Holding device, control method for holding device, program, and non-temporary computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

Provided is a battery exchanger (10) that holds a mobile battery (12) in a slot (14), wherein a holding detection switch (32) provided in the slot (14) is disposed at a position at which, when the mobile battery (12) is held in the slot (14) while facing a first direction, the holding detection switch abuts on a bottom surface (12b) of the mobile battery (12), and, when the mobile battery (12) is held in the slot (14) while facing a second direction different from the first direction, the holding detection switch is inserted in a recessed part (12g) of the mobile battery (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a holding device, a control method for a holding device, a program, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-163757 discloses a holding device that holds a storage battery. This holding device includes a drive unit that moves a second connector. This enables connection between the second connector and a first connector of the storage battery. Further, the connection between the second connector and the first connector can be disconnected. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the technology disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-163757, there is a risk that the drive unit may move the second connector even when no storage battery is held by the holding device. Therefore, there is a long-felt need for an improved holding device, a control method for a holding device, a program that causes a computer to execute the control method for a holding device, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute the control method for a holding device.

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide an improved holding device, a control method for a holding device, a program that causes a computer to execute the control method for a holding device, and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a computer to execute the control method for a holding device.

[0005] A holding device according to a first aspect of the present invention is a holding device for holding a power device having a first electrical terminal, comprising: a holding portion for holding the power device; a second electrical terminal connected to the first electrical terminal of the power device held in the holding portion; and a drive portion for moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, wherein the holding portion is provided on a surface facing the bottom surface of the power device and has a holding detection portion that detects that the power device is held in the holding portion by contacting the bottom surface, the power device has a recess formed indented from the bottom surface, the holding detection portion is positioned to contact the bottom surface when the power device is held in the holding portion facing a first direction, and to be inserted into the recess when the power device is held in the holding portion facing a second direction different from the first direction, and the holding detection portion does not contact the bottom surface when the power device is held in the holding portion facing a second direction.

[0006] A holding device according to a second aspect of the present invention is a holding device for holding a power device having a first electrical terminal, comprising: a holding part for holding the power device; a second electrical terminal connected to the first electrical terminal of the power device held by the holding part; a drive unit for moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal; a contacted part that moves integrally with the second electrical terminal; and a connection detection unit for detecting that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected by contacting the contacted part when the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected.

[0007] A control method according to a third aspect of the present invention is a control method for a holding device comprising: a holding part for holding a power device having a first electrical terminal; a second electrical terminal connected to the first electrical terminal; and a drive unit for moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, the method comprising: a first step of detecting that the power device is held in the holding part and detecting that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected; and a second step of permitting the use of the power device if it is detected that the power device is held in the holding part and the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, or prohibiting the use of the power device if it is not detected that the power device is held in the holding part or that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected.

[0008] A program according to a fourth aspect of the present invention causes a computer that controls a holding device comprising: a holding unit for holding a power device having a first electrical terminal; a second electrical terminal connected to the first electrical terminal; and a drive unit for moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moving the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, to execute a first step including detecting that the power device is held in the holding unit and detecting that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected; and a second step including, if the computer detects that the power device is held in the holding unit and that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, permitting the use of the power device, or if the computer does not detect that the power device is held in the holding unit or that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, prohibiting the use of the power device.

[0009] A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium according to a fifth aspect of the present invention stores the program according to the fourth aspect described above.

[0010] The present invention provides a better holding device, a method for controlling the holding device, a program for causing a computer to execute the method for controlling the holding device, and a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium for storing the program for causing a computer to execute the method for controlling the holding device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the battery replacement machine's external appearance. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the battery exchange machine. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a right side view of the slot. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a front view of the slot. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a mobile battery. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the top surface of the mobile battery. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the bottom view of the mobile battery. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a mobile battery. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the door. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. [Figure 16] Figures 16A and 16B are cross-sectional views of the slot. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the slot. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the slot. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a slot. [Figure 20] Figures 20A, 20B and 20C are cross-sectional views of a bottom cover assembly and a mobile battery. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a bottom cover. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of a slot. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of a slot. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of a holding detection switch and its periphery. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a schematic diagram of a holding detection switch. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a plan view of a holding detection switch and its periphery. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a perspective view of an electronic circuit board and its periphery. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a plan view of a connector unit. [Figure 29] Figures 29A and 29B are schematic diagrams of a connection detection switch and a switch actuator. [Figure 30] Figures 30A and 30B are schematic diagrams of a connection detection switch and a switch actuator. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a perspective view of a slot. MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is a schematic external view of a battery swapping station 10. The battery swapping station 10 is a device that accommodates a mobile battery 12 in an insertable and removable manner and charges the mobile battery 12. A user deposits a mobile battery 12 with a low state of charge (SOC) at the battery swapping station 10, and receives another mobile battery 12 that has been fully charged from the battery swapping station 10. The battery swapping station 10 corresponds to the holding device of the present invention.

[0013] The battery exchange machine 10 has eight slots 14 and one operation panel 16. Mobile batteries 12 are placed in the slots 14. When a user places a mobile battery 12 in a slot 14 and closes the door 18, the battery exchange machine 10 starts charging the mobile battery 12. An indicator 21 is provided above the slots 14. The indicator 21 indicates the charging status of the mobile battery 12 placed in the slot 14 by lighting up, flashing, or being off, or by the color of the lighting or flashing. The operation panel 16 is a device operated by the user. The user can perform actions such as paying fees by operating the operation panel 16.

[0014] Slot 14 opens on the front 10a of the battery changer 10. The front 10a of the battery changer 10 is inclined with respect to the vertical direction (direction of gravity). When the user is standing straight facing the front 10a, the distance between the user and the top of the front 10a is greater than the distance between the user and the bottom of the front 10a. This allows the user to lean forward when inserting the mobile battery 12 into slot 14, making it easier to insert the mobile battery 12 into slot 14.

[0015] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the battery exchange machine 10. The battery exchange machine 10 has a control device 19 at the top of the slot 14. The control device 19 controls the charging of the mobile battery 12, etc. The battery exchange machine 10 has a utility space 20 at the bottom of the slot 14. For example, a cooling device can be installed in the utility space 20. The cooling device can cool the inside of the battery exchange machine 10.

[0016] The following description of the battery exchange machine 10 is based on the X, Y, and Z axes defined as follows: The direction in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into and removed from the slot 14 is defined as the Z axis direction, and the direction from the innermost part of the slot 14 toward the insertion opening 26c is defined as the +Z axis direction. The +Z axis direction is the direction in which the mobile battery 12 is pulled out of the slot 14. The direction parallel to the width direction of the battery exchange machine 10 is defined as the X axis direction, and the right side when viewing the slot 14 from the side that opens to the front surface 10a of the battery exchange machine 10 is defined as the +X axis direction. The direction perpendicular to the Z and X axes is defined as the Y axis direction, and the upper side is defined as the +Y axis direction.

[0017] In the following, a view from the +Z axis direction may be referred to as a front view, a view from the -Z axis direction as a rear view, a view from the +Y axis direction as a top view, a view from the -Y axis direction as a bottom view, a view from the +X axis direction as a right side view, and a view from the -X axis direction as a left side view.

[0018] [Overall slot configuration] Figure 3 is a right side view of slot 14. Figure 4 is a front view of slot 14. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of slot 14. Figure 5 shows the mobile battery 12 inserted into slot 14. The overall configuration of slot 14 will be explained using Figures 3, 4, and 5.

[0019] Slot 14 has a slot sleeve 23. The slot sleeve 23 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape having a bottom portion 23a and a cylindrical portion 23b. The slot sleeve 23 holds the mobile battery 12 inserted into slot 14. The cylindrical portion 23b surrounds the outer circumference of the mobile battery 12 held by the slot sleeve 23. The slot sleeve 23 has a slot body 22, a slot flange 26 and a bottom cover 42. Slot 14 corresponds to the holding part of the present invention. The mobile battery 12 corresponds to the power device of the present invention. The slot flange 26 corresponds to the insertion / removal assist part of the present invention.

[0020] The cylindrical portion 23b of the slot sleeve 23 is provided on the slot body 22. The slot body 22 is made of aluminum. The slot body 22 is a cylindrical member having four sides and two openings. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the outer shape of the slot body 22 is formed to be approximately rectangular. The slot body 22 is not limited to being made of aluminum; it may be made of other metals or resin. By using aluminum for the slot body 22, durability can be increased compared to when resin is used for the slot body 22.

[0021] As shown in Figures 3 and 5, a slot flange 26 is attached to the opening 22b on the +Z axis side of the slot body 22. The slot flange 26 is made of resin. The slot flange 26 is not limited to being made of resin, but may be made of metal, for example. The slot flange 26 has a guide portion 26a. As shown in Figure 5, a rectangular insertion opening 26c penetrates the inside of the guide portion 26a in the Z axis direction. A door 18 is provided at the end of the guide portion 26a on the +Z axis side. The door 18 is made of resin. The door 18 is not limited to being made of resin, but may be made of metal, for example. The door 18 corresponds to the cover portion of the present invention.

[0022] As shown in Figures 3 and 5, a bottom cover 42 is attached to the opening 22c on the -Z-axis side of the slot body 22. The bottom cover 42 is made of resin. The bottom portion 23a of the slot sleeve 23 is provided on the bottom cover 42. The bottom cover 42 is not limited to resin; for example, it may be made of metal. The bottom cover 42 is rectangular when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0023] Resin is used for the slot flange 26, door 18, and bottom cover 42. This allows for the inexpensive manufacture of the slot flange 26, door 18, and bottom cover 42 compared to when metal is used for each of these components.

[0024] The slot body 22 is the component that bears the majority of the load of the mobile battery 12. Furthermore, the slot body 22 is larger than the slot flange 26, door 18, and bottom cover 42. Therefore, it is preferable that the slot body 22 has higher durability than the slot flange 26, door 18, and bottom cover 42.

[0025] When the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23, the hold detection switch 32 is pressed by the mobile battery 12 and switches from off to on. The fan 62 blows air into the inside of the slot body 22. The connector unit 64 has a connector 64e that mates with the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12.

[0026] [Mobile battery configuration] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the mobile battery 12. Figure 7 is a view of the top surface 12a of the mobile battery 12. Figure 8 is a view of the bottom surface 12b of the mobile battery 12. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the mobile battery 12. The configuration of the mobile battery 12 will be described below using Figures 6, 7, 8, and 9.

[0027] The mobile battery 12 will be described below based on the U-axis, V-axis, and W-axis as defined below. The longitudinal direction of the mobile battery 12 is defined as the W-axis direction, and the direction from the bottom surface 12b to the top surface 12a is defined as the +W-axis direction. The direction in which the sides 12c and 12d of the mobile battery 12 are aligned is defined as the V-direction, and the direction from side 12c to side 12d is defined as the +V-direction. The direction in which the sides 12e and 12f are aligned is defined as the U-direction, and the direction from side 12e to side 12f is defined as the +U-direction.

[0028] As shown in Figure 6, a handle 48 is provided on the upper surface 12a of the mobile battery 12. The handle 48 has a first gripping portion 48a extending in the U direction and a second gripping portion 48b extending in the V direction. The user grips the handle 48 to insert and remove the mobile battery 12 from the slot 14.

[0029] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, of the sides 12c, 12d, 12e, and 12f of the mobile battery 12, side 12d is formed in a curved shape that is convex outward. Of the sides 12c, 12d, 12e, and 12f, sides 12c, 12e, and 12f are formed in a substantially flat shape.

[0030] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, a connector 50 (female connector 50) is exposed on the bottom surface 12b of the mobile battery 12 in the -W axis direction. The female connector 50 corresponds to the first electrical terminal of the present invention. The connector 50 is positioned in the +V axis direction rather than the center in the V axis direction of the bottom surface 12b. The connector 50 is provided in a recess 12g of the mobile battery 12. The recess 12g is formed to be recessed in the +W axis direction from the bottom surface 12b. The connector 50 is located in the +W axis direction from the bottom surface 12b. That is, the connector 50 is positioned recessed inward from the bottom surface 12b. This prevents contact between the connector 50 and the ground when the mobile battery 12 is placed on the ground with the bottom surface 12b facing down. Therefore, dirt, damage, etc. to the connector 50 can be suppressed. In addition, contact between conductive materials and the connector 50 can be suppressed. Therefore, unintended discharge of the mobile battery 12 can be suppressed.

[0031] [Slot machine configuration] The configuration of the slot body 22 will be explained using Figure 5. A slider 22a1 is formed on the inner surface of the lower plate 22a on the -Y axis side of the slot body 22. The slider 22a1 extends in the Z axis direction. The slider 22a1 protrudes convexly from the surface of the lower plate 22a toward the +Y axis direction. A groove extending in the Z axis direction is formed on the surface of each slider 22a1. This reduces the contact area between the mobile battery 12, which is inserted into and removed from the slot 14 in the Z axis direction, and the slider 22a1. Therefore, friction between the mobile battery 12 and the slider 22a1 can be reduced.

[0032] [Slot flange configuration] Figures 10, 11, 12, and 13 are cross-sectional views of the slot 14. Figures 10, 11, 12, and 13 show the connection between the slot body 22 and the slot flange 26. Figures 10 and 11 show the slot 14 of this embodiment. Figures 12 and 13 show the slot 14 of a comparative example. Figures 11 and 13 show the state in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14. The configuration of the slot flange 26 will be explained using Figures 10, 11, 12, and 13.

[0033] As shown in Figure 10, the slot flange 26 has a guide portion 26a and a flange portion 26b. The guide portion 26a has an insertion opening 26c into which the mobile battery 12 is inserted. As shown in Figure 10, the insertion opening 26c of the slot flange 26 is formed so that the opening area gradually increases in the direction of the +Z axis. This makes it easier for the user to insert the mobile battery 12 into the insertion opening 26c when inserting it in the -Z axis direction.

[0034] As shown in Figure 10, the slot flange 26 is fixed to the slot body 22 via the slot fixing stay 56. The flange portion 26b of the slot flange 26 and the slot fixing stay 56 are fastened together by bolts 80. The end face of the slot body 22 on the +Z axis side and the slot fixing stay 56 are fastened together by bolts 82.

[0035] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the -Z-axis side end of the slot flange 26 is inserted into the inner circumference of the opening on the +Z-axis side of the slot body 22. This causes the slot flange 26 and the slot body 22 to overlap in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, play of the slot flange 26 relative to the slot body 22 can be suppressed.

[0036] As shown in Figure 11, when the mobile battery 12 is resting on the guide portion 26a of the slot flange 26, the load of the mobile battery 12 can be supported not only by bolts 80 and 82, but also by the overlapping portion of the slot flange 26 and the slot body 22. In the comparative example shown in Figures 12 and 13, the slot flange 26 and the slot body 22 do not overlap in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, when the mobile battery 12 is resting on the guide portion 26a of the slot flange 26, the load of the mobile battery 12 is supported only by bolts 80 and 82. In this embodiment, since the load of the mobile battery 12 can be supported by the overlapping portion of the slot flange 26 and the slot body 22, the shear force acting on bolts 80 and 82 can be reduced.

[0037] [Door configuration] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the door 18. The directions indicated by the X, Y, and Z axes in Figure 14 represent the directions when the door 18 is closed. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the slot 14. Figure 15 shows the mobile battery 12 inserted into the slot 14. The insertion / removal direction of the mobile battery 12 (Z-axis direction) shown in Figure 15 is inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. The orientation of the slot 14 shown in Figure 15 is the same as the orientation of the slot 14 inside the battery exchange machine 10. The configuration of the door 18 will be explained using Figures 4, 14, and 15.

[0038] As shown in Figure 4, the door 18 rotates around a pivot axis 84 that extends in the Y direction at the end of the door 18 on the -X direction side.

[0039] As shown in Figure 14, the door 18 has a main body 18a and a projection 18b. The door 18 has ribs 18c extending in the X-axis and Y-axis directions on the -Z-axis side surface of the main body 18a. A sealing member 86 is provided around the entire circumference of the ribs 18c. A catch 88 is provided on the -Z-axis side surface of the main body 18a. The catch 88 is positioned in the +X-axis direction from the center of the main body 18a in the X-axis direction. The catch 88 engages with a snatch lock (not shown) provided on the slot flange 26 when the door 18 is closed. The snatch lock is controlled by a control unit 67 (described later) to switch between a locked state and an unlocked state of the door 18. A projection 18b is provided on the -Z-axis side surface of the main body 18a. The projection 18b is positioned at the center of the main body 18a in the X-axis direction. The protruding portion 18b protrudes from the main body portion 18a in the direction of the -Z axis.

[0040] As shown in Figure 15, in the battery exchange machine 10, the end of slot 14 on the +Z axis side of slot 14 is positioned above the end on the -Z axis side. As a result, the Z axis direction, which is the insertion and removal direction of the mobile battery 12, is tilted by approximately 15° with respect to the horizontal direction. The main body 18a of the door 18 is approximately parallel to the vertical direction.

[0041] As shown in Figure 15, when the door 18 is closed, the protrusion 18b contacts the handle 48 of the mobile battery 12. This restricts the movement of the mobile battery 12 housed in the slot 14 in the +Z axis direction. When the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14 and the door 18 is closed, the connector 64e of the connector unit 64 (described later) moves in the +Z axis direction, and the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 engage. At this time, a pushing force in the +Z axis direction acts on the mobile battery 12 from the connector unit 64. On the other hand, the mobile battery 12's movement in the +Z axis direction is restricted by the protrusion 18b. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 from disengaging or becoming partially engaged.

[0042] As shown in Figure 15, when the slot 14 is viewed from the -X-axis side, a roughly triangular space is separated between the mobile battery 12 and the main body 18a of the door 18. Within this roughly triangular space, the volume of the region in the -Y-axis direction from the center of the roughly triangular space in the Y-axis direction is smaller than the volume of the region in the +Y-axis direction from the center of the roughly triangular space. The protrusion 18b is formed at a position in the -Y-axis direction from the center of the main body 18a in the Y-axis direction. Therefore, the volume of the protrusion 18b can be reduced compared to the case where the protrusion 18b is formed at a position in the +Y-axis direction from the center of the main body 18a in the Y-axis direction. Thus, it is possible to restrict the movement of the mobile battery 12 by the protrusion 18b while suppressing an increase in the volume of the door 18.

[0043] [Configuration of the hold detection switch] Figures 16A and 16B are cross-sectional views of slot 14. Figures 16A and 16B show slot 14 with the mobile battery 12 inserted. Figures 16A and 16B show the structure of the hold detection switch 32 and the surrounding slot 14. The configuration of the hold detection switch 32 will be explained using Figures 5, 16A, and 16B.

[0044] As shown in Figure 5, the retention detection switch 32 is located in the -Y-axis direction from the center of the bottom cover 42 in the Y-axis direction. When the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14 with its side 12d facing the +Y-axis direction, the bottom surface 12b of the mobile battery 12 presses the retention detection switch 32, as shown in Figure 16A. At this time, the retention detection switch 32 switches from off to on. When the retention detection switch 32 switches from off to on, the retention detection switch 32 detects that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23.

[0045] When the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14 with its side 12d facing the -Y axis, as shown in Figure 16B, the holding detection switch 32 is inserted into the recess 12g of the mobile battery 12, and the bottom surface 12b does not come into contact with the holding detection switch 32. At this time, the holding detection switch 32 remains in the off state. When the holding detection switch 32 is off, the holding detection switch 32 does not detect that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23. The holding detection switch 32 corresponds to the holding detection unit of the present invention.

[0046] Since the recess 12g of the mobile battery 12 where the connector 50 is located can be used as a structure into which the hold detection switch 32 is inserted, there is no need to provide a separate structure for inserting the hold detection switch 32 into the mobile battery 12. The structure into which the hold detection switch 32 is inserted into the mobile battery 12 can also be described as a structure that avoids contact between the mobile battery 12 and the hold detection switch 32.

[0047] [Bottom cover assembly components] Figures 17, 18, and 19 are perspective views of the slot 14. Figure 18 shows the bottom cover assembly 34 removed from the slot body 22. Figures 20A, 20B, and 20C are cross-sectional views of the bottom cover assembly 34 and the mobile battery 12. The configuration of the bottom cover assembly 34 will be explained using Figures 5, 17, 18, 19, 20A, 20B, and 20C.

[0048] As shown in Figures 17, 18, and 19, the fan 62, connector unit 64, and electronic circuit board 66 are attached to the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42, forming the bottom cover assembly 34.

[0049] The electronic circuit board 66 is equipped with a control unit 67 and a memory unit 69. The electronic circuit board 66, equipped with the control unit 67 and memory unit 69, constitutes a computer. An electronic circuit is formed on the electronic circuit board 66, and the control unit 67, memory unit 69, and numerous other electronic and electrical devices are mounted on this electronic circuit. The aforementioned hold detection switch 32 is also mounted on the electronic circuit of the electronic circuit board 66. As shown in Figure 15, the hold detection switch 32 is mounted on the +Z axis side of the electronic circuit board 66. The hold detection switch 32 is included in the bottom cover assembly 34. The fan 62, connector unit 64, and electronic circuit board 66 are assembled to the bottom cover 42. The bottom cover 42 and the opening 22c on the -Z axis side of the slot body 22 are fastened together by bolts 68.

[0050] The control unit 67 controls the charging of the mobile battery 12 inserted into the slot 14. The control unit 67 is implemented, for example, by a processing circuit. The processing circuit is composed of an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). Alternatively, the processing circuit may be composed of an electronic circuit including discrete devices. The processing circuit may also be composed of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). In this case, the processing circuit is implemented by the execution of a program stored in the storage unit 69 by the processor. The storage unit 69 corresponds to the non-temporary computer-readable storage medium of the present invention. Note that the charging control of the mobile battery 12 may be performed by a control device 19 (Figure 2) instead of the control unit 67. Alternatively, the charging control of the mobile battery 12 may be performed by a computer located outside the battery exchange machine 10 instead of the control unit 67. In this case, a control signal is sent to the battery exchanger 10 from a computer located outside the battery exchanger 10 via a communication line.

[0051] The fan 62, connector unit 64, and electronic circuit board 66 are assembled to the bottom cover 42 to form the bottom cover assembly 34. Therefore, when the fan 62, connector unit 64, or electronic circuit board 66 fails, the entire bottom cover assembly 34 can be replaced along with the bottom cover 42. This reduces the time required for replacing faulty equipment. In addition, since the slot body 22, which has higher durability than the bottom cover assembly 34, can be reused, the maintenance costs of the battery replacement machine 10 can be reduced.

[0052] As shown in Figures 17 and 18, the fan 62 is attached to the bottom cover 42. When the fan 62 is driven, air is sent into the slot body 22. As shown in Figures 17 and 18, the electronic circuit board 66 is positioned in the -X axis direction relative to the fan 62. A cable 63 is wired between the electronic circuit board 66 and the fan 62. A cable 65 is wired between the electronic circuit board 66 and the motor 64f of the connector unit 64. This electrically connects the electronic circuit of the electronic circuit board 66 to the fan 62 and the motor 64f. Power is supplied from the electronic circuit board 66 to the fan 62 and the motor 64f. This drives the fan 62 and the motor 64f.

[0053] As shown in Figures 17, 18, and 19, the connector unit 64 includes a base 64a, a connection detection switch 64b, a disconnection detection switch 64c, a connector holder 64d, a connector 64e, and a motor 64f.

[0054] The base 64a is fixed to the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42. The base 64a extends in the -Z-axis direction from the -Z-axis side surface of the bottom 23a. The base 64a may be formed integrally with the bottom cover 42. The base 64a has a main body 64a1, two flange portions 64a2, and a switch mounting surface 64a3. The two flange portions 64a2 are formed integrally with the main body 64a1. One flange portion 64a2 is located on the +X-axis side of the main body 64a1. The other flange portion 64a2 is located on the -X-axis side of the main body 64a1. Each flange portion 64a2 is formed extending in the X-axis direction from the +Z-axis side end of the main body 64a1. The switch mounting surface 64a3 is formed integrally with the main body 64a1. The switch mounting surface 64a3 is located on the -X-axis side of the main body 64a1. The switch mounting surface 64a3 extends in the -Y direction from the -X-axis side end of the main body 64a1.

[0055] The flange portion 64a2 of the base 64a and the bottom cover 42 are fastened together by bolts 70. A connection detection switch 64b and a disconnection detection switch 64c are mounted on the switch mounting surface 64a3. The connection detection switch 64b and the disconnection detection switch 64c are spaced apart from each other in the Z-axis direction. With respect to the center of the switch mounting surface 64a3 in the Z-axis direction, the connection detection switch 64b is positioned on the +Z-axis side, and the disconnection detection switch 64c is positioned on the -Z-axis side.

[0056] A connector holder 64d is attached to the +Y axis side surface of the main body portion 64a1 of the base 64a. The connector holder 64d has two guide holes 64d1, a connector mounting portion 64d2, a rack 64d3, and a switch actuator 64d4.

[0057] Each guide hole 64d1 is a through hole extending in the Z-axis direction. Two guide holes 64d1 are spaced apart from each other in the X-axis direction. Two guide pins 72 are inserted into each guide hole 64d1. The guide pins 72 are fixed to the main body portion 64a1 of the base 64a. As a result, the connector holder 64d moves relative to the base 64a in the Z-axis direction.

[0058] A connector 64e (male connector 64e) is attached to the connector mounting portion 64d2. The male connector 64e corresponds to the second electrical terminal of the present invention. As shown in Figure 15, the connector 64e is positioned vertically above the holding detection switch 32. This prevents the connector 64e from being immersed in the liquid that has entered the slot 14. The connector 64e mates with the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12. At this time, power is supplied from the connector 64e to the mobile battery 12, and the mobile battery 12 is charged.

[0059] Rack 64d3 is positioned in the -Z-axis direction relative to the connector mounting portion 64d2. Rack 64d3 extends in the Z-axis direction. The +Y-axis side of rack 64d3 is not exposed to the outside. As shown in Figure 17, the -Y-axis side of rack 64d3 is exposed to the outside.

[0060] The switch actuator 64d4 is mounted on the -X-axis side of the connector holder 64d. The switch actuator 64d4 moves in the Z-axis direction together with the connector holder 64d. The switch actuator 64d4 extends from the connector holder 64d along the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a in the -Y-axis direction. The switch actuator 64d4 corresponds to the contacted portion of the present invention.

[0061] A motor 64f is mounted on the -Y-axis side of the main body portion 64a1 of the base 64a. The motor 64f is positioned so that its drive shaft faces the +Y-axis direction. A portion of the drive shaft is positioned within the connector holder 64d. A pinion 64f1 is mounted on the tip of the drive shaft of the motor 64f. The pinion 64f1 meshes with the rack 64d3. As a result, the motor 64f is mechanically connected to the connector 64e via the pinion 64f1, the rack 64d3, and the base 64a. The motor 64f, pinion 64f1, and rack 64d3 correspond to the drive unit of the present invention. The motor 64f corresponds to the electromechanical unit of the present invention. The pinion 64f1 and rack 64d3 correspond to the drive force transmission mechanism of the present invention. The base 64a corresponds to the extension portion of the present invention.

[0062] The connector 64e and motor 64f are attached to the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42 via the base 64a. The connector 64e and motor 64f are supported by the bottom cover 42. This allows the connector 64e, motor 64f, and bottom cover 42 to be handled as a single unit.

[0063] -When the bottom cover 42 is viewed from the Z-axis direction, the hold detection switch 32, fan 62, base 64a, connection detection switch 64b, disconnection detection switch 64c, connector holder 64d, connector 64e, motor 64f, pinion 64f1, rack 64d3, and electronic circuit board 66 are arranged so that they fit inside the outer edge of the bottom cover 42. That is, the hold detection switch 32, fan 62, base 64a, connection detection switch 64b, disconnection detection switch 64c, connector holder 64d, connector 64e, motor 64f, pinion 64f1, rack 64d3, and electronic circuit board 66 are arranged so that they fit within the range of the parallel projection of the outer edge of the bottom cover 42. The parallel projection of the outer edge of the bottom cover 42 is a virtual region obtained by projecting the outer edge of the bottom cover 42 in the extending direction of the slot sleeve 23 (the insertion / removal direction of the mobile battery 12 or the Z-axis direction). This prevents interference between the retaining detection switch 32, fan 62, base 64a, connection detection switch 64b, disconnection detection switch 64c, connector holder 64d, connector 64e, motor 64f, pinion 64f1, rack 64d3, and electronic circuit board 66 and surrounding components when attaching the bottom cover 42 to the slot body 22.

[0064] Since the base 64a extends in the -Z-axis direction from the -Z-axis side surface of the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42, a number of components can be attached to the base 64a.

[0065] [Slot control] When the motor 64f is driven, the connector 64e moves in the Z-axis direction together with the connector holder 64d. The hold detection switch 32 detects that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23 when it switches from off to on. In this case, the motor 64f moves the connector 64e in the +Z-axis direction, bringing the connector 64e closer to the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12.

[0066] The hold detection switch 32 detects that the mobile battery 12 has been removed from the slot sleeve 23 when it switches from on to off. In this case, the motor 64f moves the connector 64e in the -Z axis direction, separating the connector 64e from the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12.

[0067] When the hold detection switch 32 is off, it does not detect that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23. In this case, the motor 64f does not move the connector 64e in the +Z axis direction, and does not bring the connector 64e closer to the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12.

[0068] Figure 17 shows the state in which the connector holder 64d is positioned most in the +Z axis direction. As shown in Figure 17, when the connector holder 64d is positioned most in the +Z axis direction, the switch actuator 64d4 contacts the movable contact piece 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b, pressing the movable contact piece 64b1 in the +Z axis direction. This turns on the connection detection switch 64b. At this time, the position of the connector 64e is the connection position. The connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e is in the connection position and that the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 are connected. The connection detection switch 64b corresponds to the connection detection unit of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 19 shows the state in which the connector holder 64d is positioned most in the -Z-axis direction. As shown in Figure 19, when the connector holder 64d is positioned most in the -Z-axis direction, the switch actuator 64d4 contacts the movable contact piece 64c1 of the disconnection detection switch 64c, pressing the movable contact piece 64c1 in the -Z-axis direction. This turns on the disconnection detection switch 64c. At this time, the position of the connector 64e is the disconnection position. The disconnection detection switch 64c detects that the connector 64e is in the disconnection position and that the connection between the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 has been disconnected. The disconnection detection switch 64c corresponds to the disconnection detection unit of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 20A shows the state when connector 64e is in the disconnected position. When connector 64e is in the disconnected position, as shown in Figure 20A, the tip of terminal 64e1 of connector 64e is positioned in the -Z axis direction relative to connector 50. At this time, disconnected detection switch 64c is ON and connected detection switch 64b is OFF.

[0071] Figure 20B shows the state in which the connector 64e has moved from the disconnected position in the +Z axis direction. As shown in Figure 20B, when the connector 64e moves from the disconnected position in the +Z axis direction, the tip of terminal 64e1 passes through the connector insertion hole 42b of the bottom cover 42 and is inserted into the terminal hole 50a of the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12. At this time, both the disconnected detection switch 64c and the connected detection switch 64b are turned off.

[0072] Figure 20C shows the state when connector 64e is in the connection position. As shown in Figure 20C, when connector 64e is in the connection position, the connection between connector 64e and connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 is completed. At this time, the disconnection detection switch 64c is turned off and the connection detection switch 64b is turned on.

[0073] When connector 64e is moving towards connector 50 of mobile battery 12, if connection detection switch 64b detects that connector 64e and connector 50 are connected, control unit 67 controls motor 64f to stop connector 64e. When connector 64e is moving away from connector 50 of mobile battery 12, if disconnection detection switch 64c detects that the connection between connector 64e and connector 50 has been disconnected, control unit 67 controls motor 64f to stop connector 64e.

[0074] When the hold detection switch 32 detects that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23, and the connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 are connected, the control unit 67 permits the use of the mobile battery 12. Specifically, the control unit 67 controls the charging of the mobile battery 12 and charges the mobile battery 12.

[0075] If the hold detection switch 32 does not detect that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23, or if the connection detection switch 64b does not detect that the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 are connected, the control unit 67 prohibits the use of the mobile battery 12. Specifically, the control unit 67 does not control the charging of the mobile battery 12 and does not charge the mobile battery 12.

[0076] When the disconnection detection switch 64c detects that the connection between connector 64e and connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 has been disconnected, the control unit 67 permits the removal of the mobile battery 12 from the slot sleeve 23. Specifically, the control unit 67 unlocks the door 18, allowing the user to open the door 18.

[0077] If the disconnection detection switch 64c does not detect that the connection between connector 64e and connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 has been disconnected, the control unit 67 prohibits the removal of the mobile battery 12 from the slot sleeve 23. Specifically, the control unit 67 locks or maintains the lock on the door 18, preventing the user from opening the door 18.

[0078] In this embodiment, the connector unit 64 is driven by the motor 64f to move the connector 64e from the disconnected position to the connected position, and then move the connector 64e from the connected position to the disconnected position.

[0079] In the connector unit 64, either the following first or second embodiment may be adopted, which uses an elastic biasing force such as a spring to move the connector 64e. In the first embodiment, the motor 64f is driven to move the connector 64e from the disconnected position to the connected position, and the elastic biasing force such as a spring moves the connector 64e from the connected position to the disconnected position. In the second embodiment, the elastic biasing force such as a spring moves the connector 64e from the disconnected position to the connected position, and the motor 64f is driven to move the connector 64e from the connected position to the disconnected position.

[0080] In the connector unit 64, the connector 64e may be moved by utilizing the force generated when the user closes the door 18.

[0081] In the connector unit 64, the load of the mobile battery 12 use You may then move connector 64e.

[0082] [Second Embodiment] The battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment has a mechanism for discharging liquid such as rainwater from the inside of the slot 14 to the outside. Figure 21 is a perspective view of the bottom cover 42. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the slot 14. Figure 22 shows the state in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14.

[0083] As shown in Figure 21, the bottom cover 42 has a switch hole 42a, a connector insertion hole 42b, an air inlet 42c, and a drainage channel 42d.

[0084] A hold detection switch 32 is mounted in the switch hole 42a from the -Z axis side. A portion of the hold detection switch 32 passes through the switch hole 42a and is exposed on the +Z axis side of the bottom cover 42. When the connector 64e moves in the +Z axis direction, the tip of the connector 64e passes through the connector insertion hole 42b and is exposed on the +Z axis side of the bottom cover 42. The air inlet 42c and the drainage channel 42d communicate the inside and outside of the slot 14.

[0085] A fan 62 is mounted on the -Z axis side of the air inlet 42c. When the fan 62 is driven, air is sent from the air inlet 42c into the inside of the slot sleeve 23. This promotes airflow between the inside and outside of the slot sleeve 23.

[0086] The drainage channel 42d discharges liquids such as rainwater from the inside of the slot 14 to the outside. The drainage channel 42d is positioned in the -Y-axis direction relative to the air inlet 42c and the switch hole 42a. As a result, as shown in Figure 22, the drainage channel 42d is positioned vertically below the fan 62 and the holding detection switch 32.

[0087] The drainage channel 42d consists of a first drainage channel 42d1 and a second drainage channel 42d2. As shown in Figure 22, the portion of the bottom cover 42 in the direction of the -Y axis from the position where the holding detection switch 32 is attached is formed in a concave shape toward the -Z axis. This concave portion extends in the direction of the X axis, as shown in Figure 21. This concave portion constitutes the first drainage channel 42d1. An opening is formed at the -X axis end of the first drainage channel 42d1, opening toward the Y axis. This opening constitutes the second drainage channel 42d2.

[0088] A filtration member 74 is attached to the first drainage channel 42d1. The filtration member 74 is fitted into the concave first drainage channel 42d1. The filtration member 74 is detachable from the first drainage channel 42d1. Two ribs 42e are formed in the +Y axis direction relative to the first drainage channel 42d1. These two ribs 42e hold down the portion of the filtration member 74 that protrudes from the first drainage channel 42d1 in the -Y axis direction. The filtration member 74 can be, for example, a porous material such as a sponge filter.

[0089] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of slot 14. Figure 23 is an enlarged view of the drainage channel 42d and its vicinity. Figure 23 shows the mobile battery 12 inserted into slot 14.

[0090] The liquid that enters the slot 14 through the inlet 26c passes through the filter member 74 of the first drain channel 42d1, as shown by the arrow in Figure 23, and is discharged to the outside of the slot 14 through the second drain channel 42d2. By providing the filter member 74 in the first drain channel 42d1, the flow of the liquid is dispersed or slowed down as it passes through the filter member 74. This prevents the liquid from being discharged forcefully from the slot 14.

[0091] Solid debris such as sand, dust, fallen leaves, and paper may enter the slot 14 through the inlet 26c. By providing a filter member 74 in the first drainage channel 42d1, the debris can be retained inside the slot 14. The debris accumulated inside the slot 14 can be removed together with the filter member 74.

[0092] Since the air inlet 42c and drainage channel 42d are formed in the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42, the air inlet 42c and drainage channel 42d can be cleaned while the bottom cover 42 is removed from the slot body 22.

[0093] [Third Embodiment] The battery replacement device 10 of this embodiment has a mechanism to prevent liquids such as rainwater and solids such as dirt from entering the inside of the retention detection switch 32.

[0094] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view of the hold detection switch 32 and its surroundings. Figure 25 is a schematic diagram of the hold detection switch 32. Figure 25 shows the state in which the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23. For clarity of the diagram, the collar 32b and coil spring 32e, which will be described later, are omitted from Figure 25. Figure 26 is a plan view of the hold detection switch 32 and its surroundings. Figure 26 is a view of the hold detection switch 32 from the +Z axis direction. Figure 26 shows the state in which the switch rubber 32d, which will be described later, has been removed. Figure 27 is a perspective view of the electronic circuit board 66 and its surroundings. For clarity of the diagram, the molding 76 is omitted from Figure 27.

[0095] As shown in Figure 24, the holding detection switch 32 includes a switch body 32a, a collar 32b, a sealing rubber 32c, a switch rubber 32d, and a coil spring 32e.

[0096] The switch body 32a is mounted on the electronic circuit board 66. The switch body 32a has a plunger 32a1. The hold detection switch 32 is turned on when the plunger 32a1 moves in the -Z axis direction.

[0097] The collar 32b is a resin component formed in a cylindrical shape. The switch body 32a is inserted into the inner circumference of the collar 32b.

[0098] The sealing rubber 32c has a cylindrical portion 32c1 and a flange portion 32c2. The switch body 32a is inserted into the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 32c1 of the sealing rubber 32c together with the collar 32b. The switch body 32a, together with the collar 32b and the sealing rubber 32c, is inserted into the switch hole 42a from the -Z axis direction. At this time, the flange portion 32c2 of the sealing rubber 32c is sandwiched between the electronic circuit board 66 and the bottom cover 42. This prevents liquids such as rainwater and solid objects such as dirt from entering the inside of the hold detection switch 32 from the -Z axis direction.

[0099] The switch rubber 32d has a projection 32d1 in its center. The switch rubber 32d is attached to the bottom cover 42 from the +Z axis direction. The switch rubber 32d, together with the fastener 32f, is fixed to the bottom cover 42 by screws (not shown). The switch rubber 32d closes the opening of the switch hole 42a on the +Z axis direction side. This prevents liquids such as rainwater and solid objects such as dirt from entering the inside of the hold detection switch 32 from the +Z axis direction.

[0100] A coil spring 32e is provided between the switch rubber 32d and the collar 32b. The coil spring 32e biases the switch rubber 32d in the +Z axis direction.

[0101] As shown in Figure 25, when the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23, the protrusion 32d1 of the switch rubber 32d is pressed in the -Z axis direction by the bottom surface 12b of the mobile battery 12. Subsequently, the protrusion 32d1 presses the plunger 32a1 of the switch body 32a in the -Z axis direction. This turns on the hold detection switch 32.

[0102] As shown in Figures 25 to 27, the electronic circuit board 66 is provided with a ventilation hole 66a. The ventilation hole 66a is a cylindrical member. As shown in Figure 26, the ventilation hole 66a is located on the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 32c1 of the sealing rubber 32c. As shown in Figures 25 and 26, the ventilation hole 66a is located in the -Y axis direction relative to the switch body 32a. As shown in Figure 25, the +Z axis side of the ventilation hole 66a is located in the -Z axis direction relative to the center of the switch body 32a in the Z axis direction. The entire surface of the electronic circuit board 66 on the -Z axis side is covered by molding 76. The -Z axis side of the ventilation hole 66a is located in the -Z axis direction relative to the molding 76.

[0103] The ventilation hole 66a prevents negative pressure from forming inside the retention detection switch 32. This allows the switch rubber 32d to quickly return to its original shape when the mobile battery 12 is removed from the slot sleeve 23.

[0104] Furthermore, the ventilation holes 66a are positioned in the -Y-axis direction relative to the switch body 32a. In other words, the ventilation holes 66a are positioned below the switch body 32a in the vertical direction. This prevents the switch body 32a from being exposed to water if liquid enters the inside of the hold detection switch 32 through the ventilation holes 66a.

[0105] [Fourth Embodiment] The battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment differs from the battery exchange machine 10 of the first embodiment in the configuration of the switch actuator 64d4, the connection detection switch 64b, and the disconnection detection switch 64c.

[0106] Figure 28 is a plan view of the connector unit 64. Figure 28 is a view of the connector unit 64 from the -X axis direction. As shown in Figure 28, the switch actuator 64d4 has an extension portion 64d5 and a contact portion 64d6. The extension portion 64d5 extends from the connector holder 64d along the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a in the -Y axis direction. The contact portion 64d6 is provided at the -Y axis side end of the extension portion 64d5. The contact portion 64d6 extends on both sides in the Z axis direction relative to the extension portion 64d5.

[0107] The connection detection switch 64b includes a movable contact 64b1, a plunger 64b2, and a switch body 64b3. When the switch actuator 64d4 moves in the +Z axis direction, the contact portion 64d6 of the switch actuator 64d4 comes into contact with the tip 64b4 of the movable contact 64b1. Subsequently, the movable contact 64b1 rotates around its pivot point 64b5, pushing the plunger 64b2. This turns on the connection detection switch 64b. As shown in Figure 28, when viewed from the -X axis direction, the connection detection switch 64b is fixed to the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a with the switch body 64b3 tilted in a clockwise direction.

[0108] The disconnection detection switch 64c has a movable contact 64c1, a plunger 64c2, and a switch body 64c3. When the switch actuator 64d4 moves in the -Z axis direction, the contact portion 64d6 of the switch actuator 64d4 comes into contact with the tip 64c4 of the movable contact 64c1. Then, the movable contact 64c1 rotates around its pivot point 64c5, pushing the plunger 64c2 in. This turns on the disconnection detection switch 64c. As shown in Figure 28, when viewed from the -X axis direction, the disconnection detection switch 64c is fixed to the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a with the switch body 64c3 tilted in a counterclockwise direction.

[0109] Figures 29A and 29B are schematic diagrams of the connection detection switch 64b and the switch actuator 64d4. Figures 29A and 29B show the state in which the switch actuator 64d4 has stopped at a position closer to the connection detection switch 64b than the specified position. Figure 29A shows a comparative example in which the contact portion 64d6 is not provided at the tip of the extension portion 64d5 of the switch actuator 64d4. Figure 29B shows the battery changer 10 of this embodiment in which the contact portion 64d6 is provided at the tip of the extension portion 64d5 of the switch actuator 64d4.

[0110] As described above, the connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 are connected when the connection detection switch 64b is turned on. When the connector 64e is moving in the direction toward the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12, and the connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e and the connector 50 are connected, the control unit 67 controls the motor 64f to stop the connector 64e.

[0111] Even if connector 64e is stopped, inertia may cause it to move, and switch actuator 64d4 may stop at a position closer to the connection detection switch 64b than the default position.

[0112] In this case, as shown in the comparative example in Figure 29A, the extension portion 64d5 contacts the pivot point 64b5 of the movable contact piece 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b. Therefore, for example, if the pivot point 64b5 undergoes plastic deformation and the switch actuator 64d4 separates from the movable contact piece 64b1, the movable contact piece 64b1 may not return to its initial position.

[0113] On the other hand, in the battery changer 10 of this embodiment shown in Figure 29B, the extension portion 64d5 is separated from the pivot point 64b5 of the movable contact piece 64b1. Therefore, when the switch actuator 64d4 separates from the movable contact piece 64b1, the movable contact piece 64b1 can return to its initial position.

[0114] Figures 30A and 30B are schematic diagrams of the connection detection switch 64b and the switch actuator 64d4. Figures 30A and 30B show the state in which the switch actuator 64d4 is stopped at a position closer to the connection detection switch 64b than the specified position. Figure 30A shows a comparative example in which the connection detection switch 64b is fixed to the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a without being tilted. Figure 30B shows the battery changer 10 of this embodiment in which the connection detection switch 64b is tilted and fixed to the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a.

[0115] As shown in Figure 30B, in the battery changer 10 of this embodiment, even if the switch actuator 64d4 stops at a position closer to the connection detection switch 64b than a predetermined position, the extension portion 64d5 and the pivot point 64b5 of the movable contact piece 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b can be separated compared to the comparative example in Figure 30A. Therefore, when the switch actuator 64d4 moves away from the movable contact piece 64b1, the movable contact piece 64b1 can return to its initial position.

[0116] In the battery replacement machine 10 of this embodiment, the movable contact piece 64c1 of the disconnection detection switch 64c can also return to its initial position, similar to the movable contact piece 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b.

[0117] [Fifth Embodiment] In the battery replacement machine 10 of this embodiment, the shape of the bottom cover 42 differs from that of the battery replacement machine 10 of the first embodiment.

[0118] Figure 31 is a perspective view of slot 14. Figure 31 shows the bottom cover assembly 34 removed from slot body 22.

[0119] The bottom cover 42 has one bottom surface 42f and four sides 42g, 42h, 42j, and 42k. The bottom surface 42f is rectangular when viewed from the +Z axis direction. As shown in Figure 31, sides 42g, 42h, 42j, and 42k extend from each of the four sides of the bottom surface 42f in the +Z axis direction. The position where the slot body 22 and the bottom cover 42 are separated can be set arbitrarily.

[0120] In the first to fifth embodiments described above, the slot 14 of the battery exchanger 10 that charges the mobile battery 12 was explained. However, the slot 14 in the first to fifth embodiments may be applied to other devices.

[0121] In the first to fifth embodiments described above, slot 14 is a device that houses a mobile battery 12 as an electrical device. However, slot 14 may also house a power supply (battery power supply) that has a mobile battery 12 and a power converter inside and is capable of supplying power to the outside. Furthermore, slot 14 may also house other electrical devices.

[0122] For example, slot 14 may be applied to a stationary power supply unit installed in a house, building, factory, etc. Alternatively, slot 14 may be applied to a mobile vehicle such as a vehicle, aircraft, or ship. When slot 14 is applied to a stationary power supply unit, mobile vehicle, etc., the mobile battery 12 inserted into slot 14 is charged and discharged by the stationary power supply unit, mobile vehicle, etc. to supply power.

[0123] In the first to fifth embodiments described above, the slot sleeve 23 covers the entire mobile battery 12 it holds. However, the slot sleeve 23 may be a component that covers only a portion of the mobile battery 12 it holds.

[0124] In the first to fifth embodiments described above, when the connector 64e of the connector unit 64 moves in the +Z axis direction, the tip of the connector 64e passes through the connector insertion hole 42b and is exposed on the +Z axis side of the bottom cover 42. However, the connector 64e may be fixed immovably to the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42. In this case, the connector 64e is fixed immovably to the bottom 23a with its tip inserted into the connector insertion hole 42b from the -Z axis direction of the bottom 23a. The tip of the connector 64e is always exposed on the +Z axis side of the bottom cover 42.

Claims

1. A holding device (10) for holding a power device (12) having a first electrical terminal (50), A holding part (14) for holding the power equipment, A second electrical terminal (64e) connected to the first electrical terminal of the power device held in the holding portion, A drive unit (64f, 64f1, 64d3) moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, Equipped with, The holding portion is provided on a surface (23a) facing the bottom surface (12b) of the power equipment and has a holding detection unit (32) that detects that the power equipment is held in the holding portion by contacting the bottom surface. The power device has a recess (12g) formed by being recessed from the bottom surface, The holding detection unit is positioned so as to contact the bottom surface when the power device is held in the holding unit facing a first direction, and so as to be inserted into the recess when the power device is held in the holding unit facing a second direction different from the first direction. The holding detection unit is a holding device that does not come into contact with the bottom surface when the power equipment is held in the holding unit facing the second direction.

2. A holding device according to claim 1, The first electrical terminal is provided in the recess and positioned inside the power equipment relative to the bottom surface of the retaining device.

3. A holding device according to claim 1 or 2, The second electrical terminal is positioned vertically above the holding detection unit in the holding device.

4. A holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The aforementioned drive unit is When the holding detection unit detects that the power device is held in the holding unit, it moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal. Alternatively, a holding device that, when the holding detection unit does not detect that the power equipment is held in the holding unit, does not move the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal.

5. A holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A contacted portion (64d4) that moves integrally with the second electrical terminal, A connection detection unit (64b) detects that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected by contacting the contacted portion when the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, A holding device equipped with the following features.

6. A holding device according to claim 5, A holding device wherein, when the second electrical terminal is moving toward the first electrical terminal, the drive unit stops the second electrical terminal when the connection detection unit detects that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected.

7. A holding device according to claim 5 or 6, When the holding detection unit detects that the power device is held in the holding unit, and the connection detection unit detects that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, the use of the power device is permitted. Alternatively, the holding device includes a control unit (67) that prohibits the use of the power equipment if the holding detection unit does not detect that the power equipment is held in the holding unit, or if the connection detection unit does not detect that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected.

8. A holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, A contacted portion (64d4) that moves integrally with the second electrical terminal, A connection release detection unit (64c) detects that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released by contacting the contacted portion when the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal is released, A holding device equipped with the following features.

9. A holding device according to claim 8, A holding device wherein, when the second electrical terminal is moving away from the first electrical terminal, the drive unit stops the second electrical terminal when the connection release detection unit detects that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released.

10. A holding device according to claim 8 or 9, When the disconnection detection unit detects that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been disconnected, it permits the removal of the power device from the holding unit. Alternatively, a holding device comprising a control unit (67) that prohibits the removal of the power equipment from the holding unit if it does not detect that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released.

11. A holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, The holding portion is provided with a cover portion (18) that can be opened and closed on the insertion opening (26c) into which the power equipment is inserted. The holding portion is positioned such that the insertion opening is located vertically above the opposite side of the insertion opening. The aforementioned cover portion is, When the cover portion is closed, the main body portion (18a) is provided substantially parallel to the vertical direction, When the cover portion is closed, the main body portion has a protruding portion (18b) that extends from the main body portion toward the interior of the holding portion, A holding device having the following features.

12. A holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, The aforementioned retaining part is The holding portion has an insertion / removal assist portion (26) formed therein, in which the power equipment is inserted, The retaining body (22) to which the insertion / removal assist part is attached, It has, A retaining device wherein the insertion / removal assist portion and the retaining portion body overlap in the insertion / removal direction of the power equipment.

13. A holding device (10) for holding a power device (12) having a first electrical terminal (50), A holding part (23) for holding the power equipment, A second electrical terminal (64e) connected to the first electrical terminal of the power device held in the holding portion, A drive unit (64) moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal while the power device is held in the holding part, and / or moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal. A contact portion (64d4) is configured to move integrally with the second electrical terminal and is provided in a position that does not come into contact with the first electrical terminal, A connection detection unit (64b) is provided so as to be movable relative to the contacted portion, and when the second electrical terminal is moved by the drive unit in a direction toward the first electrical terminal and the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, the second electrical terminal comes into contact with the contacted portion which has been moved integrally with the second electrical terminal, thereby detecting that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal have been connected. A holding device equipped with the following features.

14. A holding device according to claim 13, A holding device comprising a connection release detection unit (64c) that detects that the connection between the first and second electrical terminals has been released by contacting the contacted portion when the second electrical terminal moves away from the first electrical terminal and the connection between the first and second electrical terminals is released.

15. A holding device according to claim 14, A holding device wherein, when the second electrical terminal is moving away from the first electrical terminal, the drive unit stops the second electrical terminal when the connection release detection unit detects that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released.

16. A holding device according to claim 14 or 15, When the second electrical terminal is moving away from the first electrical terminal, if the disconnection detection unit detects that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been disconnected, the unit permits the removal of the power device from the holding unit. Alternatively, a holding device comprising a control unit (67) that prohibits the removal of the power equipment from the holding unit if it does not detect that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released.

17. A holding part (14) for holding a power device (12) having a first electrical terminal (50), A second electrical terminal (64e) connected to the first electrical terminal, A drive unit (64f, 64f1, 64d3) moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, A holding detection unit (32) that detects that the power equipment is held in the holding unit, A connection detection unit (64b) that detects that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, A control method for a holding device (10) comprising, The holding detection unit detects that the power equipment is held in the holding unit. and the step of detecting that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected by the connection detection unit, The first step includes, The steps include: detecting that the power device is held in the holding part and that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, and then permitting the use of the power device; The second step includes, A control method having

18. A holding part (14) for holding a power device (12) having a first electrical terminal (50), A second electrical terminal (64e) connected to the first electrical terminal, A drive unit (64f, 64f1, 64d3) moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, A holding detection unit (32) that detects that the power equipment is held in the holding unit, A connection detection unit (64b) that detects that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, A computer that controls the holding device (10) equipped with the following: The holding detection unit detects that the power equipment is held in the holding unit. and the step of detecting that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected by the connection detection unit, The first step includes, The steps include: detecting that the power device is held in the holding part and that the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal are connected, and then permitting the use of the power device; The second step includes, A program that executes something.

19. A holding part (14) for holding a power device (12) having a first electrical terminal (50), A second electrical terminal (64e) connected to the first electrical terminal, A drive unit (64f, 64f1, 64d3) moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, A control method for a holding device (10) comprising, A first step including the step of detecting that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released, When it is detected that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released, the step of permitting the removal of the power equipment from the holding unit, Alternatively, if it is not detected that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released, the removal of the power equipment from the holding unit is prohibited. The second step includes, A control method having

20. A holding part (14) for holding a power device (12) having a first electrical terminal (50), A second electrical terminal (64e) connected to the first electrical terminal, A drive unit (64f, 64f1, 64d3) moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal and / or moves the second electrical terminal toward the first electrical terminal, A computer that controls the holding device (10) equipped with the following: A first step including the step of detecting that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released, When it is detected that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released, the step of permitting the removal of the power equipment from the holding unit, Alternatively, if it is not detected that the connection between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal has been released, the removal of the power equipment from the holding unit is prohibited. The second step includes, A program that executes something.

21. A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium for storing the program described in claim 18 or 20.

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