vehicle

Abstract

To provide a vehicle capable of detecting a connection state between a connector on a vehicle side and a connector on a battery device side.SOLUTION: The vehicle comprises a power storage device 400, a gas supply unit 300, a vehicle side refrigerant connector 251, a vehicle side electric connector 201, and a gas supply pipe 310. The power storage device 400 includes an electric connector 401, a refrigerant connector 413, and a ventilation path 60. A first connection portion C1 where the vehicle side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413 are connected to each other includes a first closed space S1 and a second connection portion C2 where the vehicle side electric connector 201 and the electric connector 401 are connected to each other includes a second closed space S2. The gas supply pipe 310 is provided to be able to supply gas to at least one closed space of the first closed space S1 and the second closed space S2. The ventilation path 60 is provided to be able to communicate with the gas supply pipe 310 through at least one closed space and the ventilation path 60 is provided with a flow detector 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicles. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2020-58150 (Patent Document 1) discloses a vehicle-mounted battery determination system that is capable of determining whether a battery mounted on a vehicle is the correct type of on-board battery.

[0003] Specifically, a first control device having a first memory unit that stores battery information is provided on the battery pack side, and a second control device that is capable of communicating with the first control device and stores information about the onboard battery to be installed in the vehicle is provided on the vehicle side.

[0004] When the battery pack is mounted on the vehicle, the first control device and the second control device determine whether the battery is an on-board battery by comparing the battery information stored in the first memory unit with the on-board battery information stored in the second memory unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-58150 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] To stabilize the vehicle's range, the battery pack (electricity storage device) installed in the vehicle is replaced with another battery pack. The new battery pack may not only be a new one, but may also be a used one that has been recharged.

[0007] In some battery packs mounted on vehicles, a cooling device through which a refrigerant such as a coolant flows is used to cool the battery placed in the housing case. In this case, a vehicle-side refrigerant connector is provided on the vehicle body to connect the cooling device to a cooling circuit provided on the vehicle side. A refrigerant connector connected to the vehicle-side refrigerant connector is provided on the battery device side.

[0008] A vehicle-side electrical connector is provided on the vehicle body side to connect the vehicle-side electrical system with the battery-side electrical system, and an electrical connector is provided on the battery device side to be connected to the vehicle-side electrical connector.

[0009] When connecting such a vehicle-side connector and a battery-side connector, a sealing member such as a packing is used to seal the connection between the vehicle-side connector and the battery-side connector airtight or liquidtight.

[0010] When replacing a battery pack, a battery pack that has been used and recharged may be installed. If a battery pack whose sealing member has deteriorated due to vibrations caused by the vehicle being driven or due to long-term use is charged and installed in the vehicle, there is a concern that the connection between the vehicle connector and the battery device connector may not be properly established.

[0011] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a vehicle capable of detecting the connection state between a connector on the vehicle side and a connector on the battery device side. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] A vehicle according to the present disclosure has a replaceable power storage device attached thereto, the vehicle including the power storage device, an auxiliary battery, a gas supply unit to which electric power is supplied from the auxiliary battery, a refrigerant circuit including a vehicle-side refrigerant connector connectable to the power storage device and through which a refrigerant flows, a vehicle-side electrical connector connectable to the power storage device, and a gas supply pipe connected to the gas supply unit and arranged to allow gas to flow from the gas supply unit.

[0013] The power storage device includes an electric connector connectable to the vehicle-side electric connector, a refrigerant connector connectable to the vehicle-side refrigerant connector, and a ventilation path connectable to the gas supply pipe. A first connection portion having a first closed space therein is formed by connecting the vehicle-side refrigerant connector and the refrigerant connector. A second connection portion having a second closed space therein is formed by connecting the vehicle-side electric connector and the electric connector. The gas supply pipe is configured to supply the gas to at least one of the first and second closed spaces. The ventilation path is configured to communicate with the gas supply pipe via the at least one closed space. A flow detector is provided in the ventilation path to detect a flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path.

[0014] According to the above configuration, the flow detector can detect the flow state of gas flowing through the ventilation path that communicates with at least one of the first closed space and the second closed space that are formed by connecting the vehicle-side connector and the power storage device-side connector, thereby detecting the connection state between the vehicle-side connector and the power storage device-side connector.

[0015] The vehicle according to the present disclosure may further include a control unit that controls operation of the gas supply unit using power from the auxiliary battery, and a connection detection unit that detects connection between the vehicle-side electrical connector and the electrical connector. The power storage device may include an electrical storage module and a refrigerant flow path through which the refrigerant for cooling the electrical storage module flows. The gas supply pipe may include a first supply pipe that can supply the gas to the first closed space. The ventilation path may include a first path formed by the refrigerant flow path. In this case, when the connection detection unit detects connection between the electrical connector and the vehicle-side electrical connector, the control unit may drive the gas supply unit to introduce the gas into the first closed space. The flow detection unit may include a first detection unit that detects a flow state of the gas flowing through the first path.

[0016] According to the above configuration, when replacing the storage device mounted on the vehicle side with another storage device, the connection state between the storage device side refrigerant connector and the vehicle side refrigerant connector can be detected at the time when the connection between the electrical connector of the other storage device and the vehicle side electrical connector is detected.

[0017] In the vehicle according to the present disclosure, the first path may include a downstream refrigerant connection portion, in which a first connector and a second connector are connected, downstream of the first connection portion in a flow direction of the refrigerant. The downstream refrigerant connection portion may have a third closed space therein. The flow detection portion may include a first downstream detection portion, provided in a portion of the first path located downstream of the third closed space, and configured to detect a flow state of the gas flowing through the first path.

[0018] According to the above configuration, in the first path formed by the refrigerant flow path provided in the energy storage device, the connection state of the downstream refrigerant connection portion in which the first connector and the second connector are connected downstream of the first connection portion can also be detected.

[0019] The vehicle according to the present disclosure may further include a control unit that controls operation of the gas supply unit using power from the auxiliary battery, and a connection detection unit that detects connection between the vehicle-side electrical connector and the electrical connector. The power storage device may include a power storage module and an electrical circuit that connects the power storage module and the electrical connector. The gas supply pipe may include a second supply pipe that can supply the gas to the second closed space. The ventilation path may include a second path provided along the electrical circuit. When the connection detection unit detects connection between the electrical connector and the vehicle-side electrical connector, the control unit may drive the gas supply unit to introduce the gas into the second closed space. The flow detection unit may include a second detection unit that detects a flow state of the gas flowing through the second path.

[0020] According to the above configuration, when replacing a storage device mounted on a vehicle side with another storage device, the connection state between the electrical connector on the storage device side and the vehicle side electrical connector can be detected at the time when the connection between the electrical connector of the other storage device and the vehicle side electrical connector is detected.

[0021] In the vehicle according to the present disclosure, the second path may include a downstream connector connection portion, in which a third connector and a fourth connector are connected, closer to the power storage module than the second connection portion. The downstream connector connection portion may have a fourth closed space therein. The flow detection portion may include a second downstream detection portion, which is provided in a portion of the second path closer to the power storage module than the fourth closed space and detects a flow state of the gas flowing through the second path.

[0022] According to the above configuration, it is possible to detect the connection state of the downstream connector connection portion in the second path, where the third connector and the fourth connector are connected on the power storage module side of the second connection portion.

[0023] The vehicle according to the present disclosure may further include a display unit, and the display unit may display a detection result from the flow detection unit.

[0024] According to the above configuration, the user can know the detection result by the flow detection unit through the display unit.

[0025] In a vehicle based on the present disclosure, the storage device may be installed after having been inspected and the flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path has been detected in advance by an inspection device that is connectable to the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector and that is capable of supplying gas to the ventilation path through at least one of the closed spaces formed at each connection portion when connected to the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector.

[0026] According to the above configuration, since the power storage device is mounted on the vehicle after being inspected in advance, it is possible to more reliably ensure a good connection state between the connector on the vehicle side and the connector on the power storage device side.

[0027] In a vehicle based on the present disclosure, when installing the power storage device, an inspection device that is connectable to the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector and that is capable of supplying gas to the ventilation path through at least one of the closed spaces formed at each connection portion when connected to the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector may be provided to select between a first mode in which the inspected power storage device, the flow state of the gas flowing within the ventilation path having been detected in advance, is replaced, and a second mode in which the power storage device that has not been inspected by the inspection device is replaced.

[0028] According to the above configuration, the user can select either the first mode or the second mode, thereby choosing to replace an inspected storage device or an uninspected storage device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0029] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a vehicle capable of detecting the connection state between a connector on the vehicle side and a connector on the battery device side. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a battery exchange device according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a vehicle according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a first connection portion where a vehicle-side refrigerant connector and a battery-side refrigerant connector according to the embodiment are connected. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a second connection portion where the vehicle-side electrical connector and the battery-side electrical connector according to the embodiment are connected. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing a battery replacement process of the battery replacement device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, the same or common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0032] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a battery exchange device according to embodiment 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the battery exchange device 100 is a device for exchanging a battery (first power storage device) 400 attached to a vehicle 200 with another battery (second power storage device) 101. The other battery 101 may be a new battery, or may be a battery that has been exchanged from the vehicle 200 at another time and then recharged.

[0033] The battery exchange apparatus 100 includes a battery exchange station 100a where battery exchange takes place and a storage 100b where other batteries 101 are stored. The storage 100b is provided adjacent to the battery exchange station 100a. The battery exchange apparatus 100 has an underfloor area S.

[0034] The battery exchange device 100 includes a battery exchange mechanism 33, a transport unit 36, and an inspection device 500. The battery exchange mechanism 33 is a mechanism that removes a battery 400 from the vehicle 200 and installs another battery 101 in the vehicle 200. The battery exchange mechanism 33 is provided in the storage 100b and the underfloor area S. The battery exchange mechanism 33 includes a battery mounting stand 34 and an elevator unit 35.

[0035] The battery mounting table 34 moves the batteries 400, 101 between the transport unit 36 ​​and the vehicle 200. The lifting unit 35 raises and lowers the vehicle 200 between the parking position at the battery exchange station 100a and a predetermined height position. The transporting unit 36 ​​moves the batteries 101, 400 between the temporary storage area 90 and the battery mounting table 34. The transporting unit 36 ​​may be, for example, a belt conveyor type.

[0036] The transport unit 36 ​​transports the battery 400, which has been removed from the vehicle 200 and placed on the battery mounting stand 34, to the temporary storage area 90. Specifically, the battery mounting stand 34, on which the removed battery 400 is placed, is lowered to the same height position (position in the Z direction) as the transport unit 36, and then the battery 400 is transferred from the battery mounting stand 34 to the transport unit 36. The transfer of the battery 400 is performed by rotating rollers (not shown) of the battery mounting stand 34.

[0037] Furthermore, the transport unit 36 ​​moves the other battery 101 transported from the storage 100b to the temporary storage area 90 to the Y2 side and places it on the battery mounting stand 34. At this time, the roller portion of the battery mounting stand 34 rotates in the opposite direction to the above, so that the battery 101 is transferred to the Y2 side on the battery mounting stand 34.

[0038] The batteries 101, 400 are moved between the temporary storage site 90 and the storage facility 100b by another transport device (not shown).

[0039] Inspection device 500 is provided so as to be able to detect the state of refrigerant connector 413 (see FIG. 2) and electrical connector 401 (see FIG. 2), which will be described later, of battery 400 removed from vehicle 200. Specifically, inspection device 500 includes inspection refrigerant connector 513, inspection electrical connector 501, and inspection gas supply unit 530.

[0040] Inspection refrigerant connector 513 is provided so as to be connectable to refrigerant connector 413. Inspection electrical connector 501 is provided so as to be connectable to electrical connector 401. Inspection gas supply unit 530 is provided so as to be able to supply gas to ventilation path 60 (see FIG. 2 ), which will be described later, through at least one of closed spaces formed in the connection portion between inspection refrigerant connector 513 and refrigerant connector 413 and the connection portion between inspection electrical connector 501 and electrical connector 401.

[0041] Inspection device 500 supplies gas to ventilation path 60. As described below, flow detection unit 50 is provided in ventilation path 60. By detecting the flow state of the gas flowing through ventilation path 60 using flow detection unit 50, the states of refrigerant connector 413 and electrical connector 401 can be detected. More specifically, it can be detected whether sealing members 418, 408 (see FIGS. 3 and 4), described below, provided on refrigerant connector 413 and electrical connector 401 have deteriorated. The detection results of inspection device 500 are stored in memory 12, described below.

[0042] In this embodiment, the inspection device 500 is illustrated as being capable of inspecting the battery 400 placed in the temporary storage area 90, but the inspection device 500 may also be configured to be capable of inspecting the battery 101 stored in the storage facility 100b.

[0043] The battery exchange device 100 includes a control device 10 and a drive device 30. The control device 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, and a communication unit 13.

[0044] The memory 12 stores the programs executed by the processor 11 as well as information used in the programs (for example, maps, formulas, and various parameters). The processor 11 controls the operation of the drive device 30. The drive device 30 includes the battery replacement mechanism 33, the transport unit 36, and the inspection device 500 described above.

[0045] The communication unit 13 includes various communication I / Fs. The processor 11 controls the communication unit 13. The communication unit 13 communicates with the DCM of the vehicle 200 and the like. Two-way communication is possible between the communication unit 13 and the vehicle 200. The communication unit 13 may also communicate with a mobile terminal or the like owned by the user of the vehicle 200. The communication unit 13 is an example of a vehicle information acquisition unit that acquires information from the vehicle.

[0046] When replacing the battery 400, while the vehicle 200 is parked in the battery exchange station 100a, the user performs an operation on a navigation system (not shown) of the vehicle 200 to instruct the start of the battery exchange work. The communication unit 13 receives an instruction signal to start the battery exchange work from the vehicle 200. The processor 11 starts controlling the battery exchange work based on the communication unit 13 receiving the instruction signal.

[0047] The vehicle 200 may be steered so as to automatically stop at a predetermined position within the battery exchange station 100a by a user operating the navigation system outside the battery exchange station 100a. Alternatively, the vehicle may be stopped at a predetermined position by the user driving the vehicle. The operation unit for operating the navigation system is displayed on a display unit 280 provided in the vehicle.

[0048] The vehicle 200 is parked in the battery exchange station 100a so that the front-to-rear direction is the X direction and the left-to-right direction is the Y direction.

[0049] 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention, and vehicle 200 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2, the vehicle 200 includes a PCU (Power Control Unit) 203, an MG (Motor Generator) 205, an auxiliary battery 206, a DC / DC converter 207, a vehicle-side electrical connector 201, a vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251, a gas supply unit 300, a gas supply pipe 310, a refrigerant circuit 250, and a connection detection unit 209.

[0051] When exchanging the battery 400, the ignition power supply (not shown) is turned off while the vehicle 200 is stopped in the battery exchange station 100a, and the connection between the battery 400 and the PCU 203 is turned off. This electrically disconnects the battery 400 from the PCU 203 and the MG 205.

[0052] In this state, when an operation to instruct the start of the battery replacement work is performed in the vehicle 200, the battery replacement device 100 starts to control the battery replacement work. In addition, based on the above operation, the lock between the vehicle-side connector and the connector of the battery 400 is released.

[0053] After the ignition power supply is turned off, the power of the auxiliary battery 206 is supplied to the accessories such as the MG 205, the DCM, and the gas supply unit 300 via the DC / DC converter 207 and the PCU 203.

[0054] The auxiliary battery 206 is provided so as to be able to supply power to the gas supply unit 300 even after the ignition power supply is turned off. The gas supply unit 300 is, for example, a compressor.

[0055] The gas supply pipe 310 is connected to the gas supply unit 300. The gas supply pipe 310 is provided so that gas from the gas supply unit 300 can flow through it. The gas supply pipe 310 is provided so that gas can be supplied to at least one of a first closed space S1 and a second closed space S2, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the gas supply pipe 310 is provided so that gas can be supplied to both the first closed space S1 and the second closed space S2.

[0056] The gas supply pipe 310 includes a first supply pipe 311 and a second supply pipe 312. The first supply pipe 311 is provided so as to be able to supply gas to the first closed space S1. The first supply pipe 311 is provided so as to connect the gas supply unit 300 and the first closed space S1.

[0057] The second supply pipe 312 is provided so as to be able to supply gas to the second closed space S2. The second supply pipe 312 is provided so as to connect the gas supply unit 300 and the second closed space S2.

[0058] The refrigerant circuit 250 is provided so that a refrigerant flows through it. For example, a liquid such as water can be used as the refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit 250 is provided with, for example, a storage tank for storing the refrigerant, a pump, and the like. The pump can circulate the refrigerant through the refrigerant circuit 250. The refrigerant circuit 250 is also connected to a heat exchanger, etc.

[0059] The connection detection unit 209 detects that the vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and the electrical connector 401 on the battery 400 side are connected. Specifically, the connection detection unit 209 detects the current flowing from the auxiliary battery 206 to the battery 400 when the vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and the electrical connector 401 are connected after the ignition power is turned off.

[0060] The battery 400 includes a storage case 405, a junction box 410, a storage module 420, a cooling device 80, an electrical connector 401, a first connector 81, a second connector 82, a third connector 411, a fourth connector 412, a fifth connector 421, a sixth connector 422, a flow detection unit 50, and an air passage 60.

[0061] Housing case 405 has a generally box-like shape and accommodates junction box 410, power storage module 420, and cooling device 80. Electrical connector 401 and refrigerant connector 413 are provided on the outer surface of housing case 405 so as to protrude to the outside.

[0062] The power storage module 420 is configured by arranging a plurality of power storage stacks, each of which has power storage cells arranged in a predetermined direction, side by side.

[0063] The storage cell is, for example, a secondary battery such as a nickel-metal hydride battery or a lithium-ion battery. The storage cell may use a liquid electrolyte or a solid electrolyte. The storage cell may also be a unit capacitor configured to be able to store electricity.

[0064] The junction box 410 is disposed between the electrical connector 401 and the power storage module 420. The electrical connector 401, the junction box 410, and the power storage module 420 are connected by an electrical circuit 430. The junction box 410 is provided with, for example, electronic equipment that controls the power storage module 420.

[0065] The cooling device 80 is provided so as to be able to cool the power storage module 420. The cooling device 80 is disposed, for example, below the power storage module 420. The cooling device 80 is in thermal contact with the power storage module 420. The cooling device 80 is connected to the refrigerant connector 413 via the refrigerant flow path 61. The cooling device 80 is provided so that the refrigerant flows through it.

[0066] The refrigerant connector 413 is provided so as to be connectable to the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251. The refrigerant connector 413 is detachably connected to the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251. When the refrigerant connector 413 is connected to the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251, a first connection portion C1 having a first closed space S1 therein is formed.

[0067] When the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413 are connected, the refrigerant for cooling the power storage module 420 flows through the refrigerant flow path 61. The refrigerant flow path 61 includes a downstream refrigerant connection portion C3 to which the first connector 81 and the second connector 82 are connected downstream of the first connection portion C1 in the flow direction of the refrigerant.

[0068] The second connector 82 is provided in the cooling device 80. The first connector 81 is provided at the downstream end of the refrigerant flow path 61 at a portion connecting the refrigerant connector 413 and the second connector 82. The downstream refrigerant connection portion C3 has a third closed space S3 therein.

[0069] The electrical connector 401 is provided so as to be connectable to the vehicle-side electrical connector 201. The electrical connector 401 is detachably connected to the vehicle-side electrical connector 201. When the electrical connector 401 is connected to the vehicle-side electrical connector 201, a second connection portion C2 having a second closed space S2 is formed.

[0070] The junction box 410 is provided with a fourth connector 412. The electric circuit 430 is configured with a plurality of electric wirings. The electric circuit 430 includes an electric wiring that connects the electric connector 401 and the junction box 410. The electric connector 401 is provided at one end of the electric wiring, and the third connector 411 is provided at the other end of the electric wiring.

[0071] The electric circuit 430 includes a first downstream connector connection portion C4 to which the third connector 411 and the fourth connector 412 are connected. The first downstream connector connection portion C4 has a fourth closed space S4 therein.

[0072] The power storage module 420 is provided with a sixth connector 422. The electric circuit 430 includes an electric wiring that connects the junction box 410 and the power storage module 420. One end of the electric wiring is connected to the junction box 410. The other end of the electric wiring is provided with a fifth connector 421.

[0073] The electric circuit 430 includes a second downstream connector connection portion C5 to which the fifth connector 421 and the sixth connector 422 are connected. The second downstream connector connection portion C5 has a fifth closed space S5 therein.

[0074] The ventilation path 60 is provided so as to be able to communicate with the gas supply pipe 310. The ventilation path 60 is provided so as to be able to communicate with the gas supply pipe 310 via at least one of the first closed space S1 and the second closed space S2. Specifically, the ventilation path 60 includes a first path communicating with the first closed space S1 and a second path 62 communicating with the second closed space S2.

[0075] The first path is formed by a refrigerant flow path 61. The first path is provided so as to pass through the third closed space S3. The second path 62 is provided along the electric circuit 430. The second path 62 is provided so as to pass through the fourth closed space S4 and the fifth closed space S5.

[0076] The flow detection unit 50 is provided in the ventilation path 60 and detects the flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path 60. The flow detection unit 50 is provided so as to be able to detect, for example, the pressure of the gas. For example, a check valve can be used as the flow detection unit 50.

[0077] The flow detection unit 50 includes a first detection unit 51 , a second detection unit 52 , a first downstream detection unit 53 , a second downstream detection unit 54 , and a third downstream detection unit 55 .

[0078] The first detection unit 51 is provided in the first path (refrigerant flow path 61). More specifically, the first detection unit 51 is provided in the refrigerant flow path 61 downstream of the first closed space S1 and upstream of the third closed space S3. The first detection unit 51 detects the flow state of the gas flowing in the first path downstream of the first closed space S1 and upstream of the third closed space S3.

[0079] By detecting the gas flow state with the first detection unit 51, it can be confirmed whether the connection state between the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413 is normal or not.

[0080] The first downstream detection unit 53 is provided in the first path. More specifically, the first downstream detection unit 53 is provided downstream of the third closed space S3 in the refrigerant flow path 61. The first downstream detection unit 53 detects the flow state of the gas flowing through the first path downstream of the third closed space S3.

[0081] By detecting the gas flow state with the first downstream detection section 53, it is possible to confirm whether the connection state between the first connector 81 and the second connector 82 is normal.

[0082] The second detection unit 52 is provided on the second path 62. More specifically, the second detection unit 52 is disposed on the second path 62 downstream of the second closed space S2 and upstream of the fourth closed space S4. The second detection unit 52 detects the flow state of the gas flowing through the second path 62 downstream of the second closed space S2 and upstream of the fourth closed space S4.

[0083] By detecting the gas flow state with the second detection unit 52, it is possible to confirm whether the connection state between the vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and the electrical connector 401 is normal.

[0084] The second downstream detection unit 54 is provided on the second path 62. More specifically, the second downstream detection unit 54 is provided on the second path 62 downstream of the fourth closed space S4 and upstream of the fifth closed space S5. The second downstream detection unit 54 detects the flow state of the gas flowing through the second path 62 downstream of the fourth closed space S4 and upstream of the fifth closed space S5.

[0085] By detecting the gas flow state with the second downstream detection unit 54, it is possible to confirm whether the connection state between the third connector 411 and the fourth connector 412 is normal.

[0086] The third downstream detection unit 55 is provided on the second path 62. More specifically, the third downstream detection unit 55 is provided on the second path 62 downstream of the fifth closed space S5. The second downstream detection unit 54 detects the flow state of the gas flowing through the second path 62 downstream of the fifth closed space S5.

[0087] By detecting the gas flow state with the third downstream detection unit 55, it is possible to check whether the connection state between the fifth connector 421 and the sixth connector 422 is normal.

[0088] The detection results by the first detection unit 51, the second detection unit 52, the first downstream side detection unit 53, the second downstream side detection unit 54, and the third downstream side detection unit 55 are displayed on the display unit 280. When it is determined that the connection state of each connector is abnormal, the detection result by the detection unit that is determined to be abnormal may be displayed on the display unit 280.

[0089] Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a first connection portion where a vehicle-side refrigerant connector and a battery-side refrigerant connector according to an embodiment are connected. The first connection portion C1 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 3. The downstream refrigerant connection portion C3 where the first connector 81 and the second connector 82 are connected has a configuration similar to that of the first connection portion C1, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0090] 3, the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 has a cylindrical shape. The first supply pipe 311 is provided so as to enter the interior of the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251.

[0091] Refrigerant connector 413 includes an outer cylinder portion 415, an inner cylinder portion 416, and a sealing member 418. Outer cylinder portion 415 is provided so as to surround inner cylinder portion 416. Sealing member 418 is disposed between inner cylinder portion 416 and outer cylinder portion 415. Sealing member 418 is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of inner cylinder portion 416 in a state of close contact with the outer peripheral surface.

[0092] When the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413 are connected, the tip of the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 fits between the outer cylinder portion 415 and the inner cylinder portion 416. At this time, the inner circumferential surface of the tip is in close contact with the sealing member 418, and a first closed space S1 is formed in a portion surrounded by the inner circumferential surface of the tip, the outer circumferential surface of the inner cylinder portion 416, and the sealing member 418.

[0093] When gas is introduced into the first closed space S1 from the first supply pipe 311, if the sealing member 418 is not deteriorated, the gas passes through the inside of the refrigerant connector 413 (more specifically, the inner cylinder portion 416) as shown by the arrow AR1.

[0094] On the other hand, if the sealing member 418 has deteriorated, gas passes through the gap between the outer cylinder portion 415 and the tip of the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and is discharged to the outside.

[0095] Therefore, by detecting the state (for example, pressure) of the gas flowing through the refrigerant flow path 61 with the first detection unit 51, the connection state between the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413 can be detected.

[0096] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a second connection portion where the vehicle-side electrical connector and the battery-side electrical connector according to the embodiment are connected. The second connection portion C2 will be described in detail with reference to Figure 4. The configurations of the first downstream connector connection portion C4, where the third connector 411 and the fourth connector 412 are connected, and the second downstream connector connection portion C5, where the fifth connector 421 and the sixth connector 422 are connected, are substantially the same as those of the second connection portion C2, and therefore will not be described again.

[0097] 4, vehicle-side electrical connector 201 has a cylindrical portion 205 provided at the tip and a terminal portion 201T provided inside cylindrical portion 205. Second supply pipe 312 is provided so as to enter the interior of vehicle-side electrical connector 201.

[0098] The electrical connector 401 has a terminal insertion portion 401C into which the terminal portion 201T is inserted, and a sealing member 408. The sealing member 408 is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the electrical connector 401 in a state of tight contact with the outer peripheral surface. The electrical connector 401 is provided with a portion of the second path 62.

[0099] With vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and electrical connector 401 connected, terminal portion 201T is inserted into terminal insertion portion 401C. At this time, the inner peripheral surface of tubular portion 205 is in close contact with sealing member 408, and a second closed space S2 is formed in a portion surrounded by the inner peripheral surface of tubular portion 205, the outer peripheral surface located on the tip side of electrical connector 401, and sealing member 408.

[0100] When gas is introduced into the second closed space S2 from the second supply pipe 312, if the sealing member 408 is not deteriorated, the gas passes through the inside of the second path 62 as shown by the arrow AR2.

[0101] On the other hand, if the sealing member 408 has deteriorated, the gas will be discharged to the outside through the gap between the cylindrical portion 205 and the tip side of the electrical connector 401 .

[0102] Therefore, by detecting the state of the gas flowing through the second path 62 with the second detection unit 52, the connection state between the vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and the electrical connector 401 can be detected.

[0103] 5 is a flow chart showing the battery exchange process of the battery exchange device according to the embodiment. The battery exchange flow according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0104] [Transmission of vehicle information, etc.: Vehicle] First, in step S21, the vehicle 200 transmits information about the vehicle 200 and information about the battery 400 to the communication unit 13 of the battery exchange apparatus 100. For example, an operation to transmit each piece of information described above is performed in a navigation system (not shown) of the vehicle 200, whereby each piece of information described above is transmitted to the communication unit 13. The vehicle 200 transmits each piece of information described above before entering the battery exchange apparatus 100. Note that each piece of information described above may also be transmitted after the vehicle 200 enters the battery exchange apparatus 100.

[0105] [Acquisition of vehicle information, etc.: Battery replacement device] Next, in step S11, the communication unit 13 of the battery exchange device 100 acquires, by communication, the information about the vehicle 200 and the information about the battery 400 transmitted from the vehicle 200 in step S21. The acquired information is stored in the memory 12 (see FIG. 1).

[0106] [Vehicle entering battery exchange station: Vehicle] In step S21, the vehicle information and battery information are transmitted from the vehicle 200 to the communication unit 13, and then in step S22, the vehicle 200 enters the battery exchange station 100a by automatic driving or by being driven by the user.

[0107] [Vehicle stopping in vehicle stopping area: Vehicle] Subsequently, in step S23, the vehicle 200 stops at a predetermined position within the battery exchange station 100a.

[0108] [Sends instruction signal for battery replacement: Vehicle] Next, in step S24, the vehicle 200 parked in the battery exchange station 100a transmits an instruction signal to the communication unit 13 to start the battery exchange work. After transmitting the instruction signal to the communication unit 13, the vehicle 200 turns off the SMR (System Main Relay). At this time, communication between the vehicle 200 and the communication unit 13 is maintained by the supply of power from the auxiliary battery 206 (see FIG. 2).

[0109] When transmitting an instruction signal to start the battery replacement work to the communication unit 13, the user may select either the first mode or the second mode.

[0110] When the first mode is selected, the battery 400 can be replaced with an inspected battery 101 in which the flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path 60 has been detected in advance by the inspection device 500. That is, in the replacement work, the battery 400 can be replaced with a battery 101 that has no abnormalities in the sealing members 408, 418 and can be normally connected to the vehicle 200. In this case, step S16, which will be described later, may be omitted.

[0111] When the second mode is selected, the battery 400 can be replaced with a battery 101 that has not been inspected by the inspection device 500. In this case, in step S16, it is confirmed whether or not the connection between the replaced battery 101 and the vehicle 200 is normal.

[0112] When the first mode is selected, the exchange fee may be set higher than when the second mode is selected.

[0113] [Battery replacement instruction signal received: Battery replacement device] Next, in step S12, communication unit 13 receives the instruction signal transmitted from vehicle 200 in step S24. After receiving the instruction signal, processor 11 may transmit an instruction message or the like to the user of vehicle 200 via communication unit 13 to turn off the ignition power supply.

[0114] [Battery removal: Battery replacement device] Next, in step S13, the battery 400 is removed from the body 200a of the vehicle 200.

[0115] Specifically, the vehicle 200 is raised to a predetermined height by the lifting unit 35, and the battery mounting stand 34 is moved below the battery 400. Next, a locking / unlocking tool provided on the battery mounting stand 34 is used to unlock the battery 400 from the vehicle. This allows the battery 400 to be removed from the vehicle. At this time, the connection between the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413, and the connection between the vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and the electrical connector 401 are also released.

[0116] [Batteries are transported to the hangar: Battery exchange device] Next, in step S14, the battery 400 removed from the vehicle body 200a is transported to the storage 100b. Specifically, the battery mounting table 34 on which the battery 400 is mounted is lowered to the height position of the transport section 36.

[0117] Next, the battery 400 placed on the battery mounting table 34 is transferred to the transport unit 36. The battery 400 transferred to the transport unit 36 ​​is transported to the temporary storage area 90. The battery 400 is stored in the storage facility 100b by another transport device (not shown).

[0118] [Inspecting the connector of the removed battery: Battery replacement device] Next, in step S14A, the state of the connector portion (electrical connector 401, refrigerant connector 413) of the removed battery 400 is inspected.

[0119] Specifically, the above-described inspection device 500 and the battery 400 are connected, and gas is supplied to the ventilation path 60. At this time, the flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path 60 is detected by the flow detection unit 50. This makes it possible to check whether the sealing members 408, 418 provided on the battery 400 have deteriorated.

[0120] When connecting the above-described inspection device 500 and battery 400, the inspection refrigerant connector 513 and the inspection electrical connector 501 are connected to the refrigerant connector 413 and the electrical connector 401, respectively.

[0121] Step S14A may be performed when the removed battery 400 is transported to the temporary storage area, or may be performed after the removed battery 400 is transported to the storage facility 100b.

[0122] [Installing other batteries: Battery replacement device] Next, in step S15, another battery 101 is attached to the vehicle body 200a. Specifically, the lifting unit 35 is raised to hold the vehicle 200 parallel to the horizontal at a predetermined height.

[0123] Next, the battery mounting stand 34 on which the battery 101 is mounted is raised, and the battery 101 is locked to the vehicle body 200a using a locking / unlocking tool. At this time, the vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and the electrical connector 401, and the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413 are connected.

[0124] [Check the connection status of the replaced battery: Battery replacement device] Next, in step S16, the connection state of the replaced battery 101 is checked. Specifically, with the vehicle-side electrical connector 201 and the electrical connector 401, and the vehicle-side refrigerant connector 251 and the refrigerant connector 413 connected, the gas supply unit 300 is driven to introduce gas into the ventilation path 60.

[0125] As described above, the flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path 60 is detected by the flow detection unit 50, and the connection state between the vehicle 200 and the battery 101 is confirmed.

[0126] At this time, if it is confirmed that the connection state between the vehicle 200 and the battery 101 is normal (step S17; YES), step S18 is performed. If it is confirmed that the connection state between the vehicle 200 and the battery 101 is abnormal (step S17; NO), the operations from step S13 onwards are repeated. Furthermore, if it is confirmed that the connection state is abnormal, a lamp informing the user of the abnormality may be turned on in the display unit 280, or a mark informing the user of the abnormality may be displayed.

[0127] It should be noted that, if the first mode is selected in step S24 as described above, step S16 may be omitted.

[0128] [Battery replacement completion notification: Battery replacement device] Next, in step S18, processor 11 notifies vehicle 200 via communication unit 13 that the battery replacement work has been completed.

[0129] [Receive notification of completion of battery replacement: Vehicle] In step S25, the vehicle 200 receives the notification transmitted from the communication unit 13 of the battery exchange apparatus 100 in step S18. This puts the vehicle 200 in a state in which the ignition power can be turned on. Then, the process ends.

[0130] Through the above steps, the battery 400 can be replaced with a new battery 101 by the battery exchange device 100.

[0131] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0132] 10 control device, 11 processor, 12 memory, 13 communication unit, 30 drive unit, 33 battery exchange mechanism, 34 battery mounting platform, 35 lifting unit, 36 transport unit, 50 flow detection unit, 51 first detection unit, 52 second detection unit, 53 first downstream detection unit, 54 second downstream detection unit, 55 third downstream detection unit, 60 ventilation path, 61 refrigerant flow path, 62 second path, 80 cooling device, 81 first connector, 82 second connector, 90 temporary storage area, 100 battery exchange device, 100a battery exchange station, 100b storage facility, 101, 400 battery, 200 vehicle, 200a vehicle body, 201 vehicle side electrical connector, 201T terminal portion, 205 cylindrical portion, 206 auxiliary battery, 207 converter, 209 connection detection unit, 250 Refrigerant circuit, 251 vehicle-side refrigerant connector, 280 display unit, 300 gas supply unit, 310 gas supply pipe, 311 first supply pipe, 312 second supply pipe, 401 electrical connector, 401C terminal insertion portion, 405 storage case, 408, 418 sealing member, 410 junction box, 411 third connector, 412 fourth connector, 413 refrigerant connector, 415 outer cylinder portion, 416 inner cylinder portion, 420 power storage module, 421 fifth connector, 422 sixth connector, 430 electrical circuit, 500 inspection device, 501 inspection electrical connector, 513 inspection refrigerant connector, 530 inspection gas supply unit, C1 first connection portion, C2 second connection portion, C3 downstream refrigerant connection portion, C4 first downstream connector connection portion, C5 second downstream connector connection portion, S Underfloor area, S1 first closed space, S2 second closed space, S3 third closed space, S4 fourth closed space, S5 fifth closed space.

Claims

1. A vehicle in which a power storage device is replaceably attached, The power storage device; An auxiliary battery; a gas supply unit to which power is supplied from the auxiliary battery; a refrigerant circuit including a vehicle-side refrigerant connector connectable to the power storage device, through which a refrigerant flows; a vehicle-side electrical connector that is connectable to the power storage device; a gas supply pipe connected to the gas supply unit and arranged to allow gas to flow from the gas supply unit; the power storage device includes an electric connector connectable to the vehicle-side electric connector, a refrigerant connector connectable to the vehicle-side refrigerant connector, and an air passage communicated with the gas supply pipe, a first connection portion having a first closed space therein is formed by connecting the vehicle-side refrigerant connector and the refrigerant connector; a second connection portion having a second closed space therein is formed by connecting the vehicle-side electrical connector and the electrical connector; the gas supply pipe is provided so as to be able to supply the gas to at least one of the first closed space and the second closed space, the ventilation path is provided so as to be able to communicate with the gas supply pipe through the at least one closed space, The vehicle, wherein the ventilation path is provided with a flow detection unit that detects a flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path.

2. a control unit that controls the operation of the gas supply unit using power from the auxiliary battery; a connection detection unit that detects that the vehicle-side electrical connector and the electrical connector are connected, the power storage device includes a power storage module and a coolant flow path through which the coolant flows for cooling the power storage module, the gas supply pipe includes a first supply pipe capable of supplying the gas to the first closed space, the ventilation path includes a first path formed by the refrigerant flow path, the control unit drives the gas supply unit to introduce the gas into the first closed space when the connection detection unit detects that the electric connector and the vehicle-side electric connector are connected; The vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the flow detection unit includes a first detection unit that detects a flow state of the gas flowing through the first path.

3. the first path includes a downstream refrigerant connection portion, in which a first connector and a second connector are connected, downstream of the first connection portion in a flow direction of the refrigerant; the downstream refrigerant connection portion has a third closed space therein, 3. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the flow detection unit is provided in the first path in a portion located downstream of the third closed space and includes a first downstream detection unit that detects the flow state of the gas flowing through the first path.

4. a control unit that controls the operation of the gas supply unit using power from the auxiliary battery; a connection detection unit that detects that the vehicle-side electrical connector and the electrical connector are connected, the power storage device includes a power storage module and an electric circuit connecting the power storage module and the electric connector; the gas supply pipe includes a second supply pipe capable of supplying the gas to the second closed space, the ventilation path includes a second path provided along the electrical circuit; the control unit drives the gas supply unit to introduce the gas into the second closed space when the connection detection unit detects that the electric connector and the vehicle-side electric connector are connected; The vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the flow detection unit includes a second detection unit that detects a flow state of the gas flowing through the second path.

5. the electric circuit includes a downstream connector connection portion, to which a third connector and a fourth connector are connected, on the side of the power storage module relative to the second connection portion; the downstream connector connection portion has a fourth closed space therein, The second path is provided to pass through the fourth closed space, 5. The vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the flow detection unit is provided in the second path at a portion located closer to the storage module than the fourth closed space, and includes a second downstream detection unit that detects the flow state of the gas flowing through the second path.

6. Further comprising a display unit, The vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the display unit displays a detection result from the flow detection unit.

7. 4. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the vehicle is fitted with an inspected power storage device in which the flow state of the gas flowing through the ventilation path has been detected in advance by an inspection device that is connectable to the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector and that is capable of supplying gas to the ventilation path through at least one of closed spaces formed at each connection portion when the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector are connected.

8. 4. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, when installing the electric storage device, a first mode is selectable in which the electric storage device is replaced with an inspected electric storage device in which the flow state of the gas flowing in the ventilation path has been detected in advance by an inspection device that is connectable to the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector and that is capable of supplying gas to the ventilation path through at least one of the closed spaces formed at each connection portion when connected to the refrigerant connector and the electrical connector, and a second mode is selected in which the electric storage device is replaced with an electric storage device that has not been inspected by the inspection device.

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