Clamping devices

Abstract

Provided is a battery exchanger (10) that holds a mobile battery (12), and comprises a male connector (64e) that is connected to a female connector (50) of the mobile battery (12) held in a slot sleeve (23) for holding the mobile battery (12), and a connector unit (64) that moves the male connector (64e) in a direction toward the female connector (50). The slot sleeve (23) includes a bottom cover (42) having a bottom part (23a), and the male connector (64e) and the connector unit (64) are attached to the bottom cover (42), and supported by the bottom cover (42).

Description

holding device

[0001] The present invention relates to a holding device for holding electric power equipment.

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2018-163757 discloses a holding device for holding a storage battery.

[0003] However, there is room for improvement in the structure of the holding device that holds the electric power equipment such as the storage battery.

[0004] The present invention aims to provide a better holding device.

[0005] An aspect of the present invention is a holding device for holding an electric power device having a first electrical terminal, comprising: a holding portion for holding the electric power device; a second electrical terminal connected to the first electrical terminal of the electric power device held in the holding portion; and a drive portion for moving the second electrical terminal in a direction toward the first electrical terminal and / or moving the second electrical terminal in a direction away from the first electrical terminal, wherein the holding portion is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape having a bottom and a tubular portion, and includes a first member having the bottom, and a second member attached to the first member and having the tubular portion that surrounds the outer periphery of the electric power device held in the holding portion, and the second electrical terminal and the drive portion are attached to the first member and supported by the first member.

[0006] The present invention provides a better holding device.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of a battery exchange machine. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the battery exchange machine. FIG. 3 is a right side view of the slot. FIG. 4 is a front view of the slot. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the mobile battery. FIG. 7 is a view showing the top surface of the mobile battery. FIG. 8 is a view showing the bottom surface of the mobile battery. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the mobile battery. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the door. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. FIGS. 16A and 16B are cross-sectional views of the slot. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the slot. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the slot. FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the slot. FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C are cross-sectional views of the bottom cover assembly and the mobile battery. FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the bottom cover. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the slot. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the retention detection switch and its periphery. Fig. 25 is a schematic diagram of the retention detection switch. Fig. 26 is a plan view of the retention detection switch and its periphery. Fig. 27 is a perspective view of an electronic circuit board and its periphery. Fig. 28 is a plan view of the connector unit. Figs. 29A and 29B are schematic diagrams of the connection detection switch and switch actuator. Figs. 30A and 30B are schematic diagrams of the connection detection switch and switch actuator. Fig. 31 is a perspective view of a slot.

[0008] [First embodiment] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of the exterior of a battery exchanger 10. The battery exchanger 10 is a device that accommodates a mobile battery 12 therein in a removably insertable manner and charges the mobile battery 12. A user deposits a mobile battery 12 with a low remaining capacity (SOC) in the battery exchanger 10 and receives another mobile battery 12 that has been fully charged from the battery exchanger 10. The battery exchanger 10 corresponds to a holding device of the present invention.

[0009] The battery exchange machine 10 has eight slots 14 and one operation panel 16. The slots 14 accommodate mobile batteries 12. When a user places the mobile battery 12 in the 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 slot 14. The indicator 21 indicates the charging status of the mobile battery 12 placed in the slot 14 by lighting up, flashing, or extinguishing, or by a lighting up or flashing color, etc. The operation panel 16 is a device operated by the user. The user operates the operation panel 16 to, for example, pay a fee.

[0010] The slot 14 opens to the front surface 10a of the battery exchange machine 10. The front surface 10a of the battery exchange machine 10 is inclined relative to the vertical direction (the direction of gravity). When a user stands upright facing the front surface 10a, the distance between the user and the upper part of the front surface 10a is greater than the distance between the user and the lower part of the front surface 10a. This allows the user to assume a forward-leaning posture when inserting the mobile battery 12 into the slot 14, making it easier to insert the mobile battery 12 into the slot 14.

[0011] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the battery exchange machine 10. The battery exchange machine 10 has a control device 19 above the slot 14. The control device 19 controls charging of the mobile battery 12, etc. The battery exchange machine 10 has a utility space 20 below the slot 14. A cooling device, for example, can be installed in the utility space 20. The interior of the battery exchange machine 10 can be cooled by the cooling device.

[0012] The battery exchange machine 10 will be described below based on the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis defined as follows: The direction in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into or 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 removed from 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 where it opens on the front surface 10a of the battery exchange machine 10 is defined as the +X-axis direction. The direction perpendicular to the Z-axis and X-axis is defined as the Y-axis direction, and the upward side is defined as the +Y-axis direction.

[0013] In the following, a view seen from the +Z axis direction may be referred to as a front view, a view seen from the -Z axis direction as a back view, a view seen from the +Y axis direction as a top view, a view seen from the -Y axis direction as a bottom view, a view seen from the +X axis direction as a right side view, and a view seen from the -X axis direction as a left side view.

[0014] [Overall configuration of the slot] Fig. 3 is a right side view of the slot 14. Fig. 4 is a front view of the slot 14. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the slot 14. Fig. 5 shows a state in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14. The overall configuration of the slot 14 will be described using Figs. 3, 4 and 5.

[0015] The 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 the slot 14. The cylindrical portion 23b surrounds the outer periphery of the mobile battery 12 held in the slot sleeve 23. The slot sleeve 23 has a slot main body 22, a slot flange 26, and a bottom cover 42. The slot 14 corresponds to the holding portion of the present invention. The mobile battery 12 corresponds to the power equipment of the present invention. The bottom cover 42 corresponds to the first member of the present invention. The slot main body 22 corresponds to the second member of the present invention.

[0016] 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 side surfaces and two openings. When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the slot body 22 has an approximately rectangular outer shape. The slot body 22 is not limited to being made of aluminum, and may be made of other metals or resin. Using aluminum for the slot body 22 can increase durability compared to when resin is used for the slot body 22.

[0017] As shown in Figures 3 and 5, a slot flange 26 is attached to the opening 22b on the +Z-axis direction side of the slot body 22. The slot flange 26 is formed from resin. The slot flange 26 is not limited to being made from resin and may be made from, for example, metal. 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 direction side. The door 18 is formed from resin. The door 18 is not limited to being made from resin and may be made from, for example, metal.

[0018] 3 and 5, a bottom cover 42 is attached to the opening 22c on the −Z-axis direction side of the slot body 22. The bottom cover 42 is made of resin. The bottom 23a of the slot sleeve 23 is provided on the bottom cover 42. The bottom cover 42 is not limited to being made of resin, and may be made of metal, for example. The bottom cover 42 is formed in a rectangular shape when viewed from the Z-axis direction.

[0019] Resin is used for each of the slot flange 26, the door 18, and the bottom cover 42. This allows each of the slot flange 26, the door 18, and the bottom cover 42 to be formed more inexpensively than when metal is used for each of the slot flange 26, the door 18, and the bottom cover 42.

[0020] The slot body 22 is a member that bears most of the load of the mobile battery 12. In addition, the slot body 22 is larger than the slot flange 26, the door 18, and the bottom cover 42. Therefore, it is preferable that the slot body 22 have higher durability than the slot flange 26, the door 18, and the bottom cover 42.

[0021] 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 sends air into the slot body 22. The connector unit 64 has a connector 64e that fits into the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12.

[0022] [Configuration of mobile battery] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the mobile battery 12. Fig. 7 is a view showing the top surface 12a of the mobile battery 12. Fig. 8 is a view showing the bottom surface 12b of the mobile battery 12. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the mobile battery 12. The configuration of the mobile battery 12 will be described below with reference to Figs. 6, 7, 8 and 9.

[0023] The mobile battery 12 will be described below based on the U-axis, V-axis, and W-axis defined as follows: The longitudinal direction of the mobile battery 12 is the W-axis direction, and the direction from the bottom surface 12b toward the top surface 12a is the +W-axis direction. The direction in which the side surfaces 12c and 12d of the mobile battery 12 are aligned is the V-direction, and the direction from side surface 12c toward side surface 12d is the +V-direction. The direction in which the side surfaces 12e and 12f are aligned is the U-direction, and the direction from side surface 12e toward side surface 12f is the +U-direction.

[0024] 6 , a handle 48 is provided on the top surface 12a of the mobile battery 12. The handle 48 has a first grip portion 48a extending in the U direction and a second grip portion 48b extending in the V direction. The user holds the handle 48 to insert or remove the mobile battery 12 into or from the slot 14.

[0025] 6 and 7 , of the side surfaces 12c, 12d, 12e, and 12f of the mobile battery 12, the side surface 12d is a curved surface that is convex outward. Of the side surfaces 12c, 12d, 12e, and 12f, the side surfaces 12c, 12e, and 12f are substantially flat.

[0026] 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 disposed in a position in the +V-axis direction relative to the center of the bottom surface 12b in the V-axis direction. The connector 50 is provided in a recess 12g of the mobile battery 12. The recess 12g is recessed from the bottom surface 12b toward the +W-axis direction. The connector 50 is located in the +W-axis direction relative to the bottom surface 12b. This prevents the connector 50 from coming into contact with the ground or the like when the mobile battery 12 is placed on the ground or the like with the bottom surface 12b facing down. This prevents the connector 50 from becoming dirty or damaged. This also prevents the connector 50 from coming into contact with conductors. This prevents unintended discharge of the mobile battery 12.

[0027] [Configuration of Slot Body] The configuration of the slot body 22 will be described using Figure 5. A slider 22a1 is formed on the inner surface of the lower plate 22a on the -Y-axis direction 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 inserted into or removed from the slot 14 in the Z-axis direction and the slider 22a1. This reduces friction between the mobile battery 12 and the slider 22a1.

[0028] [Configuration of the slot flange] Figures 10, 11, 12, and 13 are cross-sectional views of the slot 14. Figures 10, 11, 12, and 13 show the connection portion 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 described using Figures 10, 11, 12, and 13.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 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 Fig. 10, the insertion opening 26c of the slot flange 26 is formed so that the opening area gradually increases toward the +Z-axis direction. This makes it easier for the user to insert the mobile battery 12 into the insertion opening 26c when inserting the mobile battery 12 into the insertion opening 26c in the -Z-axis direction.

[0030] 10 , the slot flange 26 is fixed to the slot main body 22 via a slot fixing stay 56. The flange portion 26b of the slot flange 26 and the slot fixing stay 56 are fastened together with a bolt 80. The end face of the slot main body 22 on the +Z-axis direction side and the slot fixing stay 56 are fastened together with a bolt 82.

[0031] 10 and 11, the end of the slot flange 26 on the -Z axis direction side is inserted into the inner periphery of the opening on the +Z axis direction 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, rattle of the slot flange 26 relative to the slot body 22 can be suppressed.

[0032] As shown in Figure 11, when the mobile battery 12 is placed on the guide portion 26a of the slot flange 26, the load of the mobile battery 12 can be supported not only by the 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 placed on the guide portion 26a of the slot flange 26, the load of the mobile battery 12 is supported only by the bolts 80 and 82. In this embodiment, the load of the mobile battery 12 can also be supported by the overlapping portion of the slot flange 26 and the slot body 22, thereby reducing the shear force acting on the bolts 80 and 82.

[0033] [Door Configuration] Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the door 18. The directions indicated by the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis shown in Fig. 14 indicate the directions when the door 18 is closed. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the slot 14. Fig. 15 shows a state in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14. The insertion / removal direction (Z-axis direction) of the mobile battery 12 shown in Fig. 15 is inclined relative to the horizontal direction. The position of the slot 14 shown in Fig. 15 is the same as the position of the slot 14 in the battery exchange machine 10. The configuration of the door 18 will be described using Figs. 4, 14, and 15.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 4, the door 18 rotates around a rotation axis 84 that extends in the Y-axis direction at the end of the door 18 on the −X-axis direction side.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 14 , the door 18 has a main body 18a and a protrusion 18b. The door 18 has a rib 18c extending in the X-axis and Y-axis directions on the surface of the main body 18a on the −Z-axis direction. A seal member 86 is provided around the entire periphery of the rib 18c. A catch 88 is provided on the surface of the main body 18a on the −Z-axis direction. The catch 88 is positioned in the +X-axis direction from the center of the main body 18a in the X-axis direction. When the door 18 is closed, the catch 88 engages with a snatch lock (not shown) provided on the slot flange 26. The snatch lock is controlled by the control unit 67 (described later) to switch the door 18 between a locked state and an unlocked state. A protrusion 18b is provided on the surface of the main body 18a on the −Z-axis direction. The protrusion 18b is positioned in the center of the main body 18a in the X-axis direction. The protrusion 18b protrudes from the main body 18a in the −Z axis direction.

[0036] 15, the +Z-axis direction end of the slot 14 in the battery exchange machine 10 is positioned higher than the −Z-axis direction end of the slot 14. As a result, the Z-axis direction, which is the insertion / removal direction of the mobile battery 12, is tilted by approximately 15 degrees relative to the horizontal. The main body 18a of the door 18 is approximately parallel to the vertical direction.

[0037] As shown in Figure 15, when the door 18 is closed, the protrusion 18b abuts against the handle 48 of the mobile battery 12. This causes the door 18 to restrict 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, which will be described later, moves in the +Z-axis direction, and the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 mate. At this time, a pushing force in the +Z-axis direction is applied to the mobile battery 12 from the connector unit 64. Meanwhile, movement of the mobile battery 12 in the +Z-axis direction is restricted by the protrusion 18b. This prevents the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 from coming loose or becoming partially mated.

[0038] As shown in Figure 15, when the slot 14 is viewed from the -X-axis direction, a substantially triangular space is defined between the mobile battery 12 and the main body 18a of the door 18. The volume of the region of the substantially triangular space that is located on the -Y-axis direction from the center of the substantially triangular space in the Y-axis direction is smaller than the volume of the region of the substantially triangular space that is located on the +Y-axis direction from the center of the substantially triangular space. The protrusion 18b is formed at a position on 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 made smaller than when the protrusion 18b is formed at a position on the +Y-axis direction from the center of the main body 18a in the Y-axis direction. This makes it 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.

[0039] [Configuration of the retention detection switch] Figures 16A and 16B are cross-sectional views of the slot 14. Figures 16A and 16B show the slot 14 with the mobile battery 12 inserted. Figures 16A and 16B show the structure of the retention detection switch 32 and the surrounding slot 14. The configuration of the retention detection switch 32 will be described using Figures 5, 16A, and 16B.

[0040] As shown in Fig. 5, the retention detection switch 32 is provided 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 the side surface 12d facing the +Y-axis direction, the bottom surface 12b of the mobile battery 12 presses the retention detection switch 32, as shown in Fig. 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 retained in the slot sleeve 23.

[0041] When the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14 with the side surface 12d facing the -Y-axis direction, as shown in Figure 16B, the retention detection switch 32 is inserted into the recess 12g of the mobile battery 12, and the bottom surface 12b does not abut the retention detection switch 32. At this time, the retention detection switch 32 remains in the OFF state. When the retention detection switch 32 is OFF, the retention detection switch 32 does not detect that the mobile battery 12 is retained in the slot sleeve 23. The retention detection switch 32 corresponds to the retention detection unit of the present invention.

[0042] The recess 12g of the mobile battery 12 in which the connector 50 is disposed can be used as a structure for inserting the hold detection switch 32, so there is no need to provide a separate structure for inserting the hold detection switch 32 in the mobile battery 12. The structure for inserting the hold detection switch 32 in the mobile battery 12 can also be said to be a structure that prevents the mobile battery 12 and the hold detection switch 32 from coming into contact with each other.

[0043] [Configuration of bottom cover assembly] 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 described using Figures 5, 17, 18, 19, 20A, 20B, and 20C.

[0044] As shown in FIGS. 17, 18 and 19, a fan 62, a connector unit 64 and an electronic circuit board 66 are attached to the bottom portion 23a of the bottom cover 42 to form the bottom cover assembly 34.

[0045] A control unit 67 and a memory unit 69 are mounted on the electronic circuit board 66. The electronic circuit board 66, on which the control unit 67 and the memory unit 69 are mounted, constitutes a computer. An electronic circuit is formed on the electronic circuit board 66, and the control unit 67, the memory unit 69, and numerous other electronic and electrical devices are mounted on the electronic circuit. The aforementioned hold detection switch 32 is also mounted on the electronic circuit of the electronic circuit board 66. As shown in FIG. 15 , the hold detection switch 32 is attached to the surface of the electronic circuit board 66 on the +Z axis direction side. The hold detection switch 32 is included in the bottom cover assembly 34. The hold detection switch 32 corresponds to the electronic device of the present invention. 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 direction side of the slot body 22 are fastened with bolts 68.

[0046] The control unit 67 controls charging of the mobile battery 12 inserted into the slot 14. The control unit 67 is realized, for example, by a processing circuit. The processing circuit is configured, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The processing circuit may also be configured by an electronic circuit including discrete devices. The processing circuit may also be configured, for example, by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). In this case, the processing circuit is realized by executing a program stored in the storage unit 69 in the processor.

[0047] 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, if the fan 62, connector unit 64, or electronic circuit board 66 malfunctions, the entire bottom cover assembly 34 can be replaced along with the bottom cover 42. This reduces the time required to replace the malfunctioning device. Furthermore, since the slot body 22, which is more durable than the bottom cover assembly 34, can be reused, the maintenance costs of the battery exchange machine 10 can be reduced.

[0048] 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, an electronic circuit board 66 is disposed in the -X-axis direction from 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, which drives the fan 62 and the motor 64f. The fan 62 and the motor 64f correspond to the electronic devices of the present invention.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 17, 18 and 19, the connector unit 64 has a base 64a, a connection detection switch 64b, a disconnection detection switch 64c, a connector holder 64d, a connector 64e and a motor 64f.

[0050] 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 surface of the bottom 23a on the -Z-axis direction. The base 64a may be formed integrally with the bottom cover 42. The base 64a has a main body 64a1, two flanges 64a2, and a switch mounting surface 64a3. The two flanges 64a2 are formed integrally with the main body 64a1. One flange 64a2 is provided on the +X-axis direction side of the main body 64a1. The other flange 64a2 is provided on the -X-axis direction side of the main body 64a1. Each flange 64a2 is formed extending in the X-axis direction from the end of the main body 64a1 on the +Z-axis direction side. The switch mounting surface 64a3 is formed integrally with the main body 64a1. The switch mounting surface 64a3 is provided on the -X-axis direction side of the main body 64a1. The switch mounting surface 64a3 extends in the −Y-axis direction from the −X-axis side end of the main body 64a1.

[0051] The flange portion 64a2 of the base 64a and the bottom cover 42 are fastened together with bolts 70. A connection detection switch 64b and a connection / disconnection detection switch 64c are attached to the switch mounting surface 64a3. The connection detection switch 64b and the connection / 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 located on the +Z-axis direction side, and the connection / disconnection detection switch 64c is located on the -Z-axis direction side. The connection detection switch 64b and the connection / disconnection detection switch 64c are each connected to the electronic circuit board 66 by wiring (not shown). The connection detection switch 64b and the connection / disconnection detection switch 64c correspond to electronic devices in the present invention.

[0052] A connector holder 64d is attached to the surface of the main body 64a1 of the base 64a on the +Y axis direction side. The connector holder 64d has two guide holes 64d1, a connector attachment portion 64d2, a rack 64d3, and a switch actuator 64d4.

[0053] 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. This allows the connector holder 64d to move relative to the base 64a in the Z-axis direction.

[0054] A connector 64e (male connector 64e) is attached to the connector attachment portion 64d2. The male connector 64e corresponds to the second electrical terminal of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 15 , the connector 64e is positioned vertically above the hold detection switch 32. This prevents the connector 64e from being submerged in 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.

[0055] The rack 64d3 is positioned in the -Z-axis direction relative to the connector mounting portion 64d2. The rack 64d3 extends in the Z-axis direction. The +Y-axis direction side of the rack 64d3 is not exposed to the outside. As shown in FIG. 17, the -Y-axis direction side of the rack 64d3 is exposed to the outside.

[0056] The switch actuator 64d4 is attached to the side surface of the connector holder 64d on the -X-axis direction side. The switch actuator 64d4 moves in the Z-axis direction together with the connector holder 64d. The switch actuator 64d4 extends in the -Y-axis direction from the connector holder 64d along the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a. The switch actuator 64d4 corresponds to the abutted portion of the present invention.

[0057] A motor 64f is attached to the surface of the main body 64a1 of the base 64a on the -Y axis direction side. 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 attached to 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, rack 64d3, and 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 electric machine 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 of the present invention.

[0058] The connector 64e and the motor 64f are attached to the bottom portion 23a of the bottom cover 42 via the base 64a. The connector 64e and the motor 64f are supported by the bottom cover 42. This allows the connector 64e, the motor 64f, and the bottom cover 42 to be handled as a single unit.

[0059] 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, connection / disconnection detection switch 64c, connector holder 64d, connector 64e, motor 64f, pinion 64f1, rack 64d3, and electronic circuit board 66 are arranged to fit inside the outer edge of the bottom cover 42. In other words, the hold detection switch 32, fan 62, base 64a, connection detection switch 64b, connection / disconnection detection switch 64c, connector holder 64d, connector 64e, motor 64f, pinion 64f1, rack 64d3, and electronic circuit board 66 are arranged to fit within the range of a 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 area obtained by projecting the outer edge of the bottom cover 42 in the extension direction of the slot sleeve 23 (the insertion / removal direction of the mobile battery 12 or the Z-axis direction). This prevents the retention 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 from interfering with surrounding components when attaching the bottom cover 42 to the slot body 22.

[0060] The base 64a extends in the -Z axis direction from the surface of the bottom portion 23a of the bottom cover 42 on the -Z axis direction side, and therefore many components can be attached to the base 64a.

[0061] [Control of the slot] When the motor 64f is driven, the connector 64e moves in the Z-axis direction together with the connector holder 64d. When the hold detection switch 32 switches from off to on, it detects that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23. 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.

[0062] When the hold detection switch 32 switches from on to off, it detects that the mobile battery 12 has been removed from the slot sleeve 23. In this case, the motor 64f moves the connector 64e in the −Z-axis direction to separate the connector 64e from the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12.

[0063] 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 close to the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12.

[0064] Figure 17 shows the state in which the connector holder 64d is positioned at its furthest position in the +Z-axis direction. As shown in Figure 17, when the connector holder 64d is positioned at its furthest position in the +Z-axis direction, the switch actuator 64d4 abuts against the movable contact piece 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b, pressing the movable contact piece 64b1 in the +Z-axis direction. This turns the connection detection switch 64b on. The position of the connector 64e at this time is the connection position. The connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e is positioned at 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.

[0065] Figure 19 shows the state in which the connector holder 64d is positioned furthest in the -Z axis direction. As shown in Figure 19, when the connector holder 64d is positioned furthest in the -Z axis direction, the switch actuator 64d4 abuts against the movable contact 64c1 of the disconnection detection switch 64c, pressing the movable contact 64c1 in the -Z axis direction. This turns on the disconnection detection switch 64c. At this time, the connector 64e is in the disconnection position. The disconnection detection switch 64c detects that the connector 64e is in the disconnection position and that the connector 64e has been disconnected from the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12. The disconnection detection switch 64c corresponds to the disconnection detection unit of the present invention.

[0066] 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 located in the -Z axis direction further than connector 50. At this time, disconnection detection switch 64c is turned on, and connection detection switch 64b is turned off.

[0067] Figure 20B shows a state in which the connector 64e has moved in the +Z-axis direction from the disconnected position. As shown in Figure 20B, when the connector 64e moves in the +Z-axis direction from the disconnected position, the tip of the 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 disconnection detection switch 64c and the connection detection switch 64b are turned off.

[0068] Fig. 20C shows the state when the connector 64e is in the connected position. As shown in Fig. 20C, when the connector 64e is in the connected position, the connection between the connector 64e and the 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.

[0069] When the connector 64e is moving in a 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. When the connector 64e is moving in a direction away from the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 and the connection release detection switch 64c detects that the connection between the connector 64e and the connector 50 is released, the control unit 67 controls the motor 64f to stop the connector 64e.

[0070] When the hold detection switch 32 detects that the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23, and when the connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e is connected to the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12, the control unit 67 permits use of the mobile battery 12. Specifically, the control unit 67 controls charging of the mobile battery 12 and charges the mobile battery 12.

[0071] 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 is connected to the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12, the control unit 67 prohibits use of the mobile battery 12. Specifically, the control unit 67 does not control charging of the mobile battery 12, and does not charge the mobile battery 12.

[0072] When the disconnection detection switch 64c detects that the connection between the connector 64e and the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12 has been released, the control unit 67 allows the mobile battery 12 to be removed from the slot sleeve 23. Specifically, the control unit 67 unlocks the door 18, allowing the user to open the door 18.

[0073] When the disconnection detection switch 64c does not detect that the connection between the connector 64e and the 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 keeps the door 18 locked, preventing the user from opening the door 18.

[0074] In the connector unit 64 of this embodiment, the motor 64f is driven to move the connector 64e from the disconnected position to the connected position, and vice versa.

[0075] The connector unit 64 may employ the following first or second manner in which the connector 64e is moved by utilizing an elastic biasing force of a spring or the like. In the first manner, the motor 64f is driven to move the connector 64e from the disconnected position to the connected position, and the elastic biasing force of the spring or the like moves the connector 64e from the connected position to the disconnected position. In the second manner, the elastic biasing force of the spring or the like 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.

[0076] In the connector unit 64, the force exerted when the user closes the door 18 may be used to move the connector 64e.

[0077] In the connector unit 64, the weight of the mobile battery 12 may be used to move the connector 64e.

[0078] Second Embodiment The battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment has a mechanism for draining liquid such as rainwater from the inside to the outside of the slot 14. Fig. 21 is a perspective view of the bottom cover 42. Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the slot 14. Fig. 22 shows the state in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14.

[0079] 21, the bottom cover 42 has a switch hole 42a, a connector insertion hole 42b, an air inlet 42c, and a drainage channel 42d. The switch hole 42a, the connector insertion hole 42b, the air inlet 42c, and the drainage channel 42d correspond to the communication passages of the present invention.

[0080] The hold detection switch 32 is attached to the switch hole 42a from the -Z axis direction side. A portion of the hold detection switch 32 passes through the switch hole 42a and is exposed on the +Z axis direction 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 direction side of the bottom cover 42. The air inlet 42c and the drainage channel 42d communicate between the inside and outside of the slot 14.

[0081] A fan 62 is attached to the −Z-axis direction 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 slotted sleeve 23. This promotes the flow of air between the inside and outside of the slotted sleeve 23. The fan 62 corresponds to the air-generating section of the present invention.

[0082] The drainage channel 42d drains liquid 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 FIG. 22 , the drainage channel 42d is positioned vertically below the fan 62 and the hold detection switch 32.

[0083] The drainage channel 42d is composed of a first drainage channel 42d1 and a second drainage channel 42d2. As shown in FIG. 22, a portion of the bottom cover 42 on the -Y axis side of the position where the hold detection switch 32 is attached is recessed toward the -Z axis direction. This recessed portion extends in the X axis direction as shown in FIG. 21. This recessed portion constitutes the first drainage channel 42d1. An opening that opens toward the Y axis direction is formed at the end of the first drainage channel 42d1 on the -X axis side. This opening constitutes the second drainage channel 42d2.

[0084] A filter member 74 is attached to the first drainage channel 42d1. The filter member 74 is fitted into the recessed first drainage channel 42d1. The filter member 74 is detachable from the first drainage channel 42d1. Two ribs 42e are formed in the +Y axis direction from the first drainage channel 42d1. These two ribs 42e hold down the portion of the filter member 74 that protrudes from the first drainage channel 42d1 in the -Y axis direction. The filter member 74 may be, for example, a porous member such as a sponge filter.

[0085] Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the slot 14. Fig. 23 is an enlarged view of the drainage channel 42d and its vicinity. Fig. 23 shows a state in which the mobile battery 12 is inserted into the slot 14.

[0086] Liquid that enters the slot 14 through the insertion opening 26c passes through the filter member 74 of the first drainage channel 42d1 and is discharged to the outside of the slot 14 through the second drainage channel 42d2, as shown by the arrows in Figure 23. By providing the filter member 74 in the first drainage channel 42d1, the flow of liquid is dispersed or slowed down while passing through the filter member 74. This makes it possible to prevent the liquid from being discharged from the slot 14 with force.

[0087] Solid debris such as sand, dust, fallen leaves, and paper may enter the slot 14 through the insertion opening 26c of the slot 14. By providing the filter member 74 in the first drainage channel 42d1, the debris can be retained inside the slot 14. The debris that has accumulated inside the slot 14 can be removed together with the filter member 74.

[0088] Since the air inlet 42c and the drainage channel 42d are formed in the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42, the air inlet 42c and the drainage channel 42d can be cleaned with the bottom cover 42 removed from the slot body 22.

[0089] Third Embodiment The battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment has a mechanism for preventing liquids such as rainwater and solid objects such as dust from entering the inside of the retention detection switch 32 .

[0090] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the hold detection switch 32 and its periphery. FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram of the hold detection switch 32. FIG. 25 shows the state in which the mobile battery 12 is held in the slot sleeve 23. For ease of viewing, FIG. 25 omits the illustration of a collar 32b and a coil spring 32e, which will be described later. FIG. 26 is a plan view of the hold detection switch 32 and its periphery. FIG. 26 is a view of the hold detection switch 32 as seen from the +Z axis direction. FIG. 26 shows the state in which a switch rubber 32d, which will be described later, has been removed. FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the electronic circuit board 66 and its periphery. For ease of viewing, FIG. 27 omits the illustration of a molding 76.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 24, the hold detection switch 32 has a switch body 32a, a collar 32b, a sealing rubber 32c, a switch rubber 32d, and a coil spring 32e.

[0092] The switch body 32a is attached to the electronic circuit board 66. The switch body 32a has a plunger 32a1. When the plunger 32a1 moves in the −Z axis direction, the hold detection switch 32 is turned on.

[0093] The collar 32b is a cylindrical member made of resin, and the switch body 32a is inserted into the inner periphery of the collar 32b.

[0094] The sealing rubber 32c has a cylindrical portion 32c1 and a flange portion 32c2. The switch body 32a, together with the collar 32b, is inserted into the inner periphery of the cylindrical portion 32c1 of the sealing rubber 32c. 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 dust from entering the interior of the retention detection switch 32 from the -Z axis direction.

[0095] The switch rubber 32d has a protrusion 32d1 in its center. The switch rubber 32d is attached to the bottom cover 42 from the +Z axis direction. The switch rubber 32d is fixed to the bottom cover 42 together with a fastener 32f by a screw (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 dust from entering the inside of the hold detection switch 32 from the +Z axis direction.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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. Then, 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.

[0098] As shown in FIGS. 25 to 27, an air vent 66a is provided in the electronic circuit board 66. The air vent 66a is a cylindrical member. As shown in FIG. 26, the air vent 66a is disposed on the inner periphery of the cylindrical portion 32c1 of the sealing rubber 32c. As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the air vent 66a is disposed in the -Y axis direction relative to the switch body 32a. As shown in FIG. 25, the +Z axis direction side of the air vent 66a is located in the -Z axis direction relative to the center of the switch body 32a in the Z axis direction. The surface on the -Z axis side of the electronic circuit board 66 is entirely covered by a molding 76. The -Z axis direction side of the air vent 66a is located in the -Z axis direction relative to the molding 76.

[0099] The ventilation hole 66a prevents negative pressure from building up inside the hold 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.

[0100] The air vent 66a is positioned further in the negative Y-axis direction than the switch body 32a. That is, the air vent 66a is positioned vertically lower than the switch body 32a. This prevents the switch body 32a from becoming wet even if liquid enters the hold detection switch 32 through the air vent 66a.

[0101] Fourth Embodiment The battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment differs from the battery exchange machine 10 of the first embodiment in the configurations of the switch actuator 64d4, the connection detection switch 64b, and the connection / disconnection detection switch 64c.

[0102] Figure 28 is a plan view of the connector unit 64. Figure 28 is a view of the connector unit 64 as seen from the -X axis direction. As shown in Figure 28, the switch actuator 64d4 has an extension portion 64d5 and an abutment portion 64d6. The extension portion 64d5 extends in the -Y axis direction from the connector holder 64d along the switch mounting surface 64a3 of the base 64a. The abutment portion 64d6 is provided at the tip of the extension portion 64d5 on the -Y axis direction side. The abutment portion 64d6 extends on both sides in the Z axis direction relative to the extension portion 64d5.

[0103] The connection detection switch 64b has a movable contact 64b1, a plunger 64b2, and a switch body 64b3. When the switch actuator 64d4 moves in the +Z-axis direction, the abutment portion 64d6 of the switch actuator 64d4 abuts against the tip 64b4 of the movable contact 64b1. The movable contact 64b1 then rotates around a fulcrum 64b5, causing the movable contact 64b1 to push the plunger 64b2. This turns on the connection detection switch 64b. As shown in FIG. 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 clockwise.

[0104] 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 abutment portion 64d6 of the switch actuator 64d4 abuts against the tip 64c4 of the movable contact 64c1. The movable contact 64c1 then rotates around a fulcrum 64c5, causing the movable contact 64c1 to push the plunger 64c2. This turns on the disconnection detection switch 64c. As shown in FIG. 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 counterclockwise.

[0105] 29A and 29B are schematic diagrams of the connection detection switch 64b and the switch actuator 64d4. Figures 29A and 29B show a state in which the switch actuator 64d4 is 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 exchange machine 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.

[0106] As described above, when the connection detection switch 64b is turned on, the connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e is connected to the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12. If the connection detection switch 64b detects that the connector 64e is connected to the connector 50 while the connector 64e is moving in a direction approaching the connector 50 of the mobile battery 12, the control unit 67 controls the motor 64f to stop the connector 64e.

[0107] Even when the connector 64e is stopped, the connector 64e may move due to inertial force, and the switch actuator 64d4 may stop at a position closer to the connection detection switch 64b than the default position.

[0108] 29A, the extension 64d5 comes into contact with the fulcrum 64b5 of the movable contact 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b. Therefore, for example, even if the fulcrum 64b5 is plastically deformed and the switch actuator 64d4 separates from the movable contact 64b1, the movable contact 64b1 may not return to its initial position.

[0109] 29B, the extension 64d5 is spaced apart from the fulcrum 64b5 of the movable contact 64b1. Therefore, when the switch actuator 64d4 moves away from the movable contact 64b1, the movable contact 64b1 can return to its initial position.

[0110] 30A and 30B are schematic diagrams of the connection detection switch 64b and the switch actuator 64d4. Figures 30A and 30B show a 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 tilting. Figure 30B shows the battery exchange machine 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.

[0111] 30B , in the battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment, even when the switch actuator 64d4 stops at a position closer to the connection detection switch 64b than the default position, the extension 64d5 can be moved away from the fulcrum 64b5 of the movable contact 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b, as compared to the comparative example in Fig. 30A . Therefore, when the switch actuator 64d4 moves away from the movable contact 64b1, the movable contact 64b1 can return to its initial position.

[0112] In the battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment, the movable contact 64c1 of the disconnection detection switch 64c can also return to its initial position, similar to the movable contact 64b1 of the connection detection switch 64b.

[0113] Fifth Embodiment In the battery exchange machine 10 of this embodiment, the shape of the bottom cover 42 is different from that of the battery exchange machine 10 of the first embodiment.

[0114] 31 is a perspective view of the slot 14. FIG. 31 shows a state in which the bottom cover assembly 34 has been removed from the slot body 22.

[0115] The bottom cover 42 has one bottom surface 42f and four side surfaces 42g, 42h, 42j, and 42k. The bottom surface 42f is rectangular when viewed from the -Z-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 31 , the side surfaces 42g, 42h, 42j, and 42k extend from each of the four edges of the bottom surface 42f in the +Z-axis direction. The position at which the slot body 22 and the bottom cover 42 are separated can be set arbitrarily.

[0116] In the above first to fifth embodiments, the slot 14 of the battery exchange machine 10 that charges the mobile battery 12 has been described. However, the slot 14 of the first to fifth embodiments may be applied to other devices.

[0117] In the first to fourth embodiments described above, the slot 14 is a device that accommodates the mobile battery 12 as an electrical device. However, the slot 14 may also accommodate a power supply device (battery power source) that has the mobile battery 12 and a power converter inside and is capable of supplying power to the outside. The slot 14 may also accommodate other electrical devices.

[0118] For example, the slot 14 may be applied to a stationary power supply installed in a house, a building, a factory, etc. The slot 14 may also be applied to a mobile body such as a vehicle, an airplane, a ship, etc. When the slot 14 is applied to a stationary power supply, a mobile body, etc., the mobile battery 12 inserted into the slot 14 is charged by the stationary power supply, the mobile body, etc., and discharges to supply power.

[0119] In the first to fifth embodiments described above, the slotted sleeve 23 covers the entirety of the held mobile battery 12. However, the slotted sleeve 23 may be a member that covers only a portion of the held mobile battery 12.

[0120] 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 direction side of the bottom cover 42. However, the connector 64e may be immovably fixed to the bottom 23a of the bottom cover 42. In this case, when the tip of the connector 64e is inserted into the connector insertion hole 42b from the -Z axis direction of the bottom 23a, the connector 64e is immovably fixed to the bottom 23a. The tip of the connector 64e is always exposed on the +Z axis direction side of the bottom cover 42.

Claims

DEPCT661. The clamp (10) which holds the electrical device (12) which is connected with the first electrical connector (50). The clamp is assembled with a clamping section (14) which is configured to hold the electrical device, a second electrical connector (64e) which is configured to be connected to the first electrical connector of the electrical device held by the clamping section, and a driving section (64f, 64f1, 64d3) which is configured to move the second electrical connector in the direction toward the first electrical connector and / or move the second electrical connector in the direction toward the first electrical connector. From the first electrical connector, where the clamping section is formed into a tubular shape with a butt section incorporating the butt section (23a) and the tubular section (23b), the clamping section incorporates the first assembly (42) incorporating the butt section and the second assembly (22) which is attached to the first assembly and incorporating the tubular section which encloses the outer perimeter of the electrical device clamped in the clamping section and the second electrical connector and the driving section which are attached to the first assembly and supported by the first assembly.2.

3. A clamp under Reputation 1 in which the second electrical connector and the drive part are arranged to be within the range of the overhang of the outer edge of the first assembly.

4. A clamp under Reputation 1 through 3 in which the first assembly is included with an overhang (64a) which is arranged to protrude from the surface of the butt opposite to the surface of that which faces the second assembly, and the second electrical connector and the drive part are attached to the overhang.

5. A clamp under Reputation 4 in which the overhang is arranged to be within the range of the overhang of the outer edge of the first assembly. 6.

7. The clamp under claim 1 through 4 is further incorporated with a brace (64d4) arranged to move as a single unit with the second electrical connector and a disconnection inspection section (64b) arranged to inspect that the first and second electrical connectors are connected on the basis of bracing against the brace when the first and second electrical connectors are connected.

8. The clamp under claim 6 in which the disconnection inspection section is arranged to be within the range of the overhang of the outer edge of the first assembly.

9. The clamp under claim 1 through 7 is further incorporated with a brace (64d4) arranged to move as a single unit with the second electrical connector and a disconnection inspection section (64c) arranged to inspect that the first and second electrical connectors are disconnected on the basis of bracing against the brace when the first and second electrical connectors are disconnected.The clamping device pursuant to claim paragraph 8, whereby the disconnection inspection portion is managed to be within the range of the overhang of the outer edge of the first assembly,10.Any of the clamps under claims 1 through 9 in which the clamping part includes a gripping sensor (32) positioned on the surface (42) of the clamping part facing the bottom surface (12b) of the electrical device, the gripping sensor is arranged to detect that the electrical device is clamped inside the clamping part on the basis of bracing against the bottom surface of the electrical device, including a recess (12g) forming a recess in the bottom surface of the clamping part, the gripping sensor is arranged in a position that causes the gripping sensor to brace against the bottom surface when the electrical device is clamped inside the clamping part while facing in the first direction, and also causes the gripping sensor to be inserted into the recess when the electrical device is clamped inside the clamping part while facing in a second direction different from the first, and the gripping sensor does not brace against the bottom surface when the electrical device is clamped inside the clamping part while facing in the second direction.11.

12. Any of the clamps under claims 1 through 11 in which the first assembly is included in the butt section of the communication path (42a, 42b, 42c, 42d) which is arranged to allow contact between the inside and outside of the clamping section.

13. Any of the clamps under claim 12 is included in the blowing section (62) which is arranged to facilitate the flow of air between the inside and outside of the clamping section, where the blowing section is attached in a position corresponding to the communication path on the surface of the butt section opposite to the surface of that which faces the second assembly and the blowing path is supported by the first assembly.

14. Any of the clamps under claim 13 in which the blowing section is arranged to be within the range of the overhang of the outer edge of the first assembly. 15.Any of the clamps under claims 1 through 14 shall be further incorporated with an electronic circuit (66) which is electrically connected to electronic devices (32, 62, 64b, 64c, 64f) mounted in the clamping section where the electronic circuit is attached to the first assembly and supported by the first assembly.

16. The clamps under claim 15 in which the electronic circuit is arranged to be within the range of the overhang of the outer edge of the first assembly;

Images