Battery storage device

Abstract

The utility model discloses a battery storage device which comprises a battery transfer device, and the battery transfer device comprises a fixedly-arranged supporting frame, a compartment body capable of moving in a lifting mode and a telescopic mechanism which is arranged in the compartment body and can move outwards in a telescopic mode. The battery transfer device further comprises a moving assembly which is arranged between the supporting frames and can move up and down along the supporting frames, and the compartment body is rotationally connected to the moving assembly so as to adjust the orientation of the telescopic mechanism. The battery storage device further comprises at least one battery rack arranged on the peripheral side of the battery transfer device, a plurality of battery bin positions are distributed on the battery rack in the longitudinal direction, and the battery bin positions are provided with bin openings facing the compartment body. According to the scheme, the arrangement mode of the battery rack is flexible, the expandability is high, the battery rack can adapt to installation conditions in different installation environments, the space utilization rate is increased, and the storage capacity of the battery pack is increased; and through cooperation with the rotatable lift car, the battery transfer device can perform battery pack interaction with the battery rack at any position, so that the battery transfer efficiency is greatly improved.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410380046.4, filed on March 29, 2024. The entire contents of the aforementioned patent application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of battery swapping technology for electric vehicles, specifically to a battery storage device. Background Technology

[0003] With the development and popularization of new energy vehicles, battery pack fast-swapping technology has also developed rapidly. For large vehicles, such as heavy trucks or light trucks, the vehicle body and cargo weight are very large, which leads to a high demand for battery pack capacity. Sufficiently large capacity of electrical energy is required to support the use of large vehicles.

[0004] In traditional battery swapping methods, large new energy vehicles typically use a top-mounted crane to secure a large battery container to the vehicle's frame, placing the container close to the driver's cab. This poses significant safety hazards to the driver and the vehicle itself during driving and the battery swapping process. Furthermore, battery malfunctions can directly cause personal injury to the driver. Additionally, the top-mounted method requires a large enough site for the battery swapping station to accommodate the hoisting equipment, battery transfer, and storage, resulting in high construction costs.

[0005] Therefore, a safer, more reliable, and easier-to-use battery swapping model is urgently needed for large vehicles. For example, a chassis-based battery swapping model, similar to that used in passenger cars, could be adopted. In this model, the battery transfer device needs to be moved to the swapping position under the vehicle, followed by lifting and removing / installing the battery pack to complete the swapping process. However, the limited space under the vehicle, especially for heavy-duty trucks that are difficult to drive and park on elevated platforms, further restricts this space. If a battery transfer device is used, it must carry both depleted and fully charged batteries, moving them in and out of the vehicle. To meet the power requirements of heavy-duty trucks, the battery packs are very large, severely limiting the available space for the battery transfer device. At this point, if the available space for the battery transfer device is to be increased, the battery transfer device can only be moved within the space that is sunken by the ground. Due to the multiple trips of the heavy-duty truck battery swapping vehicle before and after the battery swap, the ground structure under this method will inevitably be unreliable and unable to bear the multiple loads of the battery swapping vehicle, reducing the lifespan of the equipment structure and posing a safety hazard to the battery swapping vehicle.

[0006] In addition, a battery swapping station is usually equipped with a battery rack that can hold multiple battery packs. The battery rack has many battery compartments that can temporarily store battery packs. The depleted batteries removed from the battery swapping vehicle need to be sent into the battery compartments for storage and charging. At the same time, the fully charged batteries that need to be installed on the battery swapping vehicle need to be obtained from the battery rack. Therefore, the battery transfer equipment needs to unlock the depleted batteries on the battery swapping vehicle and transfer them to the battery compartments for charging, as well as take out the fully charged batteries from the battery compartments and install and lock them onto the battery swapping vehicle. For chassis-based battery swapping, a popular existing method is to suspend the battery pack on the chassis of the swapping vehicle using a battery locking mechanism. This method is compatible with the battery tray, as the battery locking mechanism on the chassis does not interfere with the battery tray below the battery pack. However, the depleted batteries sent into the battery compartment are usually supported by the support structure at the bottom of the battery compartment. Therefore, space needs to be provided in the support structure to avoid the battery tray, which makes the design of the support structure difficult. As a result, battery racks mostly support the battery pack with two longitudinal beams, and the battery tray enters the battery compartment between the two longitudinal beams. However, the load-bearing stability of the two longitudinal beams is poor and the safety risk is high. Furthermore, since the installation method of the battery pack on the swapping vehicle is different from its storage method in the battery compartment, it increases the burden on the battery transfer equipment to exchange battery packs between the battery compartment and the swapping vehicle, resulting in low swapping efficiency.

[0007] This shows that the existing technology has many shortcomings and needs further improvement and enhancement. Utility Model Content

[0008] This application provides a battery storage device in which the battery rack is flexibly and expandably arranged to adapt to different installation environments and conditions, thereby improving space utilization and increasing battery pack storage capacity. Furthermore, by cooperating with a rotatable car, the battery transfer device can interact with the battery rack at any position, thereby greatly improving battery transfer efficiency and solving at least one of the aforementioned technical problems.

[0009] The technical solution adopted in this application is as follows:

[0010] A battery storage device includes a battery transfer device. The battery transfer device includes a fixed support frame, a liftable and movable compartment, and a telescopic mechanism disposed inside the compartment and capable of extending and retracting outward. The battery transfer device also includes a movable component disposed between the support frames and capable of extending and retracting along the support frames. The compartment is rotatably connected to the movable component to adjust the orientation of the telescopic mechanism.

[0011] The battery storage device also includes at least one battery rack disposed around the battery transfer device, the battery rack having multiple battery compartments distributed longitudinally, and the battery compartments having openings facing the compartment.

[0012] In the above scheme, the battery rack is flexible and highly expandable, and can adapt to different installation environments and conditions, improving space utilization while increasing battery pack storage capacity. The circumferential arrangement of multiple battery racks around the battery transfer device can make full use of the installation space on the side of the battery transfer device. In addition, by cooperating with the rotatable car, the battery transfer device can interact with battery racks at any position, which greatly improves battery transfer efficiency.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of this application, multiple battery racks are provided, and the multiple battery racks are arranged circumferentially around the battery transfer device. The support frame includes multiple columns formed on the outer periphery of the compartment. The battery racks and the support frame share the same columns; or, the battery racks and the support frame are independent of each other.

[0014] In the above scheme, the reuse of columns between the battery rack and the support frame can shorten the battery transfer distance between the battery rack and the battery transfer device, thereby further improving the battery swapping efficiency. At the same time, it can also simplify the equipment structure, save installation space and equipment costs. The independent arrangement of the battery rack and the support frame makes it easier to arrange the battery rack flexibly.

[0015] As a preferred embodiment of this application, it also includes a battery swapping platform, and the battery transfer device is located on at least one side of the battery swapping platform along the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle;

[0016] The battery rack includes at least a first battery rack disposed on at least one side of the battery transfer device in a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle. The opening of the first battery rack faces the battery transfer device, and the first battery rack has a plurality of first battery compartments arranged vertically in sequence.

[0017] In the above scheme, the battery transfer device can be set on one or both sides of the battery swapping platform along the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle, thereby realizing single-sided and / or double-sided battery swapping and thus improving battery swapping efficiency; the reuse of columns between the first battery rack and the support frame can shorten the battery transfer distance between the first battery rack and the battery transfer device, thereby further improving battery swapping efficiency, while also simplifying the equipment structure and saving installation space and equipment costs; the independence of the first battery rack and the support frame makes it easier to flexibly arrange the battery rack.

[0018] As a preferred embodiment of this application, it further includes a second battery rack disposed on the side opposite to the battery transfer device and the battery swapping platform. The opening of the second battery rack is disposed facing the battery transfer device, and a plurality of second battery compartments are arranged sequentially along the vertical direction of the second battery rack.

[0019] In the above scheme, the installation space around the battery transfer device can be further utilized by setting up a second battery rack, thereby increasing the battery pack storage capacity.

[0020] As a preferred embodiment of this application, a third battery rack is also provided on at least one side of the second battery rack in a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle. The third battery rack has at least one third battery compartment in any horizontal direction. A battery transport mechanism is provided between the third battery compartment and the second battery compartment at the same vertical height. The battery transport mechanism is capable of transferring battery packs between the second battery compartment and the third battery compartment.

[0021] In the above scheme, the installation space around the battery transfer device can be further utilized by setting up the second and third battery racks. Furthermore, the battery conveying mechanism enables the transfer of fully charged or depleted batteries between the third battery rack and the battery transfer device by conveying the batteries to the second battery rack, thereby increasing the battery storage space and the number of usable batteries in the battery storage device.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of this application, a first battery rack is provided on each side of the battery transfer device along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle; a second battery rack is provided on the side of the battery transfer device opposite to the battery swapping platform along a direction perpendicular to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle; the first battery rack and the second battery rack are arranged in a triangular pattern around the battery transfer device along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle.

[0023] In the above scheme, the first battery rack and the second battery rack are arranged in a triangular shape around the battery transfer device, which allows the compartment in this application to fix the single rotation angle, that is, a single 90° rotation can achieve a precise turn, making it more convenient to control the rotation of the compartment; and the above arrangement method is adopted.

[0024] As a preferred embodiment of this application, the first battery rack is disposed on both sides of the battery transfer device along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle. The battery storage device also includes a second battery storage device arranged in a fan shape around the battery transfer device. The second battery storage device includes at least two rows of second battery racks facing the battery transfer device, and multiple second battery compartments are arranged vertically in sequence on the second battery racks.

[0025] In the above scheme, the arrangement of the second battery rack is more flexible and more conducive to expanding the storage capacity of the battery storage device. At the same time, the above arrangement can make full use of the installation space inside the battery transfer device and improve space utilization.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the second battery rack and the support frame are independent of each other, or the second battery rack and the support frame share the same column.

[0027] In the above scheme, the reuse of the column between the second battery rack and the support frame can shorten the battery transfer distance between the second battery rack and the battery transfer device, thereby further improving the battery swapping efficiency. At the same time, it can also simplify the equipment structure, save installation space and equipment costs. The independence of the second battery rack and the support frame makes it easier to arrange the battery rack flexibly.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the column is arranged to avoid the opening area of ​​the battery compartment of the battery rack, so that the battery transfer device can transfer batteries between the battery compartments.

[0029] In the above scheme, this arrangement can avoid interference from the columns on the rotation of the compartment and the extension mechanism / battery swapping mechanism extending out of the compartment, thus ensuring the smooth operation of the battery swapping work.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of this application, the first battery rack is arranged on both sides of the battery transfer device in a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle.

[0031] The first battery rack is fixed in place, while the second and third battery racks can move relative to the battery transfer device in a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle.

[0032] In the above scheme, the ability of the second and third battery racks to move relative to the battery transfer device allows the second battery rack to be moved away when it is fully loaded, so that the third battery rack can be moved to the original position of the second battery rack for use, which helps to improve the overall utilization efficiency of the battery storage device.

[0033] As a preferred embodiment of this application, the battery compartment is provided with support beams on both sides along the direction of battery pack entry and exit for supporting the battery pack. The support beams are located in the top area of ​​the battery compartment, and the battery pack is suspended and fixed on the support beams.

[0034] In the above scheme, the battery pack is suspended and fixed on the support beam. This fixing method is the same as the fixing method of the battery pack on the chassis of the battery swapping vehicle. This design can facilitate the replacement and maintenance of the battery pack, and at the same time, it can effectively utilize the space of the battery compartment.

[0035] As a preferred embodiment of this application, the battery compartment is also provided with a battery locking mechanism for locking the battery pack. The battery locking mechanisms are correspondingly provided on the support beam. The battery locking mechanism includes multiple lock bases with lock grooves, lock tongues that are movably provided in the lock grooves, and lock connecting rods that connect the multiple lock tongues. The battery locking mechanism cooperates with multiple lock shafts on both sides of the battery pack to suspend and fix the battery pack from both sides.

[0036] In the above solution, the battery locking mechanism can not only fix the battery pack, but its unlocking and locking principle is the same as that of the battery pack on the battery swapping vehicle. The same operation can be used to take out or put in the battery pack in the battery compartment without adding additional mechanisms or equipment, thus reducing costs. Therefore, it improves the versatility of the battery swapping mechanism in storing and retrieving batteries in the battery compartment and removing and installing batteries at the bottom of the battery swapping vehicle, and greatly improves the battery swapping efficiency.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment of this application, an electrical connector is provided inside the battery compartment. The electrical connector is located on the side wall of the battery compartment facing the opening, so that when the battery pack moves to the point where it is locked with the battery locking mechanism, the charging port of the battery pack is electrically connected to the interface end of the electrical connector.

[0038] In the above solution, the electrical connector can charge the battery pack placed on the battery compartment. Furthermore, after the battery locking mechanism secures the battery pack, the interface end of the battery pack can be connected to the electrical connector. This design ensures that the battery pack can be safely charged in the locked state, and also facilitates management and maintenance.

[0039] Due to the adoption of the above technical solution, the beneficial effects achieved by this application are as follows:

[0040] In the above scheme, the battery rack arrangement is flexible and highly scalable, adaptable to different installation environments and conditions, improving space utilization while increasing battery pack storage capacity. The circumferential arrangement of multiple battery racks around the battery transfer device fully utilizes the installation space on the side of the device. Furthermore, in conjunction with a rotatable car, the battery transfer device can interact with battery racks at any position, significantly improving battery transfer efficiency. The ability of the second and third battery racks to move relative to the transfer device allows the second rack to be moved aside when fully loaded, enabling the third rack to be moved to its original position for later use, thus improving the overall utilization efficiency of the battery storage device.

[0041] Meanwhile, the battery rack in this application not only serves to support and temporarily store the battery pack, but also enables the charging of the depleted battery pack through the electrical connector 6 inside the battery compartment, thereby greatly improving the battery pack's rotation efficiency and facilitating the improvement of battery swapping efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the battery storage device in Embodiment 1;

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the battery storage device in Embodiment 2;

[0045] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the battery storage device in Embodiment 3;

[0046] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the battery storage device in Embodiment 4;

[0047] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a battery transfer device in an example.

[0048] Figure 6 Here is a schematic diagram of a telescopic mechanism in an example;

[0049] Figure 7 This is a partial structural diagram of the battery rack;

[0050] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the battery locking mechanism and the supporting beam in Example 1;

[0051] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the battery locking mechanism and the supporting beam in Example 2.

[0052] List of components and reference numerals:

[0053] 1 Battery transfer device, 11 Support frame, 111 Column, 12 Box body, 13 Battery swapping device, 131 Telescopic mechanism, 132 Battery tray, 133 Unlocking pin, 14 Moving component;

[0054] 2. Battery swapping platform;

[0055] 31 First battery rack, 32 Second battery rack, 33 Third battery rack;

[0056] 41 Bearing beam, 411 square tube, 412 first U-shaped plate, 413 second U-shaped plate, 414 reinforcing rib plate, 42 mounting beam;

[0057] 5 Battery locking mechanism, 51 Lock base, 511 Lock groove, 52 Lock tongue, 53 Lock connecting rod;

[0058] 6. Electrical connectors. Detailed Implementation

[0059] To more clearly illustrate the overall concept of this application, a detailed explanation is provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments of this application and the features thereof can be combined with each other.

[0061] Furthermore, it should be understood in the description of this application that the terms "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0062] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a communication connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0063] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the "above" or "below" of the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0064] Reference Figure 1-9 As shown, this application discloses a battery storage device 1, which includes a battery transfer device 1 and at least one battery rack disposed around the battery transfer device 1. Continuing with reference to... Figure 5As shown, the battery transfer device 1 includes a fixed support frame 11, a liftable and movable compartment 12, and a telescopic mechanism 131 located inside the compartment 12 and capable of telescopic movement outward. The battery transfer device 1 also includes a movable component 14 located between the support frames 11 and capable of telescopic movement along the support frames 11. The compartment 12 is rotatably connected to the movable component 14 to adjust the orientation of the telescopic mechanism 131. The battery rack is provided with multiple battery compartments distributed longitudinally, and each battery compartment has an opening facing the compartment 12.

[0065] In the above scheme, the battery rack is flexible and highly expandable, and can adapt to different installation environments and conditions, improving space utilization while increasing battery pack storage capacity. The circumferential arrangement of multiple battery racks around the battery transfer device 1 can make full use of the installation space on the side of the battery transfer device 1. In addition, by cooperating with the rotatable car, the battery transfer device 1 can interact with battery racks at any position and battery compartments at any height on the battery racks, which greatly improves battery transfer efficiency.

[0066] In addition, this application sets the telescopic mechanism 131 inside the compartment 12, so that the telescopic mechanism 131 extends out of the compartment 12 to perform the operation of picking up and putting down the battery pack. In actual picking up and putting down the battery pack, the telescopic mechanism 131 only needs to extend out of the compartment 12 and enter under the battery swapping vehicle or into the battery compartment. This avoids the battery transfer device 1 entering the bottom of the battery swapping vehicle and the battery compartment as a whole, which would occupy the space under the vehicle and inside the battery compartment. Even if the battery swapping vehicle is swapping batteries on the battery swapping platform 2 which is flush with the ground, more operating space can be provided under the vehicle body for the removal or installation of the battery pack, making the battery swapping operation simpler and faster. This avoids the reduction in lifespan and safety hazards caused by digging a pit under the battery swapping platform 2 to create a sunken space.

[0067] Preferred, refer to Figure 6 As shown, the telescopic mechanism 131 can be a forklift. The telescopic mechanism 131 extends and retracts relative to the box body 12. The telescopic mechanism 131 can be equipped with a battery tray 132 for carrying the battery pack and an unlocking pin 133 for unlocking and disassembling the battery pack. When the telescopic mechanism 131 extends toward the battery swapping vehicle on the battery swapping platform 2, the battery tray 132 is sent under the battery swapping vehicle for unlocking, disassembling and transferring the battery pack. When the telescopic mechanism 131 extends toward the battery rack, the battery tray 132 is sent into the battery compartment for unlocking, disassembling and transferring the battery pack.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment of this application, multiple battery racks are provided, arranged circumferentially around the battery transfer device 1. The support frame 11 includes multiple columns 111 formed on the outer periphery of the housing 12. The battery racks and the support frame 11 share the same columns 111; alternatively, the battery racks and the support frame 11 are independent of each other. In the above schemes, the shared columns 111 between the battery racks and the support frame 11 can shorten the battery transfer distance between the battery racks and the battery transfer device 1, thereby further improving the battery swapping efficiency. At the same time, it can also simplify the equipment structure, save installation space and equipment costs. The independence of the battery racks and the support frame 11 facilitates more flexible arrangement of the battery racks.

[0069] Continue to refer to Figure 1-4 As shown, the battery storage device in this application also includes a battery swapping platform 2, and a battery transfer device 1 is disposed on at least one side of the battery swapping platform 2 along the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle. In a preferred embodiment of this application, the battery rack includes at least a first battery rack 31 disposed on at least one side of the battery transfer device 1 along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle. The opening of the first battery rack 31 faces the battery transfer device 1, and multiple first battery compartments are arranged vertically in sequence on the first battery rack 31. In the above scheme, the battery transfer device 1 can be disposed on one or both sides of the battery swapping platform 2 along the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle, thereby enabling single-sided and / or double-sided battery swapping, thus improving battery swapping efficiency. The shared column 111 between the first battery rack 31 and the support frame 11 can shorten the battery transfer distance between the first battery rack 31 and the battery transfer device 1, thereby further improving battery swapping efficiency, while also simplifying the equipment structure, saving installation space and equipment costs. The independence of the first battery rack 31 and the support frame 11 facilitates more flexible arrangement of the battery rack. Preferably, referring to... Figure 2 As shown, the battery rack also includes a second battery rack 32 located on the side opposite to the battery transfer device 1 and the battery swapping platform 2. The opening of the second battery rack 32 faces the battery transfer device 1, and multiple second battery compartments are arranged vertically in sequence on the second battery rack 32. The arrangement of the second battery rack 32 can further utilize the installation space around the battery transfer device 1, increasing the battery pack storage capacity.

[0070] It should be noted that this application does not specifically limit the arrangement of the battery rack described above, and it can adopt any of the arrangement methods in the following embodiments.

[0071] Implementation Method 1: Refer to Figure 1As shown, along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle, a row of first battery racks 31 is arranged on each side of the battery transfer device 1; along a direction perpendicular to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle, a row of second battery racks 32 is arranged on the side of the battery transfer device 1 opposite to the battery swapping platform 2; along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle, the first battery racks 31 and the second battery racks 32 are arranged in a triangular pattern around the periphery of the battery transfer device 1. In the above scheme, the triangular arrangement of the first battery racks 31 and the second battery racks 32 around the periphery of the battery transfer device 1 allows the compartment 12 in this application to have a fixed single rotation angle, that is, a single 90° rotation can achieve a precise turn, making it more convenient to control the rotation of the compartment 12.

[0072] Implementation Method Two: Refer to Figure 2 As shown, based on Embodiment 1, a third battery rack 33 is further provided on at least one side of the second battery rack 32 along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle. The third battery rack 33 has at least one third battery compartment in any horizontal direction. Preferably, a battery conveying mechanism is provided between the third battery compartment and the second battery compartment at the same vertical height, and the battery conveying mechanism can transfer battery packs between the second battery compartment and the third battery compartment. The provision of the third battery rack 33 can further utilize the installation space around the battery transfer device 1, and the provision of the battery conveying mechanism can enable the transfer of fully charged or depleted batteries between the third battery rack 33 and the battery transfer device 1 by conveying the batteries to the second battery rack 32, thereby increasing the battery storage space and the number of usable batteries in the battery storage device.

[0073] Implementation Method 3: Refer to Figure 3 As shown, along a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle, the first battery rack 31 is disposed on both sides of the battery transfer device 1. The battery storage device also includes a second battery storage device arranged in a fan shape around the battery transfer device 1. The second battery storage device includes at least two rows of second battery racks 32 facing the battery transfer device 1, and multiple second battery compartments are arranged vertically in sequence on the second battery racks 32. In the above scheme, the arrangement of the second battery racks 32 is more flexible and more conducive to expanding the storage capacity of the battery storage device. At the same time, the above arrangement can also make full use of the installation space inside the battery transfer device 1 and improve space utilization.

[0074] It should be noted that in the above-described embodiments one, two, and three, the first battery rack 31, the second battery rack 32, and the third battery rack 33 are all fixedly installed. The support frame 11 can also reuse the aforementioned column 111 with the second battery rack 32, thereby shortening the battery transfer distance between the second battery rack 32 and the battery transfer device 1 to further improve the battery swapping efficiency. At the same time, it can also simplify the equipment structure and save installation space and equipment costs. However, this application does not specifically limit this. The support frame 11 can also be independent of the second battery rack 32 to make the arrangement of the second battery rack 32 and the third battery rack 33 more flexible, as described in embodiment four below.

[0075] Implementation Method Four: Refer to Figure 4 As shown, based on the aforementioned Embodiment 2, the first battery rack 31 is fixedly installed on both sides of the battery transfer device 1 in a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle. The second battery rack 32 and the third battery rack 33 can move relative to the battery transfer device 1 in a direction parallel to the driving direction of the battery swapping vehicle. The ability of the second battery rack 32 and the third battery rack 33 to move relative to the battery transfer device 1 allows the second battery rack 32 to be moved away when it is fully loaded, so that the third battery rack 33 can be moved to the original position of the second battery rack 32 for later use, which helps to improve the overall utilization efficiency of the battery storage device.

[0076] Furthermore, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the battery compartment has support beams 41 on both sides along the battery pack's entry and exit direction. The support beams 41 are located at the top of the battery compartment, and the battery pack is suspended and fixed to the support beams 41. The battery compartment also includes battery locking mechanisms 5 for locking the battery pack. Each battery locking mechanism 5 is correspondingly located on one of the support beams 41. Each battery locking mechanism 5 includes multiple lock bases 51 with lock grooves 511, lock tongues 52 movably disposed within the lock grooves 511, and locking linkages 53 connecting the multiple lock tongues 52. The battery locking mechanisms 5 cooperate with multiple locking shafts on both sides of the battery pack to suspend and fix the battery pack from both sides. Specifically, the lock bases 51 on each support beam 41 can be spaced apart along the battery pack's entry and exit direction. The same side of the battery pack is suspended and locked by multiple lock bases 51, avoiding stress concentration and improving the suspension and locking stability of the battery pack within the battery compartment. The first battery locking mechanism 5 includes multiple lock bases 51, each with a corresponding locking tongue 52. All locking tongues 52 on the same support beam 41 are connected by a locking link 53. The locking tongues 52 are used to open or close the lock groove 511. When locking the battery pack, since the locking shaft on the battery pack needs to enter the lock groove 511, the locking link 53 can be pushed to move all the locking tongues 52 upwards, opening the lock groove 511 and allowing the locking shaft to enter. Then, the pushing of the locking link 53 is released, and the locking link 53... The locking tongue 52 moves downward, re-closing the lock groove 511. At this time, the locking tongue 52 prevents the lock shaft from disengaging from the lock groove 511, thus locking the battery pack. When unlocking the battery pack, since the lock shaft on the battery pack needs to disengage from the lock groove 511, the locking linkage 53 can be pushed up to move all the locking tongues 52 upward and open the lock groove 511, allowing the lock shaft to disengage from the lock groove 511. After the lock shaft disengages from the lock groove 511, the pushing of the locking linkage 53 is canceled, and the locking linkage 53 moves the locking tongue 52 downward, re-closing the lock groove 511.Those skilled in the art will understand that, compared to the traditional battery rack that uses two longitudinal beams 42 to support the battery pack, this solution uses a first battery locking mechanism 5 suspended on the two supporting beams 41 on the top of the battery compartment. This allows the connection between the battery pack and the battery rack to be achieved at the top of the battery compartment and the battery pack. On the one hand, it eliminates the need for longitudinal beams 42 supporting the battery pack at the bottom of the battery compartment, allowing for some space below the battery pack after it enters the battery compartment to avoid the battery tray 132 of the battery swapping device 13. This prevents the battery rack from interfering with the entry of the battery tray 132 into the battery compartment. On the other hand, it facilitates the transfer of the battery pack in battery swapping vehicles (especially heavy trucks and light trucks). In this application, the battery pack is also locked in the battery rack by suspension, which makes the battery rack and the battery swapping vehicle more related and better matched. This ensures that the same telescopic mechanism 131 performs the same actions with the battery swapping vehicle and the battery rack respectively. Taking the locking of the battery pack as an example, the battery locking mechanism 5 that locks the battery pack in the battery compartment and the battery locking mechanism 5 that locks the battery pack in the battery swapping vehicle are both pre-emptively driven by the rising of the battery swapping body to allow the locking shaft to enter the vertical opening of the locking groove 511, and then moved forward to enter the locking groove 511. Then, the locking tongue 52 limits and locks the locking shaft in the locking groove 511.

[0077] It should also be noted that the accompanying drawings of this application do not depict the battery swapping vehicle or the battery locking mechanism 5 on the battery swapping vehicle. However, it is sufficient that the battery locking mechanism 5 inside the battery compartment and the battery locking mechanism 5 on the battery swapping vehicle are consistent. Those skilled in the art will understand that by making the battery locking mechanism 5 inside the battery compartment and the battery locking mechanism 5 on the battery swapping vehicle consistent, the actions of the telescopic mechanism 131 in taking, placing, transferring, and unlocking the battery pack inside the battery compartment are completely consistent with the actions of taking, placing, transferring, and unlocking the battery pack under the battery swapping vehicle. This significantly reduces the design burden of the control program and the structural design burden when the battery transfer device 1 realizes the interaction between the battery pack in the battery compartment and the battery swapping vehicle. The same or similar programs can be used to control the same actions, and the same set of battery support structure and unlocking structure can be used, such as using the same battery tray 132 and the unlocking pin 133 on the battery tray 132. The battery locking mechanism 5 on the battery rack and the battery locking mechanism 5 on the battery swapping vehicle are identical and therefore universal, which reduces the design cost of the locking mechanism, improves the smoothness and accuracy of battery swapping, shortens the battery swapping time, and enhances the user's battery swapping experience.

[0078] This application does not limit the specific structure of the bearing beam 41, but it includes at least the following two embodiments:

[0079] Example 1: As Figure 8As shown, the supporting beam 41 includes a square tube 411 and a first U-shaped plate 412. The square tube 411 is connected to two columns 111. The bottom wall of the first U-shaped plate 412 is connected to the side wall of the square tube 411 facing the battery compartment so that the opening of the first U-shaped plate 412 faces the battery compartment. Multiple lock bases 51 are provided on the lower side wall of the first U-shaped plate 412. The lock connecting rod 53 is located between the upper and lower side walls of the first U-shaped plate 412 to form a space for the lock connecting rod 53 to drive the lock tongue 52 to move. In this technical solution, the supporting beam 41 consists of two parts: a square tube 411 and a first U-shaped plate 412. The square tube 411 directly connects to the two columns 111, and the first U-shaped plate 412 is connected to the square tube 411. The superposition of the two structures, the square tube 411 and the first U-shaped plate 412, not only improves the stability of connecting the two columns 111 together and reduces the risk of battery rack swaying, but also ensures that the supporting beam 41 itself has relatively high strength, thereby significantly improving the load-bearing capacity and reducing the risk of deformation when the battery pack is suspended. In addition, the internal space of the first U-shaped plate 412 forms a space for the locking rod 53 to drive the locking tongue 52 to move. This facilitates the upward movement of the locking rod 53 during the locking and unlocking process of the battery pack, so that the locking tongue 52 can avoid the locking shaft and allow the locking shaft to enter and exit the locking groove 511. The bottom walls of the square tube 411 and the first U-shaped plate 412 are preferably connected by welding, which provides high connection strength and is not easily deformed or loosened.

[0080] Example 2: Figure 9 As shown, the supporting beam 41 includes a second U-shaped plate 413. The opening of the second U-shaped plate 413 faces upward, and both ends of its sidewall are connected to adjacent columns 111. The sidewalls of the columns 111 facing the battery compartment are connected to the bottom wall and the sidewalls at both ends of the second U-shaped plate 413 by multiple reinforcing ribs 414. Multiple lock bases 51 are provided on the bottom wall of the second U-shaped plate 413, and the locking rod 53 is located above the bottom wall of the second U-shaped plate 413 to form a space for the locking rod 53 to drive the locking tongue 52 to move. In this technical solution, the supporting beam 41 is composed of the second U-shaped plate 413 and multiple reinforcing ribs. The space above the bottom wall of the second U-shaped plate 413 forms a space for the locking rod 53 to drive the locking tongue 52 to move, which facilitates the upward movement of the locking rod 53 during the locking and unlocking of the battery pack to drive the locking tongue 52 to avoid the locking shaft, so that the locking shaft can enter and exit the lock groove 511. One side wall of the second U-shaped plate 413 forms a large-area connection with the two columns 111, improving the stability of connecting the two columns 111 together and reducing the risk of battery rack swaying. Furthermore, the reinforcing rib 414 connects the columns 111 to the two side walls and the bottom wall of the second U-shaped plate 413, ensuring that the supporting beam 41 has relatively high structural and connection strength, significantly improving load-bearing capacity and reducing the risk of deformation when the battery pack is suspended. The side wall of the second U-shaped plate 413 and the columns 111 are preferably connected by welding, and the columns 111, reinforcing rib 414, and second U-shaped plate 413 are also preferably connected by welding, resulting in high connection strength and resistance to deformation and loosening.

[0081] As a preferred embodiment of this application, refer to Figure 7 As shown, an electrical connector 6 is provided inside the battery compartment. The electrical connector 6 is located on the side wall of the battery compartment facing the opening, so that when the battery pack moves to the point where it is locked with the battery locking mechanism 5, the charging port of the battery pack is electrically connected to the interface end of the electrical connector 6. In one example, the battery rack 31 includes two mounting beams 314 located on the back side opposite the opening. The two mounting beams 314 are arranged vertically and fixedly connected to the column assembly via longitudinal beams 313. The electrical connector 6 is located between the two mounting beams 42, and its interface end 341 faces the opening of the battery compartment 32. In the above scheme, the electrical connector 6 can charge the battery pack placed on the battery compartment, and after the battery locking mechanism 5 fixes the battery pack, the interface end of the battery pack can mate with the electrical connector. This design ensures that the battery pack can be safely charged in the locked state, and also facilitates management and maintenance.

[0082] For any parts not mentioned in this application, existing technologies may be used or referenced.

[0083] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments.

[0084] The above are merely embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A battery storage device, characterized in that, The battery transfer device includes a fixed support frame, a liftable and movable compartment, and a telescopic mechanism located inside the compartment and capable of extending and retracting outwards. The battery transfer device also includes a movable component located between the support frames and capable of extending and retracting along the support frames. The compartment is rotatably connected to the movable component to adjust the orientation of the telescopic mechanism. The battery storage device also includes at least one battery rack disposed around the battery transfer device, the battery rack having multiple battery compartments distributed longitudinally, and the battery compartments having openings facing the compartment.

2. The battery storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple battery racks are provided, and the multiple battery racks are arranged circumferentially around the battery transfer device. The support frame includes multiple columns formed on the outer periphery of the compartment. The battery racks and the support frame share the same columns; or, the battery racks and the support frame are independent of each other.

3. The battery storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a battery swapping platform, with a battery transfer device located on at least one side of the battery swapping platform along the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle; The battery rack includes at least a first battery rack disposed on at least one side of the battery transfer device in a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle. The opening of the first battery rack faces the battery transfer device, and the first battery rack has a plurality of first battery compartments arranged vertically in sequence.

4. The battery storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a second battery rack located on the side opposite to the battery transfer device and the battery swapping platform. The opening of the second battery rack faces the battery transfer device, and multiple second battery compartments are arranged vertically along the second battery rack.

5. The battery storage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a third battery rack disposed on at least one side of the second battery rack in a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle. The third battery rack has at least one third battery compartment in any horizontal direction. A battery transport mechanism is disposed between the third battery compartment and the second battery compartment at the same vertical height. The battery transport mechanism is capable of transferring battery packs between the second battery compartment and the third battery compartment.

6. The battery storage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, Along a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle, a first battery rack is set on each side of the battery transfer device; along a direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle, a second battery rack is set on the side of the battery transfer device opposite to the battery swapping platform; along a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle, the first battery rack and the second battery rack are arranged in a triangular pattern around the battery transfer device.

7. The battery storage device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle, the first battery rack is arranged on both sides of the battery transfer device. The battery storage device also includes a second battery storage device arranged in a fan shape around the battery transfer device. The second battery storage device includes at least two rows of second battery racks facing the battery transfer device. Multiple second battery compartments are arranged vertically in sequence on the second battery racks.

8. The battery storage device according to claim 4 or claim 6, characterized in that, The second battery rack is independent of the support frame, or the second battery rack and the support frame share the same column.

9. The battery storage device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The column and the opening area of ​​the battery compartment of the battery rack are arranged to avoid each other so that the battery transfer device can transfer batteries between the battery compartments.

10. The battery storage device according to claim 4, characterized in that, Along a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle, the first battery rack is set on both sides of the battery transfer device; The first battery rack is fixed in place, while the second and third battery racks can move relative to the battery transfer device in a direction parallel to the direction of travel of the battery swapping vehicle.

11. The battery storage device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The battery compartment has support beams on both sides along the direction of battery pack entry and exit. The support beams are located at the top of the battery compartment, and the battery pack is suspended and fixed on the support beams.

12. The battery storage device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The battery compartment is also equipped with a battery locking mechanism for locking the battery pack. The battery locking mechanisms are installed one by one on the support beam. The battery locking mechanism includes multiple lock bases with lock grooves, lock tongues that can be movably installed in the lock grooves, and lock connecting rods that connect multiple lock tongues. The battery locking mechanism cooperates with multiple lock shafts on both sides of the battery pack to suspend and fix the battery pack from both sides.

13. The battery storage device according to claim 12, characterized in that, An electrical connector is installed inside the battery compartment on the side wall facing the opening, so that when the battery pack moves to the point where it is locked with the battery locking mechanism, the charging port of the battery pack is electrically connected to the interface end of the electrical connector.

Images