Electric vehicle

Abstract

To secure rigidity in a link mechanism.SOLUTION: An electric vehicle 10 comprises a battery storage structure 18 from which a battery 12 can be taken out. The battery storage structure 18 has: a base part 42 that is mounted on a vehicle body 14; a storage case 44 formed to enable the battery 12 to be stored therein and provided to be movable in a vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10; and a link mechanism 46 supporting the storage case 44 to be movable relatively with respect to the base part 42. The link mechanism 46 comprises first link members 941 and 1021 whose one ends are connected to a rear case end part 80R of the storage case 44 relatively turnably and whose other ends are connected to a first mounting part 62 of the base part 42 relatively turnably. The link mechanism 46 further comprises second link members 942 and 1022 extended from the first link members 941 and 1021 and connected to a second mounting part 64 of the base part 42 relatively turnably.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric vehicle that can run on battery power. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, efforts to realize a low-carbon or carbon-free society have been intensified, and research and development into electrification technology has been conducted to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency in vehicles as well. Patent Document 1 discloses an electric vehicle equipped with a user-replaceable battery. The battery is stored on a dolly inside the body of the electric vehicle. When the user replaces the battery, the battery storage unit containing the battery is sent to the outside of the vehicle body (outward in the vehicle width direction) by a link mechanism, either by motor drive or manually, and the battery is removed to the outside of the vehicle body together with the battery storage unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2004-114845 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in an electric vehicle equipped with a replaceable battery as disclosed in Patent Document 1 relating to electrification technology, a load is input in the front-rear direction during driving to a link mechanism that supports a battery housing section that houses a heavy battery. In the electric vehicle of Patent Document 1, ensuring the rigidity of the link mechanism is not taken into consideration.

[0005] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems by ensuring the rigidity of a link mechanism, which in turn contributes to improving energy efficiency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an electric vehicle equipped with a drive unit that is driven by power from a replaceable battery, the electric vehicle comprising a vehicle body, and a battery housing structure that is attached to the vehicle body and capable of housing the battery and allowing the battery to be removed to the outside, the battery housing structure having a base that is attached to the vehicle body, a housing case in which the battery is housed and that is arranged inside the base, and a link mechanism that is provided between the housing case and the base and supports the housing case so that the housing case can move outward in a vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle relative to the base, the link mechanism being arranged at least either in front or behind the housing case in the fore-and-aft direction of the electric vehicle, and the housing case being movable in the fore-and-aft direction. the battery has at least one end of the accommodating case in a vehicle width direction relative to the base; the base has a first mounting portion facing the case end in the fore-aft direction and a second mounting portion arranged in a direction away from the accommodating case with respect to the first mounting portion in the fore-aft direction; the link mechanism includes a first link member having one end rotatably connected to the case end and the other end rotatably connected to the first mounting portion, and a second link member having one end connected to the first link member and extending from the first link member, and the other end connected to the second mounting portion so as to be rotatable relative to the first link member; and when the accommodating case is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base, the battery is attachable to and detachable from the accommodating case from outside the electric vehicle. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, in an electric vehicle equipped with a battery housing structure, the link mechanism having the first and second link members can satisfactorily ensure the rigidity of the battery housing structure including the housing case. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an overall side view of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the battery housing structure in the electric vehicle of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a side view of the battery housing structure shown in FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is an enlarged side view showing the vicinity of the link mechanism in the battery housing structure of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the rear link mechanism when a battery is accommodated in the battery accommodating structure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the battery being removed from the battery housing structure of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the rear link mechanism when the battery is removed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] 1, an electric vehicle 10 according to this embodiment is an electric vehicle (EV) equipped with an electric motor 38 driven by power from a battery 12. The electric vehicle 10 is not limited to an electric vehicle. As long as the vehicle uses a battery 12, the electric vehicle 10 can be applied to various electric vehicles 10 such as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or a fuel cell vehicle (FCV).

[0010] The electric vehicle 10 includes a vehicle body 14, a drive unit 16 that is driven by power supplied from the battery 12, and a battery housing structure 18 capable of housing the battery 12.

[0011] The vehicle body 14 includes a frame 20, a passenger compartment 22, and a cargo bed 24. As shown in Fig. 2, the frame 20 is provided on a floor panel 26 that constitutes the lower part of the vehicle body 14. The frame 20 has a pair of side frames 28 that are arranged in the vehicle width direction of the floor panel 26. The side frames 28 are each arranged outward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the center of the vehicle body 14 in the vehicle width direction. The pair of side frames 28 extend along the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. The side frames 28 are hollow bodies with a rectangular cross section.

[0012] 1, the passenger compartment 22 is disposed at the front of the electric vehicle 10. The passenger compartment 22 is a space surrounded by the vehicle body 14 and in which a passenger can ride. A door 32 is disposed in a vehicle body opening 30 in communication with the passenger compartment 22 and can be opened and closed.

[0013] The loading platform 24 is disposed at the rear of the vehicle interior 22 and is capable of carrying luggage and the like. The loading platform 24 extends to the rear end of the electric vehicle 10. The loading platform 24 has a loading surface 34 and a pair of side plates 36. The loading surface 34 extends along the fore-and-aft direction of the vehicle body 14. The loading surface 34 is a substantially flat surface that is horizontal in the fore-and-aft direction and the vehicle width direction of the vehicle body 14. In the height direction of the electric vehicle 10, the loading platform 24 is disposed below the center in the height direction. As shown in FIG. 2, the pair of side plates 36 are disposed on both sides of the loading platform 24 in the vehicle width direction. The pair of side plates 36 protrude upward from the loading surface 34.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the drive unit 16 has an electric motor 38. The electric motor 38 is provided in the vehicle body 14 and is driven to rotate by being supplied with electric power. The electric motor 38 is a drive motor 381 that drives the rear wheel 40R. The drive unit 16 and the battery 12 are electrically connected. Note that the drive motor 381 of the drive unit 16 is not limited to the electric motor 38 for driving the rear wheel 40R. For example, the drive unit 16 may be a drive motor 381 for driving the front wheel 40F, or a drive motor 381 for driving the front wheel 40F and the rear wheel 40R.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 3, the battery housing structure 18 is attached to the vehicle body 14 so as to be able to house and remove the battery 12. As shown in FIG. 1, the battery housing structure 18 is disposed between the front wheel 40F and the rear wheel 40R of the electric vehicle 10 in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. The battery housing structure 18 is disposed below the loading surface 34 of the loading platform 24. As shown in FIG. 3, the battery housing structure 18 is exposed to the sides in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. The battery housing structure 18 is provided on each of both side parts in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. As shown in FIG. 1, when the battery 12 is housed in the battery housing structure 18, the height H from the ground to the top of the battery 12 is set to, for example, 610 mm or less. The height H of the battery 12 in the housed state is set to, for example, a height that allows a short user to grasp the battery 12 with their arms outstretched and pull it out upward.

[0016] The battery housing structure 18 is not limited to being provided on both sides in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. It may be provided on only one side in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. Here, as shown in Fig. 2, a case will be described in which the battery housing structure 18 is provided on both sides in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 3, the battery accommodating structure 18 includes a base 42, an accommodating case 44, and a link mechanism 46.

[0018] The base 42 is formed in a box shape that is long in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. As shown in Fig. 2, the base 42 is attached to the frame 20 of the vehicle body 14. The base 42 is fixed to each of the pair of side frames 28. The base 42 is disposed outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the side frames 28. When a single battery housing structure 18 is provided, the base 42 is fixed to one of the pair of side frames 28.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 3, the base 42 includes an inner wall 421, a first side wall 422, a second side wall 423, an upper wall 424, and a bottom wall 425. As shown in FIG. 2, the inner wall 421 is disposed inward in the vehicle width direction in the base 42. The inner wall 421 extends in the height direction of the electric vehicle 10, and a central portion in the height direction is fixed to a side surface of the side frame 28. The inner wall 421 has a protruding space 48 that protrudes inward in the vehicle width direction. As shown in FIG. 3, the protruding space 48 is formed from a central portion of the inner wall 421 toward the rear in the front-rear direction. The protruding space 48 has a generally rectangular shape that is elongated in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0020] The first side wall 422 is disposed forward of the inner wall 421. The second side wall 423 is disposed rearward of the inner wall 421. The first and second side walls 422, 423 extend in the height direction and extend generally perpendicular to the inner wall 421 outward in the vehicle width direction.

[0021] The upper wall 424 is connected to the upper ends of the inner wall 421 and the first and second side walls 422, 423. The upper wall 424 extends in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10 and constitutes an upper portion of the base 42. As shown in Fig. 2, the upper wall 424 is disposed below and approximately parallel to the floor panel 26 that constitutes the cargo bed 24.

[0022] As shown in Fig. 3, the bottom wall 425 is disposed below the upper wall 424. The bottom wall 425 has a first bottom 521 connected to a lower end of the first side wall 422 and a second bottom 522 connected to a lower end of the second side wall 423. In the height direction of the electric vehicle 10, the first bottom 521 and the second bottom 522 are at the same height. A bottom opening 54 is provided between the first bottom 521 and the second bottom 522. The bottom opening 54 opens below the base 42. The bottom opening 54 opens approximately at the center of the bottom wall 425.

[0023] The base 42 has an accommodation space 56 surrounded by an inner wall 421, an upper wall 424, and first and second side walls 422, 423. The accommodation space 56 is a space capable of accommodating the accommodation case 44. The accommodation space 56 communicates with the outside through a bottom opening 54.

[0024] The first bottom portion 521 has a pair of front mounting portions 58. The pair of front mounting portions 58 protrude upward from the first bottom portion 521. The pair of front mounting portions 58 face the accommodation space 56 in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. The pair of front mounting portions 58 are disposed spaced apart in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0025] As shown in Fig. 4, the second bottom portion 522 has a rear mounting portion 60. The rear mounting portion 60 protrudes upward from the second bottom portion 522. The rear mounting portion 60 has first and second mounting portions 62, 64. In the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, each of the first and second mounting portions 62, 64 faces the accommodation space 56. When viewed from the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the first mounting portion 62 and the second mounting portion 64 are disposed at a distance from each other in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0026] The first mounting portion 62 is provided at the front of the second bottom portion 522. As shown in Fig. 5, the first mounting portion 62 includes a first outer mounting portion 62S and a first inner mounting portion 62U. In the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the first inner mounting portion 62U is disposed inside the first outer mounting portion 62S in the vehicle width direction. The first outer mounting portion 62S and the first inner mounting portion 62U are spaced apart in the vehicle width direction.

[0027] As shown in Fig. 4, the second mounting portion 64 is disposed rearward relative to the first mounting portion 62. As shown in Fig. 5, the second mounting portion 64 includes a second outer mounting portion 64S and a second inner mounting portion 64U. In the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the second inner mounting portion 64U is disposed inward in the vehicle width direction of the second outer mounting portion 64S. The second outer mounting portion 64S and the second inner mounting portion 64U are spaced apart in the vehicle width direction.

[0028] When viewed from the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, the first outer mounting portion 62S of the first mounting portion 62 and the second outer mounting portion 64S of the second mounting portion 64 face each other. The first inner mounting portion 62U of the first mounting portion 62 and the second inner mounting portion 64U of the second mounting portion 64 face each other.

[0029] 2, the base 42 further has a mounting groove 68 in which a seal member 66 is mounted. The mounting groove 68 is formed in an annular shape so as to extend across the upper wall 424, the first side wall 422, and the inner wall 421. The seal member 66 is made of an elastic material and is formed in an annular shape corresponding to the mounting groove 68.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the storage case 44 is stored in a storage space 56 formed inside the base 42. The storage case 44 is provided so as to be movable in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10 relative to the base 42 (see FIG. 6). The storage case 44 has a storage section 70 capable of storing the battery 12, an opening 72 that opens at the top of the storage section 70, and a grip section 74 (see FIG. 3) that can be gripped by a user. As shown in FIG. 3, the storage case 44 is formed in a rectangular shape that is elongated in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. Note that the storage case 44 is not limited to being formed in a rectangular shape that is elongated in the front-rear direction. For example, the storage case 44 may be formed in a substantially square shape.

[0031] The storage section 70 is formed in a box shape with a bottom and an opening 72 at the top. The storage section 70 is formed so as to be able to store a plurality of batteries 12. The plurality of batteries 12 are stored in parallel in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10 in the storage section 70. Below, a case where three batteries 12 are stored in each storage case 44 in the battery storage structure 18 will be described. Note that the number of batteries 12 stored in the storage case 44 (storage section 70) is not limited to three. It may be configured to store two or less batteries 12, or may be configured to store four or more batteries 12. The battery 12 is a replaceable low-voltage battery. The battery 12 can be handled by general users who do not have a license to handle it.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 2, the battery 12 includes a case 12a, a battery core 12b, and a connector section 12c. The battery 12 has a shape that is long in the vertical direction. The upper part of the case 12a has a handle 12d that can be held by a user. The handle 12d is disposed on the upper part of the case 12a. The user holds the handle 12d when carrying the battery 12. The connector section 12c is provided on the lower part of the case 12a. The connector section 12c has a connection terminal that is exposed to the outside of the case 12a. Inside the case 12a, the connection terminal and the battery core 12b are electrically connected.

[0033] A vehicle-side connection terminal 76 is provided at the bottom of the storage section 70. The vehicle-side connection terminal 76 is electrically connected to a relay member (not shown) via a harness 78. When the battery 12 is stored in the storage section 70 of the storage case 44, the connector section 12c of the battery 12 and the vehicle-side connection terminal 76 are electrically connected. Power of the battery 12 can be supplied from the vehicle-side connection terminal 76 to the drive section 16 via the relay member. At this time, the handle 12d of the battery 12 is stored so as to face the opening 72 of the storage case 44.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 3, the storage section 70 includes a front case end 80F disposed at the front in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, and a rear case end 80R disposed at the rear. In the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, the front case end 80F and the rear case end 80R are disposed in parallel and spaced apart from each other. The front case end 80F faces the first side wall 422 and the front mounting portion 58 of the base 42. The rear case end 80R faces the second side wall 423 of the base 42. In the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, the rear case end 80R faces each of the first and second mounting portions 62, 64 (rear mounting portions 60) of the base 42.

[0035] With the accommodating case 44 accommodated in the accommodating space 56 of the base 42, a rear case end portion 80R of the accommodating case 44 and the base 42 are spaced apart in the front-to-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. An arrangement space 82 is formed between the rear case end portion 80R of the accommodating case 44 and the base 42. The arrangement space 82 is a space in which the rear link mechanism 46R of the link mechanism 46 is arranged. The arrangement space 82 is provided rearward of the accommodating case 44 (accommodating space 56).

[0036] The arrangement space 82 is not limited to being provided behind the accommodating case 44 (accommodating space 56). For example, the arrangement space 82 may be provided between the front case end portion 80F of the accommodating case 44 and the first side wall 422 of the base 42.

[0037] The storage case 44 includes a cover portion 84 disposed outward in the vehicle width direction. The cover portion 84 is formed in a plate shape and attached so as to cover the side wall of the storage portion 70, and includes an extension portion 841 extending rearward from the rear end of the storage portion 70. The extension portion 841 of the cover portion 84 is disposed so as to cover the arrangement space 82. That is, the extension portion 841 faces the arrangement space 82 in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0038] When the storage case 44 is accommodated in the storage space 56 of the base 42, the upper part of the storage section 70 near the opening 72 comes into contact with the sealing member 66, thereby ensuring a seal between the storage case 44 and the base 42.

[0039] 2, the accommodation portion 70 has a protruding portion 86 that protrudes inward in the vehicle width direction. When the accommodation case 44 is accommodated in the accommodation space 56 of the base portion 42, the protruding portion 86 is accommodated in the protruding space 48. The protruding portion 86 is formed hollow.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 6, when moving the accommodation case 44 relative to the base 42, the user grips the grip portion 74. As shown in Fig. 3, the grip portion 74 is provided on an extension portion 841 of the cover portion 84. The grip portion 74 is disposed at approximately the center in the height direction of the cover portion 84. In other words, the grip portion 74 faces the arrangement space 82 in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. The grip portion 74 has an operation lever 88 attached to a hole portion 842 penetrating the cover portion 84. The operation lever 88 is supported via the hole portion 842 so as to be tiltable outward in the vehicle width direction.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2, when the storage case 44 is stored in the storage space 56 of the base 42, the storage case 44 does not protrude outward in the vehicle width direction from the cargo bed 24 of the electric vehicle 10, but is positioned inward in the vehicle width direction from the side of the cargo bed 24.

[0042] 3, the link mechanism 46 is disposed between the base 42 and the accommodating case 44. The link mechanism 46 supports the accommodating case 44 so as to be movable relative to the base 42. The link mechanism 46 has a front link mechanism 46F disposed in front of the accommodating case 44 and a rear link mechanism 46R disposed in the arrangement space 82 behind the accommodating case 44.

[0043] The front link mechanism 46F includes a pair of link members 90, one end of which is connected to the front case end 80F so as to be rotatable relative to the front mounting portion 58, and the other end of which is connected to the front case end 80F so as to be rotatable relative to the front mounting portion 58. The link members 90 are arranged parallel to the front case end 80F of the storage case 44. The length of one link member 90 arranged outward in the vehicle width direction is shorter than the length of the other link member 90 arranged inward in the vehicle width direction.

[0044] As shown in Fig. 4, the rear link mechanism 46R has an inner link portion 92U and an outer link portion 92S. The inner link portion 92U and the outer link portion 92S are arranged in parallel in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10 (see Fig. 5). As shown in Fig. 5, the inner link portion 92U is disposed inward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the outer link portion 92S. In other words, the outer link portion 92S is disposed outward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the inner link portion 92U.

[0045] 4, the inner link portion 92U includes a first link member 941 and a second link member 942. One end of the first link member 941 is connected to the rear case end portion 80R so as to be rotatable relative to the rear case end portion 80R, and the other end is connected to the first inner mounting portion 62U of the first mounting portion 62 so as to be rotatable relative to the rear case end portion 80R. The first link member 941 is disposed parallel to the rear case end portion 80R.

[0046] The first link member 941 has a first connection portion 96 provided at one end and a second connection portion 98 provided at the other end. The first connection portion 96 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100A provided at the rear case end portion 80R. The second connection portion 98 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100B of the first inner mounting portion 62U of the first mounting portion 62.

[0047] The second link member 942 extends from the first link member 941 toward the second mounting portion 64. The second link member 942 includes a rod end 104 provided at one end and a third connecting portion 106 provided at the other end. The rod end 104 is connected to the first link member 941. In the longitudinal direction of the first link member 941, the rod end 104 is connected toward the first connecting portion 96 from the longitudinal center. The rod end 104 of the second link member 942 may be connected to the first connecting portion 96 of the first link member 941. The third connecting portion 106 is rotatably supported by the support portion 100C of the second inner mounting portion 64U of the second mounting portion 64 (see FIG. 5).

[0048] The inner link portion 92U is rotatable in the vehicle width direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10 by means of the first and second link members 1021, 1022 (see FIG. 7).

[0049] 4, the outer link portion 92S includes a first link member 1021 and a second link member 1022. One end of the first link member 1021 is connected to the rear case end portion 80R so as to be rotatable relative to the rear case end portion 80R, and the other end is connected to the first attachment portion 62 so as to be rotatable relative to the rear case end portion 80R. The first link member 1021 is disposed parallel to the rear case end portion 80R.

[0050] The first link member 1021 has a first connection portion 96 provided at one end and a second connection portion 98 provided at the other end. The length of the first link member 1021 of the outer link portion 92S is shorter than the length of the first link member 941 of the inner link portion 92U. The rod end 104 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100D provided at the rear case end portion 80R. The support portion 100D is disposed below the support portion 100A that supports the first link member 941 of the inner link portion 92U. The second connection portion 98 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100B of the first outer mounting portion 62S of the first mounting portion 62.

[0051] The second link member 1022 extends from the first link member 1021 toward the second attachment portion 64. The second link member 1022 has a rod end 104 provided at one end and a third connection portion 106 provided at the other end. The length of the second link member 1022 of the outer link portion 92S is shorter than the length of the second link member 942 of the inner link portion 92U. In other words, the first and second link members 1021, 1022 of the outer link portion 92S are formed shorter than the first and second link members 941, 942 of the inner link portion 92U, respectively.

[0052] The rod end 104 is connected to the first link member 1021. In the longitudinal direction of the first link member 1021, the rod end 104 is connected from the longitudinal center toward the first connecting portion 96. The rod end 104 of the second link member 1022 may be connected to the first connecting portion 96 of the first link member 1021. The third connecting portion 106 is rotatably supported by the support portion 100E of the second outer mounting portion 64S of the second mounting portion 64.

[0053] The outer link portion 92S is rotatable in the vehicle width direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10 by means of first and second link members 1021, 1022 (see FIG. 7).

[0054] The first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 are not limited to those constituting the rear link mechanism 46R. For example, the front link mechanism 46F may be configured to include the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022. In this case, the arrangement space 82 is disposed in front of the housing case 44, and the front link mechanism 46F including the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 is provided in front of the housing case 44. The front link mechanism 46F and the rear link mechanism 46R may both be configured to include the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022. In this case, the arrangement spaces 82 are provided in front and behind the housing case 44, and the front link mechanism 46F and the rear link mechanism 46R are provided in the two arrangement spaces 82, respectively.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 2, the battery housing structure 18 further includes a lock mechanism 108 and a damper mechanism 110. The lock mechanism 108 prevents the housing case 44 from moving relative to the base 42. The lock mechanism 108 includes a lock portion 112 provided on the housing case 44 and a striker 114 provided on the base 42. As shown in FIG. 4, the lock portion 112 is provided inside the protruding portion 86 of the housing case 44. The lock portion 112 has a lock key 118 that is connected to and interlocked with the operating lever 88 of the grip portion 74 by a cable 116. The lock key 118 can protrude from the protruding portion 86 into the protruding space 48 through a hole portion (not shown). The striker 114 is provided in the protruding space 48 of the base 42.

[0056] When the storage case 44 is stored in the storage space 56 of the base 42, a striker 114 is disposed below the lock portion 112. The lock key 118 of the lock portion 112 is engaged with the striker 114, thereby preventing the striker 114 and the lock portion 112 from moving relative to each other in the vehicle width direction. The storage case 44 having the lock portion 112 cannot move in the vehicle width direction relative to the base 42. When the user rotates the operating lever 88 of the grip portion 74, the lock key 118 of the lock portion 112 is actuated by the cable 116, and the engagement state of the lock key 118 with the striker 114 is released.

[0057] In this embodiment, for example, the cable 116 may be replaced with a harness, and the operating lever 88 may be provided with a switch, and by operating the switch, the lock key 118 may be electrically activated through the harness, thereby providing a locking mechanism that can release the engagement state of the lock key 118 with the striker 114.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 2, the damper mechanism 110 controls the relative moving speed of the housing case 44 with respect to the base 42 when the housing case 44 moves with respect to the base 42. The damper mechanism 110 has a damper body 120 and a damper rod 122. A resistance fluid is sealed inside the damper body 120. The resistance fluid is, for example, gas or oil. The damper rod 122 can move forward and backward with respect to the damper body 120. When the damper rod 122 moves with respect to the damper body 120, it moves while being resisted by the resistance fluid. The damper mechanism 110 is disposed along the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. As shown in FIG. 4, one end of the damper rod 122, which is one end of the damper mechanism 110, is disposed in the arrangement space 82. One end of the damper rod 122 is connected to the rear case end portion 80R of the housing case 44. An end of the damper body 120, which is the other end of the damper mechanism 110, is connected to the frame 20 of the vehicle body 14 (see FIG. 2). Note that the end of the damper body 120 is not limited to being connected and fixed to the frame 20. For example, the end of the damper body 120 may be connected and fixed to the base 42 of the battery housing structure 18.

[0059] 6, when the housing case 44 moves relative to the base 42, the damper rod 122 connected to the housing case 44 is damped relative to the damper body 120, thereby suppressing the moving speed of the housing case 44 relative to the base 42. Note that the damper mechanism 110 is not limited to a configuration capable of damping the moving speed of the damper rod 122 by a resistance fluid. For example, the damper mechanism 110 may be an electric damper mechanism capable of electrically damping the moving speed of the damper rod 122.

[0060] Next, a case where the battery 12 is replaced in the electric vehicle 10 will be described. Here, a case where the battery 12 on the left side (passenger seat side) in the vehicle width direction when viewed from the rear of the electric vehicle 10 shown in Fig. 2 will be described. Note that the replacement work for replacing the battery 12 on the right side (driver seat side) shown in Fig. 2 is the same as the replacement work for the battery 12 on the left side, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0061] When the user operates the operating lever 88 of the grip portion 74 while positioned to the side of the electric vehicle 10 facing the battery housing structure 18, the lock key 118 of the lock mechanism 108 is actuated to release the engagement with the striker 114. The storage case 44 is released from the locked state by the lock mechanism 108, and the storage case 44 becomes movable relative to the base 42.

[0062] Next, the user grips the grip portion 74 and pulls out the storage case 44 outward in the vehicle width direction. As a result, the storage case 44 is pulled outward in the vehicle width direction while tilting relative to the base 42 by the link mechanism 46. The moving speed of the storage case 44 relative to the base 42 is controlled by the damper mechanism 110, and the storage case 44 moves outward in the vehicle width direction at a gentle speed. At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, since the length of the outer link portion 92S arranged on the outer side in the vehicle width direction is shorter than the length of the inner link portion 92U arranged on the inner side in the vehicle width direction, the rotation radius of the inner link portion 92U (first and second link members 941, 942) with the first inner mounting portion 62U and the second inner mounting portion 64U of the first and second mounting portions 62, 64 as fulcrums is different from the rotation radius of the outer link portion 92S (first and second link members 1021, 1022) with the first outer mounting portion 62S and the second outer mounting portion 64S as fulcrums. In detail, the rotation radius of the outer link portion 92S is smaller than the rotation radius of the inner link portion 92U. Therefore, the lower ends of the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 are used as fulcrums, and the storage case 44 is inclined with respect to the vertical direction (imaginary line L) so that the upper part of the storage case 44 is located outward in the vehicle width direction from the lower end of the storage case 44. The storage case 44 is tilted to a position where the opening 72 of the storage case 44 is disposed outward with respect to the side part in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. The link mechanism 46 tilts the storage case 44 with respect to the base 42, and the storage case 44 is held in a state where it protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction from the side part in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. That is, the storage case 44 is tilted in the vertical direction to a position where the loading platform 24 of the electric vehicle 10 and the opening 72 do not overlap. At this time, the inclination angle of the storage case 44 with respect to the vertical direction is set to an angle that makes it easy for the user to remove the battery 12 stored in the storage part 70.

[0063] For example, compared to a configuration in which the lower part of the accommodating case 44 is rotatably supported by a hinge structure relative to the base 42, when the accommodating case 44 is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base 42 to attach or detach the battery 12, the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U suppress the inclination θ (inclination angle, see FIG. 6) of the accommodating case 44 relative to the base 42. Compared to a configuration in which the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U have the same length, the inclination θ of the accommodating case 44 relative to the base 42 is suppressed to an angle that makes it easy to attach or detach the battery 12. Compared to a configuration in which the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U have the same length, when the accommodating case 44 is moved outward in the vehicle width direction from the base 42, the amount of protrusion D (see Figure 6) of the accommodating case 44 outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10 can be reduced, while the amount of downward movement of the accommodating case 44 when removed can be reduced compared to when the accommodating case 44 is accommodated in the battery accommodating structure 18, as shown in Figure 2.

[0064] 6, when the storage case 44 is in the removal position, the opening 72 of the storage case 44 is disposed to face a user standing to the side of the electric vehicle 10. The user grasps the handle 12d along the storage section 70 of the storage case 44 and removes the battery 12 diagonally upward. The connector section 12c of the battery 12 detaches from the vehicle-side connection terminal 76.

[0065] When a new battery 12 is to be accommodated in the storage case 44, the battery 12 is moved into the storage section 70 through the opening 72. At this time, the storage case 44 is inclined so that the opening 72 faces outward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the vertical direction. The battery 12 is inserted into the storage section 70 along the storage section 70, and the connector section 12c of the battery 12 is connected to the vehicle side connection terminal 76. As a result, the battery 12 is held at the bottom of the storage section 70 via the connector section 12c. The connection terminal of the battery 12 is electrically connected to the vehicle side connection terminal 76. After checking the storage state of the battery 12 in the storage section 70, the user moves the storage case 44 toward the storage space 56 of the base 42 by pushing the cover section 84 of the storage case 44 inward in the vehicle width direction. The link mechanism 46 tilts the storage case 44 toward the storage space 56 so that the upper part of the storage case 44 moves more than the lower part. The opening 72 of the storage case 44 is disposed upward, and the cover portion 84 is disposed parallel to the up-down direction of the electric vehicle 10 as shown in Fig. 2, so that the storage case 44 is stored in the storage space 56 of the base 42. At this time, the storage case 44 does not protrude outward in the vehicle width direction from the side portion in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. The lock key 118 of the storage case 44 engages with the striker 114, so that the storage case 44 is in a locked state in which movement of the storage case 44 relative to the base 42 is prevented.

[0066] This embodiment provides the following advantages.

[0067] 3, the battery housing structure 18 of the electric vehicle 10 includes a base 42 attached to the vehicle body 14, a housing case 44 capable of housing the battery 12, and a link mechanism 46 provided between the housing case 44 and the base 42 and supporting the housing case 44 so as to be movable relative to the base 42. The link mechanism 46 includes first link members 941, 1021 having one end connected to the rear case end portion 80R so as to be rotatable relative to the rear case end portion 80R and the other end connected to the first mounting portion 62 so as to be rotatable relative to the rear case end portion 80R, and second link members 942, 1022 having one end connected to the first link members 941, 1021 and extending from the first link members 941, 1021, and the other end connected to the second mounting portion 64 so as to be rotatable relative to the rear case end portion 80R.

[0068] As a result, the link mechanism 46 (rear link mechanism 46R) having the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 can ensure good rigidity of the housing case 44 housing the battery 12. Therefore, when a load is applied to the battery housing structure 18 due to a load change occurring in the front-rear direction while the electric vehicle 10 is traveling, the link mechanism 46 can effectively suppress movement of the housing case 44 housing the battery 12. This makes it possible to protect the battery 12 while traveling. When the battery 12 is attached to or detached from the housing case 44, the link mechanism 46 can move the housing case 44 in the vehicle width direction relative to the base 42. Therefore, the battery 12 can be effectively replaced on the side of the electric vehicle 10 in the vehicle width direction.

[0069] 5, link mechanism 46 has an outer link portion 92S and an inner link portion 92U arranged side by side in the vehicle width direction, with the inner link portion 92U being disposed inward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the outer link portion 92S. The length of a first link member 1021 of the outer link portion 92S is shorter than the length of a first link member 941 of the inner link portion 92U, and the length of a second link member 1022 of the outer link portion 92S is shorter than the length of a second link member 942 of the inner link portion 92U.

[0070] As a result, when the storage case 44 is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base 42 to attach or detach the battery 12, the inclination θ of the storage case 44 relative to the base 42 can be suppressed by the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U, compared to a configuration in which the lower portion of the storage case 44 is rotatably supported by a hinge structure relative to the base 42. Compared to a configuration in which the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U have the same length, the inclination θ of the storage case 44 relative to the base 42 can be suppressed so that the battery 12 can be easily attached or detached. Compared with a configuration in which the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U have the same length, when the storage case 44 is moved outward in the vehicle width direction from the base 42, the amount of protrusion D of the storage case 44 outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10 can be suppressed, while the amount of downward movement of the storage case 44 when removed can be suppressed relative to the storage case 44 when stored. Therefore, when performing replacement work of the battery 12 outside the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the battery 12 can be easily moved to the storage position and removal position relative to the storage case 44.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 1, the electric vehicle 10 includes a vehicle compartment 22 provided in a vehicle body 14 and capable of accommodating a passenger, and a cargo bed 24 disposed rearward of the vehicle compartment 22. The battery housing structure 18 is disposed below the cargo bed 24. The housing case 44 is disposed on the side of the electric vehicle 10 in the vehicle width direction. This allows the battery 12 to be easily replaced while securing space for the cargo bed 24 in the electric vehicle 10. By disposing the battery 12 below the cargo bed 24, the height of the center of gravity of the electric vehicle 10 can be lowered compared to a structure in which the battery 12 is disposed above the cargo bed 24. This allows the electric vehicle 10 to have improved running stability during running. Since the housing case 44 is exposed to the outside on the side of the electric vehicle 10, the battery 12 housed in the housing case 44 can be effectively cooled by the wind generated by running the electric vehicle 10 while the electric vehicle 10 is running. This eliminates the need for a cooling device for cooling the battery 12, simplifying the configuration of the electric vehicle 10 and reducing manufacturing costs. When the battery 12 is attached to or detached from the battery accommodating structure 18, the battery 12 can be replaced without the battery 12 interfering with the cargo bed 24. This prevents the battery accommodating structure 18 from interfering with the loading of luggage, etc. onto the cargo bed 24.

[0072] 2, the vehicle body 14 includes a pair of side frames 28 that are disposed outward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the center in the vehicle width direction. A base 42 of the battery housing structure 18 is fixed to the side frames 28. By fixing the base 42 to the side frames 28, which are part of the frame 20, the rigidity of the base 42 and the housing case 44 supported by the base 42 can be increased, and the battery 12 housed in the housing case 44 can be effectively protected against a load applied while the electric vehicle 10 is traveling.

[0073] 3, an arrangement space 82 in which the link mechanism 46 is arranged is provided between the storage case 44 and the base 42 in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. A gripping portion 74 for gripping the storage case 44 is provided at a position facing the arrangement space 82 in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. As a result, by arranging the gripping portion 74 so as to face the arrangement space 82 in which the link mechanism 46 is provided, it is possible to effectively utilize the arrangement space 82 which would otherwise be dead space. Therefore, a space-efficient layout can be realized in the electric vehicle 10, and the battery housing structure 18 can be made smaller.

[0074] Between the housing case 44 and the base 42 in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, there is an arrangement space 82 in which the link mechanism 46 is arranged. The arrangement space 82 is provided with a damper mechanism 110 having one end connected to the housing case 44 and the other end connected to the vehicle body 14. The damper mechanism 110 controls the relative movement speed of the housing case 44 with respect to the base 42 when the housing case 44 moves with respect to the base 42. This allows the damper mechanism 110 to effectively suppress the movement speed (opening / closing speed) of the housing case 44 with respect to the base 42 when the battery 12 is removed or accommodated. By arranging the damper mechanism 110 in the arrangement space 82, it is possible to effectively utilize the arrangement space 82, which would otherwise be a dead space. This allows the electric vehicle 10 to realize a space-efficient layout and reduce the size of the battery accommodation structure 18.

[0075] In addition to the above disclosure, the following notes are also disclosed.

[0076] (Appendix 1) The electric vehicle (10) includes a drive unit (16) that is driven by power from a replaceable battery (12). The electric vehicle includes a vehicle body (14) and a battery housing structure (18) that is attached to the vehicle body and can house the battery and that can remove the battery to the outside, the battery housing structure having a base (42) that is attached to the vehicle body, a housing case (44) that houses the battery and is arranged inside the base, and a link mechanism (46) that is provided between the housing case and the base and supports the housing case so that the housing case can move outward in a vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle relative to the base, the link mechanism being arranged at least either in front or behind the housing case in the fore-and-aft direction of the electric vehicle, and the housing case being a case that is at least one end of the housing case in the fore-and-aft direction. and an end portion of the battery storage unit, the base portion having a first mounting portion (62) facing the case end portion in the fore-and-aft direction, and a second mounting portion (64) arranged in a direction away from the storage case relative to the first mounting portion in the fore-and-aft direction, the link mechanism comprising a first link member (941, 1021) having one end rotatably connected to the case end portion and the other end rotatably connected to the first mounting portion, and a second link member (942, 1022) having one end connected to the first link member and extending from the first link member, and the other end connected to the second mounting portion so as to be rotatable relative to the first link member, and when the storage case is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base, the battery can be attached to and detached from the storage case from outside the electric vehicle.

[0077] According to this configuration, the link mechanism having the first and second link members can ensure good rigidity of the battery housing structure in which the battery is housed. Therefore, when a load is applied to the battery housing structure in accordance with a load change occurring in the front-rear direction while the electric vehicle is traveling, the link mechanism can effectively suppress movement of the housing case housing the battery. This makes it possible to protect the battery while traveling.

[0078] (Appendix 2) In the electric vehicle described in Appendix 1, the link mechanism may have an outer link portion (92S) and an inner link portion (92U) arranged side by side in the vehicle width direction, the inner link portion being arranged inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the outer link portion, the length of the first link member of the outer link portion being shorter than the length of the first link member of the inner link portion, and the length of the second link member of the outer link portion being shorter than the length of the second link member of the inner link portion.

[0079] According to this configuration, when the storage case is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base to attach or detach the battery, the outer link portion and the inner link portion can suppress the inclination of the storage case relative to the base, compared to a configuration in which the lower part of the storage case is rotatably supported by a hinge structure relative to the base. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first and second link members of the outer link portion and the inner link portion are the same, the inclination of the storage case relative to the base can be suppressed so as to facilitate the attachment and detachment of the battery. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first and second link members of the outer link portion and the inner link portion are the same, when the storage case is moved outward in the vehicle width direction from the base, the amount of protrusion of the storage case outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle can be suppressed, while the amount of downward movement of the storage case when removed can be suppressed relative to the storage case when removed. Therefore, when performing battery replacement work outside the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle, the battery can be easily moved to the storage position and removal position relative to the storage case.

[0080] (Appendix 3) The electric vehicle described in Appendix 1 or 2 may include a passenger compartment (22) provided in the vehicle body and capable of accommodating a passenger, and a luggage platform (24) arranged rearward of the passenger compartment, the battery storage structure being disposed below the luggage platform, and the storage case being disposed on at least one side of the electric vehicle in the vehicle width direction.

[0081] According to this configuration, the battery can be easily replaced while ensuring space in the loading platform of the electric vehicle. By arranging the battery below the loading platform, the height of the center of gravity of the electric vehicle can be lowered compared to a structure in which the battery is arranged above the loading platform. This improves the running stability of the electric vehicle when it is running. Since the storage case is exposed to the outside at the side of the electric vehicle, the battery stored in the storage case can be effectively cooled by the wind generated by running the electric vehicle while the electric vehicle is running. This eliminates the need for a cooling device for cooling the battery, which simplifies the configuration of the electric vehicle and reduces manufacturing costs. When the battery is attached or detached from the battery storage structure, the work can be performed without the battery interfering with the loading platform. This prevents the battery storage structure from interfering with the loading platform when loading luggage, etc.

[0082] (Appendix 4) In the electric vehicle described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3, the vehicle body may include a set of side frames (28) that are part of a frame and are arranged outward in the vehicle width direction with respect to a center in the vehicle width direction, and the base of the battery housing structure may be fixed to at least one of the side frames.

[0083] According to this configuration, by fixing the base to the side frame, which is part of the frame, the rigidity of the base and the storage case supported by the base can be increased, and the battery contained in the storage case can be effectively protected against the load applied while the electric vehicle is traveling.

[0084] (Appendix 5) In the electric vehicle described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3, an arrangement space (82) in which the link mechanism is arranged is provided between the accommodating case and the base in the fore-and-aft direction, and a gripping portion (74) for gripping the accommodating case may be provided at a position facing the arrangement space in the vehicle width direction.

[0085] According to this configuration, by arranging the grip portion so as to face the arrangement space in which the link mechanism is provided, it is possible to effectively utilize the arrangement space that would otherwise be dead space, thereby realizing a space-efficient layout in an electric vehicle and making it possible to miniaturize the battery housing structure.

[0086] (Appendix 6) In the electric vehicle described in any one of Appendices 1 to 5, there is an arrangement space between the accommodating case and the base in the fore-and-aft direction, in which the link mechanism is arranged, and the arrangement space is provided with a damper mechanism (110) having one end connected to the accommodating case and the other end connected to the base or the vehicle body, and the damper mechanism may control the relative moving speed of the accommodating case with respect to the base when the accommodating case moves with respect to the base.

[0087] With this configuration, when removing or storing the battery, the moving speed (opening / closing speed) of the storage case relative to the base can be effectively controlled by the damper mechanism. By disposing the damper mechanism in the arrangement space, the arrangement space can be effectively utilized, which would otherwise be dead space. This makes it possible to realize a space-efficient layout in an electric vehicle and to reduce the size of the battery storage structure.

[0088] The present invention is not limited to the above disclosure, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 10. Electric vehicles 12…Battery 14…Body 16...Drive unit 18…Battery housing structure 42...Base 44…Storage case 46…Link mechanism 62…First mounting part 64…Second mounting part 80F…Front case end 80R…Rear case end 941, 1021...First link member 942, 1022...Second link member

Claims

1. An electric vehicle having a drive unit driven by power from a replaceable battery, The electric vehicle includes a vehicle body and a battery housing structure that is attached to the vehicle body and capable of housing the battery and allowing the battery to be removed to the outside; Equipped with The battery housing structure includes a base portion attached to the vehicle body; a housing case that houses the battery and is disposed inside the base; a link mechanism provided between the accommodating case and the base, the link mechanism supporting the accommodating case so as to be movable outward in a vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle relative to the base; having the link mechanism is disposed at least one of a front and a rear of the accommodation case in a front-rear direction of the electric vehicle, the storage case has a case end portion which is at least one end portion of the storage case in the front-rear direction, the base portion has a first attachment portion facing the end portion of the case in the front-rear direction, and a second attachment portion disposed in a direction away from the storage case with respect to the first attachment portion in the front-rear direction, The link mechanism includes a first link member having one end connected to the case end portion so as to be rotatable relative to the case end portion and the other end connected to the first attachment portion so as to be rotatable relative to the case end portion; a second link member having one end connected to the first link member and extending from the first link member and having the other end connected to the second mounting portion so as to be rotatable relative to the first link member; Equipped with When the storage case is moved outward in a vehicle width direction relative to the base, the battery can be attached to and detached from the storage case from outside the electric vehicle.

2. The electric vehicle according to claim 1, The link mechanism has an outer link portion and an inner link portion arranged in parallel in a vehicle width direction, The inner link portion is disposed inward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the outer link portion, a length of the first link member of the outer link portion is shorter than a length of the first link member of the inner link portion; an electric vehicle, wherein a length of the second link member of the outer link portion is shorter than a length of the second link member of the inner link portion.

3. The electric vehicle according to claim 1, A vehicle cabin provided in the vehicle body and capable of housing a passenger; A luggage rack disposed rearward of the vehicle compartment; Equipped with The battery storage structure is disposed under the loading platform, and the storage case is disposed on at least one side of the electric vehicle in a vehicle width direction.

4. In the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The vehicle body includes a pair of side frames that are disposed outward in a vehicle width direction with respect to a center in the vehicle width direction and that are part of a frame, the base of the battery housing structure is fixed to at least one of the side frames.

5. In the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, a placement space in which the link mechanism is placed is defined between the housing case and the base in the front-rear direction; an electric vehicle comprising a gripping portion for gripping the storage case at a position facing the arrangement space in a vehicle width direction;

6. In the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, an arrangement space in which the link mechanism is arranged is provided between the housing case and the base in the front-rear direction, and the arrangement space includes a damper mechanism having one end connected to the housing case and the other end connected to the base or the vehicle body; The damper mechanism controls the relative moving speed of the accommodating case with respect to the base when the accommodating case moves with respect to the base.

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