Battery exchange facility, battery exchange station, and battery exchange method

Abstract

The present invention discloses a battery exchange device, a battery exchange station, and a battery exchange method, the battery exchange device including a reversing mechanism for reversing a depleted battery pack removed from an electric vehicle from a first position to a second position along a first direction, or for reversing a fully charged battery pack removed from a charging bin from a third position to a fourth position along a second direction, the first and second directions being opposite to each other. The present invention requires less space for reversing, and the reversing mechanism is significantly smaller in structure than battery exchange devices that require planar rotation. As a result, the battery exchange device of the present invention can insert and remove large battery packs from a charging station with a small space and structure. Therefore, it is possible to realize battery exchange for an electric vehicle using a single large battery pack while reducing the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station, thereby reducing the cost of the battery pack and facilitating its widespread use.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications This application claims priority from Chinese Patent Application Nos. CN2020102626782 and CN2020102626960, filed on April 3, 2020. The entire text of the above Chinese patent applications is incorporated herein by reference. The present invention relates to a battery exchange facility, a battery exchange station, and a battery exchange method. [Background technology]

[0002] Currently, battery replacement in electric vehicles can be broadly divided into two types: chassis battery replacement and side battery replacement. In side battery replacement, the battery pack is pulled out of the battery replacement vehicle using battery replacement equipment, then rotated 180 degrees horizontally on the battery replacement equipment so that the charging port faces the charging bin instead of facing the vehicle, and the battery is then inserted into the charging bin on the other side of the battery replacement equipment for charging. Due to structural constraints of the vehicle itself, the double-sided battery replacement method has traditionally been used. In double-sided battery replacement, the battery pack must be rotated 180 degrees on the battery replacement equipment before being inserted into the charging bin for charging.

[0003] However, because the battery pack needs to be rotated horizontally, a long battery pack requires a very large space for rotation. This makes the battery exchange equipment complex in structure and large in volume, directly affecting the difficulty of manufacturing the battery exchange equipment and increasing the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station. As a result, electric vehicles have no choice but to use a battery exchange system using multiple small battery packs. However, the multiple battery pack system requires high cost requirements for the vehicle battery packs and is inconsistent with market acceptance, making it difficult to mass-produce and popularize. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a battery exchange equipment, a battery exchange station, and a battery exchange method in order to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art, such as the difficulty of manufacturing the battery exchange equipment due to the complex structure thereof and the large floor space occupied by the battery exchange station. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The present invention solves the above problems by the following technical solutions.

[0006] 1. A battery exchange equipment for transferring battery packs between an electric vehicle and a charging bin, the battery exchange equipment including a reversing mechanism, the reversing mechanism being used to reverse a depleted battery pack removed from the electric vehicle from a first position to a second position along a first direction, or the battery exchange equipment being used to reverse a fully charged battery pack removed from a charging bin from a third position to a fourth position along a second direction, the first direction and the second direction being opposite to each other. Here, the first position and the fourth position may be the same position, and the second position and the third position may be the same position, so that the reversal of the reversal mechanism is mainly between the two positions. The inversion mechanism of the present invention rotates the battery pack in an inverted manner. The space required for inverting the battery pack itself is small, and the inversion mechanism is significantly smaller in structure than battery exchange equipment that rotates on a plane. As a result, the battery exchange equipment of the present invention can insert and remove large battery packs in and out of a charging station with a small space and structure. Therefore, it is possible to realize battery exchange for electric vehicles using a single large battery pack while reducing the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station, thereby reducing the cost of the battery pack and promoting its widespread use.

[0007] Preferably, the inverting mechanism includes a first inverting portion and a second inverting portion, the first inverting portion is for placing a battery pack at the first position or the fourth position, the second inverting portion is for placing a battery pack at the second position or the third position, and the first inverting portion and the second inverting portion are coaxially inverted. The first and second inverters respectively realize placement of the battery pack at different positions and correspond to insertion and removal of the battery pack from the electric vehicle side and the charging bin side, where the first inverter is docked with the electric vehicle when facing the first position and the fourth position to realize insertion and removal of the battery pack, and the second inverter is docked with the charging bin when facing the second position and the third position to realize insertion and removal of the battery pack.

[0008] Preferably, the battery pack has a first side and a second side that are perpendicular to each other, and when the battery pack is in the first position or the fourth position, the first side is placed on the first inverted portion and the second side is pressed against the second inverted portion, and when the battery pack is in the second position or the third position, the second side is placed on the second inverted portion and the first side is pressed against the first inverted portion. The first and second turning parts cooperate with each other to limit and press the two sides of the battery pack, thereby preventing the battery pack from rattling when the battery pack is turned over and ensuring smooth turning over of the battery pack.

[0009] Preferably, the first and second inversion portions are arranged perpendicular to each other, and the first and second inversion portions arranged perpendicular to each other can rotate the battery pack by simply inverting them by 90 degrees. Here, the charging ports of the battery packs in the first and fourth positions are oriented horizontally to facilitate docking to an electric vehicle, and the battery packs in the second and third positions are oriented vertically to facilitate docking to a charging facility.

[0010] Preferably, the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit are driven by the same reversing drive device, or the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit are driven by different reversing drive devices. The same reversing drive device can drive the movements of the first and second reversing units simultaneously, and different reversing drive devices can control the movements of the first and second reversing units individually.

[0011] Preferably, the inversion drive device includes an extendable rod, which is connected to the first inversion portion and / or the second inversion portion to drive and rotate the first inversion portion and the second inversion portion. The telescopic rod causes the first and / or second reversing portions to move along its length. The telescopic rod may be a pneumatic or hydraulic mechanism. The telescopic rod has a simple connection structure and can convert simple linear motion into rotation.

[0012] Preferably, the inversion mechanism includes a base, the first inversion portion and the second inversion portion are rotatably arranged relative to the base, and one end of the telescopic rod is rotatably connected to the bottom of the first inversion portion and / or the second inversion portion, and the other end is rotatably connected to the base. The longitudinal movement of the telescopic rod itself and the rotation of both ends can achieve a combination of movements, avoiding jamming during operation and enabling smooth reversal of the first reversal section and / or the second reversal section.

[0013] Preferably, the reversing drive device includes a reversing motor and a gear group, the reversing motor driving and rotating the gear group, the gear group being connected to the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit and driving and rotating the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit. The reversing motor drives and rotates the gear group by its own rotation, and the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit rotates accordingly. The reversing motor can ensure that the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit are reversed to the correct position by controlling the amount of its own rotation.

[0014] Preferably, the reversing drive device includes a reversing motor and a gear group, the gear group including at least an input gear and an output gear, the input gear and the output gear mesh with each other, the reversing motor directly or indirectly drives the input gear to rotate, the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit are fixedly connected to the output gear via a reversing shaft and rotate together with the output gear, and the input gear and the output gear may be directly output or may be transmitted via other gears.

[0015] Preferably, the first and second inverting units are both connected to a turntable, and the inverting driver is connected to the turntable to drive and rotate the turntable. If the turntable is a common part of the first and second inverting units, the driving turntable can drive the first and second inverting units simultaneously. The turntable can also be used to place a battery pack.

[0016] Preferably, the first and / or second inverter sections are provided with an extension mechanism for removing a battery pack from an electric vehicle or a charging bin or placing a battery pack in an electric vehicle or a charging bin. The extension mechanism allows individual docking with the electric vehicle and the charging bin, facilitating transportation of the battery pack. The extension mechanism can perform the role of transmitting the battery pack by its own movement, thereby realizing the movement of the battery pack in the first and second inverter sections.

[0017] Preferably, the first inverter includes a first extension mechanism, the second inverter includes a second extension mechanism, the first extension mechanism inserts and removes the battery pack at the first position or the fourth position, and the second extension mechanism inserts and removes the battery pack at the second position or the third position. Here, the first extension mechanism inserts and removes the battery pack when docked with an electric vehicle, and the second extension mechanism inserts and removes the battery pack when docked with a charging bin.

[0018] Preferably, the extending direction of the first extension mechanism and the extending direction of the second extension mechanism intersect, so that the battery pack is relayed between the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism. When the battery pack is completely transported on the first extension mechanism, it naturally comes into contact with the second extension mechanism. After being turned over, the second extension mechanism carries the battery pack and transports it. Conversely, when the battery pack is completely transported on the second extension mechanism, it naturally comes into contact with the first extension mechanism. After being turned over, the first extension mechanism carries the battery pack and transports it.

[0019] Preferably, the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism are both telescopic forks. The telescopic fork may be any existing equipment capable of realizing telescoping in the length direction.

[0020] Preferably, the battery exchange device further includes a first transmission motor and a second transmission motor, wherein the first transmission motor directly or indirectly drives the first extension mechanism, and the second transmission motor directly or indirectly drives the second extension mechanism.

[0021] Preferably, the battery exchange equipment further includes a limit sensor for detecting the extension distance of the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism, and adjusting the extension distance of the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism by the first transmission motor and the second transmission motor, respectively.

[0022] Preferably, the battery exchange equipment further includes a reversal imposition sensor that detects the reversal angles of the first reversal section and the second reversal section and adjusts the reversal angles of the first reversal section and the second reversal section using the reversal motor.

[0023] Preferably, the inversion mechanism includes a base, the first inversion section and the second inversion section are rotatably connected to the base, and the inversion drive device drives and rotates the first inversion section and the second inversion section.

[0024] Preferably, the battery exchange equipment includes an external frame and a lifting mechanism, the base is connected to the external frame via the lifting mechanism and moves up and down relative to the external frame, and the lifting mechanism allows for height adjustment of the battery pack position to accommodate charging bins of different heights.

[0025] Preferably, the lifting mechanism is connected to the outer frame via a chain transmission mechanism, and is guided between the lifting mechanism and the outer frame by a guide wheel. The chain transmission mechanism serves to lift up the reversing mechanism, and the guide wheel serves to guide the reversing mechanism smoothly.

[0026] We propose a battery exchange station that includes: a vehicle mounting platform on which an electric vehicle is parked for battery pack exchange; charging equipment having several charging bins for placing the battery packs, the charging bins being provided with electrical connectors for electrically connecting with the battery packs in the charging bins for charging; and the battery exchange equipment used to take in, take out, and transport batteries between the electric vehicle and the charging bins, the inversion mechanism being for vertically inverting battery packs removed from the charging bins or the electric vehicle.

[0027] We propose a battery replacement method, which is realized using the battery replacement equipment and includes removing a depleted battery pack from an electric vehicle and placing it in a first position, flipping the removed depleted battery pack from the first position to a second position along a first direction, placing the depleted battery pack in the second position in a charging bin to charge it, and / or removing a fully charged battery pack from the charging bin and placing it in a third position, flipping the removed fully charged battery pack from the third position to a fourth position along the second direction, and placing the fully charged battery pack in the fourth position into the electric vehicle.

[0028] A battery exchange facility, comprising: a reversing mechanism used to reverse a battery pack with low power removed from an electric vehicle from a first position to a second position along a first direction, or the battery exchange device used to reverse a battery pack with full power removed from a charging bin from a third position to a fourth position along a second direction, the first direction and the second direction being opposite to each other; and a push / pull mechanism connected to the reversing mechanism and adapted to move back and forth relative to the reversing mechanism, the push / pull mechanism being used to pull out a depleted battery pack from an electric vehicle when the reversing mechanism is in a first position, and being used to push a fully charged battery pack into an electric vehicle when the reversing mechanism is in a fourth position. Here, the first position and the fourth position may be the same position, and the second position and the third position may be the same position, so that the reversal of the reversal mechanism is mainly between the two positions.

[0029] In this technical solution, a tipping mechanism is used to tip the battery packs vertically while transferring them between the electric vehicle and the charging bin. This not only minimizes the space required for tipping and overcomes the technical challenge of horizontal rotation, which occupies a large space, but also makes the tipping mechanism simpler in structure and easier to implement than horizontally rotating battery exchange equipment. This reduces the cost of the battery packs and optimizes the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station, which is favorable for widespread use. Furthermore, the reciprocating movement of the push-pull mechanism allows for the quick removal of depleted battery packs from the vehicle into the tipping mechanism, and the quick pushing of fully charged battery packs from the tipping mechanism into the electric vehicle.

[0030] Preferably, the inversion mechanism includes a first inversion section and a second inversion section, the push-pull mechanism is connected to the first inversion section, and the push-pull mechanism is configured to move back and forth relative to the first inversion section. In this technical solution, the inverting mechanism is provided with a first inverting section and a second inverting section to enable the placement of the battery pack at different positions and accommodate the insertion and removal of the battery pack into and from the electric vehicle and the charging bin, respectively, thereby facilitating the transfer of the battery pack. Specifically, when the battery pack is in the first and fourth positions, the first inverting section docks with the electric vehicle to enable the insertion and removal of the battery pack, and when the battery pack is in the second and third positions, the second inverting section docks with the charging bin to enable the insertion and removal of the battery pack. Furthermore, when the battery pack is in the first and fourth positions corresponding to the battery pack, the push-pull mechanism allows the battery pack to be quickly removed from the vehicle and pushed into the vehicle.

[0031] Preferably, the push-pull mechanism includes a tray and a tray push box, the tray is connected to the first inverter and moves along with the first inverter, and the tray push box is provided on the tray and reciprocates relative to the tray to push or pull the battery pack. In this technical solution, after the tray moves forward synchronously with the first reversing section, the tray pushing box moves further forward on the tray until it reaches the front end, thereby fixing the battery pack. The tray pushing box then moves in the opposite direction along the tray, thereby pulling the battery pack onto the tray. At this time, if the tray pushing box moves forward again along the tray, it can push the battery pack so that it separates from the tray. As a result, the reciprocating movement of the tray pushing box relative to the tray can quickly push and pull the battery pack, and the structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0032] Preferably, the tray push box includes an unlocking mechanism for docking with an unlocking member on the battery pack to unlock the battery pack from the electric vehicle. To prevent the battery pack from falling off, electric vehicles are usually provided with a locking structure to lock the battery pack. In this technical solution, an unlocking mechanism is provided on the tray pushing box, so that the tray pushing box can contact and fix the battery pack while simultaneously unlocking the battery pack, thereby improving the efficiency of inserting and removing the battery pack.

[0033] Preferably, the tray pushing box further includes a locking member that cooperates with a fixing member provided on the battery pack to connect the tray pushing box to the battery pack and pull or push the battery pack. In this technical solution, when the tray pushing box moves forward and reaches the front end of the tray, the locking member cooperates with the fixing member on the battery pack to realize a fixed connection between the battery pack and the tray pushing box, ensuring that the battery pack can move synchronously with the tray pushing box.

[0034] Preferably, the fixing member is a magnetic member, and the locking member is configured to attract the magnetic member to connect with the battery pack. In this technical solution, the tray push box and the battery pack are fixedly connected via magnetic attraction, which makes the fixed connection easy and also allows the fixed connection to be quickly and efficiently released by simply releasing the magnetic attraction, which is convenient and fast.

[0035] Preferably, the locking member is configured to suction-connect when the battery pack is in the first position or the fourth position, and to release the suction-connection when the battery pack is in the second position or the third position. In this technical solution, when the tray pushing box is in the first position or the fourth position, the locking member adsorbs the fixing member on the battery pack as the tray pushing box moves forward, thereby realizing a fixed connection between the tray pushing box and the battery pack, which is convenient and fast; while when in the second position or the third position, the control locking member releases the adsorption so that the tray pushing box can be separated from the battery pack, thereby avoiding the second reversing part from interfering with the movement of the battery pack.

[0036] Preferably, the push / pull mechanism further includes a tray push guide rail and a tray push drive device, the tray push guide rail is provided on the tray, the tray push box is slidably mounted on the tray push guide rail, and the tray push drive device drives the tray push box to slide back and forth. In this technical solution, the tray pushing guide rail guides the tray pushing box to slide back and forth on the tray, improving the smoothness of the tray pushing box during movement and ensuring the safety and accuracy of the pushing or pulling operation of the battery pack.

[0037] Preferably, the tray pushing drive device includes a tray pushing motor and a synchronous belt, one end of the synchronous belt is connected to the tray, and the tray pushing motor cooperates with the synchronous belt to drive the tray pushing box via the synchronous belt to move it relative to the tray. In this technical solution, the synchronous belt can precisely control the moving distance and moving position of the tray pushing box, improve the in-position accuracy of the tray pushing box, and also has a simple structure and is easy to operate.

[0038] Preferably, the tray is further provided with several auxiliary rollers, which are rotatable in the direction of movement of the tray pushing box and in rolling contact with the bottom of the tray pushing box. In this technical solution, the provision of several auxiliary rollers can reduce the resistance when the tray pushing box and the battery packs move back and forth synchronously, which is advantageous for movement and ensures smooth movement, while also providing a certain support role for the battery packs.

[0039] Preferably, the first inverting unit includes a first extension mechanism, the second inverting unit includes a second extension mechanism, the push-pull mechanism is connected to the first extension mechanism, the first extension mechanism takes in and out the battery pack at the first position or the fourth position, the second extension mechanism takes in and out the battery pack at the second position or the third position, and the reciprocating movement direction of the tray push box and the extension and contraction direction of the first extension mechanism are the same. In this technical solution, the first extension mechanism is docked with the electric vehicle to insert and remove the battery pack, the second extension mechanism is docked with the charging bin to insert and remove the battery pack, and in the first position or the fourth position, the first extension mechanism extends and retracts toward the electric vehicle to insert and remove the battery pack, and in this process, the tray push box reciprocates synchronously with the first extension mechanism to securely connect and disconnect the battery pack, thereby improving the efficiency of inserting and removing the battery pack.

[0040] Preferably, the tray push box is retracted and stopped at a position that does not exceed the plane of the second extension mechanism, thereby ensuring that the battery pack can contact the second extension mechanism. In this technical solution, if the tray pushing box retracts and exceeds the plane of the second extension mechanism, the battery pack will not be able to press against the second extension mechanism, and furthermore, after flipping over, the battery pack will not be able to land smoothly on the second extension mechanism, causing the battery pack to tip over and be damaged. After the tray pushing box adsorbs and securely connects the battery pack, it retracts and moves synchronously with the battery pack, limiting the position of the tray pushing box after retraction, thereby ensuring that the battery pack can move accurately and be pressed against the second extension mechanism, and ensuring that the battery pack can land smoothly on the second extension mechanism after flipping over.

[0041] Preferably, the first inverting portion is for placing a battery pack at a first position or a fourth position, and the second inverting portion is for placing a battery pack at a second position or a third position, and the first inverting portion and the second inverting portion are coaxially inverted.

[0042] Preferably, the battery pack has a first side and a second side that are perpendicular to each other, and when the battery pack is in the first position or the fourth position, the first side is placed on the first inverting portion and the second side is pressed against the second inverting portion, and when the battery pack is in the second position or the third position, the second side is placed on the second inverting portion and the first side is pressed against the first inverting portion. The first and second inverting portions cooperate with each other to limit and press the two sides of the battery pack, thereby preventing rattling of the battery pack when inverted and ensuring smooth inversion of the battery pack.

[0043] Preferably, the first and second inversion sections are arranged perpendicular to each other. The first and second inversion sections arranged perpendicular to each other allow the battery pack to be inverted by simply inverting it by 90 degrees. Here, the charging ports of the battery packs in the first and fourth positions are oriented horizontally to facilitate docking to an electric vehicle, and the charging ports of the battery packs in the second and third positions are oriented vertically to facilitate docking to a charging facility.

[0044] Preferably, the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit are driven by the same reversing drive device, or the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit are driven by different reversing drive devices.

[0045] Preferably, the reversing drive device includes a telescopic rod connected to the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit to drive and rotate the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit. The telescopic rod causes the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit to move through its length. The telescopic rod may be a pneumatic or hydraulic mechanism.

[0046] Preferably, the battery replacement equipment includes a base, the first and second inversion portions are rotatably arranged relative to the base, and one end of the telescopic rod is rotatably connected to the bottom of the first and / or second inversion portions, and the other end is rotatably connected to the base.

[0047] Preferably, the inversion drive device includes an inversion motor and a group of gears, the inversion motor drives and rotates the group of gears, and the group of gears is connected to the first inversion unit and / or the second inversion unit and drives and rotates the first inversion unit and / or the second inversion unit.

[0048] Preferably, the reversing drive device includes a reversing motor and a gear group, the gear group including at least an input gear and an output gear, the input gear and the output gear mesh with each other, the reversing motor directly or indirectly drives the input gear to rotate, the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit are fixedly connected to the output gear via a reversing shaft and rotate together with the output gear, and the input gear and the output gear may be directly output or may be transmitted via other gears.

[0049] Preferably, the inversion mechanism includes a base, the first inversion section and the second inversion section are rotatably connected to the base, and the inversion drive device drives and rotates the first inversion section and the second inversion section.

[0050] Preferably, the first and second inverting units are both connected to a turntable, and the inverting driver is connected to the turntable to drive and rotate the turntable. If the turntable is a common part of the first and second inverting units, the driving turntable can drive the first and second inverting units simultaneously. The turntable can also be used to place a battery pack.

[0051] Preferably, the battery exchange equipment includes an external frame and a lifting mechanism, the base is connected to the external frame via the lifting mechanism and moves up and down relative to the external frame, and the lifting mechanism allows for height adjustment of the battery pack position to accommodate charging bins of different heights.

[0052] Preferably, the lifting mechanism is connected to the outer frame via a chain transmission mechanism, and a guide wheel guides the lifting mechanism and the outer frame. The chain transmission mechanism serves to lift up the reversing mechanism, and the guide wheel serves to smoothly guide the reversing mechanism.

[0053] 1. A battery exchange station, comprising: a vehicle loading platform for parking the electric vehicle for battery pack replacement; a charging facility having a number of charging bins for placing the battery packs, the charging bins being provided with electrical connectors for electrically connecting with the battery packs in the charging bins for charging; The present invention proposes a battery exchange station characterized by including the battery exchange equipment, which is used to take in, take out, and transport batteries between an electric vehicle and a charging bin, and the inversion mechanism is used to vertically invert a battery pack removed from the charging bin or the electric vehicle.

[0054] A battery replacement method, the battery replacement method being realized by utilizing the battery replacement facility, Pulling the exhausted battery pack in the electric vehicle to a first position by a push-pull mechanism; inverting the removed depleted battery pack from the first position to a second position along the first direction; Place the dead battery pack in the corresponding position in the charging bin, and then place the dead battery pack in the charging bin to charge; and / or removing the fully charged battery pack from the charging bin and placing it in a third position; inverting the removed fully charged battery pack from the third position along the second direction to a fourth position; A battery exchange method is proposed, which includes placing a fully charged battery pack at a corresponding position on the electric vehicle, and pushing the fully charged battery pack into the electric vehicle by a push-pull mechanism. [Effects of the Invention]

[0055] The positive advances and advantages of the present invention are as follows: The reversing mechanism of the present invention is significantly reduced in structure compared to battery exchange equipment that requires planar rotation; Large battery packs can be inserted and removed from a charging station using a small space and structure; Battery exchange for electric vehicles can be achieved using a single large battery pack while reducing the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station, thereby reducing the cost of the battery pack and promoting its widespread use. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0056] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a battery exchange facility according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a reversing mechanism according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a 90-degree inversion of the inversion mechanism in the first and third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the inversion mechanism in the first and third embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the top structure of the inversion mechanism in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 3 is a schematic diagram of an extension mechanism in an extended state according to the first and third embodiments of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating removal of a battery pack using a reversing mechanism according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the battery pack being stored using the inversion mechanism in the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery exchange station according to a first embodiment and a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a reversing mechanism according to a second embodiment and a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the inversion mechanism in the second and fourth embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a battery exchange facility according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a partial structural schematic diagram of a battery exchange equipment according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a push-pull mechanism according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of a push-pull mechanism according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] Example 1 As shown in Figures 1 to 9, this embodiment discloses a battery exchange equipment 1 for transferring a battery pack 4 between an electric vehicle 3 and a charging bin, and the battery exchange equipment 1 includes a reversing mechanism 10, which is used to reverse a battery pack 4 with low power removed from the electric vehicle from a first position to a second position along a first direction, or the battery exchange equipment 1 is used to reverse a battery pack 4 with full power removed from the charging bin from a third position to a fourth position along a second direction, the first direction and the second direction being opposite to each other.

[0058] In this embodiment, a battery pack 4 is installed in an electric vehicle 3 to provide power, and a charging bin is installed in a battery exchange station to provide charging and discharging services for the battery pack. When the vehicle's battery pack is insufficient to power the electric vehicle, it needs to be replaced in a timely manner at the battery exchange station. The battery exchange equipment in this technical solution is used to replace the side batteries of an electric vehicle. The battery exchange equipment is installed in the battery exchange station and has the functions of both battery insertion and removal and battery transportation. That is, the battery exchange equipment can insert and remove batteries from the electric vehicle and the charging bin, and can also transport batteries between the electric vehicle and the charging bin, transferring a depleted battery pack from the electric vehicle to the charging bin and transferring a fully charged battery from the charging bin to the electric vehicle. In the prior art, a depleted battery pack used in an electric vehicle needs to be rotated 180 degrees before being transferred to the charging bin to ensure a horizontal electrical connection between the charging interface of the battery pack and the electrical connector at the back of the charging bin. However, because commercial vehicle battery replacement batteries are characterized by their long length and narrow width, the diameter of the space required for horizontal rotation of a commercial vehicle battery replacement is at least greater than the longitudinal dimension of the battery pack, resulting in a large rotation space for battery transfer and requiring a large occupied floor area.In contrast, in this embodiment, the battery pack is rotated 90 degrees along one rotation axis so that the charging interface of the battery pack faces upward, thereby achieving a vertical electrical connection with the electrical connector at the top of the charging bin to charge and discharge the battery pack.The technical solution of rotating the battery pack in this embodiment requires a significantly smaller occupied space than the space required for 180-degree horizontal rotation, thereby saving battery transfer space for battery replacement and saving the occupied floor area of ​​the battery exchange station.

[0059] In other embodiments, the battery exchange facility may only have the function of transporting batteries, with a separate battery loading and unloading mechanism performing the operation of loading and unloading batteries into and from the electric vehicle charging bin.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first position is the initial position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with low power removed from the electric vehicle, the second position is the position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with low power reversed along the first direction, the third position is the initial position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with full power removed from the charging bin, and the fourth position is the position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with full power reversed along the second direction. Here, the battery pack 4 with low power does not only refer to a battery pack with zero power, but also includes a battery pack 4 with insufficient power to continue running the electric vehicle, and the fully charged battery pack 4 does not only refer to a battery pack with 100% power, but also includes a battery pack 4 with sufficient power to continue running the electric vehicle.

[0061] The reversing mechanism 10 in this technical solution allows the battery pack 4 to be reversed while being transported between the electric vehicle 3 and the charging bin, to accommodate different orientations of the electrical connectors in the electric vehicle and the charging bin.

[0062] The reversing mechanism 10 of the present invention rotates the battery pack 4 in an inverted manner. The space required to turn the battery pack 4 itself is small, and the reversing mechanism 10 can be significantly reduced in structure compared to the battery exchange equipment 1, which is designed for planar rotation. As a result, the battery exchange equipment 1 of the present invention can insert and remove a large battery pack 4 at a charging station using a small space and structure. Therefore, it is possible to replace the battery of an electric vehicle 3 using a single large battery pack 4 while reducing the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station, which results in a reduction in the cost of the battery pack 4 and is advantageous for widespread use.

[0063] 2 and 3 , the reversing mechanism 10 of this embodiment includes a first reversing section 11 and a second reversing section 12. The first reversing section 11 is for placing a battery pack 4 at the first or fourth position, and the second reversing section 12 is for placing a battery pack 4 at the second or third position. The first reversing section 11 and the second reversing section 12 are coaxially reversed. The first reversing section 11 and the second reversing section 12 respectively allow the placement of a battery pack 4 at different positions and accommodate the insertion and removal of the battery pack 4 on the electric vehicle 3 side and the charging bin side. Here, the first reversing section 11 docks with the electric vehicle 3 when facing the first or fourth position to allow the insertion and removal of the battery pack 4, and the second reversing section 12 docks with the charging bin when facing the second or third position to allow the insertion and removal of the battery pack 4.

[0064] Here, the first position and the fourth position may be the same position, and the second position and the third position may be the same position. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , in this embodiment, the first position and the fourth position are the same position, i.e., the first inversion unit 11 is held horizontally at the first position and the fourth position, and the second inversion unit 12 is held vertically at the first position and the fourth position. In this embodiment, the second position and the third position are the same position, i.e., the first inversion unit 11 is held vertically at the second position and the third position, and the second inversion unit 12 is held horizontally at the second position and the third position. As a result, the inversion of the inversion mechanism 10 is mainly between two positions.

[0065] 2, 7, and 8, the battery pack 4 of this embodiment has a first side surface and a second side surface that are perpendicular to each other. When the battery pack 4 is in the first position or the fourth position, the first side surface is placed on the first inverting portion 11 and the second side surface is pressed against the second inverting portion 12. When the battery pack 4 is in the second position or the third position, the second side surface is placed on the second inverting portion 12 and the first side surface is pressed against the first inverting portion 11. The first inverting portion 11 and the second inverting portion 12 cooperate with each other to limit and press the two sides of the battery pack 4. This prevents the battery pack 4 from rattling when it is inverted, ensuring smooth inversion of the battery pack 4.

[0066] 2 and 3, the first and second reversing portions 11 and 12 in this embodiment are arranged perpendicular to each other. The first and second reversing portions 11 and 12 are arranged perpendicular to each other, allowing the battery pack 4 to be rotated by simply reversing them by 90 degrees. Here, the charging ports of the battery packs 4 in the first and fourth positions are oriented horizontally to facilitate docking with the electrical connectors on the electric vehicle 3, and the charging ports of the battery packs 4 in the second and third positions are oriented vertically to facilitate docking with the charging equipment 2 in the charging bin.

[0067] In this embodiment, the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are driven by the same reversing drive device, or the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are driven by different reversing drive devices. The same reversing drive device can drive the movements of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 simultaneously, while the different reversing drive devices can control the movements of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 individually.

[0068] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , the reversing drive device of this embodiment includes a reversing motor 157 and a gear group 16. The reversing motor 157 drives and rotates the gear group 16, which is connected to the first reversing unit 11 and / or the second reversing unit 12 to drive and rotate the first reversing unit 11 and / or the second reversing unit 12. The reversing motor 157 drives and rotates the gear group 16 through its own rotation, causing the first reversing unit 11 and / or the second reversing unit 12 to rotate accordingly. The reversing motor 157 controls its own rotation amount to ensure that the first reversing unit 11 and / or the second reversing unit 12 are reversed to the correct position. Here, the reversing motor 157 drives and rotates the gear group 16 by connecting to a transmission shaft 159 via a direction changer 158.

[0069] 2 and 4, the reversing drive device of this embodiment includes a reversing motor 157 and a gear group 16. The gear group 16 includes at least an input gear 161 and an output gear 162. The input gear 161 and the output gear 162 mesh with each other. The reversing motor 157 directly or indirectly drives the input gear 161 to rotate it. The first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are fixedly connected to the output gear 162 via a reversing shaft and rotate along with the output gear 162. The input gear 161 and the output gear 162 may be connected as a direct output or as a transmission via other gears. The transmission between the input gear 161 and the output gear 162 in the form of gear transmission serves as a speed reduction mechanism and can increase the output torque, thereby driving the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. 2 and 4, the first reversing unit 11 of this embodiment includes a first extending mechanism 111 and a turntable 13, and the second reversing unit 12 includes a second extending mechanism 121 and a turntable 13. Here, the turntable 13 in this embodiment is a part shared by the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. It is also possible to understand that the first reversing unit 11 includes the first extending mechanism 111 and the turntable 13, and the second reversing unit 12 includes only the second extending mechanism 121, or that the first reversing unit 11 includes only the first extending mechanism 111, and the second reversing unit 12 includes the second extending mechanism 121 and the turntable 13.

[0070] The bottom of the turntable 13 and the output gear 162 are connected via a rotation shaft 163. Therefore, when the turntable 13 rotates, the turntable 13 rotates together. In this case, the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are simultaneously reversed.

[0071] The reversing drive device is connected to the turntable 13 and drives the turntable 13 to rotate it. If the turntable 13 is a common part for the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12, the drive turntable 13 can simultaneously drive the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. The turntable 13 can also be used to place the battery pack 4 on it.

[0072] 2 and 4, the first inverting section 11 and / or the second inverting section 12 of this embodiment is provided with an extension mechanism for removing a battery pack 4 from an electric vehicle 3 or a charging bin and placing it at the first or third position on the inverting mechanism, or for placing a battery pack 4 from the fourth or second position on the inverting mechanism into the electric vehicle 3 or the charging bin. The extension mechanism enables individual docking of battery packs at different positions on the inverting mechanism with the electric vehicle 3 or the charging bin, thereby enabling insertion, removal, or transportation of the battery packs 4.

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the first inverting unit 11 of this embodiment includes a first extension mechanism 111, and the second inverting unit 12 includes a second extension mechanism 121. Here, the first extension mechanism 111 is connected to the top surface of the turntable 13, and the second extension mechanism 121 is connected to both sides of the turntable 13. The first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 can be extended as shown in FIG. 6 . The first extension mechanism 111 extends or removes the battery pack 4 at the first position or the fourth position, and the second extension mechanism 121 extends or removes the battery pack 4 at the second position or the third position. The first extension mechanism 111 is docked with the electric vehicle 3 to enable the extension or removal of the battery pack 4. The second extension mechanism 121 is docked with the charging bin to enable the extension or removal of the battery pack 4.

[0074] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, when removing the battery, the first extension mechanism 111 retracts after removing the battery pack from the electric vehicle 3, placing the battery pack 4 in a first position on the first reversal section 11. As shown in Figures 3 and 9, when the reversal mechanism is driven to revert the battery pack 4 by 90 degrees along the first direction, the battery pack 4 is positioned in a second position on the second reversal section 12, and the second extension mechanism 121 extends and sends the battery pack 4 in the second position into the corresponding charging bin, and the second extension mechanism 121 retracts to its initial position. When replacing the battery, the battery replacement equipment 1 is moved to the charging bin where the fully charged battery pack 4 is placed, and the second extension mechanism 121 is extended to remove the fully charged battery pack 4 from the charging bin, and then retracted to place the battery pack 4 in a third position on the second reversing section 12 as shown in Figures 3 and 9. The reversing mechanism 10 is then driven to reverse the battery pack 4 by 90 degrees along the second direction, so that the battery pack 4 is positioned in a fourth position on the first reversing section 11 as shown in Figure 8. The first extension mechanism 121 feeds the battery pack 4 in the fourth position into the electric vehicle 3 as shown in Figure 7, and the first extension mechanism 121 is retracted to its initial position.

[0075] Preferably, the extending direction of the first extension mechanism 111 and the extending direction of the second extension mechanism 121 intersect, so that the battery pack 4 is relayed between the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121. When the battery pack 4 is completely transported on the first extension mechanism 111, it naturally comes into contact with the second extension mechanism 121. After being turned over, the second extension mechanism 121 carries the battery pack 4 and transports it. Conversely, when the battery pack 4 is completely transported on the second extension mechanism 121, it naturally comes into contact with the first extension mechanism 111. After being turned over, the first extension mechanism 111 carries the battery pack 4 and transports it.

[0076] In this embodiment, the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 are both telescopic forks. The telescopic forks may be any existing equipment capable of longitudinal extension and retraction. In this embodiment, the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 are extendable track structures whose interiors are driven by structures such as electromagnetic force, pulleys, sprockets, or gears. Here, the transmission shafts 153 and 156 are connected to the internal structures of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121, respectively. During operation, the rotations generated by the transmission shafts 153 and 156 are converted into extension and retraction motions of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 via structures such as electromagnetic force, pulleys, sprockets, or gears.

[0077] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , the battery exchange equipment 1 of this embodiment further includes a first transmission motor 151 and a second transmission motor 154, which are both connected below the turntable 13. The first transmission motor 151 directly or indirectly drives the first extension mechanism 111, and the second transmission motor 154 directly or indirectly drives the second extension mechanism 121. As shown in FIG. 4 , the first transmission motor 151 is connected to a transmission shaft 153 via a direction changer 152 to drive and operate the first extension mechanism 111. The second transmission motor 154 is connected to a transmission shaft 156 via a changer 155 to drive and operate the second extension mechanism 111. The inside of the direction changer 152 and the direction changer 155 may be a structure such as a bevel gear, which switches the motion axes of the first transmission motor 151 and the second transmission motor 154 by 90 degrees, and then drives the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 via the transmission shaft 153 and the transmission shaft 156.

[0078] In this embodiment, the battery exchange device 1 further includes a limit sensor, which may be a limit switch, a distance sensor, or the like. Here, the limit sensor may be provided on a non-moving part of the first extension mechanism 111 to detect the movement distance or position of the moving part of the first extension mechanism, or the limit sensor may be provided on the turntable 13 to detect the movement distance or position of the moving part of the first extension mechanism. The limit sensor detects the extension distance of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 and adjusts the extension distance of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 via the first transmission motor 151 and the second transmission motor 154, respectively. For example, if the detected extension distance of the first extension mechanism 111 is less than a set distance, the first transmission motor 151 continues to rotate until it reaches a preset position, thereby realizing closed-loop control and ensuring accurate imposition of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121.

[0079] In this embodiment, the battery exchange device 1 further includes a reversing in-position sensor, which detects the reversing angles of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 and adjusts the reversing angles of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 by the reversing motor 157. The reversing in-position sensor may be a limit switch, an angle sensor, a grating scale, etc. Here, the reversing in-position sensor may be provided on the base 14 to detect the reversing angle of the turntable 13, thereby obtaining the reversing angles of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. For example, if the detected reversing angle of the turntable 13 is less than a set reversing angle, the reversing motor 157 continues to rotate until it reaches a preset position, thereby realizing closed-loop control and ensuring accurate in-position of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. 2 and 3, the reversing mechanism 10 of this embodiment includes a base 14, and the turntable 13 is rotatably connected to the base 14. As a result, the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are rotatably connected to the base 14, and the reversing drive device (reversing motor 157 and gear group 16) drives and rotates the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. The reversing motor 157 is connected to the turntable 13, and the gear group is connected to the base 14.

[0080] As shown in Figure 1, the battery exchange equipment 1 of this embodiment includes an external frame 17 and a lifting mechanism 18. The base 14 is connected to the external frame 17 via the lifting mechanism 18 and moves up and down relative to the external frame 17. The lifting mechanism 18 makes it possible to adjust the position of the battery pack 4 in the height direction, so that charging bins of different heights can be accommodated. The external frame 17 itself may be provided with a horizontal movement mechanism, and the battery exchange equipment 1 may be moved on a track or on the ground to move between the electric vehicle 3 and the charging equipment 2.

[0081] 1, the lifting mechanism 18 of this embodiment is connected to the external frame 17 via a chain transmission mechanism 181, and is guided between the lifting mechanism 18 and the external frame 17 by a guide wheel 182. The chain transmission mechanism 181 serves to lift up the reversing mechanism 10, and the guide wheel 182 serves to smoothly guide it.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 9 , this embodiment further provides a battery exchange station, which includes: a vehicle mounting platform on which an electric vehicle 3 is parked for battery pack 4 exchange; charging equipment 2 having several charging bins for placing the battery packs 4, the charging bins being provided with electrical connectors for electrically connecting with the battery packs 4 in the charging bins for charging; and battery exchange equipment 1 used for taking in, out, and transferring batteries between the electric vehicle 3 and the charging bins, and an inversion mechanism 10 for vertically inverting the battery packs 4 removed from the charging bins or the electric vehicle.

[0083] This embodiment further discloses a battery replacement method, which includes: Removing a dead battery pack from the electric vehicle and placing it in a first position, specifically, removing the dead battery pack 4 from the electric vehicle by the first extension mechanism 111 or a separate battery insertion / removal mechanism and placing it in the first position on the reversing mechanism 10; Inverting the removed battery pack 4 from the first position to the second position along the first direction, specifically, by controlling the inversion mechanism 10 to invert the battery pack 4 along the first direction, the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 are rotated together, and the removed battery pack 4 is inverted from the first position to the second position along the first direction; Putting the battery pack 4 in the second position that is depleted into the charging bin for charging, and / or removing the fully charged battery pack 4 from the charging bin and placing it in the third position, specifically, using the second extension mechanism 121 or a separate battery insertion / removal mechanism, putting the battery pack 4 in the second position into the charging bin for charging, and / or removing the fully charged battery pack 4 from the charging bin and placing it in the third position on the reversing mechanism 10; Inverting the removed fully charged battery pack from the third position to a fourth position along the second direction, specifically, controlling the inversion mechanism 10 to invert the removed fully charged battery pack 4 along the second direction from the third position to the fourth position; Inserting the fully charged battery pack in the fourth position into the electric vehicle, specifically including inserting the fully charged battery pack 4 in the fourth position into the electric vehicle by the first extension mechanism 111 or a separate battery insertion / removal mechanism.

[0084] <Example 2> As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the reversing drive device is driven by a telescopic rod 157. Therefore, a reversing motor is not included in this embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the telescopic rod 157 in this embodiment is connected to the first reversing unit 11 and / or the second reversing unit 12 to drive and rotate the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. The telescopic rod 157 rotates the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 by moving along the axial direction of the telescopic rod. The telescopic rod 157 may be a pneumatic or hydraulic mechanism.

[0085] A plurality of telescopic rods 157 may be provided and connected to the first reversing portion 11 and the second reversing portion 12 individually. Alternatively, the telescopic rods 157 may be provided so as to be connected to the first reversing portion 11 and the second reversing portion 12 simultaneously. In this embodiment, since the bottom of the first reversing portion 11 and the bottom of the second reversing portion 12 are both connected to the base 14, connecting the telescopic rods 157 to the base 14 makes it possible to realize simultaneous connection.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the reversing mechanism 10 of this embodiment includes a base 14, and the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are rotatably mounted relative to the base 14. One end of an extendable rod 157 is rotatably connected to a common bottom portion of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 (i.e., the bottom portion of the turntable 13), and the other end is rotatably connected to the base 14. Because the turntable 13 is connected to a rotation shaft 163, the turntable 13 is restricted to rotate around the axis of the rotation shaft 163. The extendable rod 157 can change the distance between its two ends, i.e., the distance between the turntable 13 and the base 14, by extending and retracting. The extension force generated by the extendable rod 157 generates a torque on the rotation shaft 163, driving the turntable 13 to rotate. Since the movement locus of all positions on the turntable 13 is an arc, the connection point between the telescopic rod 157 and the turntable 13 moves in an arc along with the turntable 13. Therefore, both ends of the telescopic rod 157 are pivotally connected so that the telescopic rod 157 can easily rotate along with the turntable 13 by adjusting the tilted posture.

[0087] The longitudinal movement of the telescopic rod 157 itself and the rotation of both ends can realize a combination of movements, which can avoid jamming during operation and enable the first reversal section 11 and the second reversal section 12 to be smoothly reversed.

[0088] Other parts of this embodiment employ the same mechanisms as those of the first embodiment, but other alternative means that can be used in the first embodiment may also be employed, and therefore will not be described again here.

[0089] The reversing mechanism of the present invention is significantly smaller in structure than battery exchange equipment that requires planar rotation, allowing large battery packs to be inserted and removed from a charging station using a small space and structure. This allows for battery exchange in electric vehicles using a single large battery pack while reducing the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station, thereby reducing the cost of the battery pack and promoting its widespread use.

[0090] Example 3 As shown in Figure 9, this embodiment further discloses a battery exchange station for exchanging the battery pack of an electric vehicle 3, i.e., removing a depleted battery pack and installing a fully charged battery pack. The battery exchange station includes a vehicle mounting platform, a charging rack 2, and a battery exchange device 1.

[0091] The vehicle mounting platform is a place where the electric vehicles 3 waiting for battery exchange are parked, and in this embodiment specifically refers to a dedicated parking area installed on the ground.

[0092] The charging rack 2 has an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape and is provided with several charging bins for placing battery packs, which may be low-power battery packs that have just been removed from the electric vehicle 3, or fully charged battery packs that have been placed in advance at a battery exchange station. Furthermore, each charging bin is provided with an electrical connector for electrically connecting with the electrical connector on the battery pack placed in the charging bin to charge the battery pack 4.

[0093] The battery exchange equipment 1 is used to remove depleted battery packs from electric vehicles 3 parked on the vehicle loading platform and place them in the charging bin of the charging rack 1, and is also used to remove fully charged battery packs from the charging bin and install them in the electric vehicles 3. In other words, the battery exchange equipment 1 can take in, out, and transport battery packs between the electric vehicles 3 and the charging bin.

[0094] 12, the battery exchange equipment 1 includes an external frame 17, a base 14, a lifting mechanism 18, an inverting mechanism 10, and a push-pull mechanism 19. The inverting mechanism 10 is fixed to the base 14, and the base 14 is connected to the external frame 17 via the lifting mechanism 18. When the lifting mechanism 18 is driven, the base 14 rotates and moves up and down relative to the external frame 17. As a result, the height position of the battery packs placed on the base 14 can be adjusted, allowing the battery packs to be used with charging bins of different heights.

[0095] The lifting mechanism 18 is connected to the external frame 17 via a chain transmission mechanism 181, and is guided between the lifting mechanism 18 and the external frame 17 by a guide wheel 182. The chain transmission mechanism 181 serves to lift up the reversing mechanism 10, and the guide wheel 182 serves to smoothly guide it. The external frame 17 itself may be provided with a horizontal movement mechanism, and movement of the battery exchange equipment 1 between the electric vehicle 3 and the charging equipment 2 may be achieved by moving it on a track or on the ground.

[0096] In this embodiment, the first position is the initial position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with a low charge that has been removed from the electric vehicle, the second position is the position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with a low charge that has been reversed along the first direction, the third position is the initial position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with a fully charged battery that has been removed from the charging bin, and the fourth position is the position on the reversing mechanism 10 of the battery pack 4 with a fully charged battery that has been reversed along the second direction. Here, the term "low charge battery pack 4" does not only refer to a battery pack 4 with zero charge, but also includes a case where the remaining charge in the battery pack 4 is not enough to continue running the electric vehicle, and the term "fully charged battery pack 4" does not only refer to a battery pack 4 with 100% charge, but also includes a case where the remaining charge in the battery pack 4 is enough to continue running the electric vehicle.

[0097] 13, the reversing mechanism 10 is used to remove a depleted battery pack 4 from an electric vehicle and reverse the battery pack 4 from a first position to a second position along a first direction, and the reversing mechanism 10 is also used to remove a fully charged battery pack 4 from a charging bin and reverse the battery pack 4 from a third position to a fourth position along a second direction, where the first direction and the second direction are opposite to each other.

[0098] Specifically, the reversing mechanism 10 includes a first reversing unit 11 and a second reversing unit 12. The first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 respectively enable placement of the battery pack 4 at different positions and accommodate insertion and removal of the battery pack 4 from the electric vehicle 3 side and the charging bin side. Here, the first reversing unit 11 docks with the electric vehicle 3 when facing the first position and the fourth position to enable insertion and removal of the battery pack 4, and the second reversing unit 12 docks with the charging bin when facing the second position and the third position to enable insertion and removal of the battery pack 4.

[0099] In this embodiment, the first position and the fourth position may be the same position, and the second position and the third position may be the same position. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 3 , in this embodiment, the first position and the fourth position are the same position, and the first inverter 11 is held horizontally when the battery pack 4 is in the first position and the fourth position, and the second inverter 12 is held vertically when the battery pack 4 is in the first position and the fourth position. In this embodiment, the second position and the third position are the same position, that is, the first inverter 11 is held vertically when the battery pack 4 is in the second position and the third position, and the second inverter 12 is held horizontally when the battery pack 4 is in the second position and the third position. As a result, the inverter mechanism 10 is mainly rotated between two positions.

[0100] 13 and 3, the first reversing unit 11 of this embodiment includes a first extending mechanism 111, the second reversing unit 12 includes a second extending mechanism 121, and the push-pull mechanism 19 is connected to the first extending mechanism 111, where the first extending mechanism 111 is connected to the upper surface of the turntable 13, and the second extending mechanism 121 is connected to both sides of the turntable 13. The first extending mechanism 111 and the second extending mechanism 121 can be extended in a state as shown in FIG. 6, thereby realizing forward and backward movement.

[0101] In this embodiment, the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 are both telescopic forks. The telescopic forks may be any existing equipment capable of longitudinal extension and retraction. In this embodiment, the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 are extendable track structures whose interiors are driven by structures such as electromagnetic force, pulleys, sprockets, or gears. Here, the transmission shafts 153 and 156 are connected to the internal structures of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121, respectively. During operation, the rotations generated by the transmission shafts 153 and 156 are converted into extension and retraction motions of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 via structures such as electromagnetic force, pulleys, sprockets, or gears. The first extension mechanism 111 inserts and removes the battery pack 4 at the first position or the fourth position, and the second extension mechanism 121 inserts and removes the battery pack 4 at the second position or the third position.

[0102] Specifically, in this embodiment, when removing a battery, the first extension mechanism 111 removes the battery pack from the electric vehicle 3 and then retracts to place the battery pack 4 at a first position on the first reversing section 11. When the reversing mechanism is driven to rotate the battery pack 90 degrees in the first direction, the battery pack 4 is positioned at a second position on the second reversing section 12, as shown in Figures 12 and 13 . The second extension mechanism 121 extends to feed the battery pack 4 in the second position into the corresponding charging bin, and the second extension mechanism 121 retracts to its initial position. When replacing a battery, the battery replacement device 1 is moved to the charging bin where the fully charged battery pack 4 is located, and the second extension mechanism 121 extends to remove the fully charged battery pack 4 from the charging bin, and then retracts to place the battery pack 4 at a third position on the second reversing section 12, as shown in Figures 12 and 13 . When the reversing mechanism 10 is driven to rotate the battery pack 90 degrees in the second direction, the battery pack 4 is positioned at a fourth position on the first reversing section 11.

[0103] 13 and 3, the battery pack 4 of this embodiment has a first side surface and a second side surface that are perpendicular to each other. When the battery pack 4 is in the first position or the fourth position, the first side surface is placed on the first inverting portion 11 and the second side surface is pressed against the second inverting portion 12. When the battery pack 4 is in the second position or the third position, the second side surface is placed on the second inverting portion 12 and the first side surface is pressed against the first inverting portion 11. The first inverting portion 11 and the second inverting portion 12 cooperate with each other to limit and press the two sides of the battery pack 4. This prevents the battery pack 4 from rattling when inverted, ensuring smooth inversion of the battery pack 4.

[0104] 13 and 3, the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 in this embodiment are arranged perpendicular to each other. The first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12, which are arranged perpendicular to each other, can rotate the battery pack 4 simply by reversing them by 90 degrees. Here, the charging ports of the battery packs 4 in the first and fourth positions are oriented horizontally to facilitate docking with the electric vehicle 3, and the battery packs 4 in the second and third positions are oriented vertically to facilitate docking with the charging rack.

[0105] As shown in Figures 13 and 3, the first inversion unit 11 and the second inversion unit 12 in this embodiment are driven by the same inversion drive device, or the first inversion unit 11 and the second inversion unit 12 are driven by different inversion drive devices.

[0106] As shown in Figures 13 and 3, the inversion mechanism 10 of this embodiment includes a base 14, and the first inversion section 11 and the second inversion section 12 are rotatably connected to the base 14, and the inversion drive device drives and rotates the first inversion section 11 and the second inversion section 12.

[0107] 13 and 3, the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 of this embodiment are both connected to a turntable 13, and the reversing drive device is connected to the turntable 13 to drive and rotate the turntable 13. Here, if the turntable 13 is a common part for the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12, the drive turntable 13 can simultaneously drive the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. The turntable 13 can also be used to place the battery pack 4 on it.

[0108] 3 and 4, the reversing drive device of this embodiment includes a reversing motor and a gear group 16. The gear group 16 includes at least an input gear 161 and an output gear 162. The input gear 161 and the output gear 162 mesh with each other. The reversing motor directly or indirectly rotates the drive input gear 161. The first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are fixedly connected to the output gear 162 via a reversing shaft and rotate together with the output gear 162. The input gear 161 and the output gear 162 may be connected via a direct output or may be connected via another gear. Here, the reversing motor 157 drives and rotates the gear group 16 by connecting to a transmission shaft 159 via a direction changer 158.

[0109] As shown in Figure 4, the inversion drive device of this embodiment includes an inversion motor 157 and a gear group 16, and the inversion motor drives and rotates the gear group 16, and the gear group 16 is connected to the first inversion section 11 and / or the second inversion section 12 and drives and rotates the first inversion section 11 and / or the second inversion section 12.

[0110] In this embodiment, the battery exchange device 1 further includes a reversing in-position sensor, which detects the reversing angles of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 and adjusts the reversing angles of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 by the reversing motor 157. The reversing in-position sensor may be a limit switch, an angle sensor, a grating scale, etc. Here, the reversing in-position sensor may be provided on the base 14 to detect the reversing angle of the turntable 13, thereby obtaining the reversing angles of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. For example, if the detected reversing angle of the turntable 13 is less than a set reversing angle, the reversing motor 157 continues to rotate until it reaches a preset position, thereby realizing closed-loop control and ensuring accurate in-position of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 4 , the battery exchange equipment 1 of this embodiment further includes a first transmission motor 151 and a second transmission motor 154, which are both connected below the turntable 13. The first transmission motor 151 directly or indirectly drives the first extension mechanism 111, and the second transmission motor 154 directly or indirectly drives the second extension mechanism 121. As shown in FIG. 6 , the first transmission motor 151 is connected to a transmission shaft 153 via a direction changer 152, thereby driving the first extension mechanism 111 to move. The second transmission motor 154 is connected to a transmission shaft 156 via a direction changer 155, thereby driving the second extension mechanism 111 to move. The inside of the direction changer 152 and the direction changer 155 may be a structure such as a bevel gear, which switches the motion axes of the first transmission motor 151 and the second transmission motor 154 by 90 degrees, and then drives the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 via the transmission shaft 153 and the transmission shaft 156.

[0112] In this embodiment, the battery exchange device 1 further includes a limit sensor, which may be a limit switch, a distance sensor, or the like. Here, the limit sensor may be provided on a non-moving part of the first extension mechanism 111 to detect the movement distance or position of the moving part of the first extension mechanism, or the limit sensor may be provided on the turntable 13 to detect the movement distance or position of the moving part of the first extension mechanism. The limit sensor detects the extension distance of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 and adjusts the extension distance of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121 via the first transmission motor 151 and the second transmission motor 154, respectively. For example, if the detected extension distance of the first extension mechanism 111 is less than a set distance, the first transmission motor 151 continues to rotate until it reaches a preset position, thereby realizing closed-loop control and ensuring accurate imposition of the first extension mechanism 111 and the second extension mechanism 121.

[0113] The push-pull mechanism 19 is provided in the reversing mechanism 10 and is used to pull the battery pack on the electric vehicle into the reversing mechanism 10, and can also be used to push the battery pack on the reversing mechanism 10 into the electric vehicle. The push-pull mechanism 19 is provided to move back and forth relative to the first reversing section 11, thereby realizing a fixed connection to the depleted battery pack 4 or the fully charged battery pack 4, and a pulling or pushing operation.

[0114] Specifically, when the reversing mechanism 10 is in the first position, the push-pull mechanism 19 is used to pull out the battery pack 4 that is low on power from the electric vehicle 3, and when the reversing mechanism 10 is in the fourth position, the push-pull mechanism 19 is used to push the battery pack 4 that is fully charged into the electric vehicle 3.

[0115] 14 and 15 , the pushing / pulling mechanism 19 of this embodiment includes a tray 190 and a tray pushing box 191. The tray 190 is connected to the first reversing unit 11 and moves along with the first reversing unit 11. The tray pushing box 191 is attached to the tray 190 and reciprocates relative to the tray 190 to push or pull the battery pack 4. The direction of reciprocating movement of the tray pushing box 191 is the same as the direction of extension and contraction of the first extension mechanism 111. The tray pushing box 191 and the battery pack 4 are fixedly connected to each other and then move back and forth together relative to the tray 190. As the tray 190 moves along with the first reversing unit 11, the tray pushing box 191 moves further relative to the tray 190, thereby changing the position of the tray pushing box 191 relative to the first reversing unit 11. As a result, the position of the battery pack on the first reversing unit 11 is changed, thereby realizing pushing and pulling of the battery pack 4. When the tray push box 191 is retracted and stopped, its position does not exceed the plane position of the second extension mechanism 121, which ensures that the battery pack 4 can be pressed against the second extension mechanism 121 exactly when the tray push box 191 is retracted and in position. Therefore, after inversion, the battery pack 4 can land smoothly on the second extension mechanism 121, preventing the battery pack 4 from tipping over.

[0116] 4 and 14 , the tray pushing box 191 of this embodiment includes a locking member 192 that cooperates with a fixing member provided on the battery pack 4 to fixedly connect the tray pushing box 191 and the battery pack 4, thereby allowing the tray pushing box 191 to pull or push the battery pack 4. The locking member 192 ensures a secure connection between the battery pack 4 and the tray pushing box 191, allowing the battery pack 4 to move along with the tray pushing box 191. Here, the locking member 192 may be a general electromagnetic attraction mechanism, and accordingly, if the fixing member on the battery pack 4 is a magnetic member, the locking member 192 is fixedly connected to the battery pack 4 via the magnetic attraction member.

[0117] 14 and 15 , the locking member 192 of this embodiment adsorbs and fixes the battery pack 4 when the reversing mechanism 10 is in the first position or the fourth position, and when the reversing mechanism 10 is reversed to the second position or the third position, the locking member 192 releases the suction force between the battery pack 4. That is, at the first position and the fourth position, the tray push box 191 is adsorbed and fixed to the battery pack 4 via the locking member 192, making it easier to push and pull the battery pack 4, and at the second position and the third position, the locking member 192 releases the suction force between the battery pack 4 and prevents the second extension mechanism 12 from interfering with the movement of the battery pack 4.

[0118] To ensure a reliable connection of the battery pack 4 attached to the electric vehicle 3 and to prevent the battery pack 4 from coming off due to rattle while the vehicle is running, a locking mechanism is usually provided to securely lock the battery pack 4 to the bottom of the electric vehicle 3. In such a case, when the battery pack 4 needs to be replaced, the locking mechanism between the battery pack 4 and the electric vehicle 3 must be unlocked before the battery pack 4 can be removed. The tray pushing box 191 of this embodiment includes an unlocking mechanism (not shown) that docks with the unlocking member on the battery pack 4 to unlock the battery pack 4 from the electric vehicle 3. When the tray pushing box 191 and the battery pack come into contact with each other to establish a fixed connection, the unlocking mechanism simultaneously unlocks the battery pack 4, improving the efficiency of loading and unloading.

[0119] 14 and 15, the pushing / pulling mechanism 19 of this embodiment further includes a tray pushing guide rail 193 and a tray pushing drive device, the tray pushing guide rail 193 is provided on the tray 190, the tray pushing box 191 is slidably mounted on the tray pushing guide rail 193, and the tray pushing drive device drives the tray pushing box 191 to slide back and forth. The tray pushing guide rail 193 serves as a guide, making it easy for the tray pushing box 191 to move smoothly along the trajectory.

[0120] 14 and 15, the tray 190 of this embodiment is further provided with several auxiliary rollers 194, which are rotatable in the direction of movement of the tray pushing box 191 and are in rolling contact with the bottom of the tray pushing box 191. The auxiliary rollers 194 can reduce the resistance of the tray pushing box 191 and also play a supporting role below.

[0121] 15, the tray pushing drive device of this embodiment includes a tray pushing motor 195 and a synchronous belt (not shown), one end of which is connected to the tray 190, and the tray pushing motor 195 cooperates with the synchronous belt to drive the tray pushing box 191 via the synchronous belt to move it relative to the tray 190. Here, in this embodiment, the synchronous belt can be tensioned by a roller 196. The synchronous belt allows the moving distance and moving position of the tray pushing box 191 to be precisely controlled, improving the imposition accuracy of the tray pushing box.

[0122] In the present invention, the battery pack 4 is flipped vertically using the flipping mechanism 10 while being transported between the electric vehicle 3 and the charging bin. This minimizes the space required for flipping, overcoming the technical challenge of horizontal rotation, which occupies a large space. Furthermore, the flipping mechanism 10 is structurally simpler than battery exchange equipment that requires horizontal rotation. This allows the battery exchange equipment 1 of the present invention to transfer large battery packs between the electric vehicle and the charging bin in a small space with a simple, easy-to-install structure, while also reducing the cost of the battery packs and facilitating widespread adoption. Furthermore, the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station can be optimized. Furthermore, the reciprocating movement of the push-pull mechanism 19 allows a depleted battery pack 4 inside the vehicle to be quickly removed into the flipping mechanism 10, and a fully charged battery pack 4 on the flipping mechanism 10 to be pushed into the electric vehicle.

[0123] This embodiment further discloses a battery replacement method, which is realized by using the battery replacement equipment 1 and includes the steps of removing the depleted battery pack 4 from the electric vehicle 3 and placing it in a charging bin to facilitate charging, and removing the fully charged battery pack 4 from the charging bin and attaching it to the electric vehicle 3 to supply power to the electric vehicle 3.

[0124] 1. The procedure for removing the exhausted battery pack 4 from the electric vehicle 3 and placing it in the charging bin is as follows: The first extension mechanism 111 is controlled to extend to the mounting position of the battery pack 4 in the electric vehicle 3 parked in a predetermined position, i.e., the battery pack 4 that is out of power, and in this process, the entire push-pull mechanism 19 is rotated by the first extension mechanism 111 and moved synchronously toward the battery pack 4 that is out of power. After the first extension mechanism 111 is extended and in position, the tray push box 191 is controlled to move further forward along the tray 190, and the tray push box 191 is brought closer to the dead battery pack 4, whereby the locking member 192 located at the front end of the tray push box 191 and the fixing member on the dead battery pack 4 are attracted to each other, thereby fixedly connecting the dead battery pack 4 and the tray push box 191. After the tray pushing box 191 and the dead battery pack 4 are securely connected, the tray pushing box 191 is controlled to move backward along the tray 190, i.e., retract in the reverse direction. When retracting, the tray pushing box 191 takes the fixedly connected battery pack 4 with it and moves backward in sync until the battery pack 4 is pulled by the tray 190. Then, the position where the dead battery pack 4 is located becomes the first position of the reversing mechanism 10, and the dead battery pack 4 is placed by the first extension mechanism 111. After the tray push box 191 is retracted and in position, the first extension mechanism 111 is controlled to retract further. After the first extension mechanism 111 is retracted and in position, the inversion mechanism 10 is controlled to invert the battery pack 4 in the first position by 90 degrees along the first direction, thereby inverting the battery pack 4 in the first position to the second position along the first direction, and the battery pack 4 is then placed by the second extension mechanism. In the first position, the first extension mechanism 111 is horizontal and the second extension mechanism 121 is vertical. The first direction here is the inversion direction in which the first extension mechanism 111 is vertical and the second extension mechanism 121 is horizontal. Furthermore, in the second position, the side of the battery pack 4 on which the electrical connector is located faces upward. After the reversal is in position, the locking member 192 is controlled to release the suction force between the tray pushing box 191 and the depleted battery pack 4, separating the tray pushing box 191 and the depleted battery pack 4. At the same time, the battery exchange device 1 is controlled to move the depleted battery pack 4 to a position corresponding to the charging bin. The order of the suction release control and the movement control of the battery exchange device is not important. Finally, the second extension mechanism 121 is controlled to extend, and the depleted battery pack 4 is sent to the loading rack inside the charging bin, and the electrical connector at the top of the charging bin descends to electrically connect with the electrical connector of the depleted battery pack 4, making it easier to charge the depleted battery pack 4.

[0125] 2. The procedure for removing the fully charged battery pack 4 from the charging bin and installing it in the electric vehicle 3 is as follows. The second extension mechanism 121 is controlled to extend toward the fully charged battery pack 4 in the charging bin, and the fully charged battery pack 4 is removed from the loading rack in the charging bin. The second extension mechanism 121 sends the fully charged battery pack 4 to a third position. Next, the reversing mechanism 10 is controlled to reverse the fully charged battery pack 4 by 90 degrees along the second direction, thereby rotating the fully charged battery pack from the third position to the fourth position. The battery exchange device 1 is controlled to move the fully charged battery pack 4 to a position corresponding to the electric vehicle 3. The order of controlling the movement of the battery exchange device 1 and controlling the reversing mechanism 10 is irrelevant. In the third position, the first extension mechanism 111 is in a vertical position and the second extension mechanism 121 is in a horizontal position. The second direction here is the reversal direction in which the first extension mechanism 111 is in a horizontal position and the second extension mechanism 121 is in a vertical position. Furthermore, in the third position, the side of the fully charged battery pack 4 on which the electrical connector is located faces upward. Next, the locking member 192 is controlled to be attracted to the fully charged battery pack 4, and the tray pushing box 191 is fixed to the fully charged battery pack 4. Here, the locking member 192 and the fully charged battery pack 4 do not necessarily have to be attracted to each other. The first extension mechanism 111 docks with the electric vehicle 3 and extends, and controls the tray pushing box 191 to move forward along the tray 190. When the tray pushing box 191 moves forward, it carries the fixedly connected battery pack 4 with it, and the battery pack 4 moves forward synchronously until it is pushed by the electric vehicle 3.

[0126] Example 4 As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the difference between this embodiment and the third embodiment is that the reversing drive device in this embodiment is driven by a telescopic rod 157. Therefore, a reversing motor is not included in this embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the telescopic rod 157 in this embodiment is connected to the first reversing unit 11 and / or the second reversing unit 12 to drive and rotate the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12. The telescopic rod 157 causes the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 to move in the longitudinal direction thereof. The telescopic rod 157 may be a pneumatic or hydraulic mechanism.

[0127] Because the turntable 13 is connected to the rotation shaft, the turntable 13 is restricted to rotate around the axis of the rotation shaft. The telescopic rod 157 can change the distance between its two ends, i.e., the distance between the turntable 13 and the base 14, by extending and retracting. The extension and contraction force generated by the telescopic rod 157 generates a torque on the rotation shaft, driving the turntable 13 to rotate. Because the movement locus of all positions on the turntable 13 is an arc, the connection point between the telescopic rod 157 and the turntable 13 moves in an arc along with the turntable 13. Therefore, both ends of the telescopic rod 157 are pivotally connected so that the telescopic rod 157 can easily rotate along with the turntable 13 by adjusting the tilt posture.

[0128] A plurality of telescopic rods 157 may be provided and connected to the first reversing portion 11 and the second reversing portion 12 individually. Alternatively, the telescopic rods 157 may be provided so as to be connected to the first reversing portion 11 and the second reversing portion 12 simultaneously. In this embodiment, since the bottom of the first reversing portion 11 and the bottom of the second reversing portion 12 are both connected to the base 14, connecting the telescopic rods 157 to the base 14 makes it possible to realize simultaneous connection.

[0129] 10 and 11 , the reversing mechanism 10 of this embodiment includes a base 14, the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 are rotatably mounted relative to the base 14, and one end of the telescopic rod 157 is rotatably connected to the common bottom of the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 (i.e., the bottom of the turntable 13), and the other end is rotatably connected to the base 14. The movement of the telescopic rod 157 in the length direction itself and the rotation of both ends can realize a combined movement, which prevents jamming during operation and enables the first reversing unit 11 and the second reversing unit 12 to be smoothly reversed.

[0130] Other parts of this embodiment employ the same mechanisms as those of the third embodiment, but other alternative means that can be used in the third embodiment may also be employed, and therefore will not be described again here.

[0131] In the present invention, the battery pack is flipped vertically using a flipping mechanism during transfer between the electric vehicle and the charging bin. This minimizes the space required for flipping, overcoming the technical challenge of horizontal rotation, which occupies a large space. Furthermore, the flipping mechanism is structurally simpler than battery exchange equipment that requires horizontal rotation. This allows the battery exchange equipment of the present invention to transfer large battery packs between the electric vehicle and the charging bin in a small space with a simple and easy-to-install structure, while also reducing the cost of the battery packs and facilitating widespread adoption. Furthermore, the floor space occupied by the battery exchange station can be optimized. Furthermore, the reciprocating movement of the push-pull mechanism allows a depleted battery pack inside the vehicle to be quickly removed from the flipping mechanism, and a fully charged battery pack on the flipping mechanism to be pushed into the electric vehicle.

[0132] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples and that various changes or modifications can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A battery exchange equipment for transferring battery packs between an electric vehicle and a charging bin, the battery exchange equipment including a reversing mechanism, the reversing mechanism being used to rotate a depleted battery pack removed from the electric vehicle vertically by 90 degrees from a first position to a second position along a first direction, or the battery exchange equipment being used to rotate a fully charged battery pack removed from a charging bin vertically by 90 degrees from a third position to a fourth position along the second direction, the first direction and the second direction being opposite to each other.

2. 2. The battery exchange facility according to claim 1, wherein the battery exchange facility includes a push-pull mechanism connected to the reversing mechanism and adapted to move back and forth relative to the reversing mechanism, wherein when the reversing mechanism is in a first position, the push-pull mechanism is used to pull out a depleted battery pack from an electric vehicle, and when the reversing mechanism is in a fourth position, the push-pull mechanism is used to push a fully charged battery pack into the electric vehicle.

3. 3. The battery exchange equipment according to claim 2, wherein the inversion mechanism includes a first inversion section and a second inversion section, the push-pull mechanism is connected to the first inversion section, and the push-pull mechanism is configured to move back and forth relative to the first inversion section.

4. the pushing / pulling mechanism includes a tray and a tray pushing box, the tray is connected to the first turning part and moves along with the first turning part, and the tray pushing box is provided on the tray and reciprocates relative to the tray to push or pull the battery pack; the tray push box includes an unlocking mechanism that docks with an unlocking member on the battery pack to unlock the battery pack from the electric vehicle; and / or 4. The battery exchange facility according to claim 3, wherein the tray pushing box includes a locking member that cooperates with a fixing member provided on the battery pack to connect the tray pushing box to the battery pack and pull or push the battery pack.

5. the fixing member is a magnetic member, and the locking member is provided so as to attract the magnetic member and be connectable to the battery pack; 5. The battery exchange facility according to claim 4, wherein the locking member is configured to make an adsorption connection with the battery pack when the reversing mechanism is in the first position or the fourth position, and to release the adsorption connection when the reversing mechanism is in the second position or the third position.

6. The pushing / pulling mechanism further includes a tray pushing guide rail and a tray pushing drive device, wherein the tray pushing guide rail is provided on the tray, the tray pushing box is slidably mounted on the tray pushing guide rail, and the tray pushing drive device drives the tray pushing box to slide back and forth; the tray pushing drive device includes a tray pushing motor and a synchronous belt, one end of the synchronous belt is connected to the tray, the tray pushing motor cooperates with the synchronous belt and drives the tray pushing box via the synchronous belt to move relative to the tray; The battery exchange equipment according to claim 5, characterized in that the tray is further provided with several auxiliary rollers, which are rotatable in the moving direction of the tray pushing box and in rolling contact with the bottom of the tray pushing box.

7. the first reversing unit includes a first extending mechanism, the second reversing unit includes a second extending mechanism, the push-pull mechanism is connected to the first extending mechanism, the first extending mechanism takes in and out the battery pack at a first position or a fourth position, the second extending mechanism takes in and out the battery pack at a second position or a third position, the reciprocating direction of the tray push box and the extension and contraction direction of the first extending mechanism are the same; A battery exchange facility as described in at least one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the position of the tray push box when retracted and stopped does not exceed the position of the plane on which the second extension mechanism is located.

8. the inverting mechanism includes a first inverting portion and a second inverting portion, the first inverting portion is used to place the battery pack at the first position or the fourth position, the second inverting portion is used to place the battery pack at the second position or the third position, the first inverting portion and the second inverting portion are coaxially inverted; the battery pack has a first side surface and a second side surface that are perpendicular to each other, and when the battery pack is in the first position or the fourth position, the first side surface is placed on the first inverted portion and the second side surface is pressed against the second inverted portion, and when the battery pack is in the second position or the third position, the second side surface is placed on the second inverted portion and the first side surface is pressed against the first inverted portion; and / or The first inversion portion and the second inversion portion are provided perpendicular to each other, and / or The battery exchange equipment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first inversion unit and the second inversion unit are driven by the same inversion drive device, or the first inversion unit and the second inversion unit are driven by different inversion drive devices.

9. the reversing drive device includes an extensible rod, the extensible rod is connected to the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit, and drives the first reversing unit and the second reversing unit to rotate; The battery exchange equipment of claim 8, characterized in that the inversion mechanism includes a base, the first inversion portion and the second inversion portion are rotatably arranged relative to the base, and one end of the telescopic rod is rotatably connected to the bottom of the first inversion portion and / or the second inversion portion, and the other end is rotatably connected to the base.

10. the reversing drive device includes a reversing motor and a gear group, the reversing motor drives and rotates the gear group, the gear group is connected to the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit, and drives and rotates the first reversing unit and / or the second reversing unit; The battery exchange equipment according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the reversing drive device includes a reversing motor and a group of gears, the group of gears including at least an input gear and an output gear, the input gear and the output gear mesh with each other, the reversing motor directly or indirectly drives the input gear to rotate, and the first reversing section and the second reversing section are fixedly connected to the output gear via a reversing shaft and rotate together with the output gear.

11. The battery exchange equipment according to at least one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the first inversion unit and the second inversion unit are both connected to a turntable, and the inversion drive device is connected to the turntable and drives and rotates the turntable.

12. The battery exchange facility according to at least one of claims 1 and 8 to 11, characterized in that the first inversion unit and / or the second inversion unit is provided with an extension mechanism for removing a battery pack from an electric vehicle or a charging bin or for placing a battery pack in an electric vehicle or a charging bin.

13. the first inverting unit includes a first extension mechanism, the second inverting unit includes a second extension mechanism, the first extension mechanism takes in and out the battery pack at the first position or the fourth position, and the second extension mechanism takes in and out the battery pack at the second position or the third position; an extending direction of the first extension mechanism and an extending direction of the second extension mechanism intersect with each other, whereby the battery pack is relay-transmitted between the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism; and / or the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism are both telescopic forks, and / or The battery exchange equipment of claim 12, further comprising a first transmission motor and a second transmission motor, the first transmission motor directly or indirectly driving the first extension mechanism, and the second transmission motor directly or indirectly driving the second extension mechanism.

14. 14. The battery exchange equipment of claim 13, further comprising a limit sensor, which is used to detect the extension distance of the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism and adjust the extension distance of the first extension mechanism and the second extension mechanism by the first transmission motor and the second transmission motor, respectively.

15. 11. The battery exchange equipment according to claim 10, further comprising a reversal in-position sensor, the reversal in-position sensor being used to detect reversal angles of the first reversal section and the second reversal section and to adjust the reversal angles of the first reversal section and the second reversal section by the reversal motor.

16. The battery exchange equipment of claim 8, wherein the inversion mechanism includes a base, the first inversion unit and the second inversion unit are rotatably connected to the base, and the inversion drive device drives and rotates the first inversion unit and the second inversion unit.

17. the battery exchange equipment includes an external frame and a lifting mechanism, the base is connected to the external frame via the lifting mechanism and moves up and down relative to the external frame; The battery exchange facility according to claim 16, wherein the lifting mechanism is connected to the external frame via a chain transmission mechanism, and the lifting mechanism and the external frame are guided by a guide wheel.

18. A battery exchange station, the battery exchange station comprising: a vehicle loading platform for parking the electric vehicle for battery pack replacement; a charging facility having a number of charging bins for placing the battery packs, the charging bins being provided with electrical connectors for electrically connecting with the battery packs in the charging bins for charging; 18. A battery exchange station comprising: a battery exchange facility according to at least one of claims 1, 2, and 8 to 17, used to insert, remove, and transfer batteries between an electric vehicle and a charging bin, wherein the inverting mechanism is used to vertically rotate a battery pack removed from the charging bin or the electric vehicle.

19. A battery replacement method, the battery replacement method being realized by using the battery replacement equipment according to at least one of claims 1 and 8 to 17, removing a depleted battery pack from the electric vehicle and placing it in a first position; rotating the removed depleted battery pack vertically 90 degrees from the first position to a second position along the first direction; placing the exhausted battery pack in the second position into the charging bin to charge it; and / or removing the fully charged battery pack from the charging bin and placing it in a third position; rotating the removed fully charged battery pack vertically by 90 degrees from the third position along the second direction to a fourth position; and placing the fully charged battery pack in the fourth position into the electric vehicle.

20. A battery replacement method, the battery replacement method being realized by using the battery replacement equipment according to at least one of claims 2 to 17, Pulling the exhausted battery pack in the electric vehicle to a first position by a push-pull mechanism; rotating the removed depleted battery pack vertically 90 degrees from the first position to a second position along the first direction; Place the dead battery pack in the corresponding position in the charging bin, and then place the dead battery pack in the charging bin to charge; and / or removing the fully charged battery pack from the charging bin and placing it in a third position; rotating the removed fully charged battery pack vertically by 90 degrees from the third position along the second direction to a fourth position; placing a fully charged battery pack at a corresponding position on the electric vehicle; and pushing the fully charged battery pack into the electric vehicle using a push-pull mechanism.

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