Battery swapping station and its locking module

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 672395 filed on July 17, 2024.

[0002] The present invention relates to a lock module, and in particular to a lock module for a battery swapping station. [Background Art]

[0003] A battery swapping station is usually provided with a battery locking and unlocking mechanism to ensure the stability and safety of the battery during the swapping process. Such a mechanism is mainly implemented by mechanical structures such as hooks, spring structures, and rotary lock modules, which fix the battery at a designated position and release the battery through an unlocking operation when necessary.

[0004] However, conventional battery locking and unlocking mechanisms have specific inherent drawbacks. If a user pulls the battery too hard during operation, the mechanism may jam. This jamming is often caused by improper force application, such as when the user attempts to pull out the battery before the unlocking process is completely completed, which leaves the lock structure partially engaged and may lead to interference or deformation of internal movable components. Furthermore, the complexity of conventional mechanical designs aimed at improving operational accuracy gives rise to instability caused by assembly errors and component tolerances, which may further aggravate jamming.

[0005] These problems not only reduce the operational efficiency of the battery swapping station and degrade user experience, but may also lead to damage to the battery or the device itself. Therefore, improving the battery locking and unlocking mechanism to solve the jamming problem and increase operational stability and reliability is an important issue in this technical field. [Summary of the Invention] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] This invention provides a battery replacement station and its locking module that improves the battery locking and unlocking mechanism, solving jamming problems and enhancing operational stability and reliability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One embodiment of the present invention provides a locking module. The locking module is positioned on a battery container of a battery swapping station, and the battery container is adapted to receive a battery by an engaging structure. The locking module includes a base, a claw hook, a lever, a spring, and an actuating unit. The claw hook is rotatably positioned on the base and includes a first finger and a second finger, and the engaging structure is applied to be received between the first finger and the second finger. The lever is rotatably positioned on the base. A spring is connected to the claw hook and is applied to apply an elastic force that retracts the claw hook in a first direction. One end of the spring is connected to the base and the other end of the spring is connected to the claw hook. An actuating unit is connected to the first end of the lever and is adapted to move the lever to release the locking module into an unlocked state. When the locking module is in the locked state, the claw hook engages with the lever, and the engaging structure engages against the claw hook.

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

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

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

[0011] In one embodiment, the lever includes a rotating part, the lever rotates on the base via the rotating part, and the lever opening is formed between the rotating part and the guide part.

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

[0013] In one embodiment, when the operating unit moves the lever to switch the lock module from a locked state to an unlocked state, the lever rotates, releasing the hook, and the claw hook rotates by elastic force.

[0014] In one embodiment, the spring is a tension spring.

[0015] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention provide a battery replacement station. The battery replacement station includes a station housing, a battery container, and the locking module described above. The battery container is located within the station housing and is fitted to receive a battery, and the battery includes an engagement structure.

[0016] Using the lock module of the embodiment of the present invention, the actuation unit moves a lever to switch the lock module to the unlocked state. This process is not only efficient but also ensures a smooth and rapid transition to the unlocked state. The unlocking process is completed completely quickly, reducing the risk of delays that may occur due to the complexity of the mechanism. Furthermore, the streamlined operation of the actuation unit minimizes the possibility of the mechanism jamming, thereby improving the overall system performance and durability. In addition, the mechanical design of the lock module of the embodiment of the present invention is simple, greatly contributing to ease of manufacture and maintenance. The simple design reduces the number of potential failure points and improves the long-term reliability of the lock module. By optimizing the design with functionality and durability in mind, this embodiment ensures that the lock module operates with consistent effectiveness under various conditions and over long periods of use.

[0017] The present invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

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

[0019] The following description is for explaining the general principles of the present invention, and should not be construed in a limiting sense. The scope of the present invention is determined with reference to the appended claims.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a lock module and a battery container according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lock module L is arranged on the battery container C of a battery swapping station (not shown). The battery container C is adapted to receive a battery B having an engagement structure 91. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the engagement structure 91 is an elliptical bump protruding from the side surface of the battery B and arranged near an end portion away from the handle of the battery. In another embodiment, there are two or more identical engagement structures of different shapes, arranged at appropriate positions of the battery, for example, on one or different side surfaces of the battery. There may also be one or more lock modules arranged at appropriate positions of the battery container, interacting with one or more engagement structures 91.

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

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

[0023] As shown in Figure 4, in one embodiment, spring 4 is a tension spring. The tension spring is specifically designed to provide reliable and consistent elastic force, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of the system. This disclosure is not limiting to the present invention, as various alternative configurations are possible. For example, spring 4 could alternatively be an elastic sheet that offers flexibility and can be easily integrated into flat designs, or a torsion spring that is particularly suitable for applications requiring rotational force. These variations provide additional options for adapting the present invention to different functional requirements and structural constraints.

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

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

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

[0027] As shown in Figures 4, 5A, and 5B, in one embodiment, the lever 3 includes a lever opening 33. When the lock module is locked, the hook 23 is received by the lever opening 33.

[0028] As shown in Figure 4, in one embodiment, the lever 3 includes a guide portion 34, which is formed at the second end 32 of the lever 3. The hook 23 can move along the guide portion 34 before it is received by the lever opening 33.

[0029] As shown in Figure 4, in one embodiment, the lever 3 includes a pivot portion 35. The pivot portion 35 includes two winding configurations 351, each winding configuration 351 including a hole 352 for receiving a second shaft 12. In one embodiment, the two winding configurations 351 are parallel to each other. The lever 3 rotates on the base 1 via the pivot portion 35. A lever opening 33 is formed between the pivot portion 35 and the guide portion 34. In this embodiment, the lever 3 rotates around the second shaft 12 via the pivot portion 35.

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

[0031] Figures 5C, 5D, and 5E illustrate the locking process of a lock module according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, and 5E, when the battery B is inserted into the battery container C (Figure 5C), the engaging structure 91 contacts and pushes the second finger 22 (Figure 5D). The hook 23 then contacts the guide portion 34 and pushes the lever 3 (Figure 5D). The hook 23 moves along the guide portion 34 of the lever 3 and pierces the lever opening 33 (Figures 5A and 5B), and the engaging structure 91 engages between the second finger 22 and the first finger 21.

[0032] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, in one embodiment, when the operating unit 5 moves the lever 3 to switch the lock module from the locked state to the unlocked state, the lever 3 rotates, releasing the hook 23, and the claw hook 2 rotates due to the elastic force of the spring 4. In particular, the spring 4 applies an elastic force that retracts the claw hook 2 in the first direction α.

[0033] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a battery swapping station according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 7, in one embodiment, the battery swapping station includes a station housing H, a plurality of battery containers C, and the aforementioned locking module (not shown). The battery containers C are placed within the station housing H and are fitted to receive batteries B. In one embodiment, the battery swapping station is equipped with a network communication module that allows it to connect to a centralized management server via a wired or wireless communication network. This connection allows real-time monitoring of battery inventory, usage patterns, and operating status. The station further includes remote control capabilities, allowing authorized personnel to lock or unlock specific battery containers C or initiate maintenance procedures remotely. To enhance operational efficiency, the station housing H integrates sensors and IoT devices to track environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity to ensure optimal storage conditions for batteries B. Furthermore, the system supports integration with a mobile application, providing users with functions such as finding the location of available battery swapping stations, reserving battery containers, and receiving notifications regarding the status of battery swapping.

[0034] Using the lock module of the embodiment of the present invention, the actuation unit moves a lever to switch the lock module to the unlocked state. This process is not only efficient but also ensures a smooth and rapid transition to the unlocked state. The unlocking process is completed completely quickly, reducing the risk of delays that may occur due to the complexity of the mechanism. Furthermore, the streamlined operation of the actuation unit minimizes the possibility of the mechanism jamming, thereby improving the overall system performance and durability. In addition, the mechanical design of the lock module of the embodiment of the present invention is simple, greatly contributing to ease of manufacture and maintenance. The simple design reduces the number of potential failure points and improves the long-term reliability of the lock module. By optimizing the design with functionality and durability in mind, this embodiment ensures that the lock module operates with consistent effectiveness under various conditions and over long periods of use.

[0035] Although this disclosure has been described using the methods of the embodiments and in terms of embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to include various modifications and similar arrangements (as will be obvious to those skilled in the art). Therefore, the appended claims should be given the broadest possible interpretation to encompass all such modifications and similar arrangements. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0036] 1 Base 2-prong hook 3 Lever 4 springs 5. Actuator Unit 11 First shaft 12. Second shaft 21 First Finger 22 Second Finger 23 hooks 24 Connection part 31 First end 32 Second end 33 Lever opening 34 Guide section 35 Rotating part 351 Wind-like configuration 352 holes 91 Engagement structure B Battery C Battery Container H Station Housing L Lock Module α First direction

Claims

1. A lock module, which is positioned on a battery container of a battery exchange station, wherein the battery container is adapted to receive a battery having an engaging structure. base, A claw hook is rotatably positioned on the base and includes a first finger and a second finger, the engaging structure being applied to be received between the first finger and the second finger, A lever rotatably positioned on the base, A spring connected to the claw hook and applied to apply an elastic force that retracts the claw hook in a first direction, with one end of the spring connected to the base and the other end of the spring connected to the claw hook, Includes an actuation unit connected to the first end of the lever and adapted to move the lever to release the lock module into an unlocked state, In the series of operations accompanying insertion into the battery container, the engagement structure provided on the battery comes into contact with the second finger and pushes the second finger, thereby causing the claw hook to rotate along the insertion direction of the battery, the hook of the claw hook comes into contact with the lever and pushes the lever, and the hook engages with the lever. A locking module characterized in that, when the locking module is in a locked state, the engaging structure is received between the first finger and the second finger.

2. The lock module according to claim 1, wherein the lever includes a lever opening, and in the locked state of the lock module, the hook is received in the lever opening.

3. The locking module according to claim 2, wherein the lever includes a guide portion, the guide portion is formed at a second end of the lever, and the hook is guided by the guide portion before the hook is received in the lever opening.

4. The lock module according to claim 3, wherein the lever includes a rotating portion, the lever rotates on the base via the rotating portion, and the lever opening is formed between the rotating portion and the guide portion.

5. The lock module according to claim 4, wherein the second finger is formed between the first finger and the hook, the claw hook further includes a connecting portion, the connecting portion is adjacent to the first finger, and the spring is connected to the connecting portion.

6. The lock module according to claim 2, wherein when the operating unit moves the lever to switch the lock module from the locked state to the unlocked state, the lever is rotated, releasing the hook, and the claw hook is rotated by the elastic force.

7. The lock module according to claim 2, wherein the spring is a tension spring.

8. Station Housing, The battery is placed within the station housing and applied to receive the battery, the battery being a battery container including an engagement structure, and A battery exchange station characterized by including the lock module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which is disposed within the battery container.

Images