Electric vehicles

Abstract

To secure rigidity in a link mechanism.SOLUTION: An electric vehicle 10 comprises a battery storage structure 18 from which a battery 12 can be taken out. The battery storage structure 18 has: a base part 42 that is mounted on a vehicle body 14; a storage case 44 formed to enable the battery 12 to be stored therein and provided to be movable in a vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10; and a link mechanism 46 supporting the storage case 44 to be movable relatively with respect to the base part 42. The link mechanism 46 comprises first link members 941 and 1021 whose one ends are connected to a rear case end part 80R of the storage case 44 relatively turnably and whose other ends are connected to a first mounting part 62 of the base part 42 relatively turnably. The link mechanism 46 further comprises second link members 942 and 1022 extended from the first link members 941 and 1021 and connected to a second mounting part 64 of the base part 42 relatively turnably.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric vehicle capable of traveling using electric power from a battery. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, efforts toward realizing a low-carbon society or a carbon-neutral society have become active, and research and development on vehicle electrification technology are being carried out for vehicles to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve energy efficiency. Patent Document 1 discloses an electric vehicle equipped with a user-replaceable battery. The battery is stored in a state of being placed on a carriage in the vehicle body of the electric vehicle. When a user replaces the battery, the battery accommodating portion accommodating the battery is driven by a motor or manually sent out of the vehicle body (outward in the vehicle width direction) by a link mechanism, so that the battery is taken out of the vehicle body together with the battery accommodating portion. Prior Art Literature Patent Literature

[0003] Patent Document 1 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-114845 Summary of the Invention Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in an electric vehicle equipped with a replaceable battery as disclosed in Patent Document 1 related to electrification technology, a load is input in the front-rear direction to the link mechanism that supports the battery accommodating portion that accommodates the heavy battery during traveling. In the electric vehicle of Patent Document 1, securing the rigidity of the link mechanism is not considered.

[0005] To solve the above problem, an object of the present invention is to secure rigidity in a link mechanism. Furthermore, the present invention contributes to improving energy efficiency. Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] An aspect of the present invention is an electric vehicle equipped with a drive unit powered by the power of a replaceable battery, the electric vehicle comprising: a vehicle body; a battery housing structure attached to the vehicle body and capable of housing the battery and allowing the battery to be removed to the outside, the battery housing structure comprising: a base attached to the vehicle body; a housing case in which the battery is housed and disposed inside the base; and a link mechanism provided between the housing case and the base, supporting the housing case so as to be movable outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle with respect to the base, wherein in the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle, the link mechanism is positioned at least one in front of and behind the housing case, and the housing case is in the longitudinal direction The base has a case end which is at least one end of the housing case, and the base has a first mounting portion facing the case end in the front-rear direction, and a second mounting portion arranged in the front-rear direction away from the housing case relative to the first mounting portion, and the link mechanism comprises a first link member whose one end is connected to the case end so as to be rotatable relative to it and whose other end is connected to the first mounting portion, and a second link member whose one end is connected to the first link member and extends from the first link member, and whose other end is connected to the second mounting portion so as to be rotatable relative to it, and when the housing case is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base, the battery can be attached to and detached from the housing case from outside the electric vehicle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, in an electric vehicle equipped with a battery housing structure, the rigidity of the battery housing structure, including the housing case, can be well ensured by a link mechanism having first and second link members. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an overall side view of an electric vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the battery housing structure in the electric vehicle shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view of the battery housing structure shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an enlarged side view showing the vicinity of the link mechanism in the battery housing structure of Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the rear linkage mechanism when the battery is housed in the battery housing structure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the battery being removed from the battery housing structure shown in Figure 2. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the rear linkage mechanism when the battery is removed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] As shown in Figure 1, the electric vehicle 10 according to this embodiment is an electric vehicle (EV) equipped with an electric motor 38 driven by the power of a battery 12. However, the electric vehicle 10 is not limited to electric vehicles. It can be applied to various electric vehicles 10, such as hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), or fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), as long as the vehicle uses a battery 12.

[0010] The electric vehicle 10 comprises a vehicle body 14, a drive unit 16 powered by electricity supplied from a battery 12, and a battery housing structure 18 capable of housing the battery 12.

[0011] The vehicle body 14 comprises a frame 20, a passenger compartment 22, and a cargo bed 24. As shown in Figure 2, the frame 20 is provided on the floor panel 26 that constitutes the lower part of the vehicle body 14. The frame 20 has a pair of side frames 28 arranged in the vehicle width direction of the floor panel 26. The side frames 28 are each positioned outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the center of the vehicle body 14 in the vehicle width direction. The pair of side frames 28 extend along the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10. The side frames 28 are hollow bodies with a rectangular cross-section.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the passenger compartment 22 is located at the front of the electric vehicle 10. The passenger compartment 22 is a space enclosed by the vehicle body 14 in which an occupant can sit. The vehicle body 14 has a door 32 that can be opened and closed at a vehicle body opening 30 that communicates with the passenger compartment 22.

[0013] The cargo bed 24 is located behind the passenger compartment 22 and can be used to load cargo and other items. The cargo bed 24 extends to the rear end of the electric vehicle 10. The cargo bed 24 has a loading surface 34 and a pair of side plates 36. The loading surface 34 extends along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body 14. The loading surface 34 is a substantially flat surface that is horizontal in the longitudinal and vehicle width directions of the vehicle body 14. In the height direction of the electric vehicle 10, the cargo bed 24 is located below the center in the height direction. As shown in Figure 2, the pair of side plates 36 are located on both sides of the cargo bed 24 in the vehicle width direction. The pair of side plates 36 protrude upward relative to the loading surface 34.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the drive unit 16 has an electric motor 38. The electric motor 38 is mounted on the vehicle body 14 and rotates when power is supplied to it. The electric motor 38 is a drive motor 381 that drives the rear wheels 40R. The drive unit 16 and the battery 12 are electrically connected. Note that the drive motor 381 of the drive unit 16 is not limited to an electric motor 38 for driving the rear wheels 40R. For example, the drive unit 16 may be a drive motor 381 for driving the front wheels 40F, or a drive motor 381 for driving both the front wheels 40F and the rear wheels 40R.

[0015] As shown in Figure 3, the battery housing structure 18 is attached to the vehicle body 14, and is provided so that the battery 12 can be housed and taken out. As shown in Figure 1, in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, the battery housing structure 18 is arranged between a front wheel 40F and a rear wheel 40R of the electric vehicle 10. The battery housing structure 18 is arranged below the cargo bed 24. The battery housing structure 18 is arranged below the loading surface 34 of the cargo bed 24. As shown in Figure 3, the battery housing structure 18 is exposed laterally in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. The battery housing structure 18 is respectively provided on both side portions in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. As shown in Figure 1, in a state where the battery 12 is housed in the battery housing structure 18, a height H from the ground to an upper portion of the battery 12 is set to, for example, 610 mm or less. The height H of the battery 12 in the housed state is set to, for example, a height at which a short-statured user can grasp the battery 12 and pull it upward with an outstretched arm.

[0016] Note that the battery housing structure 18 is not limited to being provided on both side portions in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. It may be provided only on any one side portion in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. Here, as shown in Figure 2, a case where the battery housing structures are respectively provided on both sides in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10 will be described.

[0017] As shown in Figure 3, the battery housing structure 18 includes a base portion 42, a housing case 44, and a link mechanism 46.

[0018] The base portion 42 is formed in a box shape elongated in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. As shown in Figure 2, the base portion 42 is attached to a frame 20 of the vehicle body 14. The base portion 42 is respectively fixed to a pair of side frames 28. The base portion 42 is arranged outward in the vehicle width direction with respect to the side frames 28. Note that when a single battery housing structure 18 is provided, the base portion 42 is fixed to one of the pair of side frames 28.

[0019] As shown in Figure 3, the base portion 42 includes an inner wall 421, a first side wall 422, a second side wall 423, an upper wall 424, and a bottom wall 425. As shown in Figure 2, the inner wall 421 is disposed inward in the vehicle width direction at the base portion 42. The inner wall 421 extends in the height direction of the electric vehicle 10, and a central portion in the height direction is fixed to a side surface of the side frame 28. The inner wall 421 has a protruding space 48 protruding inward in the vehicle width direction. As shown in Figure 3, the protruding space 48 is formed from a central portion of the inner wall 421 toward the rear in the front-rear direction. The protruding space 48 has a substantially elongated rectangular shape that is long in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0020] The first side wall 422 is disposed forward of the inner wall 421. The second side wall 423 is disposed rearward of the inner wall 421. The first and second side walls 422, 423 extend in the height direction and extend outward in the vehicle width direction substantially orthogonal to the inner wall 421.

[0021] The upper wall 424 is connected to the respective upper ends of the inner wall 421, the first side wall 422 and the second side wall 423. The upper wall 424 extends in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10 and forms an upper portion of the base portion 42. As shown in Figure 2, the upper wall 424 is disposed substantially parallel below the floor panel 26 that constitutes the cargo bed 24.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3, the bottom wall 425 is disposed below the upper wall 424. The bottom wall 425 has a first bottom portion 521 connected to the lower end of the first side wall 422, and a second bottom portion 522 connected to the lower end of the second side wall 423. In the height direction of the electric vehicle 10, the first bottom portion 521 and the second bottom portion 522 are at the same height. A bottom opening 54 is provided between the first bottom portion 521 and the second bottom portion 522. The bottom opening 54 opens below the base portion 42. A substantially central portion of the bottom wall 425 is opened by the bottom opening 54.

[0023] The base portion 42 has an accommodation space 56 surrounded by the inner wall 421, the upper wall 424, the first side wall 422 and the second side wall 423. The accommodation space 56 is a space capable of accommodating the accommodation case 44. The accommodation space 56 communicates with the outside through the bottom opening 54.

[0024] The first bottom portion 521 has a pair of front mounting portions 58. The pair of front mounting portions 58 protrude upward from the first bottom portion 521. In the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10, the pair of front mounting portions 58 face the housing space 56. The pair of front mounting portions 58 are spaced apart in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0025] As shown in Figure 4, the second bottom portion 522 has a rear mounting portion 60. The rear mounting portion 60 protrudes upward from the second bottom portion 522. The rear mounting portion 60 has first and second mounting portions 62 and 64. In the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10, each of the first and second mounting portions 62 and 64 faces the accommodation space 56. When viewed from the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the first mounting portion 62 and the second mounting portion 64 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0026] The first mounting portion 62 is provided at the front of the second bottom portion 522. As shown in Figure 5, the first mounting portion 62 comprises a first outer mounting portion 62S and a first inner mounting portion 62U. In the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the first inner mounting portion 62U is positioned inward of the first outer mounting portion 62S in the vehicle width direction. The first outer mounting portion 62S and the first inner mounting portion 62U are spaced apart in the vehicle width direction.

[0027] As shown in Figure 4, the second mounting portion 64 is positioned rearward relative to the first mounting portion 62. As shown in Figure 5, the second mounting portion 64 comprises a second outer mounting portion 64S and a second inner mounting portion 64U. In the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the second inner mounting portion 64U is positioned inward of the second outer mounting portion 64S in the vehicle width direction. The second outer mounting portion 64S and the second inner mounting portion 64U are spaced apart in the vehicle width direction.

[0028] When viewed from the front or rear of the electric vehicle 10, the first outer mounting portion 62S of the first mounting portion 62 and the second outer mounting portion 64S of the second mounting portion 64 face each other. The first inner mounting portion 62U of the first mounting portion 62 and the second inner mounting portion 64U of the second mounting portion 64 face each other.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the base portion 42 further has a mounting groove 68 into which a sealing member 66 is mounted. The mounting groove 68 is formed in an annular shape extending across the upper wall 424, the first side wall 422, and the inner wall 421. The sealing member 66 is made of an elastic material and is formed in an annular shape corresponding to the mounting groove 68.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, the housing case 44 is housed in a housing space 56 formed inside the base 42. The housing case 44 is provided so as to be movable relative to the base 42 in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10 (see Figure 6). The housing case 44 has a housing section 70 capable of housing the battery 12, an opening 72 that opens to the upper part of the housing section 70, and a gripping section 74 that can be grasped by the user (see Figure 3). As shown in Figure 3, the housing case 44 is formed in a rectangular shape that is elongated in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10. However, the housing case 44 is not limited to being formed in a rectangular shape that is elongated in the front-rear direction. For example, the housing case 44 may be formed in a substantially square shape.

[0031] The housing section 70 is formed in the shape of a bottomed box with an opening 72 at the top. The housing section 70 is formed to accommodate multiple batteries 12. The multiple batteries 12 are housed in parallel in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10 within the housing section 70. The following describes the case in which three batteries 12 are housed in each housing case 44 of the battery housing structure 18. Note that the number of batteries 12 stored in the housing case 44 (housing section 70) is not limited to three. It may be a configuration in which two or fewer batteries 12 are stored, or a configuration in which four or more batteries 12 are stored. The batteries 12 are replaceable low-voltage batteries. The batteries 12 can be handled by general users who do not have the necessary qualifications.

[0032] As shown in Figure 2, the battery 12 comprises a case 12a, a battery core 12b, and a connector section 12c. The battery 12 has an elongated shape in the vertical direction. The upper part of the case 12a has a handle 12d that can be gripped by the user. The handle 12d is located on the upper part of the case 12a. The user grips the handle 12d when carrying the battery 12. The lower part of the case 12a is provided with a connector section 12c. The connector section 12c has connection terminals that are exposed to the outside of the case 12a. Inside the case 12a, the connection terminals and the battery core 12b are electrically connected.

[0033] A vehicle-side connection terminal 76 is provided at the bottom of the housing section 70. The vehicle-side connection terminal 76 is electrically connected to a relay member (not shown) via a harness 78. When the battery 12 is housed in the housing section 70 of the housing case 44, the connector section 12c of the battery 12 and the vehicle-side connection terminal 76 are electrically connected. Power from the battery 12 can be supplied to the drive unit 16 via the relay member from the vehicle-side connection terminal 76. At this time, the handle 12d of the battery 12 is housed facing the opening 72 of the housing case 44.

[0034] As shown in Figure 3, the housing section 70 comprises a front case end 80F positioned at the front of the electric vehicle 10 in the longitudinal direction and a rear case end 80R positioned at the rear. In the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10, the front case end 80F and the rear case end 80R are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart. The front case end 80F faces the first side wall 422 and the front mounting portion 58 of the base 42. The rear case end 80R faces the second side wall 423 of the base 42. In the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10, the rear case end 80R faces the first and second mounting portions 62, 64 (rear mounting portion 60) of the base 42, respectively.

[0035] With the housing case 44 housed in the housing space 56 of the base 42, the rear case end 80R of the housing case 44 and the base 42 are separated in the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10. An arrangement space 82 is formed between the rear case end 80R of the housing case 44 and the base 42. The arrangement space 82 is the space in which the rear link mechanism 46R of the link mechanism 46 is arranged. The arrangement space 82 is provided behind the housing case 44 (housing space 56).

[0036] The arrangement space 82 is not limited to being located behind the storage case 44 (storage space 56). For example, the arrangement space 82 may be provided between the front case end 80F of the storage case 44 and the first side wall 422 of the base 42.

[0037] The housing case 44 includes a cover portion 84 positioned outward in the vehicle width direction. The cover portion 84 is formed in a plate shape and is attached to cover the side wall of the housing portion 70, and includes an extension portion 841 that extends rearward from the rear end of the housing portion 70. The extension portion 841 of the cover portion 84 is positioned to cover the arrangement space 82. That is, the extension portion 841 faces the arrangement space 82 in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10.

[0038] When the storage case 44 is housed in the storage space 56 of the base 42, the upper part of the storage section 70, which is near the opening 72, comes into contact with the sealing member 66, thereby ensuring a seal between the storage case 44 and the base 42.

[0039] As shown in Figure 2, the housing section 70 has a protruding portion 86 that projects inward in the vehicle width direction. When the housing case 44 is housed in the housing space 56 of the base 42, the protruding portion 86 is housed in the protruding space 48. The protruding portion 86 is formed to be hollow.

[0040] As shown in Figure 6, when the storage case 44 is moved relative to the base 42, the gripping portion 74 is grasped by the user. As shown in Figure 3, the gripping portion 74 is provided on the extension portion 841 of the cover portion 84. The gripping portion 74 is positioned approximately in the center in the height direction of the cover portion 84. That is, the gripping portion 74 faces the arrangement space 82 in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10. The gripping portion 74 has an operating lever 88 attached to a hole 842 that penetrates the cover portion 84. The operating lever 88 is supported so as to be tiltable outward in the vehicle width direction via the hole 842.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2, when the storage case 44 is housed in the storage space 56 of the base 42, the storage case 44 does not protrude outward in the vehicle width direction from the cargo bed 24 of the electric vehicle 10, but is positioned inward in the vehicle width direction from the side of the cargo bed 24.

[0042] As shown in Figure 3, the link mechanism 46 is positioned between the base 42 and the housing case 44. The link mechanism 46 supports the housing case 44 so that it is relatively movable relative to the base 42. The link mechanism 46 has a front link mechanism 46F positioned in front of the housing case 44 and a rear link mechanism 46R positioned in the rear arrangement space 82 behind the housing case 44.

[0043] The front link mechanism 46F comprises a pair of link members 90, one end of which is rotatably connected to the front case end 80F, and the other end of which is rotatably connected to the front mounting portion 58. The link members 90 are arranged parallel to the front case end 80F of the housing case 44. The length of one link member 90, which is positioned outward in the vehicle width direction, is shorter than the length of the other link member 90, which is positioned inward in the vehicle width direction.

[0044] As shown in Figure 4, the rear link mechanism 46R has an inner link section 92U and an outer link section 92S. In the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, the inner link section 92U and the outer link section 92S are arranged in parallel (see Figure 5). As shown in Figure 5, the inner link section 92U is positioned inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the outer link section 92S. That is, the outer link section 92S is positioned outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the inner link section 92U.

[0045] As shown in Figure 4, the inner link portion 92U comprises a first link member 941 and a second link member 942. One end of the first link member 941 is connected to the rear case end portion 80R so as to be rotatable relative to it, and the other end is connected to the first inner mounting portion 62U of the first mounting portion 62 so as to be rotatable relative to it. The first link member 941 is arranged parallel to the rear case end portion 80R.

[0046] The first link member 941 includes a first connecting portion 96 provided at one end and a second connecting portion 98 provided at the other end. The first connecting portion 96 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100A provided at the rear case end portion 80R. The second connecting portion 98 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100B of the first inner mounting portion 62U of the first mounting portion 62.

[0047] The second link member 942 extends from the first link member 941 toward the second mounting portion 64. The second link member 942 includes a rod end 104 at one end and a third connecting portion 106 at the other end. The rod end 104 is connected to the first link member 941. In the longitudinal direction of the first link member 941, the rod end 104 is connected from the longitudinal center toward the first connecting portion 96. Alternatively, the rod end 104 of the second link member 942 may be connected to the first connecting portion 96 of the first link member 941. The third connecting portion 106 is rotatably supported by the support portion 100C of the second inner mounting portion 64U of the second mounting portion 64 (see Figure 5).

[0048] The inner link portion 92U is rotatable in the vehicle width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10 by the first and second link members 1021 and 1022 (see Figure 7).

[0049] As shown in Figure 4, the outer link portion 92S comprises a first link member 1021 and a second link member 1022. One end of the first link member 1021 is connected to the rear case end portion 80R so as to be rotatable relative to it, and the other end is connected to the first mounting portion 62 so as to be rotatable relative to it. The first link member 1021 is arranged parallel to the rear case end portion 80R.

[0050] The first link member 1021 includes a first connecting portion 96 provided at one end and a second connecting portion 98 provided at the other end. The length of the first link member 1021 of the outer link portion 92S is shorter than the length of the first link member 941 of the inner link portion 92U. The rod end 104 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100D provided at the rear case end portion 80R. The support portion 100D is positioned below the support portion 100A that supports the first link member 941 of the inner link portion 92U. The second connecting portion 98 is rotatably supported by a support portion 100B of the first outer mounting portion 62S of the first mounting portion 62.

[0051] The second link member 1022 extends from the first link member 1021 toward the second mounting portion 64. The second link member 1022 includes a rod end 104 at one end and a third connecting portion 106 at the other end. The length of the second link member 1022 of the outer link portion 92S is shorter than the length of the second link member 942 of the inner link portion 92U. That is, the first and second link members 1021 and 1022 of the outer link portion 92S are formed to be shorter than the first and second link members 941 and 942 of the inner link portion 92U.

[0052] The rod end 104 is connected to the first link member 1021. In the longitudinal direction of the first link member 1021, the rod end 104 is connected from the longitudinal center towards the first connection portion 96. Alternatively, the rod end 104 of the second link member 1022 may be connected to the first connection portion 96 of the first link member 1021. The third connection portion 106 is rotatably supported by the support portion 100E of the second outer mounting portion 64S of the second mounting portion 64.

[0053] The outer link portion 92S is rotatable in the vehicle width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle 10 by the first and second link members 1021 and 1022 (see Figure 7).

[0054] Note that the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 are not limited to the case in which they constitute the rear link mechanism 46R. For example, the front link mechanism 46F may be configured to include the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022. In this case, a space 82 is placed in front of the housing case 44, and the front link mechanism 46F, which includes the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022, is provided in front of the housing case 44. The front link mechanism 46F and the rear link mechanism 46R may both be configured to include the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022. In this case, space 82 is provided in front of and behind the housing case 44, and the front link mechanism 46F and the rear link mechanism 46R are provided in the two space 82, respectively.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2, the battery housing structure 18 further includes a locking mechanism 108 and a damper mechanism 110. The locking mechanism 108 prevents relative movement of the housing case 44 with respect to the base 42. The locking mechanism 108 includes a locking portion 112 provided on the housing case 44 and a striker 114 provided on the base 42. As shown in Figure 4, the locking portion 112 is provided inside the protruding portion 86 of the housing case 44. The locking portion 112 has a lock key 118 that is connected and interlocked with the operating lever 88 of the gripping portion 74 by a cable 116. The lock key 118 can protrude from the protruding portion 86 into the protruding space 48 through a hole (not shown). The striker 114 is provided in the protruding space 48 of the base 42.

[0056] When the storage case 44 is housed in the storage space 56 of the base 42, the striker 114 is positioned below the locking part 112. The lock key 118 of the locking part 112 engages with the striker 114, preventing relative movement between the striker 114 and the locking part 112 in the vehicle width direction. The storage case 44 with the locking part 112 cannot move relative to the base 42 in the vehicle width direction. When the user rotates the operating lever 88 of the gripping part 74, the lock key 118 of the locking part 112 is activated by the cable 116, releasing the engagement of the lock key 118 with respect to the striker 114.

[0057] In this embodiment, for example, the cable 116 may be replaced with a harness, and the operating lever 88 may be equipped with a switch. By operating the switch, the lock key 118 is electrically activated through the harness, and the lock mechanism may be able to release the engagement of the lock key 118 with the striker 114.

[0058] As shown in Figure 2, the damper mechanism 110 controls the relative speed of the housing case 44 to the base 42 as the housing case 44 moves relative to the base 42. The damper mechanism 110 includes a damper body 120 and a damper rod 122. A resistance fluid is sealed inside the damper body 120. The resistance fluid is, for example, gas or oil. The damper rod 122 is movable forward and backward relative to the damper body 120. When the damper rod 122 moves relative to the damper body 120, it moves while experiencing resistance from the resistance fluid. The damper mechanism 110 is arranged along the width direction of the electric vehicle 10. As shown in Figure 4, one end of the damper mechanism 110, which is the damper rod 122, is positioned in the arrangement space 82. One end of the damper rod 122 is connected to the rear case end 80R of the housing case 44. The other end of the damper mechanism 110, which is the end of the damper body 120, is connected to the frame 20 of the vehicle body 14 (see Figure 2). However, the end of the damper body 120 is not limited to being connected to and fixed to the frame 20. For example, the end of the damper body 120 may be connected to and fixed to the base 42 of the battery housing structure 18.

[0059] As shown in Figure 6, when the housing case 44 moves relative to the base 42, the damper rod 122 connected to the housing case 44 is damped by the damper body 120, thereby suppressing the movement speed of the housing case 44 relative to the base 42. Note that the damper mechanism 110 is not limited to a configuration that can dampen the movement speed of the damper rod 122 by a resistive fluid. For example, the damper mechanism 110 may be an electrically operated damper mechanism that can electrically dampen the movement speed of the damper rod 122.

[0060] Next, we will describe the procedure for replacing the battery 12 in the electric vehicle 10. Here, we will describe the procedure for replacing the battery 12 on the left side (passenger side) in the vehicle width direction, as viewed from the rear of the electric vehicle 10 as shown in Figure 2. Note that the procedure for replacing the battery 12 on the right side (driver's side) as shown in Figure 2 is the same as the procedure for replacing the battery 12 on the left side, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0061] With the user positioned to the side of the electric vehicle 10 facing the battery housing structure 18, the user operates the operating lever 88 of the gripping part 74, which activates the lock key 118 of the locking mechanism 108 and releases engagement with the striker 114. The locking mechanism 108 releases the housing case 44, making it possible to move the housing case 44 relative to the base 42.

[0062] Next, the user grasps the gripping part 74 and pulls out the storage case 44 outward in the vehicle width direction. As a result, the storage case 44 is removed outward in the vehicle width direction while tilting relative to the base part 42 by the link mechanism 46. The damper mechanism 110 controls the movement speed of the storage case 44 relative to the base part 42, and the storage case 44 moves outward in the vehicle width direction at a slow speed. At this time, as shown in Figure 7, because the length of the outer link part 92S, which is located outward in the vehicle width direction, is shorter than the length of the inner link part 92U, which is located inward in the vehicle width direction, the rotation radius of the inner link part 92U (first and second link members 941, 942) with the first inner mounting part 62U and the second inner mounting part 64U of the first and second mounting parts 62, 64 as pivot points is different from the rotation radius of the outer link part 92S (first and second link members 1021, 1022) with the first outer mounting part 62S and the second outer mounting part 64S as pivot points. More specifically, the turning radius of the outer link section 92S is smaller than that of the inner link section 92U. Therefore, using the lower ends of the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 as pivot points, the storage case 44 tilts with respect to the vertical direction (imaginary line L) such that the upper part of the storage case 44 is further outward in the vehicle width direction than the lower end of the storage case 44. The storage case 44 tilts to a position where the opening 72 of the storage case 44 is positioned outward relative to the side of the electric vehicle 10 in the vehicle width direction. The link mechanism 46 tilts the storage case 44 with respect to the base 42, and it is held in a removal position where it protrudes outward in the vehicle width direction from the side of the electric vehicle 10 in the vehicle width direction. That is, it tilts to a position where the cargo bed 24 of the electric vehicle 10 and the opening 72 do not overlap in the vertical direction. At this time, the tilt angle of the storage case 44 with respect to the vertical direction is set to an angle that makes it easy for the user to remove the battery 12 housed in the storage section 70.

[0063] For example, compared to a configuration in which the lower part of the housing case 44 is rotatably supported relative to the base 42 by a hinge structure, when the housing case 44 is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base 42 to attach or detach the battery 12, the tilt θ (angle of inclination, see Figure 6) of the housing case 44 relative to the base 42 is suppressed by the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U are the same, the tilt θ of the housing case 44 relative to the base 42 is suppressed to an angle that facilitates the attachment and detachment of the battery 12. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link section 92S and the inner link section 92U are the same, when the housing case 44 is moved outward in the vehicle width direction from the base 42, the amount of outward protrusion D (see Figure 6) of the housing case 44 in the vehicle width direction in the electric vehicle 10 can be suppressed, and as shown in Figure 2, the amount of downward movement of the housing case 44 when it is removed from the battery housing structure 18 can be suppressed compared to the housing case 44 when it is housed in the battery housing structure 18.

[0064] As a result, as shown in Figure 6, when the storage case 44 is removed, the opening 72 of the storage case 44 is positioned to face the user standing to the side of the electric vehicle 10. The user grasps the handle 12d along the storage section 70 of the storage case 44 and removes the battery 12 by tilting it diagonally upward. The connector portion 12c of the battery 12 detaches from the vehicle-side connection terminal 76.

[0065] When a new battery 12 is to be placed in the housing case 44, the battery 12 is moved into the housing section 70 through the opening 72. At this time, the housing case 44 is tilted so that the opening 72 faces outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the vertical direction. The battery 12 is inserted into the housing section 70 along the housing section 70, and the connector portion 12c of the battery 12 is connected to the vehicle-side connection terminal 76. This holds the battery 12 at the bottom of the housing section 70 via the connector portion 12c. The connection terminal of the battery 12 and the vehicle-side connection terminal 76 are electrically connected. After confirming the state of the battery 12 being placed in the housing section 70, the user moves the housing case 44 toward the housing space 56 of the base 42 by pushing the cover portion 84 of the housing case 44 inward in the vehicle width direction. The link mechanism 46 causes the housing case 44 to tilt toward the housing space 56 such that the upper part moves more than the lower part of the housing case 44. The opening 72 of the housing case 44 is positioned upward, and as shown in Figure 2, the cover portion 84 is positioned parallel to the vertical direction of the electric vehicle 10, so that the housing case 44 is housed in the housing space 56 of the base portion 42. At this time, the housing case 44 does not protrude outward in the width direction from the side of the electric vehicle 10 in the width direction. The lock key 118 of the housing case 44 engages with the striker 114, locking the housing case 44 so that it does not move relative to the base portion 42.

[0066] This embodiment provides the following effects.

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, the battery housing structure 18 of the electric vehicle 10 comprises a base 42 attached to the vehicle body 14, a housing case 44 capable of housing the battery 12, and a link mechanism 46 provided between the housing case 44 and the base 42 to support the housing case 44 so as to be relatively movable relative to the base 42. The link mechanism 46 has first link members 941 and 1021, one end of which is connected to the rear case end 80R so as to be rotatable relative to it, and the other end of which is connected to the first link members 941 and 1021 so as to be rotatable relative to it, and second link members 942 and 1022, one end of which is connected to the first link members 941 and 1021 and extends from the first link members 941 and 1021, and the other end of which is connected to the second mounting part 64 so as to be rotatable relative to it.

[0068] As a result, the link mechanism 46 (rear link mechanism 46R) having first link members 941, 1021 and second link members 942, 1022 ensures good rigidity of the housing case 44 in which the battery 12 is housed. Therefore, when a load is applied to the battery housing structure 18 due to load changes occurring in the front-rear direction while the electric vehicle 10 is running, the link mechanism 46 can effectively suppress the movement of the housing case 44 in which the battery 12 is housed. This protects the battery 12 while the vehicle is running. When attaching or detaching the battery 12 to the housing case 44, the link mechanism 46 allows the housing case 44 to be moved in the vehicle width direction relative to the base 42. Therefore, the battery 12 can be effectively replaced on the side of the electric vehicle 10 in the vehicle width direction.

[0069] As shown in Figure 5, the link mechanism 46 has an outer link section 92S and an inner link section 92U that are parallel in the vehicle width direction, with the inner link section 92U positioned inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the outer link section 92S. The length of the first link member 1021 of the outer link section 92S is shorter than the length of the first link member 941 of the inner link section 92U, and the length of the second link member 1022 of the outer link section 92S is shorter than the length of the second link member 942 of the inner link section 92U.

[0070] As a result, when moving the housing case 44 outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base 42 to attach or detach the battery 12, the tilt θ of the housing case 44 relative to the base 42 can be suppressed by the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U, compared to a configuration in which the lower part of the housing case 44 is rotatably supported relative to the base 42 by a hinge structure. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link portion 92S and the inner link portion 92U are the same, the tilt θ of the housing case 44 relative to the base 42 can be suppressed to facilitate the attachment and detachment of the battery 12. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first link members 941, 1021 and the second link members 942, 1022 of the outer link section 92S and the inner link section 92U are the same, when the housing case 44 is moved outward in the vehicle width direction from the base 42, the amount D of the housing case 44 protruding outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10 is suppressed, while the amount of downward movement of the housing case 44 when it is removed is suppressed relative to the housing case 44 when it is stored. Therefore, when the battery 12 is replaced outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, it is easy to move the battery 12 to the storage position and the removal position relative to the housing case 44.

[0071] As shown in Figure 1, the electric vehicle 10 includes a passenger compartment 22 provided on the vehicle body 14, and a cargo bed 24 located behind the passenger compartment 22. The battery housing structure 18 is located below the cargo bed 24. The housing case 44 is located on the side of the electric vehicle 10 in the vehicle width direction. This allows for easy replacement of the battery 12 while securing space on the cargo bed 24 of the electric vehicle 10. By positioning the battery 12 below the cargo bed 24 compared to a structure in which the battery 12 is positioned above the cargo bed 24, the center of gravity of the electric vehicle 10 can be lowered. Therefore, the driving stability of the electric vehicle 10 can be improved. Since the housing case 44 is exposed to the outside on the side of the electric vehicle 10, the battery 12 housed in the housing case 44 can be effectively cooled by the airflow while the electric vehicle 10 is in motion. Therefore, a cooling device for cooling the battery 12 is not required, simplifying the configuration of the electric vehicle 10 and reducing manufacturing costs. When attaching or detaching the battery 12 to the battery housing structure 18, the battery 12 can be replaced without interfering with the cargo bed 24. This avoids the battery housing structure 18 interfering with the loading of cargo or other items onto the cargo bed 24.

[0072] As shown in Figure 2, the vehicle body 14 is provided with a pair of side frames 28 positioned outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the center in the vehicle width direction. The base 42 of the battery housing structure 18 is fixed to the side frame 28. By fixing the base 42 to the side frame 28, which is part of the frame 20, the rigidity of the base 42 and the housing case 44 supported by the base 42 can be increased, and the battery 12 housed in the housing case 44 can be effectively protected from loads applied while the electric vehicle 10 is running.

[0073] As shown in Figure 3, in the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, there is an arrangement space 82 between the housing case 44 and the base 42 where the link mechanism 46 is arranged. In the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle 10, a gripping part 74 for gripping the housing case 44 is provided at a position facing the arrangement space 82. By positioning the gripping part 74 so as to face the arrangement space 82 where the link mechanism 46 is provided, the arrangement space 82, which would otherwise be dead space, can be effectively utilized. Therefore, a space-efficient layout can be achieved in the electric vehicle 10, making it possible to miniaturize the battery housing structure 18.

[0074] In the front-rear direction of the electric vehicle 10, there is an arrangement space 82 between the housing case 44 and the base 42 where a link mechanism 46 is positioned. The arrangement space 82 is equipped with a damper mechanism 110, one end of which is connected to the housing case 44 and the other end of which is connected to the vehicle body 14. The damper mechanism 110 controls the relative movement speed of the housing case 44 with respect to the base 42 when the housing case 44 moves relative to the base 42. As a result, when removing or installing the battery 12, the damper mechanism 110 can effectively suppress the movement speed (opening / closing speed) of the housing case 44 with respect to the base 42. By positioning the damper mechanism 110 in the arrangement space 82, the arrangement space 82, which would otherwise be dead space, can be effectively utilized. This makes it possible to achieve a space-efficient layout in the electric vehicle 10 and to miniaturize the battery housing structure 18.

[0075] In addition to the disclosures mentioned above, the following further notes are made:

[0076] (Note 1) The electric vehicle (10) includes a drive unit (16) powered by a replaceable battery (12). The electric vehicle includes a body (14) and a battery housing structure (18) attached to the body and capable of housing the battery and allowing the battery to be removed to the outside. The battery housing structure includes a base (42) attached to the body, a housing case (44) in which the battery is housed and positioned inside the base, and a link mechanism (46) provided between the housing case and the base, which supports the housing case so as to be movable outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle relative to the base. In the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle, the link mechanism is positioned at least one of the front and rear of the housing case, and the housing case is a case which is at least one end of the housing case in the longitudinal direction. The base portion has an end portion, and the base portion has a first mounting portion (62) facing the case end portion in the front-rear direction, and a second mounting portion (64) positioned in the front-rear direction away from the housing case relative to the first mounting portion. The link mechanism comprises a first link member (941, 1021) with one end rotatably connected to the case end portion and the other end rotatably connected to the first mounting portion, and a second link member (942, 1022) with one end connected to the first link member and extending from the first link member, and the other end rotatably connected to the second mounting portion. When the housing case is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base portion, the battery can be attached to and detached from the housing case from outside the electric vehicle.

[0077] With this configuration, the link mechanism having the first and second link members ensures good rigidity of the battery housing structure in which the battery is housed. Therefore, when a load is applied to the battery housing structure due to load changes in the longitudinal direction during the operation of the electric vehicle, the link mechanism can effectively suppress the movement of the housing case containing the battery. This protects the battery while the vehicle is in motion.

[0078] (Note 2) In the electric vehicle described in Appendix 1, the link mechanism has an outer link portion (92S) and an inner link portion (92U) arranged in parallel in the vehicle width direction, wherein the inner link portion is positioned inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the outer link portion, the length of the first link member of the outer link portion is shorter than the length of the first link member of the inner link portion, and the length of the second link member of the outer link portion is shorter than the length of the second link member of the inner link portion.

[0079] With this configuration, when moving the housing case outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base to insert or remove the battery, the tilt of the housing case relative to the base can be suppressed by the outer and inner link sections, compared to a configuration in which the lower part of the housing case is rotatably supported by a hinge structure relative to the base. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first and second link members of the outer and inner link sections are the same, the tilt of the housing case relative to the base can be suppressed to facilitate battery insertion and removal. Compared to a configuration in which the lengths of the first and second link members of the outer and inner link sections are the same, when moving the housing case outward in the vehicle width direction from the base, the amount of outward protrusion of the housing case in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle can be suppressed, while the amount of downward movement of the housing case when removing it can be suppressed relative to the housing case when inserting it. Therefore, when performing battery replacement work outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle, it is easy to move the battery to the insertion and removal positions relative to the housing case.

[0080] (Note 3) In the electric vehicle described in Appendix 1 or 2, the vehicle body includes a passenger compartment (22) on which an occupant can ride, and a cargo bed (24) located behind the passenger compartment, wherein the battery housing structure is located below the cargo bed, and the housing case is located on at least one side of the electric vehicle in the vehicle width direction.

[0081] This configuration allows for easy battery replacement while maintaining cargo space on the electric vehicle. Compared to structures where the battery is positioned above the cargo bed, positioning the battery below the cargo bed lowers the center of gravity of the electric vehicle. This improves the driving stability of the electric vehicle. Because the housing case is exposed to the outside on the side of the electric vehicle, the battery housed in the housing case can be effectively cooled by the airflow while the electric vehicle is in motion. This eliminates the need for a cooling device to cool the battery, simplifying the electric vehicle's configuration and reducing manufacturing costs. When attaching or detaching the battery to the battery housing structure, the work can be performed without the battery interfering with the cargo bed. This avoids the battery housing structure interfering with the loading of cargo on the cargo bed.

[0082] (Note 4) In the electric vehicle described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3, the vehicle body comprises a pair of side frames (28) which are part of the frame and are positioned outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the center in the vehicle width direction, and the base of the battery housing structure may be fixed to at least one of the side frames.

[0083] With this configuration, by fixing the base to the side frame, which is part of the frame, the rigidity of the base and the housing case supported by the base can be increased, and the battery housed in the housing case can be effectively protected from the load applied while the electric vehicle is running.

[0084] (Note 5) In the electric vehicle described in any one of the appendices 1 to 3, in the front-rear direction, there is an arrangement space (82) between the housing case and the base where the link mechanism is arranged, and in the vehicle width direction, there may be a gripping portion (74) for gripping the housing case at a position facing the arrangement space.

[0085] With this configuration, by positioning the gripping section opposite the space where the link mechanism is installed, dead space can be effectively utilized. This makes it possible to achieve a space-efficient layout in electric vehicles and to miniaturize the battery housing structure.

[0086] (Note 6) In the electric vehicle described in any one of the appendices 1 to 5, in the longitudinal direction, there is an arrangement space between the housing case and the base where the link mechanism is arranged, and the arrangement space is provided with a damper mechanism (110) having one end connected to the housing case and the other end connected to the base or the vehicle body, and the damper mechanism may control the relative movement speed of the housing case with respect to the base when the housing case moves with respect to the base.

[0087] With this configuration, when removing or installing the battery, the damper mechanism can effectively suppress the movement speed (opening / closing speed) of the housing case relative to the base. By placing the damper mechanism in the installation space, dead space can be effectively utilized. As a result, a space-efficient layout can be achieved in electric vehicles, enabling miniaturization of the battery housing structure.

[0088] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the disclosure described above, and can take various configurations without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 10…Electric vehicles 12…Battery 14... Vehicle body 16…Drive unit 18…Battery housing structure 42...Base 44…Storage case 46…Link mechanism 62...First mounting section 64...Second mounting section 80F...Front case end 80R…Rear case end 941, 1021…First link member 942, 1022…Second link member

Claims

1. An electric vehicle equipped with a drive unit powered by a replaceable battery, The aforementioned electric vehicle has a body and A battery housing structure that is attached to the vehicle body, capable of housing the battery, and capable of removing the battery to the outside, Equipped with, The battery housing structure comprises a base that is attached to the vehicle body, A housing case containing the battery and positioned inside the base, A link mechanism is provided between the housing case and the base, and supports the housing case so that it can move outward in the vehicle width direction of the electric vehicle relative to the base, It has, In the longitudinal direction of the electric vehicle, the link mechanism is positioned at least one of the front and rear of the housing case. The storage case has a case end which is at least one end of the storage case in the front-rear direction, The base portion has a first mounting portion facing the case end in the front-rear direction, and a second mounting portion arranged in the front-rear direction away from the housing case relative to the first mounting portion. The link mechanism comprises a first link member, one end of which is connected to the case end so as to be rotatable relative to it, and the other end of which is connected to the first mounting portion so as to be rotatable relative to it, A second link member having one end connected to the first link member and extending from the first link member, with the other end connected to the second mounting portion so as to be rotatable relative to the second link member, Equipped with, An electric vehicle in which, when the housing case is moved outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the base, the battery can be attached to and detached from the housing case from outside the electric vehicle.

2. In the electric vehicle according to claim 1, The link mechanism has an outer link section and an inner link section that are parallel in the vehicle width direction. The inner link portion is positioned inward in the vehicle width direction relative to the outer link portion. The length of the first link member of the outer link portion is shorter than the length of the first link member of the inner link portion. An electric vehicle in which the length of the second link member of the outer link portion is shorter than the length of the second link member of the inner link portion.

3. In the electric vehicle according to claim 1, The vehicle body includes a passenger compartment where an occupant can sit, A cargo bed positioned behind the aforementioned passenger compartment, Equipped with, An electric vehicle in which the battery housing structure is located below the cargo bed, and the housing case is located on at least one side of the electric vehicle in the vehicle width direction.

4. In the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The vehicle body is provided with a pair of side frames that are part of the frame and are positioned outward in the vehicle width direction relative to the center in the vehicle width direction. An electric vehicle in which the base of the battery housing structure is fixed to at least one of the side frames.

5. In the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the aforementioned front-to-back direction, there is an arrangement space between the housing case and the base where the link mechanism is arranged. An electric vehicle having a gripping portion for gripping the storage case at a position facing the arrangement space in the vehicle width direction.

6. In the electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, In the aforementioned front-rear direction, there is an arrangement space between the housing case and the base where the link mechanism is arranged, and the arrangement space is equipped with a damper mechanism, one end of which is connected to the housing case and the other end of which is connected to the base or the vehicle body. The damper mechanism controls the relative movement speed of the housing case with respect to the base when the housing case moves relative to the base of the electric vehicle.

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