one of which is visible.

[0083] Figure 2 An embodiment of a floating vessel 2 according to the present invention is shown having a turntable 31 on its deck 2d. The floating vessel 2 may be a ferry, a fast ferry, or any other type of boat, platform, or ship. As discussed in non-prepublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148, the turntable 31 may be rotated as indicated by the circular arrow so that each battery container / battery slot may be made available for use by simply rotating the turntable. Figure 1 Transportation system 1.

[0084] Figure 3 The battery pack according to the present invention has two battery sockets 8 and two battery containers 6. Figure 2 31. The battery socket 8 is not clearly visible and will therefore be discussed with reference to other figures. Figure 3 The turntable 31 includes two battery sockets 8 , each of which is provided with a battery container 6 .

[0085] Figure 4 FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a battery container 6 according to the present invention. The battery container 6 comprises a housing 6h. On top of the housing 6h, a gripping engagement portion 25 is provided on its top side TS to allow the battery container 6 to be opened by a user. Figure 1 The transport system 1 is maneuvered. The gripping engagement portion 25 may be a hook or the like that allows the aforementioned object handler 13 to grip and hold the battery container 6 for transport. Figure 4 Also shown is a bottom module 6b with additional features, which will be further explained with reference to the following figures. Also visible on the side of the housing 6h of the battery container 6 are ventilation holes 6v. These vents 6v are used to exhaust potential fumes that may be released from the batteries. As shown, the housing also includes a removable plastic cover 6z. This removable plastic cover allows access to the battery modules and also provides weather protection. The ventilation holes 6v effectively "transfer" the same functions of the battery modules 6m to the exterior of the battery container housing 6h. Figure 4 The battery container in the embodiment has the following dimensions: width: 1600 mm, length: 2250 mm, height: 2200 mm. The total weight of the battery container 6 is approximately 8000 kg.

[0086] Figure 5 Shown Figure 4 The battery container 6 with the housing 6h removed. In the bottom module 6b, the cooling system 6c (which can be an air-to-liquid heat pump) is now visible. A plurality of battery modules 6m are arranged on top of the cooling system 6c. In this embodiment, as shown, ten battery modules 6m are arranged in two stacks of five, placed side by side. In the current embodiment, each battery module 6m includes high-capacity lithium batteries. However, the present invention is not limited to any specific type of battery technology. It goes without saying that any other number of battery modules and any other physical arrangement thereof can be selected. The battery modules 6m can be purchased as standard products. In the current embodiment, these battery modules 6m are purchased from Akasol and are of the "AKASYSTEM9AKM 150CYC" type. The plurality of battery modules 6m are electrically connected together to form a battery network 90. ​​The battery network 90 is electrically connected to a power socket 99s, which is provided in the bottom module 99 and accessible from the bottom side BS of the battery container 6.

[0087] exist Figure 5 The battery module used in the embodiment of has several features integrated therein, wherein the battery module is provided for cooling by means of integrated cooling channels (not visible) through which liquid can flow. Figure 5 In the figure, there is a visible liquid supply channel 7 connecting the cooling system 6c with the cooling channels of the battery module 6m. In some embodiments, there may also be channels on the other side of the battery container 6.

[0088] Figure 5 The bottom module 6b also includes an electronic module 6e1 for controlling various functions of the battery container 6. The electronic module 6 includes a fuse placed between the power socket 99s and the battery module 6m. The module 6 also includes a data logger for recording communication signals.

[0089] Figure 6a-6b Shown in Figure 4 Different views of the battery module 6m used in the battery container 6. Figure 6a In the figure, one of the short sides of the battery module 6m is visible. This side shows a first connector 6m1 for supplying power. The first connector 6m1 is used to connect to the main cable. A second connector 6m2 is also shown for connecting to the control system. On the long sides are three covers 6L that allow access to the bolts that connect the different modules 6m together. Figure 6b An identical cover 6L is visible on the other long side of the battery module 6m visible in FIG. Figure 6b Also shown are a pair of third connectors 6m3 for connection to a cooling system. Also shown are a pair of overpressure valves 6m4 for allowing overpressure to escape to the outside world.

[0090] Figure 7 Shown Figure 4 The bottom module 6b of the battery container 6. The cooling system 6c is visible on the left side of the bottom module 6b. The bottom module 6b includes air outlets 6pi, 6po. In the current embodiment, the bottom module 6b is an air-liquid heat pump. As shown in the figure, different components can be seen through the opening 6cp in the housing of the bottom module 6b. The opening 6cp serves as an air inlet for the cooling system 6c. During operation, the fan of the cooling system 6c, for example, takes in air through the opening 6cp and sends it to the heat exchanger (not shown). The heat exchanger then blows the same air out through the air outlets 6pi, 6po.

[0091] Figure 8 Shown Figure 4 A perspective view of a battery container 6 is shown, with the bottom side BS visible. This figure shows the housing 6h, which includes the previously discussed battery module 6m and bottom module 6m. On the bottom side BS of the housing (which is the bottom side BS of the bottom module 6b), the previously discussed power socket 99s, which forms part of the first invention disclosed in this application, is visible. The bottom side BS also has four legs 80.

[0092] Figure 9 Shown Figure 7 The bottom module 6b is shown, with the bottom side BS visible. In this figure, the legs 80 are disclosed in more detail. In the present example, two of the four legs 80 are provided with notches 81. These notches 81 are designed to cooperate with a locking mechanism for holding the legs 80 in place, as will be discussed later. Figure 9 The off-center placement of power socket 99s relative to the sidewalls of bottom module 6b is also clearly shown. This ensures that the battery can only be placed in one way within the battery socket. It goes without saying that the placement of power plug 99p must match the placement of power socket 99s. In the current embodiment, the minimum distance between the edge of the power socket and the shortest sidewall of bottom module 6b is 550 mm. Power socket 99s is positioned precisely in the middle relative to the long sidewalls.

[0093] Figure 10 Shown Figure 4 The power socket 99p of the battery container 6 is specially designed by the applicant of the present invention. This design involves the size of the socket housing 99sh and the placement of the terminals 99st of the power socket 99s. The internal dimensions of the power socket 99s are 465mm x 300mm.

[0094] Figure 11 The power plug 99p used in the embodiment of the battery socket 8 according to the present invention is shown. The power plug 99p is designed to match Figure 10The design involves the dimensions of the plug housing 99ph and the placement of the terminals 99pt of the power plug 99p. The external dimensions of the power socket 99s are 465mm x 300mm.

[0095] Many variations are possible with respect to the dimensions of the battery container 6 and the power socket 99s and power plug 99p of the battery socket 8. The present invention encompasses all such variations.

[0096] Figure 12 Shown Figure 2 A perspective view of the turntable 31 is shown, wherein the battery container 6 is removed and the battery socket 8 is visible. Figure 13 Shown Figure 12 A top view of the turntable 31 is shown, with two battery receptacles 8 visible. The turntable 31 in this embodiment has two receiving portions 8r, each designed to receive a battery container 6. The turntable 31 is rotatable about an axis that coincides with the support member 32. As shown, each receiving portion 8r is provided with a power plug 99p on its battery receiving side RS. Figure 13 The placement of the power plug 99p within the receiving portion is clearly shown, corresponding to the placement and orientation of the power receptacle 99s of the battery container 6. Furthermore, holes 85 are shown, corresponding to the placement of the legs 80 of the battery container 6. Holes 85 are designed to receive the legs 80 discussed previously. At least one of the holes 85 in each receiving portion 8r is provided with a locking mechanism 86, schematically indicated by an arrow. Many different technical solutions exist for the recess 81 for capturing the legs 80. Therefore, this point will not be discussed in further detail.

[0097] Figure 14 Shown Figure 4 How to place the battery container 6 Figure 12 and Figure 13 Then, Figure 1 The transport system 1 transports the battery container 6 to a position above the receiving portion, where it is lowered as indicated by the arrow. This action causes the legs 80 to be received by the holes 85. The legs 80 are preferably shaped to provide a centering effect, thereby precisely positioning and orienting the battery container 6 during lowering. Simultaneously, when the legs 80 are lowered into the corresponding holes 85, the power sockets 99s and power plugs 99p of the battery pack 6 are connected. This feature provides the battery container 6 with an automatic connection function.

[0098] The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the invention may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. The housing 6h shown in the figure illustrates a modular structure. However, the housing 6h may also be designed as a single unit. Alternatively, when it comes to the placement of the cover and vents, there are many possible variations.

[0099] A person skilled in the art can easily find additional alternative solutions for the battery system. The present invention covers all such variations, as long as they are covered by the independent scheme. Except as described in the following scheme, it is not intended to limit the details of construction or design shown herein. Therefore, it is obvious that the specific embodiments disclosed above can be changed or modified, and all such changes are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection sought herein is as described in the following scheme.

[0100] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that a person skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The use of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in the claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. The present invention may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements. In a device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware.

Claims

1. A battery system (100) for an electrically driven floating vessel (2), comprising a battery container (6) for the electrically driven floating vessel (2) and a battery socket (8) for integration into the electrically driven floating vessel (2). in, The battery container (6) is configured to cooperate with the battery socket (8), the battery container (6) includes a shell (6h), a plurality of battery modules (6m) and a power socket (99s), the plurality of battery modules (6m) are placed in the shell (6h), the plurality of battery modules (6m) are electrically connected together to form a battery network (90), the battery network (90) is connected to the power socket (99s) for providing a supply voltage via a terminal (99st) of the power socket (99s), wherein the power socket (99s) is arranged on the bottom side (BS) of the shell (6h) and can be accessed from the outside to a power plug (99p) matching the power socket (99s), the bottom side (BS) is defined as a side facing the battery socket (8), and the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation. The battery socket (8) has a receiving portion (8r) for receiving the battery container (6), wherein the battery socket (8) is provided with a power plug (99p) on a battery receiving side (RS) in the receiving portion (8r), and the battery socket (8) is accessible from the outside to a power socket (99s) matching the power plug (99p), and the battery receiving side (RS) is defined as a side facing the battery container (6) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation. The power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p) are arranged so that when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation, an electrical connection is established between the power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p), and when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8), the position and orientation of the power plug (99p) match the position and orientation of the power socket (99s).

2. The battery system (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The bottom side (BS) of the housing (6h) is provided with a plurality of legs (80) for supporting the battery container (6).

3. The battery system (100) according to claim 2, wherein: The plurality of legs (80) are designed to mate with corresponding holes (85) in the battery receptacle (8).

4. The battery system (100) according to claim 3, wherein: At least one of the plurality of legs (80) is formed with a notch (81) so that at least one of the plurality of legs (80) can be captured by a locking mechanism (86) in the battery receptacle (8) to retain the battery container (6) within the battery receptacle (8) during operational use.

5. The battery system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The housing (6h) is provided with at least one ventilation hole (6v), and the ventilation hole (6v) is used to allow ventilation of the space around the battery module (6m) in the housing (6h).

6. The battery system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The housing (6h) is provided with at least one overpressure valve (6z) for allowing a certain overpressure in the housing (6h) to escape into the free air.

7. The battery system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The top side (TS) of the housing (6h) is provided with a gripping engagement (25) for being gripped by an object handler (13) of a transport system (1) for transporting the battery container (6) to and from a storage area (4) and the battery receptacle (5).

8. The battery system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The housing (6h) includes a cooling system (6c) coupled to the plurality of battery modules (6m), and the cooling system (6c) is used to cool the battery modules (6m).

9. The battery system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The receiving portion (8r) of the battery socket (8) is provided with a plurality of holes (85), and the plurality of holes (85) are designed to match the corresponding legs (80) of the battery container (6).

10. The battery system (100) according to claim 9, wherein: At least one of the plurality of apertures (85) is provided with a locking mechanism (86) for gripping the legs (80) of the battery container (6) to retain the battery container (6) within the battery receptacle (8) during operational use.

11. A battery container (6) for an electrically driven floating vessel (2), the battery container (6) being configured to cooperate with a battery socket (8), the battery container (6) comprising a housing (6h), a plurality of battery modules (6m) and a power socket (99s), the plurality of battery modules (6m) being placed within the housing (6h), the plurality of battery modules (6m) being electrically connected together to form a battery network (90), the battery network (90) being coupled to the power socket (99s) for providing a supply voltage via terminals (99st) of the power socket (99s), wherein: The power socket (99s) is arranged on the bottom side (BS) of the shell (6h) and can be accessed from the outside by a power plug (99p) that matches the power socket (99s), the bottom side (BS) is defined as a side facing the battery socket (8), the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation, and the power socket (99s) is arranged so that when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation, an electrical connection is established between the power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p), and when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8), the position and orientation of the power plug (99p) match the position and orientation of the power socket (99s).

12. The battery container (6) according to claim 11, wherein: The bottom side (BS) of the housing (6h) is provided with a plurality of legs (80) for supporting the battery container (6).

13. The battery container (6) according to claim 12, wherein: The plurality of legs (80) are designed to mate with corresponding holes (85) in the battery receptacle (8).

14. A battery socket (8) having a receiving portion (8r) for receiving the battery container (6) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The battery socket (8) is provided with a power plug (99p) on the battery receiving side (RS) in the receiving portion (8r), and the battery socket (8) can be approached from the outside by a power socket (99s) that matches the power plug (99p), the battery receiving side (RS) being defined as the side facing the battery container (6) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation, the power plug (99p) being arranged so that when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation, an electrical connection is established between the power plug (99p) and the power socket (99s), and when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8), the position and orientation of the power plug (99p) match the position and orientation of the power socket (99s).

15. The battery socket (8) according to claim 14, wherein: The receiving portion (8r) of the battery socket (8) is provided with a plurality of holes (85), and the plurality of holes (85) are designed to match the corresponding legs (80) of the battery container (6).

16. The battery socket (8) according to claim 15, wherein: At least one of the plurality of apertures (85) is provided with a locking mechanism (86) for gripping the legs (80) of the battery container (6) to retain the battery container (6) within the battery receptacle (8) during operational use.

17. A floating vessel (2) comprising a battery socket (8) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein: The floating vessel (2) comprises an electric motor for propelling the floating vessel (2), wherein the battery socket (8) is electrically coupled to the electric motor.

18. The floating vessel (2) according to claim 17, wherein: The battery socket (8) is arranged on the deck (2d) of the floating vessel (2).

19. The floating vessel (2) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein: A battery container (6) according to any one of claims 11 to 13 is arranged in the battery socket (8) for providing power to the electric motor.

Images