Rigid chain, charging device and charging system

Abstract

This application provides a rigid chain, a charging device, and a charging system. The rigid chain includes a first chain and a second chain. At least a portion of the links of the first chain and at least a portion of the links of the second chain engage one-to-one to form a rigid segment of the rigid chain. In the first chain, the hinge strength of at least two adjacent links in the rigid segment is less than the hinge strength of the remaining adjacent links. Alternatively, at least one link of the first chain is provided with a snap-fit ​​part, and at least one link of the second chain is provided with a snap-fit ​​body. When the snap-fit ​​body and the snap-fit ​​part are disengaged, at least a portion of the interlocking links in the rigid segment disengage. The rigid chain structure of this application is simple. Under external force, the interlocking links in the rigid segment can reliably disengage, causing the rigid segment to fail, thereby enabling the vehicle to safely separate from the charging device including the aforementioned rigid chain.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model generally relates to the field of vehicle technology, and specifically to a rigid chain, a charging device, and a charging system. Background Technology

[0002] With economic development and social progress, new energy vehicles have developed rapidly, and the demand for corresponding charging devices has become increasingly prominent. With the development of autonomous driving technology, automatic charging technology is being applied more and more in real life.

[0003] In related technologies, automatic charging devices often use a motor-driven transmission mechanism to connect and disconnect the charging connector and the vehicle's charging dock. When the vehicle needs charging, it drives into the charging position, and the motor or transmission mechanism drives the charging device to connect with the vehicle's charging dock for charging. Once charging is complete, the motor or transmission mechanism drives the charging connector to disconnect from the vehicle's charging dock, thus achieving automatic charging. However, these technologies have a drawback: if the motor or transmission mechanism malfunctions, the charging connector may fail to automatically disconnect from the vehicle's charging dock, preventing the vehicle from leaving the charging position and ultimately rendering the vehicle unusable for the customer, causing inconvenience. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of the above-mentioned defects or deficiencies in the prior art, it is desirable to provide a rigid chain, a charging device, and a charging system, which at least ensures that the rigid segments of the rigid chain can reliably disengage from each other under the action of external force when the automatic charging device and the vehicle fail to automatically separate, thereby causing the rigid segments of the rigid chain to fail and ensuring that the vehicle can safely separate from the charging device so that the vehicle can drive away normally, thus improving the user experience.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a rigid chain, including a first chain and a second chain, wherein at least a portion of the links of the first chain and at least a portion of the links of the second chain are engaged in a one-to-one correspondence to form a rigid segment of the rigid chain;

[0006] In the first chain, the hinge strength of at least two adjacent links in the rigid segment is less than the hinge strength of the remaining adjacent links. When the rigid segment of the rigid chain is subjected to a preset bending load, the two adjacent links with lower hinge strength can disengage from each other, so that at least partially meshed links in the rigid segment can disengage; or,

[0007] At least one link of the first chain of the rigid segment is provided with a snap-fit ​​part, and at least one link of the second chain of the rigid segment is provided with a snap-fit ​​body. When the snap-fit ​​body and the snap-fit ​​part are in a snap-fit ​​state, the corresponding links in the rigid segment remain in a meshing state. When the snap-fit ​​body and the snap-fit ​​part are in a disengaged state, at least some of the meshing links in the rigid segment, starting from the link corresponding to the snap-fit ​​part, disengage from each other.

[0008] As an optional solution, the snap-fit ​​body is disposed at the end of the second chain, and the snap-fit ​​mating part is disposed at the end of the corresponding first chain. The snap-fit ​​body has an elastic latch, and the snap-fit ​​mating part is snapped into the elastic latch. The snap-fit ​​body is configured to be triggered by an external force to drive the elastic latch and the snap-fit ​​mating part to separate.

[0009] As an optional solution, the snap-fit ​​body includes an adapter plate connected to the end of the second chain. The adapter plate has a trigger portion and a snap-fit ​​area extending toward the first chain. The snap-fit ​​area has an elastic latch, and the snap-fit ​​mating portion snaps into the elastic latch. The trigger portion is configured to be triggered by an external force to drive the elastic latch to separate from the snap-fit ​​mating portion.

[0010] As an optional solution, the snap-fit ​​body includes a buckle that is detachably connected to the second chain. The buckle includes a connecting part and a flexible latch. The connecting part is connected to a link of the second chain, and the flexible latch engages with the snap-fit ​​mating part.

[0011] As an optional solution, at least two adjacent links in the first chain are each provided with a first engaging part and a second engaging part, and at least one link of the second chain is provided with a engaging body, which includes a first elastic latch and a second elastic latch. The first engaging part and the second engaging part are respectively engaged with the first elastic latch and the second elastic latch to connect two adjacent links in the first chain through the engaging body.

[0012] As an optional solution, a clearance groove is provided on the snap-fit ​​body, and the clearance groove is located in the area near the elastic snap-fit.

[0013] As an optional solution, each adjacent link in the first chain is hinged by a pin and located within a rigid section. The strength of the pin that hinges at least one set of two adjacent links is less than the strength of the pin that hinges the remaining adjacent links.

[0014] Secondly, this utility model provides a charging device, including a first charging connector and a rigid chain, one end of which is connected to the first charging connector.

[0015] Thirdly, this utility model provides a charging system, including the charging device of the second aspect, and a second charging connector for connection to a vehicle, wherein the second charging connector is plugged into and cooperates with the first charging connector, the second chain faces one side of the vehicle in the front-rear direction, and the first chain faces the other side of the vehicle in the front-rear direction.

[0016] As an optional solution, the second charging connector is movably connected to the vehicle, and the second charging connector swings in the direction of the front and rear of the vehicle.

[0017] A swing reset component is provided between the second charging connector and the vehicle. The swing reset component is used to reverse and reset the second charging connector to its initial position after it swings towards the front or rear of the vehicle.

[0018] The rigid chain of this invention is characterized by the following: in the first chain, the hinge strength of at least two adjacent links in the rigid segment is less than the hinge strength of the remaining adjacent links; or, at least one link of the first chain is provided with a snap-fit ​​part, and at least one link of the second chain is provided with a snap-fit ​​body. When the snap-fit ​​body and the snap-fit ​​part are in a snap-fit ​​state, the corresponding links in the rigid segment maintain an engaged state; when the snap-fit ​​body and the snap-fit ​​part are in a disengaged state, at least some of the interlocking links in the rigid segment, starting from the link corresponding to the snap-fit ​​part, disengage from each other. This allows the charging connector of the charging device, connected by a rigid chain, to fail to automatically disconnect the charging gun during vehicle charging. As the vehicle moves away from the charging position, force is applied to the hinge joint of the rigid segment of the rigid chain or the locking body and locking engagement part. This causes the hinge joint of the rigid segment of the rigid chain with low hinge strength to break or the locking body and locking engagement part to detach. As a result, the rigid segment of the rigid chain fails and separates into a flexible first chain and a second chain, thereby safely separating the charging device from the vehicle. This improves the safety of the charging device and the user experience, further enhancing the quality and competitiveness of the charging device. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first rigid chain according to an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first rigid chain in an embodiment of this application, showing the separation of the adapter plate and the snap-fit ​​part;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the adapter plate of the first type of rigid chain according to an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a second type of rigid chain according to an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure in direction A;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the adapter plate for the second type of rigid chain according to an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure in direction A;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third type of rigid chain according to an embodiment of this application (with the buckle in the engaged state);

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third type of rigid chain according to an embodiment of this application (the buckle is in the open state);

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a snap fastener according to an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another buckle structure according to an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fourth type of rigid chain according to an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a charging system according to an embodiment of this application (the vehicle is located at the charging position);

[0033] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a charging system according to an embodiment of this application (the vehicle leaves the charging position);

[0034] Figure 15 This is a partial structural diagram of a charging system according to an embodiment of this application (the vehicle is located at the charging position);

[0035] Figure 16 This is a partial structural diagram of a charging system according to an embodiment of this application (the rigid segment of the rigid chain is partially separated).

[0036] Figure 17 This is a partial structural diagram of a charging system according to an embodiment of this application (two states of separation of the rigid segment meshing link of the rigid chain);

[0037] Figure 18This is a partial structural diagram of a charging system according to an embodiment of this application (the first charging connector and the second charging connector are separate);

[0038] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the second charging connector on a vehicle in a charging system according to an embodiment of this application.

[0039] In the picture,

[0040] 100. Rigid chain; 110. Rigid segment;

[0041] 10. First chain; 20. Second chain; A1. Chain link; A2. Pin; 11. Snap-fit ​​part; 111. First snap-fit ​​part; 112. Second snap-fit ​​part; 21. Snap-fit ​​body; 22. Elastic latch; 221. First elastic latch; 222. Second elastic latch; K1. Transition area; K2. Snap-fit ​​area; K3. Clearance groove; 23. Adapter plate; 231. Snap-fit ​​area; 30. Buckle; 31. Connecting part;

[0042] 200, charging device; 210, first charging connector;

[0043] 300, vehicle; 310, second charging connector; 320, first bracket; B1, first side plate; B2, second side plate; B3, baffle; 330, second bracket; C1, third side plate; C2, fourth side plate; C3, bearing surface; C4, flange; 340, pivot; 350, torsion spring. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the relevant utility model and not intended to limit the scope of the utility model. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the utility model are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0045] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. This application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0046] Based on the above issues, such as Figure 1-12 As shown, this application provides a rigid chain 100, including a first chain 10 and a second chain 20, wherein at least a portion of links A1 of the first chain 10 and at least a portion of links A1 of the second chain 20 are engaged in a one-to-one correspondence to form a rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain; wherein,

[0047] In the first chain 10, the hinge strength of at least two adjacent links A1 located in the rigid segment 110 is less than the hinge strength of the remaining adjacent links A1. When the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 is subjected to a preset bending load, the two adjacent links A1 with lower hinge strength can disengage from each other, so that at least some of the interlocking links A1 in the rigid segment 100 disengage from each other; or;

[0048] At least one link A1 of the first chain 10 of the rigid segment 110 is provided with a snap-fit ​​part 11, and at least one link A1 of the second chain 20 of the rigid segment 110 is provided with a snap-fit ​​body 21. When the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​part 11 are in a snap-fit ​​state, the corresponding link A1 in the rigid segment 110 remains in an engaged state. When the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​part 11 are in a disengaged state, at least some of the intermeshing links A1 in the rigid segment 110, starting from the link A1 corresponding to the snap-fit ​​part 11, disengage from each other.

[0049] It should be noted that the first chain 10 includes multiple links arranged along its length. For ease of description, the links of the first chain 10 can be referred to as first links, and the links of the second chain 20 can be referred to as second links. In one implementation, adjacent first links are hinged by any kind of hinge structure, such as, but not limited to, a pin, making the first chain 10 flexible and able to move arbitrarily as needed. Alternatively, adjacent first links can also be hinged by roller hinges, spherical structures, bearing fits, double snap-fits, etc. In other implementations, at least two of the first links can be hinged by means such as... Figure 11 and Figure 12 The buckles shown are connected, and the remaining first chain links are hinged, for example, by a pin. Similarly, the second chain 20 includes a plurality of second chain links arranged along the length direction. Adjacent second chain links are hinged by any kind of hinge structure, such as, but not limited to, a pin, so that the second chain 20 is flexible and can be moved arbitrarily as needed.

[0050] In the embodiments of this application, at least a portion of links A1 of the first chain 10 and at least a portion of links A1 of the second chain 20 are engaged in a one-to-one correspondence, that is, at least a portion of the first links and at least a portion of the second links mesh with each other to form a rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain, so as to achieve a stable connection and support function. In actual use, the length of the rigid segment 110 can be changed by changing the number of engagements of the first and second links in the rigid chain 100, so as to achieve the extension and retraction control of the rigid chain. For example, the end of the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 is connected to a charging connector. By using an actuator, such as a motor, to drive the sprocket to rotate, more first links and second links are driven to engage, so that the rigid segment 110 grows, so as to move the charging connector to the charging socket on the vehicle until the charging connector is inserted into the charging socket. Conversely, the motor drives the sprocket to rotate in the opposite direction, so as to drive the engaged first links and second links to separate one by one, so that the length of the rigid segment 110 shortens, so as to pull the charging connector out of the charging socket until it returns to the initial position.

[0051] Understandably, in some embodiments, in the first chain 10, the hinge strength of at least one set of two adjacent links A1 located in the rigid segment 110 is less than the hinge strength of the remaining adjacent links A1. That is, in the first chain 10, there is at least one set of two adjacent links with a hinge strength less than the hinge strength of the adjacent links. Thus, when the rigid chain is subjected to an external force of a certain magnitude, the hinge structure of the two links with the smaller hinge strength in the first chain 10 fails, causing the two links with the smaller hinge strength in the first chain 10 to separate from each other under the external force. As a result, starting from the separated first links, the meshing connection between the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 in the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain disengages, causing the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain to fail. The portion of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 that constitutes the rigid segment 110 returns to flexibility and can be bent freely.

[0052] In the first chain 10, the hinge strength of two links A1 located near the end of the rigid segment 110 may be less than the hinge strength of other adjacent links A1. Under the action of external force, the two links A1 located at the end of the first chain 10 will separate from each other. Thus, the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 will separate from the interlocking links A1 starting from the end, causing the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 to fail. Alternatively, in the first chain 10, the hinge strength of any two adjacent links A1 located in the middle of the rigid segment 110 may be less than the hinge strength of the other links A1. Under the action of external force, the two links A1 located in the middle of the first chain 10 will separate from each other. Thus, the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 will separate from the middle part, causing the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 to fail.

[0053] For example, if the rigid chain 100 of the charging device fails to drive the charging connector to retract and reset due to a malfunction, power outage, or other reasons, the charging connector is connected to the vehicle's charging socket. If the user forcibly drives the vehicle away from the charging device, the vehicle will move the charging connector, causing the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain to be subjected to a force in the direction of vehicle movement. When this force reaches the shear strength of the pins of the two links with the weaker hinge strength in the first chain 10, the pins break, and the corresponding two links A1 separate from each other. As the vehicle continues to drive, the tension will separate at least some of the meshing points of the first chain links and the second chain links in the rigid segment 110, causing the rigid segment 110 to fail and become two flexible first chains 10 and second chains 20. If the vehicle continues to drive, the charging connector can be pulled out of the vehicle's charging socket, and the vehicle can safely drive away from the charging position.

[0054] It is also understood that in some other embodiments, the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 is kept in an engaged state or the engagement of the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 is lost through a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0055] Specifically, one, two, or more links A1 of the first chain 10 are provided with a snap-fit ​​part 11, and links A1 of the second chain 20 are provided with a corresponding snap-fit ​​body 21. The snap-fit ​​part 11 can be provided on the end link A1 of the first chain 10, or on other links A1 of the first chain 10 other than the end. Correspondingly, the snap-fit ​​body 21 can be provided on any link A1 of the second chain 20, as long as the snap-fit ​​body 21 can snap-fit ​​with the snap-fit ​​part 11.

[0056] For example, such as Figure 1 and 2 As shown, when the snap-fit ​​part 11 is disposed on the link A1 (i.e. the first link A1) at the end of the first chain 10, and the snap-fit ​​body 21 is disposed on the link A1 (i.e. the first link A1) at the end of the second chain 20, under the action of external force, the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​part 11 disengage from each other, and the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100, starting from the first link A1 of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20, the interlocking links A1 disengage from each other in sequence.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit ​​part 11 is disposed on the end link A1 of the first chain 10, and the snap-fit ​​body 21 is disposed on the end link A1 of the second chain 20. Thus, when the charging connector is connected to the vehicle, the snap-fit ​​part 11 and the snap-fit ​​body 21 are more likely to disengage under the tension of the vehicle and the charging connector when the vehicle leaves the charging position, so that the vehicle and the charging connector can be reliably separated.

[0058] It is also understood that the snap-fit ​​part 11 can be a protrusion formed on the first chain 10, or the snap-fit ​​part 11 can also be a pin or pivot between two adjacent links A1 of the first chain 10. The snap-fit ​​body 21 and the second chain 20 can be integrally connected. Of course, the snap-fit ​​body 21 can also be a structure independent of the second chain 20. The embodiments of this application do not limit this, as long as it can ensure that the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​part 11 can be detachably engaged.

[0059] The rigid chain 100 of this application solves the problem that when the charging device malfunctions, the charging connector cannot automatically separate from the vehicle, causing the vehicle to be unable to leave the charging position. The rigid chain 100 of this application is achieved by: 1) The hinge strength of at least two adjacent links A1 located in the rigid segment 110 of the first chain 10 is less than the hinge strength of the remaining adjacent links A1; or 2) At least one link A1 of the first chain 10 is provided with a snap-fit ​​part 11, and at least one link A1 of the second chain 20 is provided with a snap-fit ​​body 21. When the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​part 11 are in a snap-fit ​​state, the corresponding link A1 in the rigid segment 110 remains engaged; when the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​part 11 are disengaged, at least partially engaged links A1 in the rigid segment 110, starting from the link A1 corresponding to the snap-fit ​​part 11, disengage from each other. Thus, if the charging connector of the charging device connected by the rigid chain 100 fails to automatically disconnect the charging gun during vehicle charging, the vehicle can move away from the charging position and apply force to the hinge of the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 or the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​engagement part 11. This causes the hinge of the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 to break or the snap-fit ​​body 21 to disengage from the snap-fit ​​engagement part 11, causing the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 to fail and separate into the flexible first chain 10 and the second chain 20. This, in turn, safely separates the charging device from the vehicle, which helps to improve the user experience.

[0060] As an implementation method, the snap-fit ​​body 21 is disposed on the first link A1 of the second chain 20, the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 is disposed on the first link A1 of the first chain 10, the snap-fit ​​body 21 has an elastic snap 22, and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 snaps into the elastic snap 22.

[0061] In this embodiment, the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 are respectively located at the ends of the second chain 20 and the first chain 10, and the snap-fit ​​body 21 has an elastic latch 22. Due to the elasticity of the elastic buckle 30, it is convenient for the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 to engage and disengage when an external force is applied. The force of separation between the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 can be controlled by controlling the stiffness coefficient of the elastic buckle 30, thereby ensuring the connection strength between the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 under normal use, so as to maintain the rigid section 110 with sufficient connection reliability to drive the charging connector to be inserted into the charging socket in the vehicle or pulled out of the charging socket in the vehicle; and when the charging device malfunctions, during the process of the vehicle being forcibly driven away, a certain force is reached, and the rigidity of the rigid section 110 is destroyed, so that the rigid section 110 is transformed into a flexible section, avoiding the rigid section 110 being unable to transform into a flexible section or requiring a large force to transform into a flexible section during the process of the vehicle being driven away, which would cause damage to the vehicle, charging connector and other components.

[0062] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 and 5 As shown, the first link A1 of the second chain 20 is connected to an adapter plate 23, and a snap-fit ​​body 21 is formed on the adapter plate 23.

[0063] In practical applications, the adapter plate 23 can be used to connect the second chain 20 to the charging connector.

[0064] The adapter plate 23 can be fixedly connected to the first link A1 of the second chain 20. Alternatively, the adapter plate 23 can also be rotatably connected to the first link A1 of the second chain 20. A snap-fit ​​body 21 is formed on the adapter plate 23. This can be understood as the adapter plate 23 having an elastic snap-fit ​​22, with the adapter plate 23 configured as the snap-fit ​​body 21. Alternatively, the snap-fit ​​body 21 can be a structure independent of the adapter plate 23, and the snap-fit ​​body 21 can be detachably connected to the adapter plate 23.

[0065] In this embodiment, the snap-fit ​​body 21 is set in a flexible and easy manner.

[0066] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, such as Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the adapter plate 23 has a trigger part and a snap-fit ​​area 231 extending toward the first chain 10. The snap-fit ​​area 231 has an elastic snap 22. The snap-fit ​​mating part 11 snaps into the elastic snap 22. The trigger part is configured to be triggered by an external force to drive the elastic snap 22 to separate from the snap-fit ​​mating part 11. The adapter plate 23 is configured as a snap-fit ​​body 21.

[0067] In this embodiment, the adapter plate 23 is equipped with a snap-fit ​​body 21, which is beneficial to achieve the connection between the rigid chain and the charging, while ensuring that the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 are reliably engaged, so as to maintain the engagement of the rigid segments 110 of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20, and under the action of external force, the chain links A1 of the engagement of the rigid segments 110 of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 disengage from each other.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the chain plate of the first link A1 of the second chain 20 has a locking area 231 extending toward the first chain 10, the locking area 231 is provided with an elastic latch 22, the locking engagement part 11 is located in the elastic latch 22, and the chain plate of the first link A1 of the second chain 20 is configured as a locking body 21.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first link A1 of the second chain 20 serves as the snap-fit ​​body 21, which simplifies the structure and eliminates the need for an additional snap-fit ​​body 21, thereby improving processing efficiency.

[0070] As a feasible approach, such as Figure 8-12 As shown, the snap-fit ​​body 21 includes a snap-fit ​​30 that is detachably connected to the second chain 20. The snap-fit ​​30 includes a connecting part 31 and an elastic latch 22. The connecting part 31 is connected to the chain link A1 of the second chain 20, and the elastic latch 22 engages with the snap-fit ​​mating part 11.

[0071] The engaging part 11 can be a pin A2 at the hinge of two adjacent links A1 in the first chain 10, or it can be a protrusion provided on the link A1 of the first chain 10; the connecting part of the buckle 30 can be connected to the pin A2 at the hinge of two adjacent links A1 in the second chain 20, and the elastic latch 22 engages with the pin A2 at the hinge of two adjacent links A1 in the first chain 10, or the elastic latch 22 engages with the protrusion on the link A1 of the first chain 10.

[0072] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, the buckle 30 is connected to the ends of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20. That is, the buckle 30 includes a connecting part 31 and an elastic latch 22. The connecting part 31 is connected to the first link A1 of the second chain 20, and the elastic latch 22 is connected to the first link A1 of the first chain 10.

[0073] In some other embodiments, the end of the second chain 20 is connected to an adapter plate 23, and the buckle 30 includes a connecting part 31 and an elastic latch 22. The connecting part 31 is connected to the adapter plate 23, and the elastic latch 22 is connected to the first link A1 of the first chain 10.

[0074] In this embodiment, the snap-fit ​​body 21 is a snap-fit ​​30 independent of the second chain 20, which facilitates the replacement of the snap-fit ​​body 21 and reduces maintenance costs.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, at least two adjacent links A1 in the first chain 10 are each provided with a first engaging part 111 and a second engaging part 112. At least one link A1 of the second chain 20 is provided with a engaging body 21, which includes a first elastic latch 221 and a second elastic latch 222. The first engaging part 111 and the second engaging part 112 are respectively engaged with the first elastic latch 221 and the second elastic latch 222 to connect two adjacent links A1 in the first chain 10 through the engaging body 21.

[0076] It should be noted that the snap-fit ​​body can be an independent snap-fit ​​30. The snap-fit ​​30 has a first elastic snap 221 and a second elastic snap 222. One end of the first elastic snap 221 and the second elastic snap 222 are connected together to form the connecting part 31 of the snap-fit ​​30, which is used to connect to the second chain 20. The ends of the first elastic snap 221 and the second elastic snap 222 can be, but are not limited to, hinged.

[0077] On the first chain 10, each of two adjacent chain links A1 is provided with a first engaging part 111 and a second engaging part 112, which may be, but is not limited to, protrusions formed on the chain plate.

[0078] It is understood that the snap-fit ​​body 21 is disposed on the second chain 20, and the area of ​​the snap-fit ​​body 21 extending toward the first chain 10 is provided with a first elastic snap 221 and a second elastic snap 222. Two adjacent chain links A1 in the first chain 10 are separated from each other, and a first snap-fit ​​part 111 and a second snap-fit ​​part 112 are respectively disposed on them. The first snap-fit ​​part 111 and the second snap-fit ​​part 112 are respectively snap-fitted with the first elastic snap 221 and the second elastic snap 222, thereby connecting and fixing two adjacent chain links A1 that are separated from each other in the first chain 10.

[0079] In practical applications, during the process of a vehicle leaving the charging position, the vehicle applies a pulling force to the rigid chain 100 in the direction of the vehicle's front. When this pulling force reaches a certain value (e.g., but not limited to 150N to 200N), under the action of the pulling force and the elasticity of the elastic latch 22, at least one of the first elastic latch 221 and the second elastic latch 222 separates from the corresponding first locking engagement part 111 and the second locking engagement part 112. The two chain links A1 connected by the locking body 21 in the first chain 10 separate. Starting from the two chain links A1 that are separated from each other in the first chain 10, at least some of the remaining meshed chain links A1 of the rigid chain 100 separate, causing the meshing of the rigid segment 110 to fail. The first chain 10 and the second chain 20 can move freely, the vehicle separates from the charging connector, and the vehicle safely leaves the parking position.

[0080] As a feasible approach, such as Figures 3 to 7 , Figures 10 to 11 As shown, the elastic latch 22 includes a transition area K1 and a fastening area K2 that are sequentially adjacent to each other along the first direction of the latching body 21. Figure 10 As shown in the direction, the size of the transition area K1 in the second direction gradually decreases, and the minimum size of the transition area K1 in the second direction is less than or equal to the size of the snap-fit. Under the elastic force of the elastic latch 22, the snap-fit ​​area K2 and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11 can be detachably mated. The first direction is the direction extending from the edge of the snap-fit ​​body 21 to the middle of the snap-fit ​​body 21, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0081] In this embodiment, the structure of the elastic latch 22 has a transition zone K1 that facilitates the engagement of the elastic latch 22 with the snap-fit ​​part 11. The transition zone K1 also allows the snap-fit ​​body 21 to have sufficient deformation so that the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​part 11 can separate under a predetermined force.

[0082] In other embodiments, such as Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the snap-fit ​​body 21 has a relief groove K3, which is located in the area near the elastic snap-fit ​​22.

[0083] Among them, the clearance groove K3 can be one, two or more, and the clearance groove K3 can also be a clearance hole, as long as a gap can be formed in the area near the elastic latch 22, so that the snap-fit ​​body 21 has sufficient deformation, and the stiffness coefficient is controlled by controlling the distance between the clearance groove K3 and the elastic latch 22, so as to control the force of separation between the snap-fit ​​body 21 and the snap-fit ​​mating part 11.

[0084] In this embodiment, the clearance groove K3 can form a gap around the elastic latch 22, which is beneficial for the latching body 21 to have sufficient deformation, so that the latching body 21 and the latching mating part 11 can be separated by a predetermined force within a controllable range.

[0085] As an achievable method, each adjacent link A1 in the first chain 10 is hinged by a pin A2 and located within the rigid section 110. The strength of the pin A2 that hinges at least one set of two adjacent links A1 is less than the strength of the pin A2 that hinges the remaining adjacent links A1.

[0086] The pin A2 can be any pin A2 in the first chain 10, such as the pin A2 near the end of the first chain 10, or the pin A2 in the middle of the first chain 10.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, a transition plate 23 is connected to the first link A1 of the second chain 20. The transition plate 23 and the first link A1 of the first chain 10 are hinged by a pin A2. The strength of the pin A2 of the transition plate 23 and the first link A1 of the first chain 10 is less than the strength of the pin A2 of the other two adjacent links A1 on the first chain 10.

[0088] In this embodiment, the use of a low-strength pin A2 simplifies the structure, eliminating the need for other components. When subjected to external force, pin A2 breaks, causing the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 to fail to engage, thus separating the first chain 10 and the second chain 20. Furthermore, subsequent maintenance is convenient and cost-effective, requiring only the replacement of pin A2, which improves the convenience and efficiency of maintenance.

[0089] In summary, the rigid chain of the embodiments of this application can reliably achieve the rigid connection support function, and at the same time, under the action of external force, the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 can fail to engage, and the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 located in the area of ​​the rigid segment 110 can separate into the flexible first chain 10 and the second chain 20, thereby driving the charging device to safely separate from the vehicle.

[0090] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a charging device 200, including a first charging connector 210 and a rigid chain 100 as described in the first aspect, with one end of the rigid segment of the rigid chain 100 connected to the first charging connector 210. It is understood that the charging device 200 possesses all the features and advantages of the aforementioned rigid chain 100, which will not be elaborated upon here. In summary, the charging device 200 is convenient to use, provides a stable connection to the vehicle to ensure charging safety, and in the event of a malfunction, the rigid chain 100 ensures reliable separation of the vehicle from the first charging connector 210, allowing the vehicle to safely leave the charging position.

[0091] The charging device 200 may be, but is not limited to, a charging pile; the first charging connector 210 may be the charging gun head of the charging pile.

[0092] It is understood that the connection of one end of the rigid chain 100 to the first charging connector 210 can be such that one of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 in the rigid chain is connected to the first charging connector 210, while the other is not connected to the first charging connector 210; or, the first charging connector 210 is connected to the adapter plate 23 on the second chain 20, and the adapter plate 23 is hinged to the first chain 10; or the first charging connector 210 is connected to the adapter plate 23 on the second chain 20, and the snap-fit ​​part 11 of the first chain 10 snaps into the elastic snap 22 on the adapter plate 23; the embodiments of this application are not specifically limited, as long as the connection between the rigid chain and the first charging connector 210 is ensured.

[0093] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a charging system, such as... Figure 13-14 As shown, the system includes a charging device 200 (second aspect) and a second charging connector 310 for connection to a vehicle 300. The second charging connector 310 engages with the first charging connector 210. The second chain 20 faces one side in the vehicle's longitudinal direction, and the first chain 10 faces the other side in the same direction. It is understood that this charging system possesses all the characteristics and advantages of the aforementioned rigid chain, which will not be elaborated upon here. In summary, this charging system is convenient to use, safe and reliable, and provides a good user experience.

[0094] The second charging connector 310 can be a power receiver on the vehicle.

[0095] It is understandable that in actual use, such as Figure 15 As shown, the first charging connector 210 of the charging device 200 and the second charging connector 310 of the vehicle are plugged into each other to achieve electrical connection; since the second chain 20 is provided with a locking body 21 and the first chain 10 is provided with a locking engagement part 11, the second chain 20 faces the front of the vehicle and the first chain 10 faces the rear of the vehicle, as shown. Figure 16-18 As shown, during the process of the vehicle starting and leaving the charging position, the vehicle's pulling force on the rigid chain 100 causes the first chain 10 to separate from the adapter plate 23 or the first chain 10 to break itself, thereby causing the rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain 100 to fail to engage, ensuring that the vehicle 300 is reliably separated from the first charging connector 210.

[0096] In one possible manner, the second charging connector 310 is movably connected to the vehicle 300, and the second charging connector 310 swings in the direction of the front and rear of the vehicle 300.

[0097] A swing reset component is provided between the second charging connector 310 and the vehicle 300. The swing reset component is used to reset the second charging connector 310 to its initial position after it swings towards the front or rear of the vehicle.

[0098] In this embodiment, the second charging connector 310 is swayable, which helps to avoid damage to the first charging connector 210 during the vehicle's departure; the swaying reset component helps the second charging connector 310 return to its initial position as soon as possible after swaying, which is beneficial for reliable connection with the first charging connector 210 during the next charging.

[0099] In some embodiments, the swing reset member includes a torsion spring 350. A first bracket 320 and a second bracket 330 are provided on the vehicle 300. The first bracket 320 is fixed on the vehicle 300. The second bracket 330 is rotatably connected to the first bracket 320 via a rotating shaft 340. A second charging connector 310 is fixedly installed on the second bracket 330. The torsion spring 350 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 340. One end of the torsion spring 350 abuts against the first bracket 320, and the other end of the torsion spring 350 abuts against the second bracket 330.

[0100] In this embodiment, the torsion spring 350 serves as a swing reset component. It has a simple structure, is easy to process, and can reliably drive the second charging connector 310 back to its initial position.

[0101] The charging system of this application will be described below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0102] Example 1

[0103] like Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the rigid chain includes a first chain 10 and a second chain 20. At least a portion of the links A1 of the first chain 10 and at least a portion of the links A1 of the second chain 20 are engaged in a one-to-one correspondence to form a rigid segment 110 of the rigid chain.

[0104] The first link A1 of the first chain 10 is provided with a snap-fit ​​part 11, which is a pin A2 that hinges the first link A1 of the first chain 10 to the adjacent link A1; the first link A1 of the second chain 20 is hinged with an adapter plate 23, which has a snap-fit ​​area 231 extending toward the first chain 10, and the snap-fit ​​area 231 has an elastic slot 22 that engages with the snap-fit ​​part 11. The trigger part of the adapter plate 23 is connected to the first charging connector 210.

[0105] like Figure 10 As shown, the vehicle is provided with a first bracket 320 and a second bracket 330. The first bracket 320 is fixed on the vehicle, and the second charging connector 310 is fixedly installed on the second bracket 330. The first bracket 320 includes a first side plate B1 and a second side plate B2 arranged opposite to each other. The second bracket 330 includes a bearing surface C3 and a third side plate C1 and a fourth side plate C2 located on opposite sides of the bearing surface C3. The first side plate B1 and the third side plate C1 are arranged adjacent to each other, and the second side plate B2 and the fourth side plate C2 are arranged adjacent to each other. The second charging connector 310 is installed on the bearing surface C3. A rotating shaft 340 passes through the first side plate B1 and the third side plate C1, and a rotating shaft 340 passes through the second side plate B2 and the fourth side plate C2.

[0106] The third side plate C1 and the fourth side plate C2 are each provided with a flange near the pivot 340. The flanges extend in a direction away from the surface of the third side plate C1 and the fourth side plate C2. The first side plate B1 and the second side plate B2 are each provided with a baffle B3 near the pivot 340. The baffle B3 extends from the surface of the first side plate B1 and the second side plate B2 in a direction away from the surface of the first side plate B1 and the second side plate B2. A torsion spring 350 is sleeved on the pivot 340. One end of the torsion spring 350 abuts against the flange, and the other end of the torsion spring 350 abuts against the baffle B3.

[0107] How to use the charging system: After the vehicle 300 is parked in the charging position, the vehicle 300 sends a parking signal to the cloud platform. The cloud platform sends a plug-in command to the charging device 200. The charging device 200 controls the first charging connector 210 to connect to the second charging connector 310 of the vehicle 300.

[0108] After vehicle 300 completes charging, a charging completion signal is sent to the cloud platform. The cloud platform then sends a command to charging device 200. Charging device 200 controls the first charging connector 210 to separate from the second charging connector 310 of vehicle 300. When the first charging connector 210 returns to its original position and triggers the origin photoelectric switch, the first charging connector 210 returns to its original position signal and sends it to the cloud platform. The cloud platform then transmits the message "Charging complete, vehicle can leave" to the vehicle or the client APP. The vehicle can then leave automatically or be controlled by the customer via the APP. However, if the first charging connector 210 does not trigger the origin photoelectric switch after receiving the command from the cloud platform to separate from the second charging connector 310 of vehicle 300, the first charging connector 210 may still disconnect. If the photoelectric switch is turned on, it indicates that the charging device 200 is faulty. At the same time, a signal is sent to the vehicle 300 that the vehicle can leave normally. During the departure process of the vehicle 300, the second charging connector 310 of the vehicle 300 drives the first charging connector 210 to move, generating a pulling force on the locking part 11 of the rigid chain 100 and the elastic locking part 22 of the adapter plate 23. When the pulling force is between 150N and 200N, the locking part 11 and the elastic locking part 22 of the adapter plate 23 disengage. Some meshing points in the rigid section 110 of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 separate, the rigid section 110 fails to mesh, and becomes two flexible chains. The vehicle continues to move forward, separating the second charging connector 310 from the first charging connector 210.

[0109] After disengagement, the first charging connector 210 and the second chain 20 fall. The rotation between the pin A2 of the second chain 20 and the chain plate has a damping function, ensuring that the second chain 20 and the first charging connector 210 fall slowly, ensuring that the first charging connector and the equipment housing are not damaged during the falling process of the gun head. At the same time, it can also avoid the impact sound generated during the falling process of the first charging connector 210. After the first charging connector 210 is separated, the vehicle drives away normally without affecting the normal use of the customer.

[0110] After the second charging connector 310 is disengaged from the first charging connector 210, the second bracket 330 of the second charging connector 310 is driven to reset by the force of the torsion spring 350.

[0111] After the vehicle leaves, the maintenance personnel inspect the charging device and reset the locking part 11 of the rigid chain 100 and the elastic locking part 22 of the adapter plate 23, thus restoring the function of the charging device.

[0112] Example 2

[0113] The difference between this implementation and Example 1 is that in this implementation, as shown in Example 1... Figure 4 As shown, the adapter plate 23 of the second chain 20 is hinged to the first link A1 of the first chain 10 via a pin A2, and the strength of the pin A2 is less than that of the pins A2 of the other two adjacent links A1 in the first chain 10. During the vehicle's departure, the pin A2 with less strength breaks, the meshing point of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 separates, the rigid section 110 fails to mesh, and becomes two flexible chains. The vehicle continues to move forward, separating the second charging connector 310 from the first charging connector 210.

[0114] Example 3

[0115] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that, in this embodiment, as... Figure 8 and 9 As shown, the snap-fit ​​body 21 is a snap-fit ​​30 independent of the second chain 20. The snap-fit ​​30 includes a connecting part 31 and an elastic snap 22. The connecting part 31 is connected to the pin A2 of the second link A1 of the second chain 20, and the elastic snap 22 is snapped onto the pin A2 of the first link A1 of the first chain 10. During the vehicle's departure, the elastic snap 22 and the pin A2 of the first link A1 of the first chain 10 separate, the meshing point of the first chain 10 and the second chain 20 separates, the rigid section 110 fails to mesh, and becomes two flexible chains. The vehicle continues to move forward, separating the second charging connector 310 from the first charging connector 210.

[0116] It should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer" used above to indicate orientation or positional relationships are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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 utility model. Furthermore, 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 indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0117] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and an explanation of the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of the utility model involved in this application is not limited to the technical solutions formed by specific combinations of the above-described technical features, but should also cover other technical solutions formed by arbitrary combinations of the above-described technical features or their equivalents without departing from the inventive concept. For example, technical solutions formed by substituting the above features with (but not limited to) technical features with similar functions disclosed in this application.

Claims

1. A rigid chain, comprising a first chain and a second chain, wherein at least a portion of links of the first chain engage with at least a portion of links of the second chain in a one-to-one correspondence to form a rigid segment of the rigid chain; characterized in that, In the first chain, the hinge strength of at least two adjacent links in the rigid segment is less than the hinge strength of the remaining adjacent links. When the rigid segment of the rigid chain is subjected to a preset bending load, the two adjacent links with lower hinge strength can disengage from each other, so that at least partially meshed links in the rigid segment can disengage; or, At least one link of the first chain in the rigid segment is provided with a snap-fit ​​part, and at least one link of the second chain in the rigid segment is provided with a snap-fit ​​body. When the snap-fit ​​body and the snap-fit ​​part are in a snap-fit ​​state, the corresponding links in the rigid segment remain in an engaged state. When the snap-fit ​​body and the snap-fit ​​part are in a disengaged state, at least some of the interlocking links in the rigid segment, starting from the link corresponding to the snap-fit ​​part, disengage from each other.

2. The rigid chain according to claim 1, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​body is disposed at the end of the second chain, and the snap-fit ​​mating part is disposed at the end corresponding to the first chain. The snap-fit ​​body has an elastic latch, and the snap-fit ​​mating part is snapped into the elastic latch. The snap-fit ​​body is configured to be triggered by an external force to drive the elastic latch and the snap-fit ​​mating part to separate.

3. The rigid chain according to claim 2, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​body includes an adapter plate connected to the end link of the second chain. The adapter plate has a trigger portion and a snap-fit ​​area extending toward the first chain. The snap-fit ​​area has the elastic latch. The snap-fit ​​mating portion snaps into the elastic latch. The trigger portion is configured to be triggered by an external force to drive the elastic latch to separate from the snap-fit ​​mating portion.

4. The rigid chain according to claim 1, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​body includes a buckle that is detachably connected to the second chain. The buckle includes a connecting part and an elastic latch. The connecting part is connected to a link of the second chain, and the elastic latch engages with the snap-fit ​​mating part.

5. The rigid chain according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least two adjacent links in the first chain are provided with a first engaging part and a second engaging part, and at least one link of the second chain is provided with the engaging body. The engaging body includes a first elastic latch and a second elastic latch. The first engaging part and the second engaging part are respectively engaged with the first elastic latch and the second elastic latch to connect two adjacent links in the first chain through the engaging body.

6. The rigid chain according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The snap-fit ​​body has an avoidance groove, which is located in the area near the elastic snap-fit ​​opening.

7. The rigid chain according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the first chain, each adjacent link is hinged by a pin and located within the rigid section. The strength of the pin that hinges at least one set of two adjacent links is less than the strength of the pin that hinges the remaining adjacent links.

8. A charging device, characterized in that, It includes a first charging connector and a rigid chain as described in any one of claims 1-7, one end of the rigid chain being connected to the first charging connector.

9. A charging system, characterized in that, The device includes the charging device of claim 8, and a second charging connector for connection to a vehicle, the second charging connector being plugged into and engaged with the first charging connector, the second chain facing one side of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction, and the first chain facing the other side of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction.

10. The charging system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second charging connector is movably connected to the vehicle, and the second charging connector swings in the direction between the front and rear of the vehicle. A swing reset component is provided between the second charging connector and the vehicle. The swing reset component is used to reset the second charging connector to its initial position after it swings towards the front or rear of the vehicle.

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