Charging device, electric device and charging system

Abstract

The application discloses a charging device, an electric equipment and a charging system, and relates to the technical field of vehicle charging. The charging device comprises a first charging connecting piece and an adjusting mechanism. The first charging connecting piece is suitable for being connected with a second charging connecting piece to charge the electric equipment. The adjusting mechanism is connected with the first charging connecting piece and is used for driving the first charging connecting piece to move, so that the first charging connecting piece is aligned with the second charging connecting piece.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle charging technology, and more particularly to charging devices, electrical equipment and charging systems. Background Technology

[0002] Electric drive is currently the primary propulsion method for new energy vehicles. To ensure normal vehicle operation, charging devices are required. To improve the customer's user experience, related technologies propose that vehicles automatically connect and charge via connectors on the vehicle and the ground when parked.

[0003] In the existing technology, due to structural design flaws in the charging device, there are often deviations when the vehicle-end connector and the ground-end connector are connected for charging, resulting in connection failure. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide charging devices, electrical equipment, and charging systems, aiming to solve the problem of how to improve the accuracy of docking between the vehicle-end connector and the ground-end connector when the vehicle is automatically docked for charging.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] A first aspect of this application provides a charging device, including a first charging connector. The first charging connector is adapted to connect with a second charging connector to charge an electrical device. It also includes an adjustment mechanism connected to the first charging connector for moving the first charging connector to align it with the second charging connector.

[0007] The charging device provided in this application embodiment includes a first charging connector connected to an adjustment mechanism. During automatic docking and charging of the vehicle, the adjustment mechanism moves the first charging connector to adjust its position relative to the second charging connector, thereby achieving precise docking between the first and second charging connectors.

[0008] In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism includes a rotating component and a lifting component, wherein the rotating component is used to drive the first charging connector to rotate, and the lifting component is used to drive the first charging connector to move up and down;

[0009] The rotating component is connected between the lifting component and the first charging connector, or the lifting component is connected between the rotating component and the first charging connector.

[0010] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly is connected between the rotating assembly and the first charging connector;

[0011] The lifting assembly includes a first driving member and a first transmission member. The first transmission member is tractively connected between the first driving member and the first charging connector. The first driving member is used to drive the first charging connector to lift and lower via the first transmission member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first transmission member includes a gear and a rack, the gear being connected to the first driving member and meshing with the rack;

[0013] The gear and the first drive member form a first assembly, one of the first assembly and the rack is connected to the first charging connector, and the other of the first assembly and the rack is connected to the rotating assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the rotating assembly includes:

[0015] A first rotating shaft is connected to the lifting assembly.

[0016] The second driving component is connected to the first rotating shaft for driving the first rotating shaft to rotate.

[0017] In some embodiments, the rotating assembly further includes a second transmission member connected between the second driving member and the first rotating shaft, the second driving member being used to drive the first rotating shaft to rotate via the second transmission member.

[0018] In some embodiments, the rotating assembly further includes a support member connected between the first rotating shaft and the first charging connector, and the first charging connector is capable of moving up and down relative to the support member.

[0019] In some embodiments, the support member is a flexible member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the lifting assembly is connected to the support member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the charging device further includes a fixed bracket, to which the first rotating shaft is rotatably connected.

[0022] In some embodiments, the second charging connector is provided with a charging port;

[0023] The first charging connector includes a charging connector adapted to connect to the charging port.

[0024] In some embodiments, the charging connector includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the first end being connected to the adjustment mechanism, and the second end being adapted to be located within the charging port;

[0025] Along a first direction, the size of the second end is smaller than the size of the first end, and the first direction is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first end and the second end.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first charging connector further includes a locking structure connected to the second end and adapted to cooperate with the second charging connector for locking.

[0027] In some embodiments, the locking structure includes a locking ball head adapted to engage with the charging port.

[0028] In some embodiments, the locking structure is an elastic structure.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first charging connector further includes a first charging electrode connected to the charging connector.

[0030] A second aspect of this application provides an electrical appliance, including a charging device.

[0031] A third aspect of this application provides a charging system, including a charging device; or including an electrical appliance.

[0032] In some embodiments, the charging system further includes a second charging connector for electrically connecting to a first charging connector of the charging device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first charging connector includes a charging connector with opposing first and second ends, the first end being connected to the adjustment mechanism and the second end being adapted to be located within the charging port; along a first direction, the size of the second end is smaller than the size of the first end, and the first direction is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first and second ends;

[0034] The second charging connector is provided with a charging hole, the shape of which matches the charging connector.

[0035] In some embodiments, the second charging connector further includes a cover plate connected to the second charging connector and movable relative to the second charging connector between a first position and a second position;

[0036] When the cover plate is in the first position, the charging port is closed; when the cover plate is in the second position, the charging port is open.

[0037] In some embodiments, the cover plate is rotatably connected to the second charging connector, and when the cover plate is in the second position, the cover plate is located inside the charging hole.

[0038] In some embodiments, the second charging connector further includes an elastic element connected between the cover plate and the second charging connector, for applying an elastic force to the cover plate toward the first position for resetting.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first charging connector further includes a locking structure connected to the second end;

[0040] The second charging connector is also provided with a snap-fit ​​hole, and the locking structure is used to snap into the snap-fit ​​hole.

[0041] In some embodiments, the charging system further includes an automatic parking device for parking the electrical equipment and for connecting the first charging connector to the second charging connector.

[0042] It should be noted that the technical effects of the implementation methods of the second and third aspects can be found in the technical effects of the corresponding implementation methods in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0043] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the charging system provided in this application;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the first charging connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the first state structure of the first charging connector.

[0047] Figure 4 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the second state structure of the first charging connector.

[0048] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The diagram shows the third state structure of the first charging connector.

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the lifting component structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 7 , Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second charging connector provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 9 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection process between the first charging connector and the second charging connector in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection state of the first charging connector and the second charging connector in an embodiment of this application.

[0053] Figure label:

[0054] 100. Vehicle; 10. Vehicle body; 20. Charging device;

[0055] 1. First charging connector; 11. Charging connector; 111. First end; 112. Second end; 114. First charging electrode; 12. Locking ball head;

[0056] 2. Second charging connector; 21. Base; 211. Charging port; 212. Snap-fit ​​hole; 213. Second protruding structure; 22. Cover plate; 23. Hinge;

[0057] 3. Rotating assembly; 31. First rotating shaft; 32. Second driving component; 33. Bearing housing; 34. Second transmission component; 35. Support component; 351. Slide groove;

[0058] 4. Lifting assembly; 41. First driving component; 42. First transmission component; 421. Gear; 422. Rack;

[0059] 5. Fixing bracket. Detailed Implementation

[0060] 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.

[0061] The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0062] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0063] The charging device 20 provided in this application embodiment is mainly suitable for automatic docking and charging of mobile electrical equipment, such as a sweeping robot, a vehicle 100, etc.

[0064] For ease of understanding, this application will use vehicle 100 as an example to describe the charging device 20, the connection between the charging device 20 and the electrical equipment, and the charging system.

[0065] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the charging system provided in this application. The charging system may include an electrical device and a second charging connector 2. The second charging connector 2 is used to connect the electrical device and a power source to charge the electrical device. The electrical device may be a robotic vacuum cleaner, a vehicle 100, a ship, an airplane, etc. This application uses a vehicle 100 as an example for illustration.

[0066] Please see Figure 1 This application provides a vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 can be a pure electric vehicle 100, a hybrid electric vehicle 100, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle 100, a range-extended electric vehicle 100, etc. The vehicle 100 can also be a sedan, truck, bus, lorry, trailer, etc. This application does not specifically limit the type of vehicle 100.

[0067] The vehicle 100 includes a body 10, which is used to install the equipment and components required for the vehicle 100, such as the engine, seats, etc.

[0068] The vehicle 100 also includes a charging device 20, which is connected to the bottom of the vehicle body 10. The vehicle 100 can be charged via the charging device 20 to provide energy for functions such as driving. For example, the vehicle 100 can be charged by connecting the charging device 20 to a second charging connector 2.

[0069] Typically, a charging system includes a vehicle-side connector and a ground-side connector. The vehicle-side connector is connected to the vehicle body 10 and is electrically connected to the battery pack of the vehicle 100; the ground-side connector is placed on the ground and connected to a power source. The connection between the vehicle-side connector and the ground-side connector allows electricity supplied by the power source to be delivered to the battery pack of the vehicle 100.

[0070] In related technologies, to improve the user experience of the vehicle 100 for drivers and passengers, the vehicle-side connector and the ground-side connector of the charging system are simultaneously connected during parking to achieve automatic charging. This saves time spent on manual docking during charging and enhances the user experience. In some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 2The charging device 20 may include a first charging connector 1. The first charging connector 1 is adapted to connect to a second charging connector 2 to charge the vehicle 100. See also... Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the first charging connector 1 provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be understood that the first charging connector 1 is part of the vehicle-side connector in the charging system, and the second charging connector 2 is part of the ground-side connector in the charging system. In this embodiment, the connection method between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 is not specifically limited.

[0071] In some examples, the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 are connected by a plug. The first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 are respectively provided with a socket and a plug, and are connected by plugging in through the socket and plug.

[0072] In some examples, the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 are connected by magnetic attraction. A first magnetic element and a second magnetic element are respectively provided on the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 to attract each other. The connection between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 is achieved through the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element.

[0073] During the automatic docking process between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2, there may be some deviation in their relative positions, which can easily lead to automatic docking failure. To adjust these deviations, the charging device 20 may include an adjustment mechanism.

[0074] Specifically, the adjustment mechanism can be connected to the vehicle body 10. The adjustment mechanism is connected to the first charging connector 1. During the automatic docking process, the adjustment mechanism drives the first charging connector 1 to move so that the first charging connector 1 is aligned with the second charging connector 2.

[0075] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism causes the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall to adjust the height of the first charging connector 1 relative to the second charging connector 2.

[0076] In some examples, the adjustment structure causes the first charging connector 1 to rotate in order to adjust the angle of the first charging connector 1 relative to the second charging connector 2.

[0077] In some examples, the adjustment mechanism synchronously drives the first charging connector 1 to rise, fall, and rotate, so as to adjust the position of the first charging connector 1 relative to the second charging connector 2.

[0078] The charging device 20 provided in this application embodiment has a first charging connector 1 connected to an adjustment mechanism. During the automatic docking charging process, the vehicle 100 moves the first charging connector 1 via the adjustment mechanism to adjust its position relative to the second charging connector 2. This enables automatic docking of the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2, facilitating docking between the charging device 20 and the second charging connector 2, improving docking efficiency, and increasing operational efficiency when charging electrical equipment.

[0079] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 The adjustment mechanism includes a rotating component 3 and a lifting component 4. The rotating component 3 drives the first charging connector 1 to rotate, and the lifting component 4 drives the first charging connector 1 to move up and down. The rotating component 3 and the lifting component 4 ensure accurate docking between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2.

[0080] In some examples, the rotating component 3 includes a drive motor, a first gear 421 and a second gear 421. The second gear 421 is connected to the first charging connector 1. The first gear 421 is connected to the output shaft of the drive motor and meshes with the second gear 421. The drive motor transmits power to the first gear 421 and the second gear 421, and the first charging connector 1 is rotated by the first gear 421 and the second gear 421.

[0081] In other examples, the rotating component 3 includes a drive motor and a timing belt, the timing belt being connected between the output shaft of the drive motor and the first charging connector 1, the drive motor driving the first charging connector 1 to rotate via the timing belt.

[0082] In some examples, the lifting assembly 4 includes a drive member and a gear 421 and rack 422 mechanism, wherein one of the gear 421 and the rack 422 is connected to the first charging connector 1. The drive member drives the gear 421 to rotate, and the gear 421 and the rack 422 can move relative to each other along the length of the rack 422, thereby driving the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall.

[0083] For example, rack 422 is connected to the first charging connector 1, and drive member and gear 421 are fixed relative to vehicle 100. In this case, drive member drives gear 421 to rotate, which in turn causes rack 422 to rise or fall relative to vehicle 100, thereby causing the first charging connector 1 to rise or fall. In another example, rack 422 is fixed relative to vehicle 100, and drive member and gear 421 are connected to the first charging connector 1. Drive member drives gear 421 to rotate, and gear 421 can move along the length of rack 422, causing the first charging connector 1 to rise or fall. In other examples, lifting assembly 4 includes an electric push rod or a hydraulic push rod, one end of which is fixedly connected, and the other end is connected to the first charging connector 1. The extension and retraction of the electric push rod or hydraulic push rod causes the first charging connector 1 to rise or fall.

[0084] In some examples, the rotating component 3 is connected between the lifting component 4 and the first charging connector 1. In this case, the rotating component 3 is connected to the first charging connector 1, and the lifting component 4 is connected to the rotating component 3. In some specific examples, when the charging device 20 is connected to the vehicle body 10, the lifting component 4 is directly connected to the vehicle body 10, and the rotating component 3 is connected between the lifting component 4 and the first charging connector 1 to drive the first charging connector 1 to rotate relative to the lifting component 4. The lifting component 4 can drive the rotating component 3 and the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall together.

[0085] In other examples, the lifting assembly 4 is connected between the rotating assembly 3 and the first charging connector 1. In this case, the lifting assembly 4 is connected to the first charging connector 1, and the rotating assembly 3 is connected to the lifting assembly 4. In some specific examples, when the charging device 20 is connected to the vehicle body 10, the rotating assembly 3 is directly connected to the vehicle body 10, and the lifting assembly 4 is connected between the rotating assembly 3 and the first charging connector 1 to drive the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall relative to the rotating assembly 3. The rotating assembly 3 can drive the lifting assembly 4 and the first charging connector 1 to rotate together.

[0086] In some embodiments, see Figure 2 When the lifting assembly 4 is connected between the rotating assembly 3 and the first charging connector 1, the lifting assembly 4 includes a first driving member 41 and a first transmission member 42. The first transmission member 42 is drively connected between the first driving member 41 and the first charging connector 1, and the first driving member 41 is used to drive the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall through the first transmission member 42. By cooperating to drive the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall, the lifting process of the first charging connector 1 can be relatively stable, and the positional arrangement between the first driving member 41 and the first charging connector 1 is convenient.

[0087] In some examples, the first drive component 41 can be a motor, and the first transmission component 42 can be a sprocket and chain assembly, connecting the first sprocket and the second sprocket via a chain. The first sprocket is connected to the output end of the motor, the second sprocket can be fixedly mounted on the rotating component 3 and can rotate, and the chain is fixedly connected to the first charging connector 1, with the first charging connector 1 being raised and lowered by the displacement of the chain.

[0088] In other examples, the first driving component 41 is a hydraulic motor, and the first transmission component 42 is a hydraulic push rod. One end of the hydraulic push rod is fixed, and the other end is connected to the first charging connector 1. The hydraulic motor drives the hydraulic push rod to extend and retract, thereby causing the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall.

[0089] In some other examples, the first transmission member 42 includes a gear 421 and a rack 422, with the gear 421 connected to the first driving member 41 and meshing with the rack 422. In this embodiment, the transmission via the gear 421 and rack 422 enables rapid displacement response and high transmission efficiency.

[0090] In order to achieve transmission via gear 421 and rack 422, in this embodiment, gear 421 and first drive member 41 form a first component. One of the first component and rack 422 is connected to the first charging connector 1, and the other of the first component and rack 422 is connected to the rotating component 3.

[0091] In this embodiment, the lifting component 4 is positioned between the rotating component 3 and the first charging connector 1. Specifically, it includes two technical solutions: one, see [reference] Figure 6 In the first assembly, gear 421 is connected to the first charging connector 1, while rack 422 is connected to the rotating assembly 3. In this configuration, rack 422 is fixed, and gear 421 moves along its length, causing the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall. A slide groove 351 can be provided to limit the displacement direction of the first charging connector 1. Alternatively, gear 421 is connected to the rotating assembly 3, while rack 422 is connected to the first charging connector 1. In this configuration, gear 421 is fixed and rotatable with the first driving member 41, and rack 422 meshes with gear 421. Rack 422 moves with the rotation of gear 421, causing the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall. This design can also include components such as slide rails to limit the displacement direction of rack 422 and improve its smoothness of movement.

[0092] For easier understanding, the lifting and lowering of the first charging connector 1 can be referred to [reference needed]. Figure 3 and Figure 5 , Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the first charging connector 1 in its first state. Figure 5 for Figure 4The diagram shows the third state structure of the first charging connector 1. (Comparison) Figure 3 and Figure 5 It can be seen that, Figure 3 and Figure 5 The difference in the state of the first charging connector 1 lies in its altitude. Specifically, with Figure 3 and Figure 5 For example, Figure 3 and Figure 5 The upper side of the 2nd view represents rising, and the lower side of the view represents falling. Figure 5 The first charging connector 1 in the middle is relative to Figure 3 The state in the middle is an ascending state. Figure 3 The first charging connector 1 in the middle is relative to Figure 5 The state is in the descending state. In this embodiment, the lifting component 4 drives the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall, thereby achieving accurate docking between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2.

[0093] In some embodiments, the rotating assembly 3 includes a first rotating shaft 31 and a second driving member 32. The first rotating shaft 31 is connected to the lifting assembly 4, and the second driving member 32 is drively connected to the first rotating shaft 31 to drive the first rotating shaft 31 to rotate. The structure of the first rotating shaft and the second driving member 32 is relatively simple, facilitating the rotational operation of the first charging connector 1.

[0094] Specifically, in this embodiment, the lifting component 4 is disposed between the rotating component 3 and the first charging connector 1, that is, the lifting component 4 directly drives the first charging connector 1 to rise and fall, while the rotating component 3 drives the lifting component 4 to rotate.

[0095] In some embodiments, to facilitate connection with electrical equipment, the charging device 20 further includes a fixed bracket 5, to which the first rotating shaft 31 is rotatably connected. This allows the fixed bracket 5 to support the first rotating shaft 31, thereby improving the stability of the first rotating shaft 31 during rotation.

[0096] For some specific examples, see Figure 2 , Figure 2 The first charging connector 1 is connected to the fixed bracket 5. It should be understood that the fixed bracket 5 can be used as a separate intermediate component for connecting the electrical equipment and the first charging connector 1; or it can be part of the electrical equipment, such as a plate on the chassis of the vehicle 100, in which case the first charging connector 1 is directly connected to the electrical equipment.

[0097] Specifically, the first rotating shaft 31 can be rotatably connected to the fixed bracket 5 via components such as the bearing seat 33, and the second driving component 32 is fixedly connected to the fixed bracket 5. The second driving component 32 can be a motor, hydraulic motor, etc., which drives the first rotating shaft 31 to rotate, thereby causing the first charging connector 1 to rotate. The structure is simple and the manufacturing cost is low.

[0098] In some embodiments, to enable the second driving member 32 to drive the first rotating shaft 31, the rotating assembly 3 further includes a second transmission member 34. The second transmission member 34 is connected between the second driving member 32 and the first rotating shaft 31, and the second driving member 32 is used to drive the first rotating shaft 31 to rotate through the second transmission member 34. The second transmission member 34 facilitates the spatial arrangement of the second driving member 32 and the first rotating shaft 31, and makes the power transmission between the second driving member 32 and the first rotating shaft 31 more stable.

[0099] In some examples, the second transmission component 34 can be a set of bevel gears 421, which includes a first bevel gear 421 and a second bevel gear 421. For example, the first bevel gear 421 is fixedly connected to one end of the first rotating shaft 31, and the second bevel gear 421 is fixedly connected to the output end of the second driving component 32. At the same time, the first bevel gear 421 and the second bevel gear 421 mesh, and the transmission is realized through the set of bevel gears 421. This transmission structure can change the direction of power transmission and facilitate the position arrangement of the second driving component 32.

[0100] In other examples, the second transmission component 34 can be a synchronous belt assembly. This assembly includes a first pulley, a second pulley, and a synchronous belt, which connects the first and second pulleys. The first pulley is connected to the first shaft 31, and the second pulley is connected to the second drive component 32. The second drive component 32 drives the first shaft 31 to rotate via the synchronous belt. This transmission structure has advantages such as high transmission efficiency and low noise.

[0101] In some embodiments, see Figures 2-5 The rotating assembly 3 also includes a support member 35, which is connected between the first rotating shaft 31 and the first charging connector 1, and the first charging connector 1 can be raised and lowered relative to the support member 35.

[0102] The support member 35 can support the first charging connector 1 to improve the stability of the first charging connector 1 during lifting.

[0103] In some examples, the support member 35 can be a hollow columnar structure, such as a cylinder or a square column. In this case, the lifting assembly 4 can be connected to the support member 35.

[0104] In some examples, the lifting assembly 4 is wholly or partially housed inside the support member 35. Specifically, the support member 35 is a cylindrical structure, and the lifting assembly 4 is placed within the hollow structure of the cylindrical support member 35. A first rotating shaft 31 is connected to one end of the support member 35, and a first charging connector 1 is slidably connected to the support member 35. The lifting assembly 4 drives the first charging connector 1 to slide along the support member 35. In this structure, the first rotating shaft 31 drives the support member 35 to rotate, thereby realizing the rotation of the first charging connector 1. On the one hand, the support member 35 protects the lifting assembly 4 from damage due to collisions or other reasons; on the other hand, placing the lifting assembly 4 inside the support member 35 results in a simple appearance.

[0105] When the lifting assembly 4 is placed on the support 35, the rotation process of the rotating assembly 3 can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 3 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the first state structure of the first charging connector 1. Figure 4 for Figure 2 The diagram shows the second state structure of the first charging connector 1. (Comparison) Figure 3 and Figure 4 It can be seen that, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The difference lies in the angle at which the support member 35 is relative to the fixed bracket 5. Specifically, Figure 3 The axis of the middle support 35 is aligned with the height direction of the fixed bracket 5. Figure 4 The axis of the middle support 35 is approximately perpendicular to the height direction of the fixed bracket 5.

[0106] When the first charging connector 1 is connected to the chassis of the vehicle body 10 via the fixed bracket 5 Figure 3 The state shown can be used to connect the second charging connector 2 for charging. After charging is complete, the first rotating shaft 31 drives the support member 35 to rotate to... Figure 4 The support member 35 is positioned such that its axis is approximately parallel to the vehicle chassis. This effectively increases the height of the charging device 20 relative to the road surface, preventing damage from road debris during vehicle 100 operation.

[0107] In some embodiments, the support member 35 is a flexible member.

[0108] In some examples, support 35 is made of nylon material.

[0109] In some examples, the support 35 is made of rubber.

[0110] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the flexible component refers to a component that possesses both a certain degree of elasticity and a certain degree of rigidity. In this way, when the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 are docked, the support member 35 can absorb the impact between them and generate a corresponding degree of deformation through its elasticity to compensate for the positional error between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2, thereby improving the tolerance rate of their relative positions during docking.

[0111] In some embodiments, to facilitate the connection between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2, the second charging connector 2 is provided with a charging hole 211, and the first charging connector 1 includes a charging connector 11, which is adapted to be connected to the charging hole 211. In this solution, the charging connector 11 is inserted into the charging hole 211, which is simple in structure and facilitates the automatic docking and charging of the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 on the electrical device.

[0112] In some examples, the cross-sectional shape of the charging port 211 matches the cross-sectional shape of the charging connector 11, and its cross-sectional shape can be circular, square, trapezoidal, etc.

[0113] In some embodiments, to facilitate the docking of the charging connector 11 with the charging port 211, the charging connector 11 includes a first end 111 and a second end 112 opposite to each other. The first end 111 is connected to an adjustment mechanism, and the second end 112 is adapted to be located within the charging port 211. Furthermore, along a first direction, the size of the second end 112 is smaller than the size of the first end 111. The first direction is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first end 111 and the second end 112. Because the size of the second end 112 is smaller than that of the first end 111, the second end 112 can more easily enter the charging port 211 than the first end 111, improving the docking tolerance.

[0114] In some examples, the charging connector 11 has a conical structure, where the first direction is the radial direction of the conical structure, and the diameter of the first end 111 of the conical structure is larger than the diameter of the second end 112. The inner surface of the charging hole 211 is adapted to be a conical surface, and the diameter of the inlet end of the charging hole 211 matches the diameter of the first end 111 of the charging connector 11, while the diameter of the end of the charging hole 211 away from its inlet matches the diameter of the second end 112. Thus, the diameter of the second end 112 of the charging connector 11 is smaller than the diameter at the inlet of the charging hole 211. During the docking process, the second end 112 enters the charging hole 211 first. Even if there is a certain deviation in the relative position between the charging connector 11 and the charging hole 211, the outer circumferential surface of the charging connector 11 can guide the charging connector 11, allowing it to smoothly enter the charging hole 211 and still achieve successful docking, thus improving the fault tolerance rate of the docking.

[0115] In addition, the charging connector 11 adopts a conical structure, and the inner surface of the charging hole 211 adopts a conical surface. During the insertion process, the two are not easy to get stuck and can slide relatively smoothly.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first charging connector 1 further includes a locking structure connected to the second end 112, adapted to engage with the second charging connector 2 for locking. When the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 are connected for charging, the locking structure locks the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 relative to each other, preventing them from disengaging and causing charging failure, thereby improving charging stability.

[0117] In some examples, the locking structure includes a first protrusion located at the second end 112 of the charging connector 11, and a corresponding locking structure is provided in the charging hole 211 of the second charging connector 2. The locking structure engages the first protrusion to achieve locking. The locking structure may include a latch or card, which moves up and down via a device such as an electric push rod. When the first protrusion enters a designated position within the charging hole 211, the latch or card slides and engages with the first protrusion; when charging is complete, the latch or card slides in the opposite direction to release the locking state.

[0118] In some embodiments, see Figure 11 The locking structure includes a locking ball head 12, which is adapted to engage with the charging hole 211. For example, the locking ball head 12 is interference-fitted with the inner wall of the charging hole 211 to achieve locking. The locking ball head 12 has a relatively simple structure and a good locking effect, making it convenient to lock the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2.

[0119] In some specific examples, a locking ball head 12 is provided at the second end 112 of the charging connector 11. The locking ball head 12 engages with the charging hole 211 to lock the charging connector 11 and the charging hole 211. The locking ball head 12 and the charging connector 11 can be an integral fixed structure or a separate structure, for example, they can be detachably connected into one piece by bolts or other connecting parts.

[0120] When locking is achieved via the locking ball head 12, a snap-fit ​​hole 212 is provided at the bottom of the charging hole 211 away from its inlet. This snap-fit ​​hole 212 is used to accommodate the locking ball head 12. A second protrusion structure 213 is provided on the side of the snap-fit ​​hole 212 closest to the inlet of the charging hole 211. The inner diameter of the second protrusion structure 213 is smaller than the outer diameter of the locking ball head 12. Thus, when the locking ball head 12 enters the snap-fit ​​hole 212, the interference fit between the second locking structure and the locking ball head 12 confines the locking ball head 12 within the snap-fit ​​hole 212.

[0121] It should be noted that when the second protrusion structure 213 and the locking ball head 12 are locked by interference, at least one of them is elastic.

[0122] In some specific examples, the locking structure is an elastic structure, that is, the locking ball head 12 adopts an elastic structure.

[0123] In some examples, the locking ball head 12 is made of a flexible material, such as nylon or rubber. When the mobile electrical device automatically aligns the charging connector 11 with the charging port 211 during movement, the locking ball head 12 overcomes the resistance between itself and the second protrusion 213 within the charging port 211 under external force, resulting in corresponding elastic deformation. As it enters the snap-fit ​​hole 212, the deformation of the locking ball head 12 disappears, returning to its original size, and it is locked in place by the interference fit between itself and the second protrusion 213. After charging is complete, the locking ball head 12 undergoes elastic deformation again under external force, disengaging from the second protrusion 213 and releasing the lock. When the charging device 20 is used for automatic docking and charging of the vehicle 100, the external force driving the locking ball head 12 provides power to the vehicle 100.

[0124] In some embodiments, the first charging connector 1 further includes a first charging electrode 114, which is connected to the charging connector 11 and to the high-voltage wiring harness 101 of the vehicle 100. In this case, a second charging electrode is correspondingly disposed within the charging hole 211 of the second charging connector 2. When the charging connector 11 mates with the charging hole 211, the first charging electrode 114 connects and is switched on with the second charging electrode, thereby enabling the charging of the electrical equipment.

[0125] In some embodiments, when the second charging connector 2 is provided with a charging port 211, in order to protect the charging port 211, the second charging connector 2 further includes a cover plate 22. The cover plate 22 is connected to the second charging connector 2 and is movable relative to the second charging connector 2 between a first position and a second position. When the cover plate 22 is in the first position, the cover plate 22 closes the charging port 211; when the cover plate 22 is in the second position, the cover plate 22 opens the charging port 211.

[0126] With the above-described configuration, in the non-charging state, the cover plate 22 seals the charging port 211, effectively preventing rainwater, dust, and other contaminants from entering and damaging it. In particular, when the charging device 20 is used to charge the vehicle 100, and the second charging connector 2 serves as a ground-level connector, it is placed in a parking space. Since parking spaces are sometimes located outdoors, the outdoor environment is complex. Without protection for the charging port 211, rainwater and other factors could cause it to age and become damaged.

[0127] In some examples, the first position refers to the position where the cover plate 22 can cover the charging hole 211, that is, the charging hole 211 is in the closed state; the second position refers to the position where the cover plate 22 does not cover the charging hole 211, that is, the charging hole 211 is in the open state.

[0128] In some examples, the movement of the cover plate 22 between the first position and the second position can be either rotation or translation.

[0129] When the movement of the cover plate 22 is rotation, the cover plate 22 and the second charging connector 2 are rotatably connected through the hinge 23. The second position can be located inside the charging hole 211 or outside the charging hole 211.

[0130] When the cover plate 22 moves in a translational manner, it can be connected via the telescopic component and the second charging connector 2. The telescopic component's extension and retraction causes the cover plate 22 to translate between a first position and a second position. The telescopic component can be an electric push rod, a hydraulic push rod, etc.

[0131] For some specific examples, see Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 11 The cover plate 22 is rotatably connected to the second charging connector 2. The state of the cover plate 22 when it is in the first position is shown in the image. Figure 7 At this time, the cover plate 22 seals the charging port 211 to prevent rain, snow, dust, and other foreign objects from entering the charging port 211. See the diagram for the state of the cover plate 22 in the second position. Figure 8 At this time, the cover plate 22 is located inside the charging hole 211, and the charging hole 211 is opened and can be used for charging.

[0132] In some examples, when the cover plate 22 is rotatably connected to the second charging connector 2, during the charging process where the charging connector 11 is connected to the charging hole 211, the charging connector 11, with the aid of external force, pushes the cover plate 22 from the first position to the second position. At this time, the charging hole 211 is opened, and the charging connector 11 enters the charging hole 211 for charging. After charging is completed, the charging connector 11 is removed from the charging hole 211, and the cover plate 22, under the action of external force or gravity, flips from the second position back to the first position, resealing the charging hole 211.

[0133] It should be noted that when the second position is located inside the charging hole 211, the charging hole 211 needs to be provided with a space to accommodate the cover plate 22 to prevent the cover plate 22 from interfering with the charging connector 11.

[0134] In some specific examples, to achieve a non-charging state, the cover plate 22 can promptly seal the charging port 211. The second charging connector 2 also includes an elastic element connected between the cover plate 22 and the second charging connector 2, which applies a spring force to the cover plate 22 to return it to the first position. Due to the elastic element, after the first charging connector 1 is removed from the second charging connector 2, the cover plate 22 can automatically rotate to the first position under the action of the elastic element to seal the charging port 211. This facilitates the movement of the cover plate 22 from the second position to the first position, making position switching of the cover plate 22 convenient.

[0135] Specifically, in this embodiment, an elastic element, which can be a spring, is provided between the cover plate 22 and the second charging connector 2. One end of the spring abuts against the second charging connector 2, and the other end abuts against the side of the cover plate 22 facing the charging hole 211. During charging, the charging connector 11 uses external force to overcome the spring force and pushes the cover plate 22 from the first position to the second position. After charging is completed, the charging connector 11 is removed, and the cover plate 22, under the action of the spring force, flips from the second position to the first position, sealing the charging hole 211 and improving the protective effect of the cover plate 22 on the charging hole 211.

[0136] In some embodiments, the charging system further includes an automatic parking device for parking electrical equipment and for connecting the first charging connector 1 to the second charging connector 2.

[0137] In some examples, the charging device 20 is used for automatic docking charging of the vehicle 100. In this case, the second charging connector 2 is positioned in the parking space as a ground-side connector via its base 21, and the first charging connector 1 is connected to the vehicle body 10 as a vehicle-side connector. Automatic docking between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 is achieved using the vehicle 100's automatic parking system.

[0138] Specifically, after vehicle 100 arrives near the parking space, it establishes a communication connection with the second charging connector 2. The second charging connector 2 sends a position signal to vehicle 100. Upon receiving the position signal from the second charging connector 2, the automatic parking device activates the automatic parking device, controlling vehicle 100 to drive into the parking space where the second charging connector 2 is located according to the position signal. During the movement of vehicle 100, the first charging connector 1 adjusts its position relative to the second charging connector 2 via the lifting assembly 4 and the rotating assembly 3, so that the charging connector 11 aligns with the charging port 211. The alignment process between the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 is described in [reference needed]. Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 9 The charging connector 11 in the first charging connector 1 is aligned with the charging hole 211 of the second charging connector; Figure 10The charging connector 11 opens the cover 22 at the charging port 211 and automatically aligns with the charging port 211 before charging can begin. After the vehicle 100 is fully charged, the driver starts the vehicle 100 and drives it out of the parking space. The first charging connector 1 returns to its original state under the action of the rotating component 3 and the lifting component 4.

[0139] By aligning the first charging connector 1 and the second charging connector 2 of the charging device 20 using an automatic parking device, alignment accuracy can be improved, and no additional device is needed for aligning the vehicle 100 with the second charging connector 2, thus reducing the cost of the automatic charging system. Furthermore, it saves drivers from a series of manual charging operations, significantly improving the user experience and preventing situations where the charging gun is forgotten to be unplugged or the charging process is abandoned.

[0140] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A charging device, characterized in that, include: The first charging connector (1) is adapted to be connected to the second charging connector (2) to charge the electrical equipment; as well as Adjustment mechanism; The adjustment mechanism is connected to the first charging connector (1) and is used to move the first charging connector (1) so that the first charging connector (1) is aligned with the second charging connector (2).

2. The charging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The adjustment mechanism includes a rotating component (3) and a lifting component (4). The rotating component (3) is used to drive the first charging connector (1) to rotate, and the lifting component (4) is used to drive the first charging connector (1) to rise and fall. The rotating component (3) is connected between the lifting component (4) and the first charging connector (1), or the lifting component (4) is connected between the rotating component (3) and the first charging connector (1).

3. The charging device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The lifting assembly (4) is connected between the rotating assembly (3) and the first charging connector (1); The lifting assembly (4) includes: The first driving member (41) and the first transmission member (42) are connected in a transmission manner between the first driving member (41) and the first charging connector (1). The first driving member (41) is used to drive the first charging connector (1) to move up and down through the first transmission member (42).

4. The charging device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first transmission component (42) includes a gear (421) and a rack (351), wherein the gear (421) is connected to the first driving component (41) and meshes with the rack (351); The gear (421) and the first drive member (41) form a first assembly, one of the first assembly and the rack (351) is connected to the first charging connector (1), and the other of the first assembly and the rack (351) is connected to the rotating assembly (3).

5. The charging device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating assembly (3) includes: The first rotating shaft (31) is connected to the lifting assembly (4); The second driving member (32) is connected to the first rotating shaft (31) for driving the first rotating shaft (31) to rotate.

6. The charging device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rotating assembly (3) further includes a second transmission member (34), which is connected between the second drive member (32) and the first rotating shaft (31). The second drive member (32) is used to drive the first rotating shaft (31) to rotate through the second transmission member (34).

7. The charging device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rotating assembly (3) further includes a support member (35), which is connected between the first rotating shaft (31) and the first charging connector (1), and the first charging connector (1) is capable of moving up and down relative to the support member (35).

8. The charging device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The support member (35) is a flexible member.

9. The charging device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The lifting assembly (4) is connected to the support member (35).

10. The charging device according to any one of claims 5-9, characterized in that, It also includes a fixed bracket (5), to which the first rotating shaft (31) is rotatably connected.

11. The charging device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The second charging connector (2) is provided with a charging hole (211); The first charging connector (1) includes a charging connector (11) adapted to be connected to the charging port (211).

12. The charging device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The charging connector (11) includes a first end (111) and a second end (112) opposite to each other. The first end (111) is connected to the adjustment mechanism, and the second end (112) is adapted to be located in the charging hole (211). Along the first direction, the size of the second end (112) is smaller than the size of the first end (111), and the first direction is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first end (111) and the second end (112).

13. The charging device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first charging connector (1) further includes a locking structure connected to the second end (112) and adapted to cooperate with the second charging connector (2) for locking.

14. The charging device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The locking structure includes a locking ball (12) which is adapted to engage with the charging hole (211).

15. The charging device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The locking structure is an elastic structure.

16. The charging device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first charging connector (1) also includes a first charging electrode (114), which is connected to the charging connector (11).

17. An electrical appliance, characterized in that, The charging device includes any one of claims 1-16.

18. A charging system, characterized in that, It includes the charging device according to any one of claims 1-16; or, it includes the electrical equipment according to claim 17.

19. The charging system according to claim 18, characterized in that, It also includes a second charging connector (2), which is used to electrically connect to the first charging connector (1) of the charging device.

20. The charging system according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first charging connector (1) includes a charging connector (11), and the second charging connector (2) is provided with a charging hole (211), the shape of which matches the shape of the charging hole (211); The charging connector (11) includes a first end (111) and a second end (112) opposite to each other. The first end (111) is connected to the adjustment mechanism, and the second end (112) is adapted to be located in the charging hole (211). Along a first direction, the size of the second end (112) is smaller than the size of the first end (111), and the first direction is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first end (111) and the second end (112).

21. The charging system according to claim 20, characterized in that, It also includes a cover plate (22) connected to the second charging connector (2) and movable relative to the second charging connector (2) between a first position and a second position; When the cover plate (22) is in the first position, the charging port (211) is closed; when the cover plate (22) is in the second position, the charging port (211) is opened.

22. The charging system according to claim 21, characterized in that, The cover plate (22) is rotatably connected to the second charging connector (2). When the cover plate (22) is in the second position, the cover plate (22) is located inside the charging hole (211).

23. The charging system according to claim 22, characterized in that, It also includes an elastic element connected between the cover plate (22) and the second charging connector (2) for applying an elastic force to the cover plate (22) to reset it toward the first position.

24. The charging system according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first charging connector (1) further includes a locking structure, which is connected to the second end (112). The second charging connector (2) is also provided with a snap-fit ​​hole (212), and the locking structure is used to snap into the snap-fit ​​hole (212).

25. The charging system according to claim 19, characterized in that, It also includes an automatic parking device for parking the electrical equipment and for connecting the first charging connector (1) to the second charging connector (2).

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