Battery Swap Station

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery exchange station. The battery exchange station includes a mounting device and a battery exchange device. The mounting device is used to mount an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a vehicle body and a battery module provided in the vehicle body. The battery exchange device includes a frame and a battery storage section and a battery exchange mechanism provided on the frame. The battery storage section is used to store the battery modules. The battery exchange mechanism is used to remove a battery module to be charged from the side of the vehicle body and install it in the battery storage section, and to remove a charged battery module from the battery storage section and install it on the side of the vehicle body.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of logistics transportation, and in particular to battery exchange stations. [Background technology]

[0002] As society develops, logistics systems are becoming increasingly automated and intelligent. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are now widely used in logistics sorting and transportation. These vehicles are capable of traveling along predetermined guided routes and are equipped with safety protection and various transportation functions. AGVs are typically powered by onboard batteries, and when the battery power is about to run out, it is necessary to replenish it in a timely manner. Therefore, an automatic power supply device for AGVs must be incorporated into the system. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides a battery exchange station that overcomes at least some of the problems in the related art.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a mounting device for mounting an electric vehicle, the electric vehicle including a vehicle body and a battery module provided in the vehicle body; There is provided a battery exchange station including a frame, and a battery exchange device including a battery storage section and a battery exchange mechanism provided on the frame, wherein the battery storage section is used to store one or more battery modules, and the battery exchange mechanism is used to remove a battery module to be charged from the side of the vehicle body and attach it to the battery storage section, and to remove a charged battery module from the battery storage section and attach it to the side of the vehicle body.

[0005] Optionally, the battery replacement mechanism includes a mounting plate and a connection assembly provided on the mounting plate, the battery module includes a first side wall and a connection portion provided on the first side wall, and the connection assembly is capable of establishing a connection with the connection portion to pull the battery module and releasing the connection with the connection portion.

[0006] Optionally, the connection portion comprises a hole or a hook.

[0007] Optionally, the connection assembly includes a first drive member and a connection member, the connection member having a first state for establishing the connection with the connection portion and a second state for releasing the connection with the battery module, and the first drive member is used to switch the connection member between the first state and the second state.

[0008] Optionally, the first drive member causes the connecting member to switch between the first state and the second state in a rotational, linear or deployment / retraction manner.

[0009] Optionally, the connection assembly further includes a connection seat connected between the first drive member and the connection member, and the first drive member rotates the connection seat, thereby rotating the connection member.

[0010] Optionally, the battery replacement mechanism further includes a push-pull rod provided on the connection seat and a push member fixed to the push-pull rod, the connection member being located at one end of the push-pull rod, and the push member being located between the connection member and the connection seat.

[0011] Optionally, the battery exchange mechanism further includes a buffer assembly, which is used to buffer contact between the connection assembly and the battery module.

[0012] Optionally, the buffer assembly includes a fixed sleeve fixed to the push-pull rod and two first spring members sleeved to the push-pull rod, the two first spring members being located on either side of the fixed sleeve, one end of the first spring members being connected to the fixed sleeve and the other end being connected to the connecting seat.

[0013] Optionally, the connection assembly further includes a second sensor, the second sensor being used to determine whether the connection assembly is in proximity to the battery module.

[0014] Optionally, the battery replacement mechanism further includes a mounting plate, a matching assembly provided on the mounting plate, and a first rail, the first rail being used for sliding the battery module, and the matching assembly being positioned between the mounting device and the first rail and being used for matching the battery module to the first rail.

[0015] Optionally, the alignment assembly includes a first reset member and a second rail for sliding the battery module, the second rail being slidably attached to the mounting plate and including an initial position aligned with the first rail, and if the second rail deviates from the initial position, the first reset member is used to return the second rail to the initial position.

[0016] Optionally, the battery exchange mechanism further includes a drive assembly at least partially attached to the mounting plate and used to move the battery module between the vehicle body and the battery compartment by moving the connection assembly.

[0017] Optionally, the drive assembly includes a second drive member provided on the mounting plate, the connection assembly is slidably mounted on the mounting plate, and the second drive member is used to move the battery module in and out of the battery compartment or the vehicle body by reciprocating the connection assembly on the mounting plate.

[0018] Optionally, the drive assembly further includes a third drive member, and the mounting plate has a third state in which the connection assembly faces the mounting device and a fourth state in which the connection assembly faces the battery compartment, the third drive member being used to switch the mounting plate between the third state and the fourth state; When the mounting plate is in the third state, the second driving member is used to move the connection assembly to move the battery module into and out of the vehicle body; When the mounting plate is in the fourth state, the second actuation member is used to move the connection assembly to move the battery module into or out of the battery compartment.

[0019] Optionally, the battery replacement mechanism further includes a mounting frame movably mounted to the frame, the mounting plate being movably mounted to the mounting frame, and the drive assembly further includes a fourth drive member, the fourth drive member being used to reciprocate the mounting frame longitudinally along the frame.

[0020] Optionally, the mounting device includes a mounting stand for mounting the electric vehicle thereon, and a power supply mechanism provided on the mounting stand, the power supply mechanism including a base provided on the mounting stand and a charging assembly provided on the base, the charging assembly being movable along intersecting insertion and sliding directions, the charging assembly docking with the electric vehicle along the insertion direction to charge the electric vehicle, and the charging assembly being slidably attached to the base along the sliding direction.

[0021] Optionally, the mounting device includes a mounting base for mounting the electric vehicle, and a positioning mechanism provided on the mounting base, the positioning mechanism being used to position and fix the electric vehicle so that the battery replacement device can detach and attach the battery module from the side of the vehicle body.

[0022] Optionally, the positioning mechanism includes a side push assembly and a position limiting assembly, the side push assembly and the position limiting assembly being located on either side of the stand, the position limiting assembly being close to the battery exchange device, and the side push assembly being used to push the electric vehicle in a direction toward the battery exchange device until the electric vehicle abuts against the position limiting assembly.

[0023] Optionally, the battery compartment includes a first empty station and a second station for receiving the one or more battery modules; The battery exchange mechanism is used to remove the battery module to be charged from the side of the vehicle body and attach it to the first station, and to remove the charged battery module from the second station and attach it to the side of the vehicle body.

[0024] Optionally, the battery compartment includes a plurality of the second stations, the first station and the plurality of second stations being arranged in sequence along a longitudinal or lateral direction of the frame.

[0025] optionally, when the first station and the plurality of second stations are arranged in sequence along a longitudinal direction of the frame, the first station is located at a lower end of the frame; When the first station and the plurality of second stations are arranged in sequence along the lateral direction of the frame, the first station is located at an end of the frame that is adjacent to the mounting device.

[0026] Optionally, the second station includes a charging structure for charging the battery modules.

[0027] Optionally, the second rail includes a plurality of guide bearings spaced apart along the direction of movement of the battery modules.

[0028] Optionally, the mating assembly further includes a first support base fixed to the mounting plate and a first connecting shaft provided on the first support base, and the second rail is provided on the first connecting shaft and is slidable on the first connecting shaft.

[0029] Optionally, the first reset member includes at least two fifth spring members sleeved onto the first connecting shaft, the at least two fifth spring members being located on either side of the second rail, one end of the fifth spring members being fixed to the first support base, and the other end of the fifth spring members being fixed to the second rail.

[0030] Optionally, the mating assembly further includes a slidably matching first guide rail and first slide groove, one of the first guide rail and the first slide groove being provided on the second rail, and the other of the first guide rail and the first slide groove being provided on the mounting plate.

[0031] Optionally, the battery replacement mechanism further includes a roller set, the battery module includes a first bottom wall, and the roller set is used to contact the first bottom wall to reduce the sliding resistance of the battery module.

[0032] Optionally, the side push assembly includes a side push drive member and a side push member, and the side push drive member is used to push the electric vehicle until it abuts against the position limiting assembly by moving the side push member in a direction approaching the position limiting assembly.

[0033] Optionally, the side push member includes a first position and a second position, the side push drive member is used to move the side push member back and forth between the first position and the second position, and when the side push member is located at the first position, the side push member can abut the electric vehicle against the position limiting assembly.

[0034] Optionally, the position limiting assembly further includes a position limiting drive member and a position limiting member, the position limiting member having a third position and a fourth position, the position limiting drive member being used to move the position limiting member back and forth between the third position and the fourth position, and when the position limiting member is located at the third position and the side push member is located at the first position, the position limiting member and the side push member can cooperate to position the electric vehicle.

[0035] Optionally, the amount of movement of the position limiting member between the third position and the fourth position is less than the amount of movement of the side pushing member between the first position and the second position.

[0036] Optionally, the position limiting drive member includes a motor, and the positioning mechanism further includes a trapezoidal screw, the trapezoidal screw being connected between the position limiting drive member and the position limiting member.

[0037] Optionally, the positioning mechanism further includes a first sensor, the first sensor being used to determine whether the electric vehicle is abutting the position limiting assembly.

[0038] Optionally, the power supply mechanism further includes a second connection shaft provided on the base, and the charging assembly is provided on the second connection shaft and is slidable on the second connection shaft.

[0039] Optionally, the power supply mechanism further includes a second reset member, the charging assembly further having a starting position, and if the charging assembly deviates from the starting position, the second reset member is used to return the charging assembly to the starting position.

[0040] Optionally, the second reset member includes at least two second spring members sleeved onto the second connecting shaft, the at least two second spring members being respectively located on opposite sides of the charging assembly, one end of the second spring members being connected to the charging assembly, and the other end of the second spring members being connected to the base.

[0041] Optionally, the power supply mechanism further includes a second guide rail and a second slide groove that are slidably fitted together, one of the second guide rail and the second slide groove being provided on the charging assembly, and the other of the second guide rail and the second slide groove being provided on the base.

[0042] Optionally, the charging assembly includes a charging base, an electrical connector, a guide post, and a third spring member, wherein the charging base is slidably attached to the base along the sliding direction, the electrical connector is slidably attached to the charging base along the insertion direction via the guide post, and the third spring member is sleeved onto the guide post and abuts between the electrical connector and the charging base.

[0043] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present invention may include the following beneficial effects.

[0044] The battery replacement device of the present invention allows battery modules to be removed / installed directly from the side of the vehicle body, eliminating the need for the loading device to lift the AGV, reducing the steps in battery replacement, improving battery replacement efficiency, and saving battery replacement time.In addition, since the loading device does not have a lifting function, the structure of the loading device is simplified and the manufacturing cost of the loading device is reduced.

[0045] It should be noted that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0046] The drawings herein are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present invention, and together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0047] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery exchange station in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic diagram of a battery exchange station (housing omitted) in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of cooperation between a battery exchange station and an AGV in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic diagram of cooperation between a mounting device, a battery exchange mechanism, and an AGV in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of a mounting device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a side push assembly in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a position limiting assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a power supply mechanism in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a battery exchange mechanism in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation of a battery exchange mechanism and a battery module (mounting frame and some drive assemblies omitted) in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic diagram of a connection assembly in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention (connection member in a second state). [Figure 12] 2 is a schematic diagram of a connection assembly in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention (connection member in a first state); [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram of a mating assembly in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of cooperation between a fourth drive member and a mounting frame in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a first station in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of cooperation between a first station and a battery module in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 1 is a schematic diagram of a second station in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of cooperation between a first station and a battery module in one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0048] Illustrative embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description refers to the drawings, the same numerals in different drawings refer to the same or similar elements unless otherwise noted. It should be noted that the embodiments described in the following illustrative examples do not represent all embodiments consistent with the present invention. On the contrary, they are merely examples of apparatus and methods consistent with certain aspects of the present invention, as set forth in the appended claims.

[0049] The terms used in the present invention are merely for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Unless otherwise defined, technical or scientific terms used in the present invention have the common meaning understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in the present specification and claims do not denote any order, number, or importance, but are intended to distinguish between different components. Similarly, similar terms such as "a" or "1" do not denote a numerical limitation, but rather denote the presence of at least one. "Plurality" or "several" denote two or more. Unless otherwise specified, similar terms such as "front," "rear," "lower," and / or "upper" are used for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to limit the present invention to one location or one spatial orientation. For similar terms such as "comprise" or "having," the elements or objects following "comprise" or "having" are meant to include the elements or objects listed before "comprise" or "having" and their equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. "Connected" or "coupled" and similar terms are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections, but can also include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect.

[0050] The terms used herein are merely for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "the," and "the" are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and / or," as used herein, should be understood to refer to and include any or all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0051] In related art, automatic charging devices are commonly used to charge AGV batteries. However, when charging an AGV, such automatic charging devices require the entire AGV to remain in the charging facility until the battery is fully charged. Since the AGV cannot operate during charging, a lot of time is wasted. Therefore, the prior art discloses a battery replacement method and battery replacement station for an AGV, which includes the steps of: placing an empty first battery installation / removal mechanism under the AGV; docking an old battery module on the AGV to the first battery installation / removal mechanism to release the connection with the AGV; removing the old battery module from the battery module installation area of ​​the AGV; placing a second battery installation / removal mechanism with a docked new battery module under the AGV; and moving the new battery module and the AGV relative to each other, placing the new battery module in the battery module installation area, and establishing a connection with the AGV. The battery exchange station includes an elevator and a battery exchange device, the elevator includes a lift frame and a lift frame lifting mechanism, and the battery exchange device includes a desorption transport mechanism and at least two battery desorption mechanisms, both of which are mounted on the desorption transport mechanism. This technology enables quick battery module replacement and reduces the time wasted in powering the AGV.

[0052] However, in this technical solution, the battery module is located below the AGV. Therefore, when replacing the AGV's battery module, the AGV must first be lifted by an elevator, and then a battery installation / removal mechanism must enter underneath the AGV to remove the battery module. In other words, the elevator structure is complex, making the battery replacement process at the battery replacement station cumbersome and affecting battery replacement efficiency. Furthermore, because the AGV is parked on the elevator, and the elevator and the battery replacement device are two independent mechanisms, even if they are aligned in advance, installation errors will occur. The battery replacement device must then deliver the battery module to the battery compartment for charging, which requires very high precision. Without proper alignment, the battery module will not be delivered to the battery compartment or will not charge within the compartment. Furthermore, the elevator uses a horizontal clamping assembly to clamp the AGV to position it in a specific direction. However, this horizontal clamping assembly is only applicable to AGVs with symmetry on both sides. For AGVs with asymmetrical sides, the horizontal clamping assembly may cause the AGV to deflect.

[0053] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, an embodiment of the present invention provides a battery exchange station. The battery exchange station is applied to an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a vehicle body 10 and a battery module 11 provided in the vehicle body 10.

[0054] In the present invention, an electric vehicle refers to a vehicle that obtains power from an onboard battery and needs to be replenished with power in a timely manner when the battery power is about to run out. The vehicle may be a human-driven vehicle or a two-wheel-drive AGV 1 as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The vehicle only needs to have a battery module 11 that can be attached and detached from the side.

[0055] The embodiments of the present invention will be described using the AGV 1 shown in Figures 3 and 4 as an example. The AGV 1 of the present invention is not limited to the two-wheel drive AGV 1 shown in Figures 3 and 4, but may be a four-wheel drive or bionic driving AGV 1, as long as it can run / stop in an automatic navigation manner and the battery module 11 can be removed / installed from the side of the AGV 1.

[0056] The battery module 11 in the present invention may be a nickel-metal hydride secondary battery, a lithium battery, or a non-rechargeable battery, and is not limited to a particular shape, as long as the battery exchange station of the present invention can be removed / attached from the side of the AGV 1.

[0057] The sides of the AGV 1 referred to in the present invention do not include the upper and lower sides of the AGV 1. However, they may also include the left and right sides of the AGV 1, or the front and rear sides of the AGV 1.

[0058] In some embodiments, the battery exchange station includes a mounting device 2 and a battery exchange device 3. The mounting device 2 is used to mount the AGV 1. The battery exchange device 3 is used to remove the battery module 11 to be charged from the side of the vehicle body 10 and to attach the charged battery module 11 to the side of the vehicle body 10.

[0059] The battery exchange device 3 of the present invention allows battery modules 11 to be directly removed / installed from the side of the vehicle body 10, eliminating the need for the mounting device 2 to lift the AGV 1. This reduces the number of steps required for battery exchange, improves battery exchange efficiency, and saves battery exchange time. At the same time, because the mounting device 2 does not have a lifting function, the structure of the mounting device 2 is simplified and the manufacturing cost of the mounting device 2 is reduced.

[0060] In the above embodiment, the mounting device 2 and the battery exchange device 3 are used as a set and are combined to form a battery exchange station. In other embodiments, the mounting device 2 and the battery exchange device 3 can be used independently.

[0061] First, the mounting device 2 will be described in detail below.

[0062] 1 to 5 includes a platform 20 for placing the AGV 1 thereon, and a power supply mechanism 21 and a positioning mechanism 22 provided on the platform 20. Since the platform 20 cannot normally be placed in close contact with the ground, a slope 24 may be provided in front of the platform 20 to make it easier for the AGV 1 to climb onto the platform 20.

[0063] When removing or installing a battery module 11, the accuracy of cooperation between the battery exchange device 3 and the mounting device 2 is extremely important. If the accuracy of cooperation is too low, the relative positions of the battery exchange device 3 and the mounting device 2 will be significantly off, preventing the battery exchange station from completing its required operations. As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 , for convenience of explanation, the longitudinal direction of the AGV 1, i.e., the forward direction in which the AGV 1 travels toward the mounting table 20, is defined as the first direction A. The width direction of the AGV 1 is defined as the second direction B. The positioning mechanism 22 accurately positions the AGV 1 in the first direction A and the second direction B, thereby achieving the positioning of the entire AGV 1 and ensuring that the battery exchange station can complete its required operations.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the positioning mechanism 22 includes two positioning blocks 227 mounted on the platform 20. The positioning blocks 227 are attached to the platform 20 along the first direction A. The upper surface of the positioning block 227 is provided with a positioning groove along the second direction B. The positioning groove may be V-shaped as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, so that the wheels of the AGV 1 automatically fit into the V-shaped positioning groove. Of course, the positioning groove may also be rectangular, inverted trapezoidal, semicircular, or other shape that can exactly accommodate the wheels of the AGV 1. As long as the wheels of the AGV 1 fall into and are fixed in the positioning groove when passing through it, positioning the wheels of the AGV 1 in the first direction A is achieved.

[0065] As an optional embodiment, the positioning mechanism 22 further includes a position sensor (not shown) for precisely positioning the AGV 1 in the first direction A. The position sensor may be provided on the platform 20 or on the AGV 1. The position sensor may be any commercially available sensor capable of detecting a position, and the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the position sensor may be a photoelectric sensor or a pressure sensor provided on a positioning block to detect whether the wheels of the AGV 1 have reached the positioning grooves.

[0066] The position sensor may be a camera with a position sensing function, and a QR code (registered trademark) icon corresponding to the power supply mechanism 21 is provided, and cooperation between the camera and the QR code icon enables the AGV 1 to be accurately positioned at a specified position in the first direction A.

[0067] 4 and 5 , the positioning mechanism 22 further includes a side pushing assembly 220 and a position limiting assembly 221. The side pushing assembly 220 and the position limiting assembly 221 are located on either side of the platform 20, respectively. The side pushing assembly 220 is used to push the AGV 1 along the second direction B until it abuts against the position limiting assembly 221. When the AGV 1 is pushed and abuts against the position limiting assembly 221, this corresponds to the AGV 1 being positioned at a specified position in the second direction B, and the positioning of the AGV 1 in the second direction B is completed. At the same time, because the AGV 1 is fixed between the side pushing assembly 220 and the position limiting assembly 221, the vehicle body 10 does not shake when the battery exchange device 3 removes or installs a battery module 11, ensuring that the battery exchange process of the battery exchange device 3 is carried out smoothly.

[0068] The side pushing assembly 220 and position limiting assembly 221 of the present invention have the following main advantages over a conventional center clamp positioning assembly. First, because the battery modules 11 of the AGV 1 of the present invention are removed from one side of the vehicle body 10, the opposing sides of the vehicle body 10 are not exactly the same. If a conventional center clamp positioning assembly is used to clamp both sides of the vehicle body 10, the two sides of the vehicle body 10 are not symmetrical, and the force points on both sides of the vehicle body 10 and the conventional center clamp positioning assembly are also not symmetrical. This makes it easy for the vehicle body 10 to deflect, resulting in the battery modules 11 not being aligned with the battery exchange device 3 and preventing removal. Furthermore, after completing positioning in the second direction B, the vehicle body 10 of the present invention is closer to the battery exchange device 3 than after completing positioning using a conventional center clamp positioning assembly, thereby reducing the amount of movement required for battery exchange and improving battery exchange efficiency. Finally, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the position limiting assembly 221 is located between the battery replacement mechanism 32 and the vehicle body 10. That is, the position limiting assembly 221 is provided adjacent to the side of the vehicle body 10. After the vehicle body 10 has been positioned in the second direction B, the battery module 11 is removed from the side of the vehicle body 10. In other words, if a conventional center clamp positioning assembly were used, a spatial collision would inevitably occur between the battery module 11 and the conventional center clamp positioning assembly. Because the function of the position limiting assembly 221 in the present invention is simple, the overall structure of the position limiting assembly 221 can be improved and its volume or height can be reduced. The position limiting assembly 221 only contacts the chassis of the AGV 1 and is offset in height from the battery module 11, so removing the battery module 11 from the side of the vehicle body 10 is not affected.

[0069] The positioning mechanism 22 can also be applied to an AGV 1 in which the battery module 11 is removed from the bottom of the vehicle body.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 6 , the side push assembly 220 includes a side push drive member 222 and a side push member 223. The side push member 223 has a first position and a second position. The side push drive member 222 is used to reciprocate the side push member 223 between the first position and the second position along the second direction B. When the side push member 223 is located in the first position, the side push member 223 can abut the AGV 1 against the position limiting assembly 221. The side push drive member 222 may include a cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, or a motor. The present invention is not limited thereto.

[0071] In some embodiments, the side push drive member 222 includes a motor, which allows the side push assembly 220 to have a wider application range, higher running accuracy, and more convenient adjustment compared to air-powered or hydraulically driven systems. Specifically, the side push assembly 220 further includes a side push frame 230, a ball screw (not shown) provided on the side push frame 230, a side push shaft 229, a synchronous belt 228, and a linear bearing. The linear bearing is used to ensure that the side push member 223 slides more smoothly on the side push shaft 229 without jamming. The side push drive member 222 rotates the ball screw through the transmission of the synchronous belt 228, causing the side push member 223 to reciprocate along the side push shaft 229 between a first position and a second position.

[0072] In an optional embodiment, the movement amount of the side push member 223 between the first position and the second position is 0 mm to 50 mm. If the movement amount of the side push member 223 is within this range, the positional deviation adjustment in the second direction B on the platform 20 of the AGV 1 can be satisfied, while the structure of the side push assembly 220 can be made more compact.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 7 , the position limiting assembly 221 includes a position limiting drive member 224 and a position limiting member 225. The position limiting member 225 includes a third position and a fourth position. The position limiting drive member 224 is used to reciprocate the position limiting member 225 between the third position and the fourth position along the second direction B. When the position limiting member 225 is located at the third position and the side pushing member 223 is located at the first position, the position limiting member 225 and the side pushing member 223 can cooperate to position the AGV 1. The position limiting drive member 224 may include a cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, and a motor. The present invention is not limited thereto.

[0074] In other embodiments, the position limiting assembly 221 may include only the position limiting member 225. For example, when the position limiting member 225 is fixed at the third position, it can similarly cooperate with the side pushing assembly 220 to position the AGV 1. The main role of the position limiting drive member 224 in the present invention is to return the position limiting member 225 to the fourth position, thereby forming a certain distance between the position limiting member 225 and the AGV 1 and preventing damage to the vehicle body 10 due to contact between the position limiting member 225 and the vehicle body 10 when the AGV 1 moves along the first direction A.

[0075] As an optional embodiment, the movement amount of the position limiting member 225 between the third position and the fourth position is 0 mm to 10 mm, i.e., the movement amount of the position limiting member 225 between the third position and the fourth position is smaller than the movement amount of the side pushing member 223 between the first position and the second position, which is mainly determined according to the respective roles of the position limiting assembly 221 and the side pushing assembly 220.

[0076] In some embodiments, the position limiting drive member 224 includes a motor, which allows the side push assembly 220 to have a wider application range, higher running accuracy, and easier adjustment compared to air-powered or hydraulically powered drives. Specifically, the position limiting assembly 221 further includes a trapezoidal screw (not shown), a position limiting rotation shaft 232, and a linear bearing. The linear bearing is used to ensure that the position limiting member 225 slides smoothly along the position limiting rotation shaft 232 without jamming. The position limiting member 225 is mounted on the trapezoidal screw, and the position limiting drive member 224 moves the position limiting member 225 back and forth along the position limiting shaft 232 between the third position and the fourth position by rotating the trapezoidal screw. Here, the trapezoidal screw has a self-locking characteristic, so that when the side push assembly 220 pushes the AGV 1, the position limiting member 225 forms a block, ensuring that the AGV 1 always stops at the same position.

[0077] As can be seen from FIG. 4, the side pushing assembly 220 and the battery module 11 are located on the same side of the AGV 1, and therefore the side pushing assembly 220 is small overall and only comes into contact with the chassis on both sides of the drive wheels of the AGV 1, so it does not affect battery removal from the side.

[0078] As an optional embodiment, the position limiting assembly 221 further includes a first sensor 233. The first sensor 233 is used to determine whether the AGV 1 is in contact with the position limiting member 225. If the AGV 1 reaches a predetermined position normally, i.e., if it is in contact with the position limiting member 225, the battery exchange station performs the following operation. If the AGV 1 does not reach a predetermined position normally, i.e., if it is a certain distance away from the position limiting member 225, the battery exchange station stops operating.

[0079] The power supply mechanism 21 in the present invention supplies power to the AGV 1 in order to avoid power outages and restarts after the AGV 1's battery is removed, and to prevent subsequent control of the AGV 1 from being affected by such power outages and restarts. Therefore, the AGV 1 travels to the platform 20 and, during the positioning process in the first direction A, docks with the power supply mechanism 21, thereby charging the AGV 1. As can be seen from the above positioning process, after completing the positioning of the AGV 1 in the first direction A, it is also necessary to complete the positioning in the second direction B. During the positioning process in the second direction B, the position of the AGV 1 in the second direction B changes. Therefore, the power supply mechanism 21 in the present invention must also have a movable space in the second direction B.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 8 , the power supply mechanism 21 includes a base 214 and a charging assembly 210 mounted on the base 214. The charging assembly 210 includes a charging base 211 and an electrical connector 212 mounted on the charging base 211. The charging assembly 210 can move along a plug-in direction C. The charging base 211 is slidably mounted on the base 214, and a sliding direction D of the charging base 211 intersects with the plug-in direction C. This arrangement allows the electrical connector 212 to slide along the sliding direction D following the charging base 211. When the AGV 1 moves laterally, the electrical connector 212 can also move laterally following the AGV 1, preventing the electrical connector 212 from coming off the AGV 1 and causing the AGV 1 to lose power.

[0081] The plugging direction C refers to the direction in which the electrical connector 212 docks with the corresponding electrical connection structure of the AGV 1. Generally, during the process of docking the electrical connector 212 with the corresponding electrical connection structure of the AGV 1, the electrical connector 212 itself remains stationary, and the AGV 1 moves toward the electrical connector 212 to achieve docking. In other words, the plugging direction C may be understood as the direction in which the electrical connector 212 moves relative to the AGV 1. Specifically, in the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3 , the AGV 1 moves toward the power supply mechanism 21 along a first direction A, and the plugging direction C is the first direction A. Here, the electrical connection structure of the AGV 1 may include a charging coil interlocked with the electrical connector 212, or may include a plug or other structure electrically connectable with the electrical connector 212 to charge the AGV 1; these will not be described here.

[0082] In some embodiments, the sliding direction D of the charging base 211 is perpendicular to the plugging direction C. That is, the sliding direction D of the charging base 211 is the second direction B. This arrangement prevents the electrical connector 212 from moving in the plugging direction C while the charging base 211 is sliding, which may affect the stability of the cooperation between the electrical connector 212 and the AGV 1. In other embodiments, the sliding direction D of the charging base 211 does not need to be perpendicular to the plugging direction C. The electrical connector 212 itself can move back and forth along the plugging direction C, and the elastic member can ensure that the electrical connector 212 is always docked with the AGV 1 within a certain range of movement.

[0083] In some embodiments, the power supply mechanism 21 further includes a second connecting shaft 215 mounted on the base 214. The charging base 211 is mounted on the second connecting shaft 215 and is slidable on the second connecting shaft 215. However, if the charging base 211 and the second connecting shaft 215 only cooperate to slide along the second connecting shaft 215, clogging may occur. Therefore, a linear bearing may be provided between the charging base 211 and the second connecting shaft 215. Of course, a large gap may be left between the charging base 211 and the second connecting shaft 215, and a separate structure in which a guide rail and a slide groove cooperate may be provided.

[0084] As an optional embodiment, the power supply mechanism 21 further includes a slidably fitted second guide rail 217 and a second sliding groove (not shown). One of the second guide rail 217 and the second sliding groove is provided on the charging base 211, and the other of the second guide rail 217 and the second sliding groove is provided on the base 214. As shown in FIG. 8 , since the charging base 211 has a U-shaped plate structure with a small volume and thickness, the second guide rail 217 is fixedly connected to the charging base 211, and the second sliding groove is provided on the base 214.

[0085] During the process of the AGV 1 traveling to the platform 20, it must complete docking with the power supply mechanism 21. Therefore, the power supply mechanism 21 further includes a second reset member 213. The charging base 211 also has a starting position. When the charging base 211 is in the starting position, the power supply mechanism 21 can complete charging and docking with the AGV 1. If the charging base 211 deviates from the starting position, the second reset member 213 applies force to the charging base 211 to return it to the starting position. After the replacement of the battery module 11 of the AGV 1 is completed, the AGV 1 leaves the platform 20, i.e., the AGV 1 disconnects from the electrical connector 212, and the charging base 211 returns to the starting position by the action of the second reset member 213, ready for docking with the next AGV 1.

[0086] As an optional embodiment, the second reset member 213 includes at least two second spring members sleeved on the second connecting shaft 215. The at least two second spring members are respectively located on both sides of the charging base 211. One end of the second spring member is fixed to the charging base 211, and the other end of the second spring member is fixed to the base 214. By installing in this manner, the charging base 211 can return to the starting position after the AGV 1 is disconnected from the electrical connector 212, regardless of whether it is displaced toward the second direction B or away from the second direction B.

[0087] During the positioning process of the AGV 1 in the first direction A, the AGV 1 must first move to a position closest to the power supply mechanism 21 and then retreat a certain distance to reach the designated position in the first direction A. Therefore, the charging assembly 210 further includes a guide post 218 and a third spring member 216 sleeved on the guide post 218. The guide post 218 is slidably attached to the charging base 211 along the horizontal insertion direction C, i.e., the first direction A. The third spring member 216 is provided between the electrical connector 212 and the charging base 211 in abutment. This ensures, on the one hand, that the power supply mechanism 21 can adapt to the displacement of the AGV 1 in the first direction A during power supply. On the other hand, the docking between the electrical connector 212 and the AGV 1 is flexible, and the action of the third spring member 216 allows the electrical connector 212 to always maintain docking with the electrical connection structure of the AGV 1, thereby avoiding power outages of the AGV 1.

[0088] Although the positioning mechanism 22 and the power supply mechanism 21 in the mounting device 2 are used as a set, in a specific implementation process, the positioning mechanism 22 and the power supply mechanism 21 may be used independently. For example, the positioning mechanism 22 is applicable not only to the positioning of an electric vehicle but also to the positioning of any other movable object. Furthermore, the power supply mechanism 21 is applicable not only to the power supply of an electric vehicle with the battery module 11 located on the side, but also to the power supply of an electric vehicle with the battery module 11 located on the bottom or top, and further to the power supply of any other object equipped with the battery module 11. The present invention is not limited thereto.

[0089] The battery exchange device 3 will be described in detail below.

[0090] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 2 and 4 , the battery exchange device 3 includes a housing 36, a frame 30, a battery storage section 31, and a battery exchange mechanism 32 located within the housing 36. The battery exchange mechanism 32 and the battery storage section 31 are both provided on the frame 30. The battery storage section 31 is used to store the battery module 11. The battery exchange mechanism 32 is used to remove the battery module 11 to be charged from the side of the vehicle body 10 and install it in the battery storage section 31, and to remove the charged battery module 11 from the battery storage section 31 and install it on the side of the vehicle body 10. By installing in this manner, the battery exchange mechanism 32 can directly remove / install the battery module 11 from the side of the vehicle body 10, reducing the number of steps in battery exchange, improving battery exchange efficiency, and saving battery exchange time.

[0091] 9 to 12, the battery replacement mechanism 32 includes a mounting plate 320 and a connection assembly 321 provided on the mounting plate 320. The battery module 11 includes a first side wall 110 and a connection portion 111 provided on the first side wall 110.

[0092] When the battery module 11 needs to be removed from the vehicle body 10 or the battery storage section 31, the connection assembly 321 can be used to establish a connection with the connection section 111 and pull the battery module 11, thereby removing the battery module 11.

[0093] When the battery module 11 needs to be attached to the vehicle body 10 or the battery storage section 31, the connection assembly 321 can be disconnected from the connection section 111, thereby detaching the connection assembly 321 from the battery module 11 and preventing the connection assembly 321 from contracting and pulling on the battery module 11.

[0094] In some embodiments, the connection assembly 321 includes a first drive member 322 and a connecting member 323. The connecting member 323 has a first state for establishing connection with the connection portion 111 and a second state for releasing connection with the battery module 11. The first drive member 322 is used to switch the connecting member 323 between the first state and the second state. Here, the first drive member 322 can switch the connecting member 323 between the first state and the second state in a rotational manner, a linear motion manner, or an expansion / contraction manner. The present invention is not limited in this respect.

[0095] The connection portion 111 may include a hole, a hook, or other structure, although the present invention is not limited in this respect.

[0096] In an optional embodiment, the connecting portion 111 includes a hook provided on the first side wall 110. When the connecting member 323 moves above the hook, the first driving member 322 moves the connecting member 323 downward until it catches on the hook, thereby switching the connecting member 323 from the second state to the first state.

[0097] As an optional embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10 to 12, the connecting member 323 has a plate-like structure, and the connecting portion 111 has a slot structure that fits the connecting member 323. A certain gap between the slot structure and the connecting member 323 is required to facilitate smooth insertion of the connecting member 323 into the connecting portion 111 and allow for subsequent adjustment of the battery module 11 position. As shown in FIG. 11, the connecting member 323 is in a second state in which it is placed vertically, allowing it to smoothly enter and exit the slot structure. As shown in FIG. 12, the connecting member 323 is rotated 90° by the action of the first actuating member 322 to enter the first state, allowing it to enter and exit the slot structure. In other words, when the connecting member 323 enters the slot structure and switches to the first state, it establishes a connection with the connecting portion 111 and can pull the battery module 11. In another embodiment, the connecting member 323 may be switched from the second state having a small area to the first state having a large area after entering the slot structure.

[0098] 11 and 12 , the connection assembly 321 further includes a connection seat 324 connected between the first drive member 322 and the connecting member 323. The first drive member 322 rotates the connection seat 324, thereby rotating the connecting member 323. The connection assembly 321 further includes at least one second gear member 345, which is movably disposed between the first drive member 322 and the connecting seat 324. The first drive member 322 includes a motor. The first drive member 322 rotates the connecting seat 324 via the second gear member 345, thereby switching the connecting member 323 between a first state and a second state.

[0099] Theoretically, when the connecting member 323 is in the first state and not inserted into the battery module 11, the connecting member 323 can push the battery module 11 when moving toward the battery module 11. However, in this case, the movement amount of the connection assembly 321 does not match when the battery module 11 is removed and when it is inserted, and the connecting member 323 must be in a different state. This increases the difficulty and complexity of the battery replacement mechanism 32 for automatically replacing the battery. Therefore, in some embodiments, the battery replacement mechanism 32 further includes a push-pull rod 325 provided on the connection seat 324 and a push member 326 fixed to the push-pull rod 325. The connecting member 323 is located at one end of the push-pull rod 325, and the push member 326 is located between the connecting member 323 and the connection seat 324. By installing the battery replacement mechanism 32 in this manner, the movement amount of the connection assembly 321 is consistent and the state of the connection member 323 is consistent regardless of whether the battery module 11 is removed or installed, which is advantageous for automating the battery replacement mechanism 32.

[0100] In some embodiments, the battery replacement mechanism 32 further includes a buffer assembly 327. The buffer assembly 327 is used to buffer contact between the connecting member 323 or the push member 326 and the battery module 11. That is, the buffer assembly 327 can soften the contact between the connecting member 323 or the push member 326 and the battery module 11. As an optional embodiment, the buffer assembly 327 includes a fixed sleeve 328 fixed to the push-pull rod 325 and two first spring members 329 attached to the push-pull rod 325. The two first spring members 329 are located on either side of the fixed sleeve 328. One end of the first spring members 329 is connected to the fixed sleeve 328, and the other end is connected to the connecting seat 324. With this arrangement, whether the connecting member 323 pulls the battery module 11 or the push member 326 pushes the battery module 11, the buffer assembly 327 provides a buffering effect to prevent damage to the battery module 11.

[0101] In some embodiments, the connection assembly 321 further includes a second sensor. The second sensor is used to determine whether the connection assembly 321 is in proximity to the battery module 11. The second sensor may include a proximity sensor for detecting metal, and the material of the battery module 11 in the present invention includes iron. When the push member 326 or the connection member 323 moves a certain amount, i.e., when the second sensor is theoretically in proximity to the battery module 11, if the second sensor determines that the connection assembly 321 is in proximity to the battery module 11, the battery replacement mechanism 32 performs the following operation: the battery replacement mechanism 32 pulls the battery module 11 out of the vehicle body 10 or the battery compartment. If the second sensor determines that the connection assembly 321 is not in proximity to the battery module 11, the battery replacement mechanism 32 stops operating; i.e., the connection member 323 and the push member 326 no longer move, and an alarm is issued.

[0102] The AGV 1 is parked on the mounting device 2. The mounting device 2 and the battery replacement mechanism 32 are two independent mechanisms. Even if the two are aligned in advance, installation errors will occur. The battery replacement mechanism 32 must deliver the battery module 11 to the battery storage compartment 31 for charging, which requires very high accuracy. Without proper alignment, the battery module 11 will not be delivered to the battery storage compartment 31 or will not be able to be charged in the battery storage compartment 31. Therefore, with continued reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 , the battery replacement mechanism 32 further includes an alignment assembly 331 mounted on the mounting plate 320 and a first rail 344 along which the battery module 11 slides. The alignment assembly 331 is located between the mounting device 2 and the first rail 344 and is used to align the battery module 11 with the first rail 344. In the present invention, the alignment assembly 331 allows the battery module 11 to gradually align with the first rail 344 and enter the first rail 344 during sliding. In particular, since the first rail 344 and the battery compartment 31 are located within the same device, they can share the same reference, i.e., the first rail 344 can be aligned with the battery compartment 31, so that if the battery module 11 can enter the first rail 344, it can enter the battery compartment 31.

[0103] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 13 , the alignment assembly 331 includes a first reset member 333 and a second rail 334 along which the battery module 11 slides. The second rail 334 is slidably attached to the mounting plate 320. The second rail 334 has an initial position aligned with the first rail 334. If the second rail 334 deviates from its initial position, the first reset member 333 is used to return the second rail 334 to its initial position. Even if the AGV 1 is positioned on the mounting device 2 due to a mounting error between the mounting device 2 and the battery exchange device 3, this is merely a rough alignment to ensure that the battery module 11 enters the second rail 334. To ensure that the battery module 11 enters the second rail 334 more smoothly, a bell-mouth opening may be provided at the entrance of the second rail 334, or a guide structure such as a chamfer or rounded corner may be provided on the battery module 11. In this way, during the process of inserting the battery module 11, a portion of the battery module 11 is positioned within the mounting cavity in the vehicle body 10 and cannot move laterally (along the first direction A), so the second rail 334 is moved laterally. When the battery module 11 is completely removed from the mounting cavity in the vehicle body 10, the second rail 334 returns to its initial position due to the action of the first reset member 333, thereby allowing the battery module 11 to be aligned with the first rail 344.

[0104] There are various vehicle types of AGVs 1, and considering subsequent upgrades, the shapes of the battery modules 11 vary. To enable the battery exchange mechanism 32 to accommodate battery modules 11 of different shapes, as an optional embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10 , the AGV 1 further includes a guide plate (not shown) attached to the first bottom wall 112. The guide plate is used to cooperate with the first rail 344 and the mating assembly 331. This arrangement allows different battery modules 11 to be equipped with the same guide plate, ensuring local consistency and allowing the battery exchange mechanism 32 to accommodate battery modules 11 of different shapes. Here, the guide plate is a rectangular plate, and all four corners of the guide plate are chamfered or rounded, making it easier for the guide plate to fit into the first rail 344 and the second rail 334.

[0105] 13 , in some embodiments, the second rail 334 includes a second bottom wall and second side walls disposed on both sides of the bottom wall. The second bottom wall includes a movable block, and the second side walls include a plurality of guide bearings 335 spaced apart along the extension direction of the second rail 334. In other words, the movable block forms the second bottom wall of the second rail 334. The plurality of guide bearings 335 distributed on both sides of the movable block form the second side walls of the second rail 334. The provision of the guide bearings 335 can effectively reduce friction between the guide plate and the second rail 334, thereby reducing noise.

[0106] In some embodiments, the mating assembly 331 further includes a first support base fixed to the mounting plate 320 and a first connecting shaft 336 provided on the first support base. The second rail 334 is provided on the first connecting shaft 336 and is slidable on the first connecting shaft 336. However, if the second rail 334 slides on the first connecting shaft 336 solely through cooperation between the movable block of the second rail 334 and the first connecting shaft 336, jamming may occur. Therefore, a linear bearing may be provided between the movable block of the second rail 334 and the first connecting shaft 336. Of course, a large gap may be left between the movable block and the first connecting shaft 336, and a separate structure for cooperation between a guide rail and a slide groove may be provided.

[0107] Considering the compactness of the structure of the mating assembly 331, as an optional embodiment, the mating assembly 331 further includes a slidably fitted first guide rail 337 and a first slide groove 338. One of the first guide rail 337 and the first slide groove 338 is provided on the second rail 334, and the other of the first guide rail 337 and the first slide groove 338 is provided on the mounting plate 320.

[0108] As an optional embodiment, the first reset member 333 includes at least two fifth spring members sleeved onto the first connecting shaft 336. The at least two fifth spring members are respectively located on either side of the second rail 334. One end of each fifth spring member is fixed to the first support base, and the other end of each fifth spring member is fixed to the second rail 334. By installing the fifth spring members in this manner, even if the second rail 334 is displaced toward or away from the first direction A, the second rail 334 can return to its initial position after the battery module 11 is completely detached from the vehicle body 10.

[0109] In addition, the alignment assembly 331 of the present invention is applicable not only to removing the battery module 11 from the side of the vehicle body 10, but also to removing the battery module 11 from the bottom or top of the vehicle body 10, and is also applicable to any other object that requires position adjustment during sliding.

[0110] 9 and 10 , in some embodiments, the structure of the first rail 344 is the same as the structure of the second rail 334. Of course, in other embodiments, the structure of the first rail 344 does not have to be the same as the structure of the second rail 334, as long as it has a function for sliding and guiding the battery module 11. The present invention is not limited in this respect.

[0111] In some embodiments, the battery replacement mechanism 32 further includes a first set of rollers 332 arranged in sequence along the sliding direction of the battery module 11. The battery module 11 includes a first bottom wall 112. The first set of rollers 332 are used to contact the first bottom wall 112 and reduce the sliding resistance of the battery module 11. In an optional embodiment, the battery replacement mechanism 32 includes two sets of first rollers 332. The two sets of first rollers 332 are located on both sides of the mating assembly 331, respectively. By installing the battery replacement mechanism 320 in this manner, the width of the mounting plate 320 in the first direction A only needs to be slightly larger than the width of the battery module 11 in the first direction A, making the structure of the battery replacement mechanism 32 more compact.

[0112] 9, 10, and 14, in some embodiments, the battery exchange mechanism 32 further includes a drive assembly that is at least partially attached to the mounting plate 320 and is used to move the connection assembly 321 between the vehicle body 10 and the battery compartment 31.

[0113] As an optional embodiment, the drive assembly includes a second drive member 340 provided on the mounting plate 320. The connection assembly 321 is slidably attached to the mounting plate 320. The second drive member 340 is used to move the connection assembly 321 back and forth on the mounting plate 320, thereby moving the battery module 11 in and out of the battery storage section 31 or the vehicle body 10. Here, the drive assembly further includes a linear module, and the second drive member 340 includes a motor. The second drive member 340 moves the connection assembly 321 back and forth via the linear module.

[0114] As an optional embodiment, the drive assembly further includes a third drive member 341. The mounting plate 320 has a third state in which the connection assembly 321 faces the mounting device 2 and a fourth state in which the connection assembly 321 faces the battery storage compartment 31. The third drive member 341 is used to switch the mounting plate 320 between the third state and the fourth state. When the mounting plate 320 is in the third state, the second drive member 340 is used to move the connection assembly 321 to insert or remove the battery module 11 into or from the vehicle body 10. When the mounting plate 320 is in the fourth state, the second drive member 340 is used to move the connection assembly 321 to insert or remove the battery module 11 into or from the battery storage compartment 31. Here, the drive assembly further includes a plurality of third gear members (not shown), and the third drive member 341 includes a motor, and the third drive member 341 switches between the third state and the fourth state by rotating the mounting plate 320 back and forth via the plurality of third gear members.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 2 , as an optional embodiment, the battery replacement mechanism 32 further includes a mounting frame 343 movably mounted on the frame 30. The third drive member 341 is provided on the mounting frame 343. The drive assembly further includes a fourth drive member 342. The fourth drive member 342 is used to move the mounting frame 343 back and forth vertically along the frame 30. Considering that a large driving force is required to lift the mounting frame 343 and the mounting plate 320 vertically, the drive assembly further includes a sprocket 346 and a chain 347. The chain 347 is connected between the mounting frame 343 and the sprocket 346. The fourth drive member 342 includes a motor. The fourth drive member 342 rotates the sprocket 346, thereby moving the mounting frame 343 back and forth vertically along the frame 30 via the chain 347.

[0116] In this way, by cooperation of the second driving member 340, the third driving member 341, and the fourth driving member 342, the battery replacement mechanism 32 can move the battery module 11 to any position on the frame 30, and the structure is simple and compact.

[0117] 2, the battery storage section 31 includes an empty first station 310 and a second station 312 for storing the battery module 11. The battery exchange mechanism 32 is used to remove the battery module 11 to be charged from the side of the vehicle body 10 and attach it to the first station 310. It is also used to remove the charged battery module 11 from the second station 312 and attach it to the side of the vehicle body 10. Cooperation between the first station 310 and the second station 312 allows the exchange of the battery module 11 of the AGV 1 to be completed very quickly.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 2 , to minimize the space occupied by the battery exchange device 3, the battery storage section 31 includes two rows of stations arranged vertically. "Vertical arrangement" here means that the stations are arranged vertically along the frame 30. The battery exchange mechanism 32 is located between the two rows of stations. One of the rows of stations includes a first station 310 and a plurality of second stations 312 arranged vertically. The first station 310 is located at the bottom, i.e., closest to the mounting device 2 or the vehicle body 10. The other row of stations includes a plurality of second stations 312 arranged vertically. This arrangement allows the battery exchange mechanism 32 to remove a battery module 11 from the vehicle body 10 and place the battery module 11 into the first station 310 simply by moving it in a plane. This reduces the movement distance and simplifies the movement trajectory of the connection assembly 321 in the battery exchange mechanism 32, improving the efficiency and reducing the time required for battery module 11 replacement.

[0119] Of course, in other embodiments, the battery storage section 31 may include two rows of stations arranged laterally. Here, "arranged laterally" means that a first station and a plurality of second stations are arranged in order along the second direction B. The battery exchange mechanism 32 is still located between the two rows of stations. One of the rows of stations includes one first station 310 and a plurality of second stations 312 arranged laterally. The first station 310 is located at one end closer to the mounting device 2 or the vehicle body 10. The other row of stations includes a plurality of second stations 312 arranged laterally.

[0120] The first station 310 and the second station 312 have almost the same structure. However, since the first station 310 is mainly used for temporarily storing the battery modules 11 and the second station 312 is used for long-term storage and charging of the battery modules 11, the second station 312 is further provided with a charging structure compared to the first station 310. As shown in FIGS. 15 to 18 , the first station 310 and / or the second station 312 includes a bottom plate 319, and a third slide rail 315, a second roller set 316, a position limiting block 314, and a third sensor 313 provided on the bottom plate 319. The charging structure is provided on the bottom plate 319 and includes a charging head 317 and a charger 318.

[0121] The structure of the third slide rail 315 is the same as the structure of the second rail 334. Of course, in other embodiments, the structure of the third slide rail 315 does not have to be the same as the structure of the second rail 334, as long as it has the function of sliding and guiding the battery module 11. The present invention is not limited thereto.

[0122] The function of the second roller set 316 is the same as that of the first roller set 332, and its basic structure is also the same as that of the first roller set 332. Only the arrangement method is different from that of the first roller set 332. A description thereof will be omitted here.

[0123] The position limiting block 314 is used to limit the farthest distance that the battery module 11 can move, to avoid damage to the battery module 11, the charging head 317, and the charger 318 due to the battery module 11 being moved over a long distance.

[0124] The third sensor 313 is mainly used to determine whether the battery module 11 has reached a designated position in the first station 310 or the second station 312. The third sensor 313 may include an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, or a camera, and the description thereof will be omitted here.

[0125] As described above, the battery replacement station for AGV1 provided by this embodiment has many advantages, such as shortening the battery replacement time, improving the work efficiency of AGV1, and speeding up the replacement of battery modules 11 with high accuracy and automation.

[0126] Another embodiment of the present invention further provides a method for replacing the battery module 11, which may be performed by the battery replacement station of the AGV 1 or by other devices.

[0127] Specifically, the method for replacing the battery module 11 includes steps S10 to S50.

[0128] In S10, the battery replacement mechanism 32 moves to the side of the AGV 1.

[0129] In S20, the battery exchange mechanism 32 docks with the battery module 11 on the AGV 1 to be charged.

[0130] In S30, the battery module 11 to be charged and the AGV 1 are moved relative to each other so that the battery module 11 to be charged is removed from the battery module 11 mounting area of ​​the AGV 1.

[0131] In S40, the battery exchange mechanism 32 places the charged battery module 11 next to the AGV 1.

[0132] In S50, the charged battery module 11 and the AGV 1 are moved relative to each other so that the charged battery module 11 is placed in the battery module 11 mounting area.

[0133] Through the above five steps, the original battery module 11 in the AGV 1, which is low on power, can be removed and a new, fully charged battery module 11 can be installed on the AGV 1, completing the battery module 11 replacement process. This battery replacement method significantly saves time compared to waiting for charging. Note that in S10-S50, the execution of some steps may depend on the results of other steps, and some other steps may not be in strict order. Depending on the device structure and control program used, any two or more of these steps may be executed simultaneously, or one step may progress to a certain stage, causing the execution of another step to begin, and the later-executed step may finish before the earlier-executed step. Ultimately, all five steps must be executed to update the battery module 11 of the AGV 1.

[0134] Those skilled in the art will easily conceive other embodiments of the present invention after considering the specification and practicing the technical solutions disclosed herein. The present invention is intended to include any modification, use, or adaptation of the present invention, which modification, use, or adaptation follows the general principles of the present invention and includes common knowledge or customary technical means in the art that are not disclosed in the present invention. The specification and examples are for illustrative purposes only, and the actual scope of the present invention is indicated by the following claims.

[0135] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the structure described above and illustrated in the drawings, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. a mounting device for mounting an electric vehicle, the electric vehicle including a vehicle body and a battery module provided in the vehicle body; a battery exchange device including a frame, and a battery storage section and a battery exchange mechanism provided on the frame, wherein the battery storage section is used to store one or more battery modules, and the battery exchange mechanism is used to remove a battery module to be charged from a side of the vehicle body and attach it to the battery storage section, and to remove a charged battery module from the battery storage section and attach it to the side of the vehicle body; A battery exchange station characterized by:

2. the battery replacement mechanism includes a mounting plate and a connection assembly provided on the mounting plate, the battery module includes a first side wall and a connection portion provided on the first side wall, the connection assembly can establish a connection with the connection portion to pull the battery module, and can release the connection with the connection portion.

2. The battery exchange station of claim 1.

3. The connection portion includes a hole or a hook.

3. The battery exchange station according to claim 2.

4. the connection assembly includes a first drive member and a connection member, the connection member having a first state for establishing the connection with the connection portion and a second state for releasing the connection with the battery module, and the first drive member is used to switch the connection member between the first state and the second state.

3. The battery exchange station according to claim 2.

5. the first driving member switches the connecting member between the first state and the second state in a rotational manner, a linear motion manner, or an expansion / contraction manner; 5. A battery exchange station according to claim 4.

6. The connection assembly further includes a connection seat connected between the first drive member and the connection member, and the first drive member rotates the connection seat to thereby rotate the connection member.

5. A battery exchange station according to claim 4.

7. the battery replacement mechanism further includes a push-pull rod provided on the connecting seat and a push member fixed to the push-pull rod, the connecting member being located at one end of the push-pull rod, and the push member being located between the connecting member and the connecting seat; 7. A battery exchange station according to claim 6.

8. the battery exchange mechanism further includes a buffer assembly, the buffer assembly being used to buffer contact between the connection assembly and the battery module; 8. A battery exchange station according to claim 7.

9. The buffer assembly includes a fixed sleeve fixed to the push-pull rod and two first spring members sleeved to the push-pull rod, the two first spring members being located on both sides of the fixed sleeve, one end of each first spring member being connected to the fixed sleeve and the other end being connected to the connecting seat.

9. A battery exchange station according to claim 8.

10. the connection assembly further includes a second sensor, the second sensor being used to determine whether the connection assembly is in proximity to the battery module; 8. A battery exchange station according to claim 7.

11. the battery replacement mechanism further includes a mounting plate, a matching assembly provided on the mounting plate, and a first rail, the first rail being used to move the battery module, and the matching assembly being located between the mounting device and the first rail and being used to match the battery module to the first rail.

2. The battery exchange station of claim 1.

12. the alignment assembly includes a first reset member and a second rail for movement of the battery module, the second rail being slidably attached to the mounting plate and including an initial position aligned with the first rail, and when the second rail deviates from the initial position, the first reset member is used to return the second rail to the initial position.

12. A battery exchange station according to claim 11.

13. the battery exchange mechanism further includes a drive assembly, the drive assembly being at least partially attached to the mounting plate and used to move the battery module between the vehicle body and the battery compartment by moving the connection assembly.

3. The battery exchange station according to claim 2.

14. the drive assembly includes a second drive member provided on the mounting plate, the connection assembly is slidably attached to the mounting plate, and the second drive member is used to move the connection assembly back and forth on the mounting plate to move the battery module in and out of the battery storage section or the vehicle body.

14. A battery exchange station according to claim 13.

15. the drive assembly further includes a third drive member, the mounting plate having a third state in which the connection assembly faces the mounting device and a fourth state in which the connection assembly faces the battery compartment, the third drive member being used to switch the mounting plate between the third state and the fourth state; When the mounting plate is in the third state, the second driving member is used to move the connection assembly to move the battery module into and out of the vehicle body; When the mounting plate is in the fourth state, the second driving member is used to move the connection assembly to move the battery module into or out of the battery compartment.

15. A battery exchange station according to claim 14.

16. the battery exchange mechanism further includes a mounting frame movably attached to the frame, the mounting plate being movably attached to the mounting frame, and the drive assembly further includes a fourth drive member, the fourth drive member being used to reciprocate the mounting frame longitudinally along the frame.

16. A battery exchange station according to claim 15.

17. the mounting device includes a mounting stand for mounting the electric vehicle thereon, and a power supply mechanism provided on the mounting stand, the power supply mechanism including a base provided on the mounting stand and a charging assembly provided on the base, the charging assembly being movable along intersecting insertion and sliding directions, the charging assembly docking with the electric vehicle along the insertion direction to charge the electric vehicle, and the charging assembly being slidably attached to the base along the sliding direction; 2. The battery exchange station of claim 1.

18. the mounting device includes a mounting base for mounting the electric vehicle, and a positioning mechanism provided on the mounting base, the positioning mechanism being used to position and fix the electric vehicle so that the battery exchange device can attach and detach the battery module from a side of the vehicle body.

2. The battery exchange station of claim 1.

19. the positioning mechanism includes a side pushing assembly and a position limiting assembly, the side pushing assembly and the position limiting assembly being located on both sides of the stand, the position limiting assembly being close to the battery exchange device, and the side pushing assembly being used to push the electric vehicle in a direction approaching the battery exchange device until the electric vehicle abuts against the position limiting assembly.

20. The battery exchange station of claim 18.

20. the battery storage section includes a first empty station and a second station for storing the one or more battery modules; the battery exchange mechanism is used to remove the battery module to be charged from the side of the vehicle body and attach it to the first station, and to remove the charged battery module from the second station and attach it to the side of the vehicle body.

2. The battery exchange station of claim 1.

21. the battery storage section includes a plurality of the second stations, and the first station and the plurality of second stations are arranged in order along a vertical direction or a horizontal direction of the frame; 21. The battery exchange station of claim 20.

22. When the first station and the plurality of second stations are arranged in order along the vertical direction of the frame, the first station is located at a lower end of the frame; When the first station and the plurality of second stations are arranged in sequence along a lateral direction of the frame, the first station is located at an end of the frame that is close to the mounting device.

22. The battery exchange station of claim 21.

23. the second station includes a charging structure for charging the battery module; 21. The battery exchange station of claim 20.

24. the second rail includes a plurality of guide bearings spaced apart along the movement direction of the battery module; 13. A battery exchange station according to claim 12.

25. the mating assembly further includes a first support base fixed to the mounting plate and a first connecting shaft provided on the first support base, and the second rail is provided on the first connecting shaft and is slidable on the first connecting shaft.

13. A battery exchange station according to claim 12.

26. the first reset member includes at least two fifth spring members sleeved onto the first connecting shaft, the at least two fifth spring members being located on both sides of the second rail, one end of each fifth spring member being fixed to the first support base, and the other end of each fifth spring member being fixed to the second rail; 26. A battery exchange station according to claim 25.

27. the mating assembly further includes a slidably fitted first guide rail and a first slide groove, one of the first guide rail and the first slide groove being provided on the second rail, and the other of the first guide rail and the first slide groove being provided on the mounting plate; 13. A battery exchange station according to claim 12.

28. the battery replacement mechanism further includes a roller set, the battery module includes a first bottom wall, and the roller set is used to contact the first bottom wall and reduce sliding resistance of the battery module.

12. A battery exchange station according to claim 11.

29. The side push assembly includes a side push drive member and a side push member, and the side push drive member is used to push the electric vehicle until it abuts against the position limiting assembly by moving the side push member in a direction approaching the position limiting assembly.

20. The battery exchange station of claim 19.

30. the side push member includes a first position and a second position, the side push drive member is used to reciprocate the side push member between the first position and the second position, and when the side push member is located at the first position, the side push member can abut the electric vehicle against the position limiting assembly; 30. The battery exchange station of claim 29.

31. The position limiting assembly further includes a position limiting drive member and a position limiting member, the position limiting member having a third position and a fourth position, the position limiting drive member is used to reciprocate the position limiting member between the third position and the fourth position, and when the position limiting member is located at the third position and the side push member is located at the first position, the position limiting member and the side push member cooperate to position the electric vehicle.

31. The battery exchange station of claim 30.

32. a movement amount of the position limiting member between the third position and the fourth position is smaller than a movement amount of the side pushing member between the first position and the second position; 32. The battery exchange station of claim 31 .

33. the position limiting drive member includes a motor, and the positioning mechanism further includes a trapezoidal screw, the trapezoidal screw being connected between the position limiting drive member and the position limiting member; 32. The battery exchange station of claim 31 .

34. the positioning mechanism further includes a first sensor, the first sensor being used to determine whether the electric vehicle is in contact with the position limiting assembly; 20. The battery exchange station of claim 19.

35. the power supply mechanism further includes a second connection shaft provided on the base, and the charging assembly is provided on the second connection shaft and is slidable on the second connection shaft.

18. A battery exchange station according to claim 17.

36. the power supply mechanism further includes a second reset member, the charging assembly further having a starting position, and if the charging assembly is displaced from the starting position, the second reset member is used to return the charging assembly to the starting position.

36. The battery exchange station of claim 35.

37. the second reset member includes at least two second spring members sleeved onto the second connecting shaft, the at least two second spring members being respectively located on both sides of the charging assembly, one end of each second spring member being connected to the charging assembly, and the other end of each second spring member being connected to the base; 37. The battery exchange station of claim 36.

38. the power supply mechanism further includes a second guide rail and a second slide groove that are slidably fitted to each other, one of the second guide rail and the second slide groove being provided on the charging assembly, and the other of the second guide rail and the second slide groove being provided on the base; 18. A battery exchange station according to claim 17.

39. The charging assembly includes a charging base, an electrical connector, a guide post, and a third spring member, the charging base being slidably attached to the base along the sliding direction, the electrical connector being slidably attached to the charging base via the guide post along the insertion direction, the third spring member being sleeved onto the guide post, and the third spring member being provided in contact between the electrical connector and the charging base.

18. A battery exchange station according to claim 17.

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