Battery exchange station and locking module thereof

Abstract

To provide a battery exchange station and its lock module for improving the stability and reliability of operation.SOLUTION: A base 1, a pawl hook 2 rotatably disposed on the base and adapted to be received between the first finger 21 and the second finger 22, a lever 3 rotatably disposed on the base, the lever 3 being connected to the pawl hook and adapted to apply an elastic force to retract the pawl hook in a first direction; A locking module, comprising a spring, wherein one end of the spring 4 is connected to a base, and the other end of the spring is connected to a pawl hook, and an actuating unit 5 connected to a first end of a lever and adapted to move the lever to release the locking module to an unlocked state, characterized in that when the locking module is in a locked state, the pawl hook is engaged with the lever, and an engaging structure is engaged to the pawl hook.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 672,395, filed July 17, 2024.

[0002] The present invention relates to a locking module, and in particular to a locking module for a battery exchange station. [Background technology]

[0003] Battery exchange stations are usually equipped with a battery locking and unlocking mechanism to ensure the stability and safety of the battery during the exchange process. Such mechanisms are mainly implemented by mechanical structures such as hooks, spring structures, and rotary locking modules to secure the battery in a designated position and release it by an unlocking operation when necessary.

[0004] However, conventional battery locking and unlocking mechanisms have certain inherent drawbacks. If a user pulls too hard on the battery during operation, the mechanism can jam. This jamming is often caused by improper application of force, such as when a user attempts to remove the battery before the unlocking process is fully completed, which can leave the locking mechanism partially engaged and lead to interference or deformation of internal moving parts. Furthermore, the complexity of conventional mechanical designs intended to improve operational accuracy can create instability due to assembly errors and component tolerances, further contributing to jamming.

[0005] These issues not only reduce the operational efficiency of battery exchange stations, but also degrade the user experience and may even lead to damage to the batteries and devices themselves. Therefore, improving the battery locking and unlocking mechanism to solve the jamming problem and increase the stability and reliability of operation is a key challenge in this technical field. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] To provide a battery exchange station and its lock module which improves the locking and unlocking mechanism of a battery to solve the problem of clogging and increase the stability and reliability of operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention provides a lock module. The lock module is disposed on a battery container of a battery exchange station, and the battery container is adapted to receive a battery via an engagement structure. The lock module includes a base, a claw hook, a lever, a spring, and an actuation unit. The claw hook is rotatably disposed on the base, and the claw hook includes a first finger and a second finger, and the engagement structure is adapted to be received between the first finger and the second finger. The lever is rotatably disposed on the base. The spring is connected to the claw hook and adapted to apply an elastic force that retracts the claw hook in a first direction. One end of the spring is connected to the base, and the other end of the spring is connected to the claw hook. The actuation unit is connected to a first end of the lever, and is adapted to move the lever to release the lock module to an unlocked state. When the lock module is in the locked state, the claw hook engages with the lever, and the engagement structure engages against the claw hook.

[0008] In one embodiment, the pawl hook includes a hook, and in a locked state of the lock module, the hook is engaged with the lever and the engagement structure is received between the first finger and the second finger.

[0009] In one embodiment, the lever includes a lever opening, and in the locked state of the lock module, the hook is received in the lever opening.

[0010] In one embodiment, the lever includes a guide portion formed on the second end of the lever, and the hook is guided by the guide portion before the hook is received in the lever opening.

[0011] In one embodiment, the lever includes a pivot portion, the lever pivots on the base via the pivot portion, and the lever opening is formed between the pivot portion and the guide portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second finger is formed between the first finger and the hook, the pawl hook further includes a connecting portion, the connecting portion is adjacent to the first finger, and the spring is connected to the connecting portion.

[0013] In one embodiment, when the actuation unit moves the lever to switch the lock module from a locked state to an unlocked state, the lever is rotated to release the hook, and the pawl hook is rotated by the elastic force.

[0014] In one embodiment, the spring is an extension spring.

[0015] Furthermore, an embodiment of the present invention provides a battery exchange station, which includes a station housing, a battery container, and the locking module described above, wherein the battery container is disposed within the station housing and adapted to receive a battery, the battery including an engagement structure.

[0016] Using the lock module of an embodiment of the present invention, the actuation unit moves the lever, switching the lock module to an unlocked state. This process is not only efficient, but also ensures a smooth and rapid transition to the unlocked state. The unlocking process is completed completely and quickly, reducing the risk of delays that can arise from mechanical complications. Furthermore, the streamlined operation of the actuation unit minimizes the possibility of the mechanism jamming, thereby improving the performance and durability of the overall system. Furthermore, the mechanical design of the lock module of an embodiment of the present invention is simple, significantly contributing to ease of manufacture and maintenance. The simple design reduces the number of potential points of failure, improving the long-term reliability of the lock module. By optimizing the design for functionality and durability, this embodiment ensures that the lock module operates with consistent effectiveness, even under varying conditions and over extended periods of use.

[0017] The present invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a locking module and a battery container according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows details of the lock module of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of a lock module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A shows the lock module in a locked state. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B shows a detail of the lock module in the locked state. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C illustrates the locking process of the locking module of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5D]FIG. 5D illustrates the locking process of the locking module of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5E] FIG. 5E illustrates the locking process of the locking module of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A shows the lock module in an unlocked state. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B shows a detail of the lock module in the unlocked state. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a battery exchange station according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description is made for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention and is not to be taken in a limiting sense, the scope of the invention being determined by reference to the appended claims.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a locking module and a battery container according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a locking module L is disposed on a battery container C of a battery exchange station (not shown). The battery container C is adapted to receive a battery B having an engagement structure 91. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the engagement structure 91 is an oval bump that protrudes from the side of the battery B and is disposed near the end of the battery away from the handle. In another embodiment, there are two or more identical engagement structures of different shapes that are disposed at appropriate positions on the battery, for example, on one or different sides of the battery. There can also be one or more locking modules disposed at appropriate positions on the battery container to interact with one or more engagement structures 91.

[0021] FIG. 3 shows details of a lock module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the lock module according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the lock module L includes a base 1, a claw hook 2, a lever 3, a spring 4, and an actuation unit 5. The claw hook 2 is rotatably disposed on the base 1. The claw hook 2 includes a first finger 21, a second finger 22, and a hook 23, and an engagement structure 91 is adapted to be received between the first finger 21 and the second finger 22. The lever 3 is rotatably disposed on the base 1. A spring 4 is connected to the claw hook 2. The spring 4 is adapted to apply an elastic force that retracts the claw hook 2 in a first direction. One end of the spring 4 is connected to the base 1, and the other end of the spring 4 is connected to the claw hook 2.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the claw hook 2 is rotatable about a first shaft 11 .

[0023] As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, spring 4 is an extension spring. Extension springs are specially designed to provide a reliable and consistent elastic force, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the system. This disclosure is not intended to limit the invention, as various alternative configurations are possible. For example, spring 4 could alternatively be an elastic sheet, which is flexible and easily integrated into flat designs, or a torsion spring, which is particularly well-suited for applications requiring rotational forces. These variations provide additional options for adapting the invention to different functional requirements and structural constraints.

[0024] In one embodiment, the actuation unit 5 can be an electromagnetic actuator or a mechanical actuator. Electromagnetic actuators are advantageous due to their fast response time and precise control, making them ideal for applications requiring high precision. Alternatively, mechanical actuators can be utilized for their robustness and cost-effectiveness. This disclosure is not intended to limit the invention, but rather allows flexibility in selecting the most appropriate actuation unit based on the specific needs of an embodiment.

[0025] 5A and 5B show the lock module in a locked state. 6A and 6B show the lock module in an unlocked state. As shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B, the actuation unit 5 is connected to the first end 31 of the lever 3, and the actuation unit 5 is adapted to move the lever 3 to release the lock module L to the unlocked state (FIG. 6). For example, the actuation unit 5 can be actuated by an electrical signal, a magnetic signal, and / or a mechanical force to move the lever 3.

[0026] When the lock module L is in the locked state (FIGS. 5A and 5B), the claw hook 2 is engaged with the lever 3 and the engagement structure 91 is received between the first finger 21 and the second finger 22 of the claw hook 2.

[0027] 4, 5A, and 5B, in one embodiment, the lever 3 includes a lever opening 33. The hook 23 is received in the lever opening 33 when the lock module is in the locked state.

[0028] 4, in one embodiment, the lever 3 includes a guide portion 34 formed on the second end 32 of the lever 3. Before the hook 23 is received in the lever opening 33, the hook 23 can move along the guide portion 34.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 4 , in one embodiment, the lever 3 includes a pivoting portion 35. The pivoting portion 35 includes two wind-like structures 351, and each wind-like structure 351 includes a hole 352 for receiving the second shaft 12. In one embodiment, the two wind-like structures 351 are parallel to each other. The lever 3 pivots on the base 1 via the pivoting portion 35. A lever opening 33 is formed between the pivoting portion 35 and the guide portion 34. In this embodiment, the lever 3 pivots around the second shaft 12 via the pivoting portion 35.

[0030] 4, 5A, and 5B, in one embodiment, the second finger 22 is formed between the first finger 21 and the hook 23. The claw hook 2 further includes a connecting portion 24. The connecting portion 24 is adjacent to the first finger 21, and the spring 4 is connected to the connecting portion 24.

[0031] 5C, 5D, and 5E show the locking process of the lock module of an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E, when battery B is inserted into battery container C (FIG. 5C), engagement structure 91 abuts and pushes second finger 22 (FIG. 5D). Then, hook 23 abuts guide portion 34 and pushes lever 3 (FIG. 5D). Hook 23 moves along guide portion 34 of lever 3 and penetrates lever opening 33 (FIGS. 5A and 5B), and engagement structure 91 is engaged between second finger 22 and first finger 21.

[0032] 6A and 6B, in one embodiment, when the actuation unit 5 moves the lever 3 to switch the locking module from a locked state to an unlocked state, the lever 3 is rotated to release the hook 23, and the claw hook 2 is rotated by the elastic force of the spring 4. In particular, the spring 4 applies an elastic force that retracts the claw hook 2 in a first direction α.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a battery exchange station according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, in one embodiment, the battery exchange station includes a station housing H, a plurality of battery containers C, and the locking module (not shown) described above. The battery containers C are disposed within the station housing H and are adapted to receive batteries B. In one embodiment, the battery exchange station is equipped with a network communication module, enabling it to connect to a centralized management server via a wired or wireless communication network. This connection allows for real-time monitoring of battery inventory, usage patterns, and operational status. The station also includes remote control functionality, allowing authorized personnel to lock or unlock specific battery containers C and initiate maintenance procedures remotely. To enhance operational efficiency, the station housing H integrates sensors and IoT devices to track environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity to ensure optimal storage conditions for batteries B. Additionally, the system supports integration with a mobile application, providing users with the ability to locate available battery exchange stations, reserve battery containers, and receive notifications regarding the status of their battery exchanges.

[0034] Using the lock module of an embodiment of the present invention, the actuation unit moves the lever, switching the lock module to an unlocked state. This process is not only efficient, but also ensures a smooth and rapid transition to the unlocked state. The unlocking process is completed completely and quickly, reducing the risk of delays that can arise from mechanical complications. Furthermore, the streamlined operation of the actuation unit minimizes the possibility of the mechanism jamming, thereby improving the performance and durability of the overall system. Furthermore, the mechanical design of the lock module of an embodiment of the present invention is simple, significantly contributing to ease of manufacture and maintenance. The simple design reduces the number of potential points of failure, improving the long-term reliability of the lock module. By optimizing the design for functionality and durability, this embodiment ensures that the lock module operates with consistent effectiveness, even under varying conditions and over extended periods of use.

[0035] While the present disclosure has been described by way of example and in terms of embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover various modifications and similar arrangements (as would be apparent to those skilled in the art). Therefore, the scope of the appended claims should be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements. [Explanation of symbols]

[0036] 1 base 2 claw hooks 3 Lever 4 Spring 5. Operating unit 11 First Shaft 12 Second Shaft 21 First Finger 22 Second Finger 23 Hook 24 Connection 31 first end 32 Second end 33 Lever opening 34 Guide section 35 Rotating part 351 Wind Configuration 352 holes 91 Engagement structure B. Battery C Battery Container H Station Housing L Lock Module α First direction

Claims

1. positioned on a battery container of the battery exchange station, the battery container adapted to receive the battery by the engagement structure; base, a pawl hook rotatably disposed on the base, the pawl hook including a first finger and a second finger, the pawl hook adapted to be received between the first finger and the second finger; a lever rotatably disposed on the base; a spring connected to the claw hook and adapted to apply a resilient force to retract the claw hook in a first direction, the spring having one end connected to the base and the other end connected to the claw hook; an actuation unit connected to a first end of the lever and adapted to move the lever to release the lock module to an unlocked state; When the lock module is in a locked state, the claw hook is engaged with the lever, and the engagement structure is engaged with the claw hook.

2. 2. The lock module of claim 1, wherein the pawl hook includes a hook, and in the locked state of the lock module, the hook is engaged with the lever and the engagement structure is received between the first finger and the second finger.

3. 3. The lock module of claim 2, wherein the lever includes a lever opening, and wherein the hook is received in the lever opening in the locked state of the lock module.

4. 4. The lock module of claim 3, wherein the lever includes a guide portion formed at a second end of the lever, and the hook is guided by the guide portion before being received in the lever opening.

5. The lock module according to claim 4 , wherein the lever includes a pivoting portion, the lever pivots on the base via the pivoting portion, and the lever opening is formed between the pivoting portion and the guide portion.

6. 6. The lock module of claim 5, wherein the second finger is formed between the first finger and the hook, the claw hook further includes a connecting portion, the connecting portion is adjacent to the first finger, and the spring is connected to the connecting portion.

7. 4. The lock module of claim 3, wherein when the actuation unit moves the lever to switch the lock module from the locked state to the unlocked state, the lever is rotated to release the hook, and the claw hook is rotated by the elastic force.

8. 4. The lock module of claim 3, wherein the spring is an extension spring.

9. Station housing, a battery container disposed within the station housing and adapted to receive a battery, the battery including an engagement structure; and A battery exchange station comprising the lock module according to any one of claims 1 to 8 disposed within the battery container.

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