Battery container for electric floating vessels

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery system (100) for an electric floating vessel (2), comprising a battery container (6) for the electric floating vessel (2) and a battery socket (8) for integration into the electric floating vessel (2). The battery container (6) is configured to cooperate with the battery socket (8) and includes a housing (6h). A power socket (99s) is provided on a bottom surface (BS) of the housing (6h), and a power plug (99p) that mates with the power socket (99s) is externally accessible. The battery socket (8) has a receptacle (8r) for receiving the battery container (6), and the receptacle (8r) has a battery receiving surface (RS) in the receptacle (8r) with the power plug (99p) and an externally accessible power socket (99s) that mates with the power plug (99p). The power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p) are provided such that when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operational use, an electrical connection is established between the power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p).

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] [Field of the Invention] The present invention relates to a battery system for an electric floating vessel, the battery system comprising a battery container for the electric floating vessel and a battery socket for integration into the electric floating vessel. The present invention further relates to a battery container for the electric floating vessel, the battery container configured to cooperate with the battery socket. The present invention also relates to a battery socket having a receptacle for receiving the battery container. The present invention further relates to a floating vessel comprising the battery socket of the present invention.

[0002] [Background of the invention] In recent years, there has been an increasing effort to switch marine vessels from fuel-powered motors to electric propulsion systems in order to reduce the maritime industry's CO2 footprint.

[0003] Battery-powered boats, ships, ferries, and other maritime vessels typically have permanently installed batteries that are charged when the vessel is at dock. Some ferries and most light, high-speed craft used to shuttle passengers and vehicles only stay at the pier for a few minutes, which is not enough time to charge the large capacity batteries required for these types of maritime vessels.

[0004] A type of shuttle service vessel typically operates continuously for several hours in the morning and afternoon, with a berth in between. The installation of stationary batteries required for several hours of continuous operation requires large battery containers, which adds significant weight on board. Lightweight, high-speed vessels are sensitive to weight, so loading them with excessive weight is undesirable, as it increases energy consumption.

[0005] Other high-speed vessels operate long-distance routes along coasts or in bays. Typically, these voyages can be several hours long, with intermediate stops along the route. There are usually no charging opportunities at the intermediate stops, meaning charging must occur only at the final stop, typically requiring a diesel engine as a range extender. An all-electric voyage of this length would require very large permanent battery containers. The weight and size of these battery containers add to the ship's size and cost. Furthermore, the charging power requirements at the final stop are significant, sometimes leading to high costs for strengthening the power grid. Many ports in remote areas visited by ferries lack the power grids that allow for the charging of large-capacity batteries. Therefore, "fast charging" is not possible during the few minutes the ferry is alongside. The only option is to "slow charge" the batteries stored in these remote locations and replace them with depleted batteries on board.

[0006] An alternative to large, permanently installed battery containers could be smaller battery containers that can be swapped and charged at the wharf and placed at final or intermediate berths, thus minimizing additional weight. This would allow lighter, faster vessels to operate continuously for up to a full day, for example, by swapping battery containers at each or every other berth. Furthermore, the use of smaller, swappable battery containers would enable regular-sized ships to perform long-distance, zero-emission voyages purely on battery power. Battery swapping is also ideal for retrofitting existing diesel ships, since they are typically not designed to carry the weight of large battery banks. Furthermore, multiple ships departing and arriving at the same berth could share a common battery pool, reducing the total battery capacity required and benefiting from the sharing economy.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need to find a solution to replace used batteries with charged batteries while the ship is docked at the pier. Ideally, such a battery exchange should be fully automatic and occur during the short time the ship is docked.

[0008] WO2018 / 084716A1 describes a transfer system for exchanging rechargeable batteries between a battery room on a floating vessel and a charging station located outside the vessel, thereby allowing the vessel to be located near the charging station. The transfer system is based on a lifting table for moving the battery container, a tower support with a movable arm configured to lift the battery container using a winch device, or a belt conveyor for transporting the battery container. The system described in WO2018 / 084716A1 results in complex operations that are difficult to perform automatically. Furthermore, vessel movements, especially in small vessels, can cause delays in these battery transfer operations.

[0009] WO2020 / 190147A1 describes an autonomous battery swap system for a marine vessel, in which a self-propelled battery assembly moves between a shore-based charging station and a docking station on the vessel. The self-propelled battery assembly is configured for autonomous movement between the docking station and the charging station. The self-propelled battery assembly uses the marine vessel's loading ramp at the quay to travel back and forth between the docking station and the charging station, which can sometimes obstruct or interrupt vehicle or passenger traffic and delay the vessel's departure.

[0010] WO 90 / 08093 describes a transfer system for loading and unloading containers onto a floating ship. The transfer system comprises a boom that can span the length of the ship, a winch carriage that can move along the boom, and hoisting means for the container suspended from the winch carriage. The boom is supported by two support structures, one on the shore and one on a floating base on the seaward side of the ship. The floating part of the crane is detachable from the land-mounted part.

[0011] Small marine vessels, such as those used in shuttle services for passengers and vehicles, are exposed to more water movement while at pier compared to large container ships. The transfer system described in WO 90 / 08093 is designed for large container ships and does not adequately compensate for the roll and pitch of smaller vessels. Ship movements, especially in smaller vessels, result in delays when transferring batteries to and from them. Therefore, this crane system is not well suited for loading and unloading small marine vessels.

[0012] In view of the above challenges, there has been and still is a need for further development of transfer systems for loading and unloading objects such as battery containers onto and from floating vessels.

[0013] In light of this need, applicant has invented and developed a transfer system for transporting objects, such as battery containers, to and from a storage area and a target area, the transfer system comprising: i) a pedestal for placement in one of the storage area and the target area; ii) a primary boom pivotally connected to the pedestal, the primary boom having a distal end configured to be supported by the other of the storage area and the target area while allowing at least one rotational degree of freedom between the primary boom and the other of the storage area and the target area, the overall length of the primary boom being passively adjustable at least during a first operational mode of the transfer system; iii) a transfer boom coupled to the primary boom; and iv) an object handler guided by the transfer boom and configured to handle objects to be transported between the storage area and the target area. This transfer system and all embodiments thereof are claimed and described in unpublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0014] In connection with the development of the above-mentioned transport system, the Applicant also felt the need to develop a battery system (comprising at least one battery container with at least one corresponding battery socket) suitable for use on electric floating vessels.

[0015] [Summary of the Invention] The present invention has the object of providing a battery system that facilitates faster replacement of battery containers on floating vessels, particularly when applied in combination with the transfer system of unpublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0016] This object is achieved by the features specified in the following description and the claims that follow.

[0017] The invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0018] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a battery system for an electric floating vessel. The battery system includes a battery container for the electric floating vessel and a battery socket for integration into the electric floating vessel. The battery container is configured to cooperate with the battery socket. The battery container includes a housing, a plurality of battery modules disposed within the housing, and a power socket. The plurality of battery modules are electrically connected to each other to form a battery network that is coupled to the power socket to provide a supply voltage via terminals of the power socket. The power socket is provided on a bottom surface of the housing and is externally accessible for a power plug that mates with the power socket. The bottom surface is defined as the side facing the battery socket into which the battery container is disposed during operational use. The battery socket has a receptacle for receiving the battery container. The battery socket has a power plug on a battery receiving surface within the receptacle, and is externally accessible for a power socket that mates with the power plug. The battery receiving surface is defined as the side facing the battery container when the battery container is disposed in the battery socket during operational use. The power socket and power plug are provided such that when the battery container is placed in the battery socket during operational use, an electrical connection is established between the power socket and the power plug. To achieve this effect, the location and orientation of the power plug match the location and orientation of the power socket when the battery container is placed in the battery socket.

[0019] The advantages of the battery system according to the present invention are as follows:

[0020] First, multiple battery modules are provided, which are electrically connected to produce the correct voltage, capacity, and power density for the electric floating vessel. The multiple battery modules are conveniently arranged in a housing. Next, a power socket is provided on the bottom of the housing, which mates with a corresponding power plug that is part of the battery socket into which the battery container is placed during operational use. To facilitate this, the battery socket is designed with a receptacle for receiving the battery container. In the battery system of the present invention, the location, size, and orientation of the power socket and power plug are carefully selected to facilitate automatic connection of the battery socket's power plug with the battery container's power socket when the battery container is placed into the battery socket (by simply lowering it into the battery socket). The connection is established automatically, without the need for an operator to connect the battery container to the vessel. This is a significant advantage, not only making it safer but also making battery container replacement on the floating vessel much faster. It should be noted that a floating vessel may have multiple battery sockets and may have more battery containers than battery sockets, allowing for shore-based charging of battery containers while the floating vessel uses its own battery containers for electric propulsion.

[0021] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, one or more expressions are further defined hereinafter.

[0022] Throughout the description and claims, the term "object" should be interpreted as any type of cargo that can be transferred between two zones. An object can be a battery container, a hydrogen tank, another module, a box, a container, or cargo.

[0023] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "battery container" should be interpreted as any number of (preferably) identical batteries or individual battery cells, which may be configured in series, parallel, or a mixture of both to deliver a desired voltage, capacity, or power density. In addition to the batteries or battery cells, there may be other components such as temperature sensors, cooling systems, control electronics, etc. Others may refer to a battery container by terms such as a "battery pack."

[0024] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "battery socket" should be construed as a limited or defined space configured to mechanically and electrically receive a battery container by inserting the battery container into a battery system when the battery container is provided in the battery socket.

[0025] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "battery system" should be interpreted as the combination of a battery container and its corresponding battery socket with each other, or a series of battery containers and their corresponding battery sockets with each other. Of course, there may be more battery containers than battery sockets in a particular battery system, particularly when it concerns battery systems for electric floating vessels.

[0026] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "object handler" should be interpreted as any type of gripping device for grasping and lifting objects. Alternative terms for object handler are docking head, remotely operated vehicle (ROV), docking hook, docking wand, docking claw, docking mushroom, vacuum cup, vacuum head, docking mechanism, cargo actuator, movable trolley, load actuator, robotic gripper, robotic arm, automatic hook, magnetic head, and latch mechanism.

[0027] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "storage area" should be interpreted as any area in which an object can be placed. The storage area can be an area on a shore, a floating platform, a floating vessel, or a pier.

[0028] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "target area" should be interpreted as any area where an object can be placed. The storage area can be an area on a shore, a floating platform, a floating vessel, or a pier.

[0029] Throughout the description and claims, the term "pedestal" should be construed as any structure capable of supporting a boom. Alternative terms for pedestal are crane support, robot arm support, beam support, and boom support.

[0030] Throughout the description and claims, the term "boom" should be interpreted as a structure including an arm extending in a horizontal plane. Alternative terms for boom are arm, robot arm, member, and beam.

[0031] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "passively adjustable" should be interpreted as adjustable under the influence of external forces, i.e., the movements of the floating vessel when docked at shore (pitch, roll, yaw, heave, sway, and surge). That is, when the main boom is passively adjustable due to the movements of the floating vessel, the main boom does not generate intentional reaction forces to suppress or counteract these movements.

[0032] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "transport boom" should be interpreted as a structure including an arm extending in a horizontal plane along which an object handler can be moved or along which an object handler can be guided. Alternative terms for transfer boom are arm, robot arm, member, beam, and guide.

[0033] Throughout the description and claims, the word "connection" should be interpreted as a connection between two booms. It can be a fixed connection, or a movable or slidable connection. Alternative words for connection are connected, locked, or joined.

[0034] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "expansion joint" should be interpreted as a movable connection between two members, one of which can slide inside the other. Alternative terms for expansion joint are expansion connection and expansion linkage.

[0035] Throughout the description and claims, the term "floating vessel" should be interpreted as a vessel that floats on water. Alternative terms for floating vessel are ocean vessel, speedboat, ferry, ship, boat, barge, and raft.

[0036] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "floating platform" should be interpreted as a platform that floats on water. Alternative terms for floating vessel are barge, raft, pontoon, base, and buoy.

[0037] Throughout the description and claims, the phrase "transfer device" should be interpreted as any device capable of receiving an object and moving it into or out of the reach of an object handler. Alternative terms for transfer device are platform, rotatable turntable, movable platform, belt conveyor, vehicle, robotic storage facility, forklift, crane, and rack and pinion system.

[0038] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the bottom surface of the housing includes a plurality of legs for supporting the battery container. The legs advantageously keep the battery container stable when placed on the floating vessel. The legs may also include a gripping surface for enhancing the grip with the deck of the floating vessel.

[0039] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the legs are designed to align with corresponding holes in the battery socket, providing a very secure and secure hold for the battery container.

[0040] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, at least one of the legs has a recess formed therein that can be gripped by a locking mechanism present in the battery socket to keep the battery container in operational use. The legs that fit into corresponding holes provide a secure, two-dimensional retention effect but do not prevent the legs from being pulled out of the hole. This embodiment facilitates solving that problem because the recess can be gripped by a locking mechanism that may be integrated into or near the hole. The more legs that have such recesses, the better the battery container can be gripped and held in the battery socket.

[0041] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the housing includes at least one ventilation hole to allow ventilation of the space within the housing around the battery module. Battery modules often have ventilation holes. When such battery modules are placed in a narrow housing, ventilation of the battery module is reduced or completely lost. This embodiment advantageously "translates" the ventilation functionality of the battery module to the external housing of the battery container. Indeed, this embodiment constitutes a separate invention that may be applied without the power plug and power socket of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0042] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the housing includes at least one overpressure valve for allowing certain overpressure within the housing to escape to the free atmosphere. The battery module may be at risk of failure, possibly resulting in a fire or even an explosion. To reduce this risk, the battery module may have one or more overpressure valves to facilitate overpressure protection. When such a battery module is placed in a narrow housing, the overpressure protection may also need to be translated to the external housing. This embodiment conveniently implements this "translation." Indeed, this embodiment constitutes a separate invention that may be applied without the power plug and power socket of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0043] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the top surface of the housing includes a gripping interface for being gripped by an object handler of a transfer system for transporting the battery container back and forth between a storage area and a battery socket, the gripping interface facilitating transfer of the battery container between a floating vessel and a short circuit, as also described in unpublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0044] In one embodiment of a battery system according to the present invention, the housing includes a cooling system coupled to the plurality of battery modules for cooling the battery modules. Some conventional battery modules include channels that utilize a cooling fluid / liquid. Providing a cooling system in the housing facilitates cooling the fluid / liquid transported through the channels of the battery modules, thereby maintaining the batteries at the correct temperature during operation as well as charging. Further details of this feature are provided in the detailed description.

[0045] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, the receptacle of the battery socket includes a plurality of holes designed to align with corresponding legs of the battery container. This embodiment is advantageous in combination with the previous embodiment that describes a plurality of legs of the battery container. This embodiment effectively holds the battery container in place during operational use, as the legs are received in the holes.

[0046] In one embodiment of the battery system according to the present invention, at least one of the holes includes a locking mechanism for gripping a leg of the battery container to keep the battery container in the battery socket during operational use. This embodiment is advantageous in combination with the previous embodiment describing a recess in at least one of the legs. The locking mechanism then grips the recess, which keeps the battery container in the battery socket by preventing the respective leg from being pulled out of the hole.

[0047] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a battery container for an electric floating vessel, the battery container being configured to cooperate with a battery socket. The battery container includes a housing, a plurality of battery modules disposed within the housing, and a power socket. The plurality of battery modules are electrically connected to each other to form a battery network that is coupled to the power socket to provide a supply voltage via terminals of the power socket. The power socket is provided on a bottom surface of the housing, and a power plug that mates with the power socket is externally accessible. The bottom surface is defined as the side facing the battery socket into which the battery container is disposed during operational use. The power socket is provided such that an electrical connection is established between the power socket and the power plug when the battery container is disposed in the battery socket during operational use. To achieve this effect, the location and orientation of the power plug align with the location and orientation of the power socket when the battery container is disposed in the battery socket.

[0048] The present invention relates to a two-part system, namely a battery container and a battery socket for receiving such a battery container. The invention in a second aspect relates to one of these two cooperating parts, namely the battery container. Below follows embodiments of the battery container that have already been discussed (in relation to their effects and advantages) also in the context of the battery system in the first aspect.

[0049] In one embodiment of the battery container according to the present invention, the bottom surface of the housing is provided with a plurality of legs for supporting the battery container.

[0050] In one embodiment of the battery container according to the present invention, the legs are designed to align with corresponding holes in the battery socket.

[0051] In one embodiment of the battery container according to the present invention, at least one of the legs has a recess formed therein that can be grasped by a locking mechanism on the battery socket to keep the battery container in the battery socket during operational use.

[0052] In one embodiment of a battery container according to the present invention, the housing includes at least one ventilation hole for allowing ventilation of the space within the housing around the battery module.

[0053] In one embodiment of the battery container according to the invention, the enclosure is provided with at least one overpressure valve for allowing a certain overpressure within the enclosure to escape to the free atmosphere.

[0054] In one embodiment of a battery container according to the present invention, the top surface of the housing includes a gripping interface for being grasped by an object handler of a transport system for transporting the battery container back and forth between a storage area and a battery socket.

[0055] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a battery socket having a receptacle for receiving a battery container according to any one of claims 11 to 13. The battery socket has a power plug on a battery receiving surface within the receptacle, and the power socket is externally accessible to mate with the power plug. The battery receiving surface is defined as the side facing the battery container when the battery container is placed in the battery socket for operational use. The power plug is provided so that an electrical connection is established between the power plug and the power socket when the battery container is placed in the battery socket for operational use. To achieve this effect, the location and orientation of the power plug align with the location and orientation of the power socket when the battery container is placed in the battery socket.

[0056] The present invention relates to a two-part system, namely a battery container and a battery socket for receiving such a battery container. The invention in a third aspect relates to the other of these two cooperating parts, namely the battery socket. Below follow embodiments of the battery socket already discussed (in relation to their effects and advantages) in the context of the battery system in the first aspect.

[0057] In one embodiment of a battery socket according to the present invention, the receptacle of the battery socket includes a plurality of holes designed to align with corresponding legs of the battery container.

[0058] In one embodiment of the battery socket according to the present invention, at least one of the plurality of holes includes a locking mechanism for gripping a leg of the battery container to keep the battery container within the battery socket during operational use.

[0059] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a floating vessel comprising a battery socket according to the third aspect of the invention, the floating vessel comprising an electric motor for propulsion of the floating vessel, the battery socket being electrically connected to the electric motor. By comprising a battery socket according to the third aspect of the invention, the floating vessel is advantageously adapted to receive a battery container according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0060] In one embodiment of the floating vessel according to the invention, the battery sockets are provided on the deck of the floating vessel. As previously described in unpublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148, the inventors have realised that the electric battery containers may be located on the deck of the floating vessel, which makes the replacement of the battery containers much faster.

[0061] In one embodiment of the floating vessel according to the invention, a battery container according to the second aspect of the invention is provided in the battery socket to power the electric motor, completing the floating vessel for departure.

[0062] In the following, examples of embodiments are described that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0063] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a transfer system previously developed by the applicant. [Figure 2] 1 shows an embodiment of a floating vessel according to the present invention having a rotating platform on the deck. [Figure 3] 3 is an enlarged view of the turntable of FIG. 2 having two battery sockets and two battery containers according to the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a battery container according to the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows the battery container of FIG. 4 with the housing removed. [Figure 6a]Figure 4 shows different views of the battery modules used in the battery container. [Figure 6b] Figure 4 shows different views of the battery modules used in the battery container. [Figure 7] Figure 4 shows the bottom module used in the battery container. [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the battery container of FIG. 4, with the bottom surface visible. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 shows the bottom module of FIG. 7, with the bottom side visible. [Figure 10] Figure 4 shows the power socket of the battery container. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a power plug used in one embodiment of a battery socket according to the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the turntable of FIG. 2 with the battery container removed and the battery socket visible. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a top view of the turntable of FIG. 12, showing the two battery sockets. [Figure 14] 14 shows the battery container of FIG. 4 being placed in the battery socket of FIGS. 12 and 13. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0064] Detailed Description of the Embodiments Various exemplary embodiments of the present subject matter are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described herein. Of course, it will be apparent that the development of any such actual embodiment will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to be made in order to achieve particular development objectives that vary from implementation to implementation, including compliance with system-related and business-related constraints. Moreover, it will be apparent that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0065] The present subject matter will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Various systems, structures, and devices are depicted generally in the drawings for illustrative purposes only and so as not to obscure the present disclosure with details that are well known to those skilled in the art. Nevertheless, the accompanying drawings are included to describe and explain illustrative examples of the present disclosure. The words and phrases used herein should be understood and interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the understanding of those words and phrases by those skilled in the art. No special definition of a term or phrase, i.e., a definition that is different from the ordinary and customary meaning understood by those skilled in the art, is intended to be implied by consistent use of that term or phrase herein. To the extent that a term or phrase is intended to have a special meaning, i.e., a meaning that is not understood by those skilled in the art, such special definition will be expressly set forth herein in a definitional manner that directly and unambiguously gives that term or phrase a special definition.

[0066] The present invention relates to a battery system for an electric vessel. Such a battery system comprises a battery container and a corresponding battery socket. Some details of this transfer system are repeated in this application. For all remaining details, reference is made to the aforementioned unpublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148.

[0067] The present invention will now be discussed in detail with reference to the drawings, which will be primarily discussed only insofar as they differ from previous figures.

[0068] FIG. 1 illustrates a transfer system previously developed by the applicant. The diagram shows the transfer system 1 at shore 3, which includes a platform 60. The diagram further illustrates a floating vessel 2 approaching shore 3, where a storage area 4 is located. Battery containers 6 are stored on the platform 60 at shore 3 and on a rotatable turntable 31 on the floating vessel 2. The transfer system 1 includes a platform to which a main boom 11 is pivotally attached. The distal end 11e of the main boom 11 includes a vertical support 14, and the target area 5 on the floating vessel 2 includes a support 32 configured to receive the vertical support 14, such that the transfer system 1 can ride on the floating vessel 2 and automatically follow its movements. The vertical support 14 is supported by and forms a pivotable connection with the support 32. The main boom 11 includes a transfer boom 12, on which an object handler 13 is mounted. The object handler 13 is for picking up objects such as battery containers 6, transporting them and releasing them.

[0069] 1 further discloses transport equipment 30 in storage area 4. Transport equipment 30 includes housing 51. Housing 51 may be raised and lowered by platform 60. Housing 51 may also be fastened to platform 60. Housing 51 may protect battery container 6 from, for example, wind and rain while battery container 6 is stored and charged. Housing 51 includes two slidable middle doors 52 that are closed when transport system 1 is in parked mode. Housing 51 also includes side doors 53, one of which is visible.

[0070] 2 illustrates one embodiment of a floating vessel 2 according to the present invention having a turntable 31 on deck 2d. The floating vessel 2 may be a ferry, a fast ferry, or any other type of boat, platform, or vessel. As discussed in unpublished patent application PCT / NO2022 / 050148, the turntable 31 may be rotated as indicated by the circular arrow, such that by simply rotating the turntable, each of the battery containers / battery slots may become available in the transfer system 1 of FIG. 1.

[0071] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the turntable 31 of Figure 2 having two battery sockets 8 and two battery containers 6 according to the present invention. The battery sockets 8 are not clearly visible and will be discussed with reference to other figures. The turntable 31 of Figure 3 includes two battery sockets 8, each with a battery container 6.

[0072] FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a battery container 6 according to the present invention. The battery container 6 includes a housing 6h. The top of the housing 6h is provided with a gripping interface 25 on its top surface TS to allow handling by the transport system 1 of FIG. 1. The gripping interface 25 may be a hook or the like, allowing the object handler 13, as described above, to grip and hold the battery container 6 for transport. FIG. 4 also illustrates a bottom module 6b, with additional features that will be further described with reference to subsequent figures. Also visible are vent holes 6v on the sides of the housing 6h of the battery container 6. These vent holes 6v are intended to vent potential fumes that may be emitted from the batteries. The housing further includes a removable plastic cover 6z, as shown. The removable plastic cover allows access to the battery modules and also provides weather protection. The vent holes 6v effectively "translate" the same functionality of the battery modules 6m to the outside of the battery container housing 6h. The battery container in the embodiment of FIG. 4 has the following dimensions: The width is 1600 mm. The length is 2250 mm. The height is 2200 mm. The total weight of the battery container 6 is approximately 8000 kg.

[0073] FIG. 5 shows the battery container 6 of FIG. 4 with the housing 6h removed. The cooling system 6c (which may be an air-to-liquid heat pump) is visible in the bottom module 6b. Atop the cooling system 6c are a plurality of battery modules 6m, ten in this embodiment arranged in two stacks of five battery modules each, arranged side-by-side, as shown. Each battery module 6m includes a high-capacity lithium battery in this embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to any particular type of battery technology. Of course, any other number of battery modules and any other physical arrangement thereof may be selected. The battery modules 6m may be purchased, for example, as a standard product. In this embodiment, the battery modules 6m are of the type "AKASYSTEM 9 AKM 150 CYC" purchased from the company Akasol. The battery modules 6m are electrically connected to each other to form a battery network 90. The battery network 90 is electrically connected to power sockets 99s provided in the bottom module 99 and accessible from the bottom surface BS of the battery container 6.

[0074] The battery module used in the embodiment of Figure 5 has several integrated features, among others, arranged to be cooled using integrated cooling channels (not visible) through which a liquid may flow. Visible in Figure 5 is a liquid supply channel 7 connecting the cooling system 6c with the cooling channels of the battery module 6m. In some embodiments, there may also be a channel on the other side of the battery container 6.

[0075] 5 further includes an electronics module 6el for controlling various functions of the battery container 6. The electronics module 6e includes a fuse disposed between the power socket 99s and the battery module 6m. The module 6 also includes a data logger for logging communication signals.

[0076] 6a-6b show different views of the battery module 6m used in the battery container 6 of FIG. 4. In FIG. 6a, one of the short sides of the battery module 6m is visible. This side shows a first connector 6m1 for power supply. The first connector 6m1 is for connection to the main electrical cable. Also shown is a second connector 6m2 for connection to a control system. On the long side, three lids 6L are visible to allow access to the bolts connecting the different modules 6m to each other. As seen in FIG. 6b, the same lids 6L are visible on the other long side of the battery module 6m. FIG. 6b also shows a pair of third connectors 6m3 for connection to a cooling system. Also shown are a pair of overpressure valves 6m4 for allowing overpressure to escape to the outside world.

[0077] FIG. 7 illustrates the bottom module 6b of the battery container 6 of FIG. 4. To the left of the bottom module 6b, the cooling system 6c is visible. The bottom module 6b is an air-to-liquid cooling heat pump in this embodiment and includes air outlets 6pi and 6po. As shown, different components are visible through an opening 6cp in the housing of the bottom module 6b. This opening 6cp serves as an air intake for the cooling system 6c. During operation, a blower in the cooling system 6c draws air through the opening 6cp and delivers it to a heat exchanger (not shown). The heat exchanger then expels the same air through the air outlets 6pi and 6po.

[0078] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the battery container 6 of FIG. 4, with the bottom surface BS visible. This view shows the housing 6h containing the previously discussed battery module 6m and bottom module 6m. Visible on the bottom surface BS of the housing (which is the bottom surface BS of bottom module 6b) are the previously discussed power sockets 99s, which form part of the first invention disclosed in this application. Also visible on the bottom surface BS are four legs 80.

[0079] FIG. 9 shows the bottom module 6b of FIG. 7, with the bottom surface BS visible. In this view, the legs 80 are disclosed in more detail. In this example, two of the four legs 80 include recesses 81. These recesses 81 are designed to cooperate with a locking mechanism for holding the legs 80 in place, as discussed later. FIG. 9 also clearly shows that the power socket 99s is positioned off-center relative to the side wall of the bottom module 6b. This ensures that the inserted battery can be placed in the battery socket in only one way. Needless to say, the placement of the power plug 99p must then match the placement of the power socket 99s. In this embodiment, the minimum distance between the edge of the power socket and the shortest side wall of the bottom module 6b is 550 mm. The placement of the power socket 99s relative to the long side wall is exactly centered.

[0080] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the power socket 99p of the battery container 6 of FIG. 4. The power socket 99p was specially designed by the applicant for this invention. The design concerns the dimensions of the socket housing 99sh and the arrangement of the terminals 99st of the power socket 99s. The internal dimensions of the power socket 99s are 465 mm x 300 mm.

[0081] FIG. 11 shows a power plug 99p used in one embodiment of a battery socket 8 according to the present invention. The power plug 99p is designed to fit into the power socket of FIG. 10. The design concerns the dimensions of the plug housing 99ph as well as the arrangement of the terminals 99pt of the power plug 99p. The external dimensions of the power socket 99s are 465mm x 300mm.

[0082] Many variations are possible as far as the dimensioning of the power socket 99s of the battery container 6 and the power plug 99p of the battery socket 8 is concerned, all of which are covered by the present invention.

[0083] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the turntable 31 of FIG. 2 with the battery container 6 removed and the battery sockets 8 visible. FIG. 13 is a top view of the turntable 31 of FIG. 12 with two battery sockets 8 visible. In this embodiment, the turntable 31 has two receptacles 8r, each designed to receive a battery container 6. The turntable 31 is rotatable about an axis coincident with the support 32. As shown, each receptacle 8r is provided with a power plug 99p on its battery receiving surface RS. FIG. 13 clearly shows how the power plugs 99p are positioned in the receptacles and how they correspond to the placement and orientation of the power sockets 99s on the battery container 6. Additionally, holes 85 are shown, which correspond to the placement of the legs 80 on the battery container 6. The holes 85 are designed to receive the aforementioned legs 80. At least one of the holes 85 of each receptacle 8r is provided with a locking mechanism 86, indicated schematically by an arrow. There are many different technical solutions for gripping the recesses 81 of the legs 80, so this will not be discussed in further detail.

[0084] FIG. 14 shows how the battery container 6 of FIG. 4 is placed in the battery socket 8 of FIGS. 12 and 13. After the transfer system 1 of FIG. 1 transfers the battery container 6 to a position above the receptacle, the battery container 6 is lowered as shown by the arrow. The legs 80 are then received in the holes 85. The shape of the legs 80 is preferably designed to have a centering effect, accurately positioning and orienting the battery container 6 while it is being lowered. At the same time that the legs 80 are lowered into the corresponding holes 85, the power sockets 99s of the battery pack 6 connect with the power plugs 99p. As a result of this feature, the battery container 6 has an automatic connection function.

[0085] The particular embodiments disclosed above are merely illustrative, and the invention may be modified and embodied in equivalent manners that will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. The housing 6h shown in the drawings exhibits a modular construction. However, the housing 6h may also be designed as a single unit. Alternatively, there are many variations when it comes to the placement of the lid and vent holes.

[0086] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize additional alternative solutions to the present battery system. The present invention covers all such modifications insofar as they are covered by the independent claims. No limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the following claims.

[0087] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments illustrate rather than limit the present invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The use of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The use of the article "a" or "an" before an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The mere fact that several measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. The invention may also be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements. In a device claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware.

Claims

1. A battery system (100) for an electric floating vessel (2), comprising a battery container (6) for the electric floating vessel (2) and a battery socket (8) for integration into the electric floating vessel (2), the battery container (6) is configured to cooperate with the battery socket (8), and includes a housing (6h), a plurality of battery modules (6m) arranged in the housing (6h), and a power socket (99s), the plurality of battery modules (6m) being electrically connected to one another to form a battery network (90) coupled to the power socket (99s) to provide a supply voltage via terminals (99st) of the power socket (99s), the power socket (99s) being provided on a bottom surface (BS) of the housing (6h) and having an externally accessible power plug (99p) that matches the power socket (99s), the bottom surface (BS) being defined as the side facing the battery socket (8) in which the battery container (6) is arranged during operational use; the battery socket (8) has a receptacle (8r) for receiving the battery container (6), a battery receiving surface (RS) in the receptacle (8r) is provided with a power plug (99p), a power socket (99s) matching the power plug (99p) is accessible from the outside, and the battery receiving surface (RS) is defined as the side facing the battery container (6) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operation; the power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p) are provided such that an electrical connection is established between the power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operational use, and the location and orientation of the power plug (99p) match the location and orientation of the power socket (99s) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8); A battery system (100).

2. 2. The battery system (100) of claim 1, wherein the bottom surface (BS) of the housing (6h) comprises a plurality of legs (80) for supporting the battery container (6).

3. 3. The battery system (100) of claim 2, wherein the plurality of legs (80) are designed to align with corresponding holes (85) in the battery socket (8).

4. 4. The battery system (100) of claim 3, wherein at least one of the plurality of legs (80) is formed with a recess (81) that can be grasped by a locking mechanism (86) on the battery socket (8) to keep the battery container (6) in the battery socket (8) during operational use.

5. 5. The battery system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the housing (6h) comprises at least one ventilation hole (6v) for allowing ventilation of a space within the housing (6h) around the battery module (6m).

6. 6. The battery system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing (6h) comprises at least one overpressure valve (6z) for allowing a certain overpressure in the housing (6h) to escape to the free atmosphere.

7. 7. The battery system (100) according to claim 1, wherein a top surface (TS) of the housing (6h) is provided with a gripping interface (25) for being gripped by an object handler (13) of a transport system (1) for transporting the battery container (6) back and forth between a storage area (4) and the battery socket (5).

8. 8. The battery system (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing (6h) includes a cooling system (6c) coupled to the plurality of battery modules (6m) for cooling the battery modules (6m).

9. 9. The battery system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the receptacle (8r) of the battery socket (8) comprises a plurality of holes (85) designed to align with corresponding legs (80) of the battery container (6).

10. 10. The battery system (100) of claim 9, wherein at least one of the plurality of holes (85) includes a locking mechanism (86) for gripping the legs (80) of the battery container (6) to keep the battery container (6) in the battery socket (8) during operational use.

11. A battery container (6) for an electric floating vessel (2) is configured to cooperate with a battery socket (8), and includes a housing (6h), a plurality of battery modules (6m) arranged in the housing (6h), and a power socket (99s), the plurality of battery modules (6m) being electrically connected to one another to form a battery network (90) coupled to the power socket (99s) for providing a supply voltage via terminals (99st) of the power socket (99s), the power socket (99s) being provided on a bottom surface (BS) of the housing (6h) and including a power plug (99p) that mates with the power socket (99s). ) is accessible from the outside, the bottom surface (BS) is defined as the side facing the battery socket (8) in which the battery container (6) is placed during operational use, the power socket (99s) is provided such that an electrical connection is established between the power socket (99s) and the power plug (99p) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) during operational use, and the location and orientation of the power plug (99p) match the location and orientation of the power socket (99s) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8).

12. The battery container (6) according to claim 11, wherein the bottom surface (BS) of the housing (6h) is provided with a plurality of legs (80) for supporting the battery container (6).

13. 13. The battery container (6) of claim 12, wherein the plurality of legs (80) are designed to align with corresponding holes (85) in the battery socket (8).

14. 14. A battery socket (8) having a receptacle (8r) for receiving a battery container (6) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein a power plug (99p) is provided on a battery receiving surface (RS) within the receptacle (8r), and a power socket (99s) matching with the power plug (99p) is accessible from the outside, the battery receiving surface (RS) being defined as the side facing the battery container (6) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) for operational use, the power plug (99p) being provided such that an electrical connection is established between the power plug (99p) and the power socket (99s) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8) for operational use, and the location and orientation of the power plug (99p) are aligned with the location and orientation of the power socket (99s) when the battery container (6) is placed in the battery socket (8).

15. 15. The battery socket (8) of claim 14, wherein the receptacle (8r) of the battery socket (8) comprises a plurality of holes (85) designed to align with corresponding legs (80) of the battery container (6).

16. 16. The battery socket (8) of claim 15, wherein at least one of the plurality of holes (85) includes a locking mechanism (86) for gripping the legs (80) of the battery container (6) to keep the battery container (6) within the battery socket (8) during operational use.

17. 17. A floating vessel (2) comprising a battery socket (8) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, the floating vessel (2) comprising an electric motor for propulsion of the floating vessel (2), the battery socket (8) being electrically connected to the electric motor.

18. 18. The floating vessel (2) according to claim 17, wherein the battery socket (8) is provided on a deck (2d) of the floating vessel (2).

19. 18. The floating vessel (2) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein a battery container (6) according to any one of claims 11 to 13 is provided in the battery socket (8) for providing power to the electric motor.

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