Battery replacement bottom support and vehicle

Abstract

The application provides a battery replacement bottom support and a vehicle. The battery replacement bottom support can fix a battery pack on the vehicle and comprises a bearing frame, a locking mechanism and a driving mechanism. The bearing frame can bear the battery pack. The locking mechanism is arranged on the bearing frame and comprises a lock head capable of rotating. The lock head is switched between a locking state and an unlocking state by rotating. The driving mechanism is arranged on the bearing frame and connected with the locking mechanism. The driving mechanism can drive the lock head to rotate to lock or unlock the battery pack. In this way, the lock head can be quickly switched between the locking state and the unlocking state by driving the lock head of the locking mechanism to rotate, the locking of the battery pack can be stably realized, and the reliability of the locking process is improved. The locking and unlocking of the battery pack are realized by the driving mechanism, the locking mechanism is simple in structure and convenient to operate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of battery pack swapping technology, specifically to a battery swapping base and vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of battery swapping for new energy electric heavy-duty trucks, in order to balance battery swapping efficiency and cost control, there is a need to provide a base support device that can both quickly and reliably fix the battery pack and adapt to manual operation conditions, thereby reducing dependence on dedicated battery swapping stations while ensuring vehicle driving safety and battery swapping convenience.

[0003] In related technologies, battery swapping base devices typically employ a frame structure to support the battery pack and are equipped with a locking mechanism to secure the battery pack. For example, some solutions use a pull-cord or cable-driven manual control mechanism to drive the clamps or locking components located on both sides of the base to move synchronously, thereby completing locking and unlocking; other solutions utilize pneumatic or other automatic drive sources to push a linkage, which in turn rotates the locking pin to achieve locking. However, the aforementioned solutions using pull-cord manual drive have a long and flexible transmission path, which easily generates stroke loss and frictional resistance when transmitting driving force, making it difficult to evenly transmit the operating force to each locking point, affecting locking consistency and structural reliability; while solutions relying on automatic drive sources, although having good action consistency, require the configuration of pneumatic or electrical circuits and corresponding control units, resulting in higher system complexity and cost, and are not suitable for simple battery swapping scenarios without an automatic power source. Furthermore, the base frame in related technologies mostly only provides basic support and lacks a precise guiding and positioning design that works in conjunction with the locking operation. When manually hoisting or lowering the battery pack, it is difficult to quickly and accurately guide the battery pack to the locking position, which increases the difficulty and time of battery swapping operations and also exposes the electrical connectors to the risk of damage due to misalignment.

[0004] Therefore, the problems of cumbersome operation, complex structure and poor reliability of the locking mechanism of the battery swapping base are problems that urgently need to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, this application provides a battery swapping base, which solves the problems of cumbersome operation, complex structure, and poor reliability of battery swapping bases. This application also provides a vehicle including the above-mentioned battery swapping base.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: A battery swapping base capable of securing a battery pack to a vehicle includes: A support frame capable of supporting the battery pack; A locking mechanism is provided on the supporting frame. The locking mechanism includes a rotatable lock head, which rotates to switch the locking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state. A drive mechanism is disposed on the support frame and connected to the locking mechanism. The drive mechanism can drive the lock head to rotate to lock the battery pack or unlock the battery pack.

[0007] Optionally, multiple locking mechanisms are provided, and the driving mechanism is connected to all of the locking mechanisms. The driving mechanism can drive all of the locking mechanisms to switch synchronously between the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0008] Optionally, it also includes a limiting member disposed on the support frame, the limiting member being able to abut against the battery pack in at least two directions to limit the position of the battery pack in at least two directions.

[0009] Optionally, the locking mechanism includes: A rotating shaft, one end of which is connected to the lock head and can drive the lock head to rotate; A bushing is fitted onto the rotating shaft and installed inside the sleeve of the bearing frame; A first fastener is provided on the side of the bushing away from the lock head to fix the bushing within the support frame; A connecting plate is connected at one end to the other end of the rotating shaft and at the other end to the driving mechanism, so as to drive the rotating shaft to rotate under the drive of the driving mechanism; The second fastener is provided at one end of the connecting plate opposite to the bushing to fix the connecting plate.

[0010] Optionally, the drive mechanism includes: A linkage rod is rotatably connected to the connecting plate. Multiple linkage rods are provided, and each linkage rod is connected to at least one of the connecting plates. The first connecting rod is connected to one end of all the aforementioned linkage rods; The first guide rod passes through the support frame and can slide relative to the support frame. Multiple first guide rods are provided, and one end of all first guide rods is connected to the first connecting rod. A drive handle is connected to the other end of all the first guide rods. The drive handle is used to drive the linkage rod to slide so as to drive the lock head to rotate.

[0011] Optionally, the drive mechanism further includes: The second connecting rod is connected to the other end of all the aforementioned linkage rods; The second guide rod passes through the support frame and can slide relative to the support frame. Multiple second guide rods are provided, and one end of all the second guide rods is connected to the second connecting rod. A limiting plate is connected to the other end of all the second guide rods, and the limiting plate is used to limit the movement distance of the linkage rod.

[0012] Optionally, the locking mechanism further includes a friction plate disposed between the connecting plate and the linkage rod.

[0013] Optionally, it also includes a guide disposed on the support frame, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide increases in the direction in which the battery pack is installed onto the support frame.

[0014] A vehicle includes a frame, a battery pack, and a battery swapping base as described above for securing the battery pack to the frame.

[0015] Optionally, the lock head is a strip-shaped block, and the battery pack frame is provided with strip-shaped holes, wherein: In the unlocked state, the length direction of the strip block is parallel to the length direction of the strip hole in the locking mechanism. In the locked state, the length direction of the strip block and the length direction of the strip hole form a non-flat angle.

[0016] The battery swapping tray provided in this application includes a support frame, a locking mechanism, and a drive mechanism. The locking mechanism is mounted on the support frame and includes a rotatable lock head. Rotation of the lock head switches the locking mechanism between a locked and unlocked state. The drive mechanism is mounted on the support frame and connected to the locking mechanism. The drive mechanism drives the lock head to rotate, thereby locking or unlocking the battery pack. Here, by driving the lock head of the locking mechanism to rotate, the switching between the locked and unlocked states of the locking structure is efficiently achieved, i.e., the locking and unlocking of the battery pack is efficiently realized. This configuration allows for rapid switching between the locked and unlocked states by driving the lock head to rotate, ensuring stable locking of the battery pack and improving the reliability of the locking process. Furthermore, the locking mechanism, achieved through a drive mechanism, is simple in structure and convenient to operate. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping base in the locked state provided in this embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping base in the unlocked state.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the supporting frame, limiting components, and guide components.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the locking structure.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a partial sectional view of the drive mechanism.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping base and battery pack in the locked state.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the battery swapping base and battery pack in the unlocked state.

[0025] exist Figures 1 to 7 middle: 1- Battery swapping base, 2- Battery pack; 11-Bearing frame, 12-Locking mechanism, 13-Driving mechanism, 14-Limiting component, 15-Guide component, 21-Strip hole; 111-Sleeve, 112-Crossbeam, 113-Longitudinal beam, 114-Diagonal brace, 115-Connecting plate, 121-Lock head, 122-Rotating shaft, 123-Bushing, 124-First fixing component, 125-Connecting plate, 126-Second fixing component, 127-Friction pad, 131-Linkage rod, 132-First connecting rod, 133-First guide rod, 134-Drive handle, 135-Second connecting rod, 136-Second guide rod, 137-Limiting plate, 141-Bearing frame, 142-Support plate, 143-Reinforcing plate. Detailed Implementation

[0026] This application provides a battery swapping base, which solves the problems of cumbersome operation, complex structure, and poor reliability of battery swapping bases. This application also provides a vehicle including the above-mentioned battery swapping base.

[0027] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0028] like Figures 1 to 5As shown in the figure, this application embodiment provides a battery swapping base 1 for fixing a battery pack 2 to a vehicle. The battery swapping base 1 mainly includes a support frame 11, a locking mechanism 12, and a drive mechanism 13. The support frame 11 can support the battery pack 2; the locking mechanism 12 is disposed on the support frame 11, and includes a rotatable lock head 121, which rotates to switch between locked and unlocked states; the drive mechanism 13 is disposed on the support frame 11 and connected to the locking mechanism 12, and can drive the lock head 121 to rotate to lock or unlock the battery pack 2. Specifically, in this embodiment, the support frame 11 is a main frame assembly, which can adopt an integral welded structure, possessing good rigidity to support the large-capacity battery pack 2. Multiple positions are distributed on the main frame assembly for installing the locking mechanism 12 and the drive mechanism 13, and it also integrates a guide positioning mechanism and a load-bearing limiting structure. The locking mechanism 12 is a rotary locking mechanism, which mainly engages with the bottom locking groove of the battery pack 2 through the rotational movement of the lock head 121. The lock head 121 can be cast, machined, and heat-treated to obtain high strength and wear resistance. In the locked state, the lock head 121 presses the battery pack 2 against the support frame 11, and in the unlocked state, it allows the battery pack 2 to detach from the support frame 11. For example, the drive mechanism 13 is a lever control mechanism, which converts the operating force into the rotational movement of the lock head 121 through manual push-pull operation, making the locking and unlocking operation of the battery pack 2 simple. The lever control mechanism is arranged along one side or bottom of the main frame assembly and is connected to all the rotary locking mechanisms 12 through connecting rods, enabling single-point operation and multi-point synchronous locking functions. In practice, the battery pack 2 is placed on the battery swapping base 1 from above. The guide positioning mechanism guides the battery pack 2 into precise position. Then, the operator pushes the handle of the lever control mechanism, which rotates the lock head 121 to the locked state, so that the battery pack 2 is fixed on the support frame 11. When it is necessary to replace the battery pack 2, the operator pulls the handle to rotate the lock head 121 to the unlocked state, which can release the lock on the battery pack 2, thus facilitating the disassembly of the battery pack 2.

[0029] For details, please refer to Figures 1 to 5The supporting frame 11 is the main frame assembly, which has a rectangular frame structure and forms the periphery and supporting foundation of the battery swapping base 1. Multiple mounting seats and beams are provided on the bottom and sides of the main frame assembly for connection to the vehicle frame. The supporting frame 11 can support the battery pack 2, meaning the battery pack 2 is placed on the supporting surface above the main frame assembly and supported by the supporting frame 11. The locking mechanism 12 is a rotating locking component, containing a lock head 121 that can rotate around its own vertical axis. The upper end of the lock head 121 forms a locking part, for example, a strip-shaped block, for engaging with the corresponding lock groove (e.g., a strip-shaped mounting hole) at the bottom of the battery pack 2. When the lock head 121 rotates to a point where the length direction of its locking part forms a non-flat angle with the length direction of the lock groove, the locking part hooks or presses against the edge of the lock groove, achieving locking; when the lock head 121 rotates to a point where the length direction of its locking part is parallel to the length direction of the lock groove, the locking part can disengage from the lock groove, achieving unlocking. The drive mechanism 13 is a lever control mechanism, which has a linkage structure that is connected to the lock head 121 and a manual operation end. The pushing or pulling force applied by the operator to the drive mechanism 13 is converted into a torsional torque on the lock head 121 via the connecting rod and / or connecting plate 125, thereby causing the lock head 121 to rotate around its axis to complete the locking or unlocking action. The above configuration allows the entire battery swapping base 1 to be installed and removed by manpower only, without the need for an electric or pneumatic drive source. At the same time, the rotation locking method has higher reliability and a simpler structure compared to the pull-wire structure.

[0030] The battery swapping base 1 described above features a rotatable lock head 121 and a connected drive mechanism 13. Operators can control the rotation of the lock head 121 with simple push-pull movements, switching between locked and unlocked states. In the locked state, the lock head 121 presses the battery pack 2 firmly against the supporting frame 11, effectively resisting vibrations and inertial forces generated during vehicle operation. In the unlocked state, the lock head 121 releases the battery pack 2, allowing it to be lifted or removed. Compared to solutions using traction ropes or wire ropes to tighten the clamps, the rotating locking mechanism 12 has a more direct force transmission path, avoiding locking failures caused by rope slack or breakage. Furthermore, the lock head 121 has a large contact area with the lock groove, resulting in strong locking force. The overall structure is simple and the manufacturing cost is low.

[0031] It should be noted that the load-bearing frame 11 can also be a bolted or riveted assembly frame, and is not limited to integral welding. The locking part of the lock head 121 is not limited to a strip block shape, but can also be a T-shaped, L-shaped, eccentric wheel, or hook-shaped structure, as long as it can achieve engagement and disengagement with the locking groove of the battery pack 2 by rotation. In addition to adopting a manual push-pull rod, the drive mechanism 13 can also be equipped with a gear, rack, or worm gear mechanism to change the magnitude or direction of the operating force.

[0032] To improve the reliability and uniformity of the locking of the battery pack 2, multiple locking mechanisms 12 are provided, and a drive mechanism 13 is connected to all locking mechanisms 12, enabling the drive mechanism 13 to drive all locking mechanisms 12 to switch synchronously between locked and unlocked states. (Reference) Figures 1 to 3 A rotary locking mechanism 12 is provided at each of the four corners or circumferential positions of the main frame assembly, resulting in a total of four locking mechanisms 12. The lever control mechanism hinges the connecting plates 125 of the four rotary locking mechanisms 12 together via components such as the linkage rod 131 and the first connecting rod 132, forming a synchronously linked mechanical system. When the operator pushes or pulls the drive handle 134, the driving force is transmitted to the linkage rod 131 via the guide rod and the first connecting rod 132. The linkage rod 131 simultaneously drives all the connected connecting plates 125 to move, causing the four lock heads 121 to rotate synchronously, achieving multi-point synchronous locking or unlocking. Specifically, the synchronous action of multiple locking mechanisms 12 avoids asynchronous locking caused by individual operation, thereby preventing the battery pack 2 from tilting or experiencing localized stress concentration due to uneven force. In the locked state, all four locking cylinders 121 simultaneously press against the battery pack 2, ensuring even force distribution and improving the stability of the connector insertion. In the unlocked state, all four locking cylinders 121 release simultaneously, allowing the battery pack 2 to smoothly detach from the battery swapping base 1. Compared to a scheme where each locking mechanism 12 is driven independently, synchronous linkage not only simplifies the operation steps but also avoids the risk of battery pack 2 deformation caused by differences in locking sequence, and improves the efficiency of locking and unlocking the battery pack 2.

[0033] It should be noted that the number of locking structures 12 is not limited here. When there are more than four locking mechanisms 12, the drive mechanism 13 can still be connected to all locking mechanisms 12 by increasing the length of the linkage rod 131 or adding auxiliary linkages. The drive mechanism 13 is not limited to a single-sided operating handle. Drive handles 134 can be set on both sides of the battery swapping base 1 to form a dual-sided synchronous operation and further reduce the operating torque.

[0034] To further precisely position the battery pack 2 and prevent it from shifting horizontally, the battery swapping base 1 also includes a limiting member 14 disposed on the support frame 11. This limiting member 14 can abut against the battery pack 2 in at least two directions to limit the position of the battery pack 2 in at least two directions. (Reference) Figure 1 and Figure 2The limiting member 14 may include an XY support frame 11. The XY support frame 11 forms limiting surfaces in both the length direction (X-direction) and width direction (Y-direction) of the support frame 11. After the battery pack 2 falls in, its bottom surface and sides abut against the limiting surfaces of the XY support frame 11, thereby limiting the displacement of the battery pack 2 in the X and Y directions. The abutment of the limiting member 14 against the battery pack 2 in at least two directions effectively suppresses the lateral and longitudinal displacement of the battery pack 2 caused by inertial forces during vehicle turning, braking, starting, and other operating conditions, protecting the bottom connector assembly from damage by lateral forces. The limiting member 14 constrains the battery pack 2 in at least two directions, thereby forming a stable positioning reference. When the battery pack 2 is subjected to inertial forces from vehicle movement, the limiting member 14 transmits the force to the support frame 11, preventing the locking mechanism 12 from bearing the entire load alone, thus improving the structural stability and durability of the entire system.

[0035] It should be noted that the limiting component 14 can also be a flange, stop, or locating pin structure integrally formed with the supporting frame 11. The limiting direction is not limited to two orthogonal horizontal directions, but can also include an inclined direction. The number of limiting components 14 can be increased or decreased according to the size of the battery pack 2 and the requirements for fixing points.

[0036] The detailed structure of the locking mechanism 12 further includes a rotating shaft 122, a bushing 123, a first fixing member 124, a connecting plate 125, and a second fixing member 126. (See reference) Figure 4The locking mechanism 12 includes a rotating shaft 122, one end of which is connected to the lock head 121 and can drive the lock head 121 to rotate. In this embodiment, the rotating shaft 122 is a downwardly extending rod of the lock head 121, and its lower end is connected to the connecting plate 125 by a square head or key connection. The bushing 123 is an oil-free bushing 123, which is sleeved on the rotating shaft 122 and installed in the sleeve 111 of the bearing frame 11. The sleeve 111 is welded into the mounting hole of the bearing frame 11 to provide support for the rotation of the lock head 121. The first fixing member 124 includes a washer and a slotted nut, which is located on the side of the bushing 123 away from the lock head 121, that is, below the sleeve 111, to axially fix the bushing 123 and the rotating shaft 122 in the bearing frame 11 and bear the Z-direction load. One end of the connecting plate 125 is connected to the other end (lower end) of the rotating shaft 122, and the other end of the connecting plate 125 is connected to the drive mechanism 13 to drive the rotating shaft 122 to rotate under the drive of the drive mechanism 13. The end of the connecting plate 125 connected to the drive mechanism 13 is hinged to the linkage rod 131 or friction plate 127 by a pin. The second fixing member 126 includes a nut and a pin, etc., and is set at the end of the connecting plate 125 away from the bushing 123 to fix the connecting plate 125 on the rotating shaft 122 and prevent the rotating pair from loosening. Specifically, the rotating shaft 122 and the lock head 121 can be integrally formed or separate and connected by welding or spline. The bushing 123 is an oil-free bushing 123, which can provide low-friction rotational motion under conditions without additional lubrication, and is suitable for the harsh outdoor working conditions of the battery swapping base 1. The shim in the first fixing member 124 is used to distribute the preload of the slotted nut to avoid excessive local pressure that could cause deformation of the parts. The connecting plate 125 converts the linear motion of the drive mechanism 13 into the rotational motion of the rotating shaft 122 and the lock head 121, and its arm length can be adjusted according to the required locking torque. The second fixing member 126 ensures that the connection between the connecting plate 125 and the rotating shaft 122 is reliable and prevents loosening during repeated movements.

[0037] Here, the rotational movement of the lock head 121 is constrained within the axis of the sleeve 111, ensuring the coaxiality and smooth movement of the lock head 121 during rotation, and preventing incomplete locking or accelerated wear caused by the shaking of the rotating shaft 122. The combination of the bushing 123 and the fixing member achieves axial and radial positioning of the rotating shaft 122, bearing the load transmitted by the battery pack 2 through the lock head 121, and has high load-bearing capacity and service life. The introduction of the connecting plate 125 optimizes the torque transmission path between the drive mechanism 13 and the lock head 121, and the lever length ratio can be flexibly designed according to the operating force requirements to achieve the effect of saving effort or increasing speed.

[0038] In addition, bushing 123 can also be an oil-impregnated bearing, a rolling bearing, or a self-lubricating composite material bushing 123. The first fixing member 124 and the second fixing member 126 can respectively adopt different fastening forms such as shaft retaining rings, snap rings, and lock nuts. The connecting plate 125 can be replaced with a gear or sprocket to match different drive mechanisms 13.

[0039] To enable the drive mechanism 13 to simultaneously drive multiple locking mechanisms 12, the drive mechanism 13 includes a linkage rod 131, a first connecting rod 132, a first guide rod 133, and a drive handle 134. (Reference) Figure 1 and Figure 5 The drive mechanism 13 is specifically a lever control mechanism. Linkage rods 131 are rotatably connected to connecting plates 125. Each linkage rod 131 is arranged longitudinally along the support frame 11, and each linkage rod 131 is connected to at least one connecting plate 125. In this embodiment, each linkage rod 131 is connected to the connecting plates 125 of two rotary locking mechanisms 12. A first connecting rod 132 is connected to one end of all linkage rods 131 to unite the ends of all linkage rods 131 together. A first guide rod 133 passes through the support frame 11 and is slidable relative to the support frame 11. Multiple first guide rods 133 are provided, and one end of all first guide rods 133 is connected to the first connecting rod 132. The drive handle 134 is specifically a lever, connected to the other end of all first guide rods 133. When the operator pushes or pulls the lever, the first guide rod 133 and the first connecting rod 132 drive all the linkage rods 131 to slide along the length direction. The linkage rods 131 then drive the lock head 121 to rotate through the connecting plate 125, thereby realizing the synchronous rotation of the lock heads 121 of multiple locking structures.

[0040] Here, the drive handle 134, i.e., the pull rod, is positioned on the outer end of the main frame assembly for easy operation. The first guide rod 133 passes through the guide rod bushing 123 on the main frame assembly. The guide rod bushing 123 ensures smooth push-pull movement, and the bushing 123 baffle prevents the guide rod bushing 123 from falling off. The first connecting rod 132 is shown in the figure as a sliding plate fixedly connected to the end of the first guide rod 133. The sliding plate has slotted holes 21 at both ends, and the end of the linkage rod 131 slides in the slotted holes 21. The slotted holes 21 allow the linkage rod 131 to undergo a small displacement perpendicular to the driving direction due to the geometric changes of the linkage mechanism during the driving process, preventing the mechanism from jamming. Through the crank-connecting rod mechanism of the linkage rod 131 and the connecting plate 125, the single-point push-pull operation is converted into the synchronous rotational movement of multiple lock heads 121. This mechanism not only has high transmission efficiency but also ensures that the rotation angle of each lock head 121 is consistent, achieving precise locking and unlocking. Because of the use of a linkage mechanism, each locking mechanism 12 can form a self-locking or near-self-locking state when it reaches the locking position, thus avoiding loosening due to vibration.

[0041] In addition, the drive handle 134 can also be located on the side of the battery swapping base 1, transmitting motion through a steering mechanism. The connection method between the linkage rod 131 and the connecting plate 125 is not limited to a pin hinge; a ball joint bearing can also be used to compensate for installation errors. The number of first guide rods 133 can be increased or decreased as needed; for example, two guide rods can be used to ensure the straightness of the movement.

[0042] To further improve motion smoothness and prevent overtravel, the drive mechanism 13 also includes a second connecting rod 135, a second guide rod 136, and a limiting plate 137. (Reference) Figure 1 The second connecting rod 135 is connected to the other end of all the linkage rods 131, and the second connecting rod 135 is symmetrically arranged with respect to the first connecting rod 132. The second guide rod 136 passes through the supporting frame 11 and can slide relative to the supporting frame 11. Multiple second guide rods 136 are provided, and one end of each second guide rod 136 is connected to the second connecting rod 135. The limiting plate 137 is specifically a baffle structure set at the other end of the second guide rod 136 or at a corresponding part of the main frame assembly, used to limit the movement distance of the linkage rod 131. When the operator pushes or pulls the rod to its limit position, the second guide rod 136 and the limiting plate 137 mechanically stop the stroke of the linkage rod 131, determining the accurate positions of the locked and unlocked states. Simultaneously, the arrangement of the double-sided guide rods (first guide rod 133 and second guide rod 136) ensures the guiding accuracy of the linkage rod 131 during movement, preventing it from swaying or twisting.

[0043] Here, the added second guide rod 136 and limiting plate 137 constrain both ends of the linkage rod 131, ensuring precise and controllable movement trajectory of the connecting mechanism. When the drive handle 134 reaches the end of its stroke, the limiting plate 137 prevents further movement, preventing over-rotation of the lock head 121 that could damage components or cause locking failure. The double-sided guide rods further improve the rigidity and guiding stability of the mechanism during long-term use, reducing play caused by clearance.

[0044] Furthermore, the limiting plate 137 can be integrated into the structure of the linkage rod 131 itself instead of being set separately. For example, shoulders can be machined at both ends of the linkage rod 131 to abut against the fixed frame for limiting. The second guide rod 136 can also be replaced by a guide groove machined on the bearing frame 11, as long as it can limit the degree of freedom of the kinematic pair.

[0045] To reduce friction and wear between the connecting plate 125 and the linkage rod 131, the locking mechanism 12 also includes a friction plate 127 disposed between the connecting plate 125 and the linkage rod 131. (Reference) Figure 4 Friction plate 127 is fitted onto the pin and clamped between the hinge surfaces of connecting plate 125 and linkage rod 131. Friction plate 127 is made of wear-resistant, self-lubricating material, such as a copper alloy or composite material gasket, which reduces friction from direct metal-to-metal contact without additional lubrication, making the linkage mechanism operate more smoothly. Friction plate 127 also compensates for assembly gaps and reduces contact pressure, thereby extending the service life of connecting plate 125 and linkage rod 131, and making the operating force more stable during locking and unlocking.

[0046] In addition, the friction plate 127 can be replaced by a rolling bearing or a spherical bearing to further reduce friction. Alternatively, a bushing 123 can be pressed into the hinge hole of the connecting plate 125 and the linkage rod 131 to achieve the same purpose of reducing friction and wear resistance.

[0047] The limiting member 14, as a structure that limits the position of the battery pack 2 in at least two directions, can be further specified as follows: the limiting member 14 includes a carrier frame 141, a support plate 142, and a reinforcing plate 143. (Reference) Figure 3 The support frame 141 is composed of a main support frame, which includes a longitudinal plate arranged along the length of the support frame 11 and a transverse plate arranged along the width of the support frame 11. The longitudinal and transverse plates are connected end to end to form a closed frame plate. Support plates 142 are support plates, and multiple support plates 142 are provided, all located inside the support frame 141. Each support plate 142 is connected to both the transverse and longitudinal plates, thereby improving the internal rigidity of the support frame 141. Reinforcing plates 143 are spring-loaded limiting plates 137 or similar reinforcing members, located on the circumferential outer side of the support frame 141, and at the end of the support frame 141 opposite to the support frame 11, for example, at the upper edge or outer side of the support frame 141. They are used to improve the local strength of the end of the support frame 141 and prevent deformation due to impact from the battery pack 2. This support frame 141 structure provides a surrounding limiting boundary, which not only forms a mechanical stop for the battery pack 2 in the length and width directions, but also enhances the overall structural rigidity through the internal support plate 142 and the external reinforcing plate 143, so that even under severe vehicle operating conditions, the support frame 141 can still reliably constrain the position of the battery pack 2 and avoid limiting failure due to deformation.

[0048] Furthermore, the longitudinal and transverse plates are not necessarily independent components; they can also be formed from the same sheet material through stamping or bending to create a frame plate with longitudinal and transverse edges. The number and arrangement of the support plates 142 can be adjusted according to the weight distribution of the battery pack 2, for example, by distributing them evenly along the circumference. The reinforcing plates 143 can also be achieved by locally thickening or welding additional plates.

[0049] To achieve large span and high rigidity, the load-bearing frame 11 specifically includes crossbeams 112, longitudinal beams 113, diagonal braces 114, and connecting plates 115. (Reference) Figure 3Multiple crossbeams 112 are provided, including main beams and connecting beams. Multiple longitudinal beams 113 are provided, each connecting to all crossbeams 112 to form a grid-like load-bearing surface. The longitudinal beams 113 can be main beams that also serve as longitudinal beams in the main load-bearing beams, or connecting beams of secondary beam components. Multiple diagonal braces 114 are provided, including inner and outer diagonal braces. The two ends of each diagonal brace 114 are connected to the interconnected crossbeams 112 and longitudinal beams 113, respectively, enhancing the bending and torsional resistance at the frame joints. Connecting plates 115 are used to connect the inner diagonal braces 114, and are provided on the longitudinal beams 113. The two ends of the connecting plates 115 are connected to the adjacent diagonal braces 114, thereby connecting the adjacent diagonal braces 114 into a whole and further improving the cooperative load-bearing effect of the diagonal braces 114. This frame structure can effectively resist flexural and torsional deformation when bearing the heavy weight of the battery pack 2 and the alternating load of the vehicle, ensuring the relative positional accuracy of the locking mechanism 12 and the limiting member 14, and preventing the battery pack 2 from jamming or the connector from misaligning due to frame deformation.

[0050] Here, the arrangement of the crossbeams 112 and longitudinal beams 113 not only provides sufficient support area but also forms a triangular stable structure through the diagonal braces 114 at the nodes, significantly improving the overall stiffness and dynamic stability of the frame. The inner and outer diagonal braces 114 resist lateral forces in different directions, and the connecting plate 115 connects the diagonal braces 114 on the same side, allowing the load to be transferred between the diagonal braces 114 after they are subjected to force, avoiding excessive stress at a single point. This load-bearing frame 11 design can effectively support the heavy-duty battery pack 2 while maintaining small structural deformation.

[0051] It should be noted that the crossbeams 112 and longitudinal beams 113 can be made of hollow profiles or forgings to improve the strength-to-weight ratio. The diagonal brace 114 can be made of steel pipe or stamped part, and its ends are fixed to the crossbeams 113 by welding or screwing. The connecting plate 115 can also be integrally formed with the diagonal brace 114.

[0052] To provide guidance during the top-to-bottom installation of the battery pack 2 and reduce alignment difficulty, the battery swapping base 1 also includes a guide member 15 disposed on the support frame 11. The cross-sectional area of ​​the guide member 15 increases progressively in the direction in which the battery pack 2 is installed onto the support frame 11. (Reference) Figures 1 to 5The guide component 15 is specifically a guide shaft, which is fixed to the guide post fixing tube and extends upward. The guide shaft is a two-stage guide post with a larger diameter at the bottom and a smaller diameter at the top, thus forming a profile with an increasing cross-sectional area along the installation direction (Z direction) (decreasing from bottom to top / increasing from top to bottom). In reality, when the battery pack 2 is lowered, it contacts the smaller diameter end and is then gradually guided by the guide surface to precise alignment. The guide component 15 has an increasing cross-sectional area in the installation direction of the battery pack 2. That is, when the battery pack 2 approaches from above, it first enters the thinner guide section. Even if there is a certain deviation initially, it can automatically slide to the precise position under the guidance of the conical or stepped surface, and is finally positioned by the limiting component 14 and the lock head 121. This gradually expanding structure of the guide shaft avoids hard collisions between the battery pack 2 and the supporting frame 11, reduces the difficulty of manual battery swapping, and improves assembly efficiency.

[0053] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide member 15 can increase in the form of a continuous cone or a multi-step structure. Furthermore, the guide member 15 is not limited to a cylindrical shape; it can also be a conical block or a wedge-shaped guide rail, with its width gradually increasing along the installation direction. Preferably, there are four guide members 15, distributed at positions corresponding to the four corners of the battery pack 2.

[0054] This application also provides a vehicle, please refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The vehicle includes a frame, a battery pack 2, and any of the aforementioned battery swapping supports 1 for securing the battery pack 2 to the frame. Since the vehicle includes the aforementioned battery swapping support 1, the beneficial effects of the battery swapping support 1 on the vehicle are described above and will not be repeated here.

[0055] Specifically, the vehicle frame has connection points, and the main frame assembly of the battery swapping base 1 is fixedly connected to the longitudinal beam 113 of the vehicle frame via a sub-beam assembly. The bottom of the battery pack 2 has a structure that matches the limiting member 14 and the lock head 121 of the battery swapping base 1, such as a lock groove and guide hole. The battery swapping base 1 is first installed on the vehicle frame, and then the battery pack 2 is hoisted onto the battery swapping base 1 from above. It is guided and positioned by the guide member 15, and then the lever control mechanism is operated to rotate the lock head 121 to the locked state, thus reliably fixing the battery pack 2 to the vehicle. When the battery pack 2 is depleted and needs to be replaced, it can be unlocked and removed at a battery swapping station or by manual assistance, and replaced with a fully charged battery pack 2. This vehicle is suitable for battery swapping heavy trucks and other models, enabling safe and reliable battery pack 2 replacement at a lower cost without relying on automatic battery swapping equipment.

[0056] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 6The locking groove on the battery pack 2 frame is specifically a strip-shaped hole 21, and the lock head 121 is correspondingly a strip-shaped block. In the unlocked state of the locking mechanism 12, the length direction of the strip-shaped block is parallel to the length direction of the strip-shaped hole 21, allowing the strip-shaped block to pass through the hole 21 and the battery pack 2 to detach upwards. In the locked state of the locking mechanism 12, the length direction of the strip-shaped block forms a non-flat angle with the length direction of the strip-shaped hole 21, preferably 90 degrees or close to 90 degrees. The strip-shaped block laterally hooks onto the edge of the strip-shaped hole 21, thereby preventing the battery pack 2 from moving away from the support frame 11. Thus, by simply changing the rotation angle, it is possible to switch between a secure lock and an easy unlock. The mating surfaces of the strip-shaped block and the strip-shaped hole 21 can be treated with wear-resistant materials to accommodate repeated disassembly and reassembly.

[0057] The aforementioned engagement between the strip block and the strip hole 21 provides a large locking contact area within a limited space, thereby withstanding the dynamic loads of the battery pack 2 during vehicle operation. In the locked state, the strip block and the strip hole 21 intersect at an angle, and even in the event of vibration, they will not automatically rotate back to a parallel position, ensuring self-locking reliability. Unlocking is simple; just rotate them back to a parallel position for easy separation.

[0058] Furthermore, the strip-shaped hole 21 can be replaced with an arc-shaped groove or other non-circular irregular-shaped hole, with the shape of the strip block corresponding to it, as long as it satisfies the function of locking and unlocking by rotation. In addition, the rotation angle of the lock head 121 is not limited to 90 degrees, but can be any suitable angle between 60 degrees and 120 degrees to achieve a reliable hook-lock effect.

[0059] The basic principles of this application have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, it should be noted that the advantages, benefits, and effects mentioned in this application are merely examples and not limitations, and should not be considered as essential features of each embodiment of this application. Furthermore, the specific details disclosed above are for illustrative and facilitative purposes only, and are not limitations. These details do not limit the application to the necessity of employing the aforementioned specific details for implementation.

[0060] The block diagrams of devices, apparatuses, devices, and systems involved in this application are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that they must be connected, arranged, or configured in the manner shown in the block diagrams. As those skilled in the art will recognize, these devices, apparatuses, devices, and systems can be connected, arranged, and configured in any manner. Words such as “comprising,” “including,” “having,” etc., are open-ended terms meaning “including but not limited to,” and are used interchangeably with them. The terms “or” and “and” as used herein refer to the terms “and / or,” and are used interchangeably with them unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “such as” as used herein refers to the phrase “such as but not limited to,” and is used interchangeably with it.

[0061] It should also be noted that in the apparatus, equipment, and methods of this application, the components or steps can be disassembled and / or recombined. These disassemblies and / or recombinations should be considered as equivalent solutions of this application.

[0062] The above description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects without departing from the scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but rather to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0063] It should be understood that the qualifiers “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” “fifth,” and “sixth” used in the description of the embodiments of this application are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0064] The above description has been given for purposes of illustration and description. Furthermore, this description is not intended to limit the embodiments of this application to the forms disclosed herein. Although numerous exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize certain variations, modifications, alterations, additions, and sub-combinations thereof.

Claims

1. A battery swapping base, characterized in that, Capable of securing the battery pack to the vehicle, including: A support frame capable of supporting the battery pack; A locking mechanism is provided on the supporting frame. The locking mechanism includes a rotatable lock head, which rotates to switch the locking mechanism between a locked state and an unlocked state. A drive mechanism is disposed on the support frame and connected to the locking mechanism. The drive mechanism can drive the lock head to rotate to lock the battery pack or unlock the battery pack.

2. The battery swapping base according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism is provided in multiple ways, and the driving mechanism is connected to all the locking mechanisms. The driving mechanism can drive all the locking mechanisms to switch synchronously between the locked state and the unlocked state.

3. The battery swapping base according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a limiting member disposed on the support frame, the limiting member being able to abut against the battery pack in at least two directions to limit the position of the battery pack in at least two directions.

4. The battery swapping base according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes: A rotating shaft, one end of which is connected to the lock head and can drive the lock head to rotate; A bushing is fitted onto the rotating shaft and installed inside the sleeve of the bearing frame; A first fastener is provided on the side of the bushing away from the lock head to fix the bushing within the support frame; A connecting plate is connected at one end to the other end of the rotating shaft and at the other end to the driving mechanism, so as to drive the rotating shaft to rotate under the drive of the driving mechanism; The second fastener is provided at one end of the connecting plate opposite to the bushing to fix the connecting plate.

5. The battery swapping base according to claim 4, characterized in that, The drive mechanism includes: A linkage rod is rotatably connected to the connecting plate. Multiple linkage rods are provided, and each linkage rod is connected to at least one of the connecting plates. The first connecting rod is connected to one end of all the aforementioned linkage rods; The first guide rod passes through the support frame and can slide relative to the support frame. Multiple first guide rods are provided, and one end of all first guide rods is connected to the first connecting rod. A drive handle is connected to the other end of all the first guide rods. The drive handle is used to drive the linkage rod to slide so as to drive the lock head to rotate.

6. The battery swapping base according to claim 5, characterized in that, The drive mechanism also includes: The second connecting rod is connected to the other end of all the aforementioned linkage rods; The second guide rod passes through the support frame and can slide relative to the support frame. Multiple second guide rods are provided, and one end of all the second guide rods is connected to the second connecting rod. A limiting plate is connected to the other end of all the second guide rods, and the limiting plate is used to limit the movement distance of the linkage rod.

7. The battery swapping base according to claim 5, characterized in that, The locking mechanism also includes a friction plate disposed between the connecting plate and the linkage rod.

8. The battery swapping base according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a guide member disposed on the support frame, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide member increases in the direction in which the battery pack is installed onto the support frame.

9. A vehicle, characterized in that, It includes a vehicle frame, a battery pack, and a battery swapping base as described in any one of claims 1-8 for securing the battery pack to the vehicle frame.

10. The vehicle according to claim 9, characterized in that, The lock head is a strip-shaped block, and the battery pack frame has strip-shaped holes, wherein: In the unlocked state, the length direction of the strip block is parallel to the length direction of the strip hole in the locking mechanism. In the locked state, the locking mechanism has a non-flat angle between the length direction of the strip block and the length direction of the strip hole.

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