Vehicle battery swapping device and battery swapping system

Abstract

A vehicle battery swapping device and a battery swapping system. The vehicle battery swapping device is used for swapping a battery assembly (41) of a vehicle (40), and comprises: a walking chassis (10); a locking and unlocking platform (20), provided on the walking chassis (10); a suspension mechanism (50), connected to the locking and unlocking platform (20); and a lifting mechanism (30), which is provided on the walking chassis (10), connected to the locking and unlocking platform (20) by means of the suspension mechanism (50), and configured to drive the locking and unlocking platform (20) to ascend and descend.

Description

Vehicle battery replacement device and battery replacement system

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is based on the Chinese patent application with application number 202323119291.X and application date November 17, 2023, and claims its priority. The disclosed content of the Chinese patent application is hereby introduced as a whole into this application. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of vehicle battery replacement, and in particular to a vehicle battery replacement device and a battery replacement system. Background Art

[0004] Secondary batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, have the advantages of high voltage, high specific energy, long cycle life, green and pollution-free, wide operating temperature range and low self-discharge. They are widely used in the power equipment of new energy electric vehicles and are of great significance to solving human environmental pollution and energy crisis.

[0005] In order to meet the energy replenishment needs of new energy vehicles, some related technologies have established battery swap stations to replace batteries for arriving vehicles, and how to improve the adaptability of battery replacement has become one of the important issues.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle battery replacement device is provided for replacing a battery assembly of a vehicle, comprising: a walkable chassis; a locking and unlocking platform, arranged on the walkable chassis; a suspension mechanism, connected to the locking and unlocking platform; and a lifting mechanism, arranged on the walkable chassis and connected to the locking and unlocking platform through the suspension mechanism, and configured to drive the locking and unlocking platform to rise and fall.

[0008] The lifting mechanism is connected to the locking and unlocking platform through a suspension mechanism, and the lifting and lowering action of the locking and unlocking platform is realized by suspending the locking and unlocking platform. In this way, the locking and unlocking platform and the suspension mechanism can at least partially overlap in the height direction, which is beneficial to lowering the height of the vehicle battery swap device, reducing the demand for vehicle chassis height space, and improving the vehicle battery swap device's adaptability to battery swaps of different vehicle chassis heights.

[0009] In some embodiments, the suspension mechanism includes a plurality of flexible slings, a first end of each flexible sling is connected to the locking and unlocking platform, and a second end of each flexible sling is connected to the lifting mechanism.

[0010] The use of flexible slings to connect the locking and unlocking platform and the lifting mechanism can not only reduce the height of the vehicle's battery exchange device, but also enable the locking and unlocking platform to float relative to the walkable chassis, so that the lateral force can be removed when the locking and unlocking mechanism matches the locking head of the battery assembly, reducing the risk of damage to the locking and unlocking mechanism due to force caused by installation or operation errors.

[0011] In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism includes: a lifting frame connected to the second end of each flexible sling; and a lifting drive mechanism, arranged on the walkable chassis and connected to the lifting frame, configured to drive the lifting frame to rise and fall, so as to drive the locking and unlocking platform to rise and fall synchronously.

[0012] The lifting frame is connected to the second end of each flexible sling, and the flexible sling is used to suspend the unlocking platform. In this way, by driving the lifting frame to rise and fall, the unlocking platform can be raised and lowered synchronously with the lifting frame to meet the needs of the overall lifting of the battery assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the lifting frame includes: a first lifting member, a second lifting member and a connecting beam, the first lifting member and the second lifting member are arranged opposite to each other, the locking and unlocking platform is located between the first lifting member and the second lifting member, the two ends of the connecting beam are respectively fixedly connected to the first lifting member and the second lifting member, the end of the locking and unlocking platform adjacent to the first lifting member is connected to the first lifting member through the flexible sling, and the end of the locking and unlocking platform adjacent to the second lifting member is connected to the second lifting member through the flexible sling.

[0014] The two ends of the locking and unlocking platform are connected by the first lifting member and the second lifting member, and the first lifting member and the second lifting member are connected by a connecting beam, so that the lifting frame can achieve an overall lifting action and reduce the risk of overturning during the lifting process of the lifting frame.

[0015] In some embodiments, the upper side of the first lifting member and the upper side of the second lifting member have a gap, and the flexible sling is located at the solid part of the first lifting member and the second lifting member surrounding the gap at the connection point of the first lifting member and the second lifting member.

[0016] By making the flexible sling connecting the first lifting member and the second lifting member located in the solid part surrounding the gap, the flexible sling can be connected to the higher hanging points of the first lifting member and the second lifting member respectively, and the gap part can facilitate the entry of related structures for carrying the battery assembly, simplifying the loading and unloading operations of the battery assembly relative to the vehicle battery replacement device.

[0017] In some embodiments, the connecting beam has one or more weight-reducing holes arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the connecting beam.

[0018] The weight of the connecting beam is reduced by using the weight-reducing holes on the connecting beam to reduce the weight of the lifting frame, which is beneficial to reducing the overall weight of the vehicle battery exchange device.

[0019] In some embodiments, the vehicle battery replacement device includes a plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms, and the plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms are arranged at intervals along at least one direction perpendicular to the lifting direction of the locking and unlocking platforms, and the lifting frame and the plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms are connected through the plurality of flexible slings.

[0020] By setting up multiple locking and unlocking platforms arranged at intervals, the battery replacement needs of more diverse battery assembly combinations can be met, and the lifting frame and multiple locking and unlocking platforms are connected through multiple flexible slings, so that the multiple locking and unlocking platforms can be lifted and lowered synchronously by driving the lifting frame to meet the overall lifting needs of the battery assembly.

[0021] In some embodiments, the lifting frame includes a plurality of the connecting beams, and the number of the connecting beams is the same as the number of the locking and unlocking platforms, and they correspond one to one.

[0022] When each locking and unlocking platform is connected to the first lifting member and the second lifting member through multiple flexible slings, the connecting beams corresponding to each locking and unlocking platform can make the force on the lifting frame more uniform, reducing the risk of excessive deformation due to local force.

[0023] In some embodiments, the locking and unlocking platform includes: a frame structure configured to support a battery assembly to be installed or removed; and at least one locking and unlocking mechanism arranged on the frame structure for locking or unlocking the battery assembly relative to the vehicle.

[0024] Compared with the related art in which the locking and unlocking platform uses a thicker flange plate to ensure the rigidity requirement of supporting the battery assembly, this embodiment adopts a locking and unlocking platform including a frame structure with a strong load-bearing capacity to support the battery assembly and install the locking and unlocking mechanism. It can eliminate the need for the flange plate while meeting the rigidity requirement of the locking and unlocking platform, and can further reduce the overall height of the locking and unlocking platform, thereby reducing the vehicle chassis height space requirement required by the vehicle battery swap device and improving the adaptability of the vehicle battery swap device to different vehicle chassis heights.

[0025] In some embodiments, the frame structure includes: a pair of load-bearing beams, each of which has a load-bearing surface for supporting a battery assembly to be installed or removed; and a connecting beam located between the pair of load-bearing beams and fixedly connected to the pair of load-bearing beams.

[0026] The battery assembly is supported by paired load-bearing beams, and the relative positions of the paired load-bearing beams are fixed by connecting beams to improve the load-bearing capacity of the load-bearing beams.

[0027] In some embodiments, the load beam has a plurality of mounting portions, and the at least one locking and unlocking mechanism is selectively mountable in at least some of the plurality of mounting portions.

[0028] In addition to supporting the battery assembly, the load-bearing beam also provides an installation portion for the locking and unlocking mechanism, so that the locking and unlocking mechanism can be selectively installed according to the position of the locking head of the battery assembly, thereby achieving adaptability to locking and unlocking different battery assemblies.

[0029] In some embodiments, the mounting portion includes a mounting hole that passes through the load-bearing beam along a first direction, the first direction is parallel to the load-bearing surface of the load-bearing beam, and forms an angle with the extension direction of the load-bearing beam, the locking and unlocking mechanism is arranged in the mounting hole, and has an output end that protrudes upward relative to the load-bearing surface of the load-bearing beam.

[0030] The locking and unlocking mechanism is installed by passing through the mounting hole of the load-bearing beam along the first direction, and the output of the locking and unlocking mechanism is made to protrude upward, so that the locking and unlocking mechanism and the load-bearing beam partially overlap in height, thereby saving the height occupied by the locking and unlocking mechanism in the direction perpendicular to the load-bearing surface of the load-bearing beam, which is conducive to further reducing the overall height of the locking and unlocking platform, reducing the demand for vehicle chassis height space required by the vehicle battery swap device, and improving the adaptability of the vehicle battery swap device to different vehicle chassis heights.

[0031] In some embodiments, the mounting portion also includes a first positioning groove located on the side wall of the load-bearing beam, the first positioning groove is concave relative to the side wall of the load-bearing beam along the first direction, the mounting hole is located at the bottom of the first positioning groove, and part of the outer contour of the locking and unlocking mechanism is configured to be embedded in the first positioning groove when the locking and unlocking mechanism is inserted into the mounting hole.

[0032] The first positioning groove on the side wall of the load-bearing beam realizes the positioning function of the locking and unlocking mechanism when the mounting hole is installed, so as to improve the alignment degree between the output end of the locking and unlocking mechanism and the locking head of the battery.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first positioning groove extends along a vertical direction of the bearing surface of the bearing beam to at least one of the bearing surface of the bearing beam and an opposite side surface of the bearing surface.

[0034] By using at least one first positioning groove extending to the bearing surface and the side surface opposite to the bearing surface, the machining process of the first positioning groove can be simplified and the machining efficiency can be improved.

[0035] In some embodiments, the locking and unlocking mechanism includes: a right-angle reversing reducer, which is passed through the mounting hole and fixedly connected to the mounting hole; a motor, which is drive-connected to the right-angle reversing reducer and is located on the inner side of the pair of load-bearing beams; and a locking and unlocking sleeve, which is rotatably arranged in the right-angle reversing reducer and is located on the outer side of the pair of load-bearing beams; wherein, the motor extends in a direction parallel to the first direction relative to the right-angle reversing reducer, and the locking and unlocking sleeve serves as the output end of the locking and unlocking mechanism, and extends upward relative to the right-angle reversing reducer in a direction perpendicular to the load-bearing surface of the load-bearing beam.

[0036] A right-angle reversing reducer is used to connect the horizontally arranged motor and the vertically output locking and unlocking sleeve, so that the locking and unlocking sleeve can match the locking head on the battery assembly, and the battery can be locked or unlocked through the right-angle reversing reducer under the drive of the motor. Moreover, this right-angle structure occupies less height space, which is conducive to further reducing the overall height of the locking and unlocking platform, reducing the vehicle chassis height space requirement required by the vehicle battery swap device, and improving the adaptability of the vehicle battery swap device to different vehicle chassis heights.

[0037] In some embodiments, the motor comprises a servo motor.

[0038] The use of a servo motor to drive the locking and unlocking sleeve can improve the accuracy of the locking and unlocking operation and reduce the risk of locking and unlocking operation failure.

[0039] In some embodiments, the locking and unlocking mechanism also includes an elastic member, which is arranged in the right-angle reversing reducer and connected to the locking and unlocking sleeve. The locking and unlocking sleeve is configured to displace downward relative to the right-angle reversing reducer in response to a downward extrusion force and cause the elastic member to deform.

[0040] During the docking process between the locking mechanism and the battery's locking head, the locking head may not align with the locking hole at the top of the locking sleeve, preventing the locking head and the locking hole from forming an interlocking relationship. At this time, the locking sleeve is subjected to downward pressure, causing it to displace downward relative to the right-angle reversing reducer, thereby compressing the elastic member. When the motor drives the locking sleeve to rotate, the elastic member can provide a spring force to engage the locking hole when it rotates to a position aligned with the battery's locking head, thus connecting the locking sleeve and the battery's locking head, thereby further locking or unlocking the battery.

[0041] In some embodiments, the locking and unlocking platform includes multiple locking and unlocking mechanisms, and the multiple locking and unlocking mechanisms include two groups of the locking and unlocking mechanisms arranged at intervals on the paired load-bearing beams, and the two groups of the locking and unlocking mechanisms are staggered along the extension direction of the load-bearing beams.

[0042] By staggering the locking and unlocking mechanisms respectively installed on the paired load beams in the extension direction of the load beams, the risk of interference between the locking and unlocking mechanisms respectively corresponding to adjacent batteries in the battery assembly or adjacent battery assemblies can be reduced.

[0043] In some embodiments, the locking and unlocking platform further includes: a guide structure, disposed on the load-bearing beam, configured to guide the movement of the battery assembly relative to the frame structure.

[0044] By guiding the movement of the battery assembly through the guide structure on the unlocking platform, the battery assembly can be removed from or installed on the vehicle smoothly and stably.

[0045] In some embodiments, the guide structure includes: a pin seat, which is optionally arranged at at least one position on the outer side wall of the pair of load-bearing beams; and a guide pin, which is arranged on the pin seat and protrudes upward relative to the load-bearing surface of the load-bearing beam.

[0046] The pin holder's position on the outer sidewall of the load beam is selectable, allowing for adjustment based on the specific location of the guide holes in different battery assemblies, thereby meeting the guidance requirements of different battery assemblies. Furthermore, the upwardly projecting guide pins are mounted on the pin holders on the outer sidewall of the load beam, making them easy to install, remove, and replace.

[0047] In some embodiments, the load-bearing beam has a second positioning groove located on the outer side wall of the pair of load-bearing beams, the pin seat is embedded in the second positioning groove and fixedly connected to the bottom of the second positioning groove, the second positioning groove is concave relative to the side wall of the load-bearing beam along a first direction, and extends along the vertical direction of the load-bearing surface of the load-bearing beam, and the first direction is parallel to the load-bearing surface of the load-bearing beam.

[0048] The second positioning groove is used to position the pin seat, and the guide angle accuracy of the guide pin arranged on the pin seat is improved through the stable positioning of the pin seat.

[0049] In some embodiments, the frame structure includes a plurality of the connecting beams, and the pin seat is arranged opposite to an end portion of at least one of the plurality of connecting beams connected to the load-bearing beam.

[0050] The pin seat is arranged at a position opposite to the connection end of the connecting beam, so that when the guide pin or the pin seat is subjected to a lateral force, the force can be transmitted to the corresponding connecting beam, thereby improving the overall rigidity of the locking and unlocking platform.

[0051] In some embodiments, the connecting beam includes: a support plate having a bearing surface for supporting a battery assembly to be installed or removed; and a reinforcing structure fixedly connected to the support plate and at least one of the paired load beams.

[0052] The use of a supporting plate capable of supporting battery modules in the connecting beam can increase the supporting area of ​​the battery module, improve the supporting stability of the battery module, and reduce the rigidity requirements of the supporting beam, thereby reducing the requirements for the material and size of the supporting beam. The reinforcement structure can strengthen the supporting plate and reduce its deformation when supporting the battery module.

[0053] In some embodiments, the bearing surface of the support plate is flush with the bearing surface of the bearing beam.

[0054] By making the bearing surface of the support plate flush with the bearing surface of the bearing beam, the frame structure can form a larger and flatter supporting area for the battery assembly, thereby improving the stability of the battery assembly support.

[0055] In some embodiments, the frame structure includes at least three connecting beams, which are arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the load-bearing beam and enclose at least two areas arranged along the extension direction of the load-bearing beam together with the paired load-bearing beams. The locking and unlocking platform includes multiple locking and unlocking mechanisms, and part of the structure of each locking and unlocking mechanism is located in one of the at least two areas.

[0056] Multiple areas are enclosed by load-bearing beams and connecting beams to accommodate part of the structure of the locking and unlocking mechanism, so that the locking and unlocking mechanism and the frame structure partially overlap in the lateral space, which is beneficial to reducing the lateral size of the locking and unlocking platform, and further conducive to the arrangement of more locking and unlocking platforms to meet the battery replacement needs of different battery assembly combinations.

[0057] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery replacement system is provided, comprising: the aforementioned vehicle battery replacement device.

[0058] The battery replacement system using the aforementioned vehicle battery replacement device can meet a wider range of battery replacement needs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present disclosure. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the drawings without any creative work.

[0060] The present disclosure can be more clearly understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0061] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a battery swapping scenario according to some embodiments of the vehicle battery swapping device of the present disclosure;

[0062] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement device according to the present disclosure;

[0063] FIG3 is an enlarged view of the position corresponding to circle B in FIG2 ;

[0064] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of a movable chassis and a lifting mechanism in some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement device according to the present disclosure;

[0065] FIG5 is an enlarged view of the position corresponding to circle A in FIG2 ;

[0066] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of a locking and unlocking platform in some embodiments of a vehicle battery swapping device according to the present disclosure;

[0067] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of a frame structure in some embodiments of a vehicle battery swapping device according to the present disclosure;

[0068] FIG8 is a schematic structural diagram of a locking and unlocking mechanism in some embodiments of a vehicle battery swapping device according to the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG9 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the locking and unlocking mechanism in some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement device according to the present disclosure.

[0070] It should be understood that the size of each part shown in the drawings is not drawn according to the actual proportional relationship.In addition, the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar components.

[0071] Explanation of reference numerals: 10 - walkable chassis; 20 - locking and unlocking platform; 21 - frame structure; 211 - load-bearing beam; 2111 - mounting portion; 2111a - mounting hole; 2111b - first positioning groove; 2111c - second positioning groove; 2112 - load-bearing surface; 2113 - opposite side surface; 212 - connecting beam; 2121 - support plate; 2122 - reinforcement structure; 2123 - process hole; 22 - locking and unlocking mechanism; 221 - right-angle reversing reducer; 222 - motor; 223 - locking and unlocking sleeve; 224 - elastic member; 23 - guide structure; 231 - pin seat; 232 - guide pin; 30 - lifting mechanism; 31 - lifting frame; 311 - first lifting member; 312 - second lifting member; 313 - connecting beam; 3131 - Lightening hole; 31a-notch; 31b-solid part; 31c-hanging point; 32-lifting drive mechanism; 40-vehicle; 41-battery assembly; 50-suspension mechanism; 51-flexible sling; dr1-first direction; dr2-second direction; dr3-third direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] The following detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and examples. The detailed description of the following embodiments and the accompanying drawings are used to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, that is, the present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments.

[0073] In the description of the present disclosure, it should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, "multiple" means more than two; the terms "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating directions or positional relationships, are only for the convenience of describing the present disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the present disclosure. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance. "Vertical" is not strictly perpendicular, but is within the allowable error range. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but is within the allowable error range.

[0074] The directional words appearing in the following description are all directions shown in the figures and do not limit the specific structure of the present disclosure. In the description of the present disclosure, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present disclosure can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0075] The following describes some embodiments of the present invention in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the absence of conflict, the features of the following embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0076] The term “plurality” used in the present disclosure refers to two or more (including two).

[0077] The battery mentioned in the embodiments of the present disclosure refers to a single physical module including one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity.

[0078] In some embodiments, the battery may be a battery module. When there are multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells are arranged and fixed to form a battery module. The battery module may include multiple battery cells connected in series, parallel, or hybrid.

[0079] In some embodiments, the battery may be a battery pack, which includes a case and battery cells, wherein the battery cells or battery modules are housed in the case.

[0080] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery cell may be a secondary battery. A secondary battery refers to a battery cell that can be continuously used by activating active materials by charging after the battery cell is discharged.

[0081] The battery cells can be lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, sodium-lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal batteries, sodium metal batteries, lithium-sulfur batteries, magnesium-ion batteries, nickel-hydrogen batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lead-acid batteries, etc., which are not limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0082] The battery cell includes an electrode assembly. The electrode assembly includes a first electrode sheet and a second electrode sheet with opposite polarities, and also includes an isolating member disposed between the first electrode sheet and the second electrode sheet. In some embodiments, the first electrode sheet is a positive electrode sheet, and the second electrode sheet is a negative electrode sheet. In other embodiments, the first electrode sheet is a negative electrode sheet, and the second electrode sheet is a positive electrode sheet. During the charge and discharge process of the battery cell, active ions (such as lithium ions) are embedded and extracted back and forth between the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet. The isolating member is disposed between the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet, which can prevent the positive and negative electrodes from short-circuiting, while allowing active ions to pass through.

[0083] In some embodiments, the positive electrode sheet may include a positive electrode current collector substrate and a positive electrode active material layer disposed on at least one surface of the positive electrode current collector substrate.

[0084] As an example, the positive electrode current collector substrate has two surfaces facing each other in its thickness direction, and the positive electrode active material layer is provided on either or both of the two facing surfaces of the positive electrode current collector substrate.

[0085] As an example, the positive electrode current collector substrate can be a metal foil or a composite current collector. For example, as the metal foil, aluminum or stainless steel with a silver surface treatment, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, carbon electrode, carbon, nickel or titanium, etc. can be used. The composite current collector may include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. The composite current collector can be formed by placing a metal material (aluminum, aluminum alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, silver and silver alloy, etc.) on a polymer material substrate (such as a substrate of polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, etc.).

[0086] As an example, the positive electrode active material layer may include at least one of the following materials: lithium-containing phosphates, lithium transition metal oxides, and their respective modified compounds. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these materials, and other traditional materials that can be used as battery positive electrode active material layers may also be used. These positive electrode active material layers may use only one type alone, or two or more types may be used in combination. Examples of lithium-containing phosphates may include, but are not limited to, at least one of lithium iron phosphate, a composite material of lithium iron phosphate and carbon, lithium manganese phosphate, a composite material of lithium manganese phosphate and carbon, lithium iron manganese phosphate, and a composite material of lithium iron manganese phosphate and carbon. Examples of lithium transition metal oxides may include, but are not limited to, at least one of lithium cobalt oxide, lithium nickel oxide, lithium manganese oxide, lithium nickel cobalt oxide, lithium manganese cobalt oxide, lithium nickel manganese oxide, lithium nickel cobalt manganese oxide, lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide, and their modified compounds.

[0087] In some embodiments, the negative electrode sheet may include a negative electrode current collector substrate.

[0088] As an example, the negative electrode current collector substrate can be a metal foil, a foamed metal, or a composite current collector. For example, as the metal foil, aluminum or stainless steel treated with silver, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, carbon electrode, carbon, nickel, or titanium can be used. The foamed metal can be nickel foam, copper foam, aluminum foam, alloy foam, or carbon foam. The composite current collector can include a polymer material base layer and a metal layer. The composite current collector can be formed by placing a metal material (copper, copper alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, titanium, titanium alloy, silver, and silver alloy, etc.) on a polymer material substrate (such as a substrate of polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, polystyrene, polyethylene, etc.).

[0089] In some embodiments, the negative electrode sheet may include a negative electrode current collector substrate and a negative electrode active material layer disposed on at least one surface of the negative electrode current collector substrate.

[0090] As an example, the negative electrode current collector substrate has two surfaces facing each other in its thickness direction, and the negative electrode active material layer is provided on either or both of the two facing surfaces of the negative electrode current collector substrate.

[0091] As an example, the negative electrode active material layer may adopt the negative electrode active material layer for battery cells that is well known in the art. As an example, the negative electrode active material layer may include at least one of the following materials: artificial graphite, natural graphite, soft carbon, hard carbon, silicon-based materials, tin-based materials, lithium titanate, etc. The silicon-based material may be selected from at least one of elemental silicon, silicon oxide compounds, silicon-carbon composites, silicon-nitrogen composites, and silicon alloys. The tin-based material may be selected from at least one of elemental tin, tin oxide compounds, and tin alloys. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these materials, and other traditional materials that can be used as negative electrode active material layers for batteries may also be used. These negative electrode active material layers may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0092] In some embodiments, the material of the positive electrode current collector substrate may be aluminum, and the material of the negative electrode current collector substrate may be copper.

[0093] In some embodiments, the separator is a separator. The present disclosure has no particular limitation on the type of separator, and any known separator with a porous structure having good chemical stability and mechanical stability can be selected.

[0094] As an example, the primary material of the separator can be selected from at least one of glass fiber, non-woven fabric, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, and ceramic. The separator can be a single-layer film or a multi-layer composite film, without particular limitation. When the separator is a multi-layer composite film, the materials of each layer can be the same or different, without particular limitation. The separator can be a separate component located between the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet, or it can be located between the positive electrode sheet and the negative electrode sheet and attached to the surface of the positive electrode sheet and / or the surface of the negative electrode sheet.

[0095] In some embodiments, the separator is a solid electrolyte, which is disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and serves to transport ions and isolate the positive and negative electrodes.

[0096] In some embodiments, the battery cell further includes an electrolyte, which acts as a conductor of ions between the positive and negative electrodes. This disclosure does not specifically limit the type of electrolyte, and the electrolyte may be selected based on needs. The electrolyte may be liquid, gel, or solid.

[0097] As an example, the liquid electrolyte includes an electrolyte salt and a solvent.

[0098] In some embodiments, the electrolyte salt may be selected from at least one of lithium hexafluorophosphate, lithium tetrafluoroborate, lithium perchlorate, lithium hexafluoroarsenate, lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate, lithium difluorophosphate, lithium difluorooxalatoborate, lithium dioxalatoborate, lithium difluorodioxalatophosphate, and lithium tetrafluorooxalatophosphate.

[0099] In some embodiments, the solvent can be selected from at least one of ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, ethyl methyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, dipropyl carbonate, methylpropyl carbonate, ethylpropyl carbonate, butylene carbonate, fluoroethylene carbonate, methyl formate, methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, methyl propionate, ethyl propionate, propyl propionate, methyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, 1,4-butyrolactone, cyclopentane, dimethyl sulfone, methyl ethyl sulfone and diethyl sulfone. The solvent can also be an ether solvent. Ether solvents can include one or more of ethylene glycol dimethyl ether, ethylene glycol diethyl ether, diethylene glycol dimethyl ether, triethylene glycol dimethyl ether, tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether, 1,3-dioxolane, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, diphenyl ether and crown ether.

[0100] As an example, a gel electrolyte includes a polymer as an electrolyte skeleton network, combined with an ionic liquid-lithium salt.

[0101] As examples, the solid electrolyte includes a polymer solid electrolyte, an inorganic solid electrolyte, and a composite solid electrolyte.

[0102] As an example, the polymer solid electrolyte may be polyether (polyethylene oxide), polysiloxane, polycarbonate, polyacrylonitrile, polyvinylidene fluoride, polymethyl methacrylate, a single ion polymer, polyionic liquid-lithium salt, cellulose, or the like.

[0103] As an example, the inorganic solid electrolyte can be an oxide solid electrolyte (crystalline perovskite, sodium superconducting ion conductor, garnet, amorphous LiPON film), a sulfide solid electrolyte (crystalline lithium superion conductor (lithium germanium phosphosulfide, silver germanium sulfide), amorphous sulfide) and one or more of a halide solid electrolyte, a nitride solid electrolyte and a hydride solid electrolyte.

[0104] As an example, a composite solid electrolyte is formed by adding an inorganic solid electrolyte filler to a polymer solid electrolyte.

[0105] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly comprises a wound structure. A positive electrode sheet, a negative electrode sheet, and a separator are wound into the wound structure. One or more positive and negative electrode sheets may be provided. For example, multiple positive and negative electrode sheets may be arranged alternately along the thickness of the sheet.

[0106] In some embodiments, the shape of the electrode assembly can be cylindrical, flat, or polygonal.

[0107] In some embodiments, the positive electrode sheet includes a positive electrode tab, and the negative electrode sheet includes a negative electrode tab. The positive and negative electrode tabs can be used to conduct current from the electrode assembly. The positive and negative electrode tabs are connected to the positive and negative current collector substrates, respectively. The tabs can be formed by cutting or trimming the current collector substrate, or by welding them to the sides of the current collector substrate.

[0108] In some embodiments, a battery cell may include a housing. The housing is used to encapsulate components such as the electrode assembly and the electrolyte. The housing may be a steel housing, an aluminum housing, a plastic housing (e.g., polypropylene), a composite metal housing (e.g., a copper-aluminum composite housing), or an aluminum-plastic film.

[0109] As an example, the battery cells may be cylindrical, prismatic, soft-pack or other shaped battery cells. Prismatic battery cells include square-shell, blade-shaped, and polygonal batteries. Polygonal batteries may be, for example, hexagonal batteries.

[0110] In some related technologies, battery packs for battery-swappable new energy vehicles are replaced at battery swap stations. Some battery swap stations use battery swap robots to enter the space under the vehicle to install and remove batteries. The locking and unlocking mechanism in the battery swap robot is installed on a single flange plate. In addition to mounting the locking and unlocking mechanism, the flange plate is also used to support the battery pack to be installed or removed. In order to obtain sufficient rigidity, the flange plate needs to have a certain thickness, which makes the entire battery swap robot relatively tall, making it difficult to apply to battery-swappable vehicles with a lower chassis.

[0111] In view of this, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicle battery replacement device and a battery replacement system, which can improve the adaptability of vehicle battery replacement.

[0112] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle battery replacement device is provided for replacing a battery assembly of a vehicle, comprising: a walkable chassis; a locking and unlocking platform, arranged on the walkable chassis; a suspension mechanism, connected to the locking and unlocking platform; and a lifting mechanism, arranged on the walkable chassis and connected to the locking and unlocking platform through the suspension mechanism, and configured to drive the locking and unlocking platform to rise and fall.

[0113] The lifting mechanism is connected to the locking and unlocking platform through a suspension mechanism, and the lifting and lowering action of the locking and unlocking platform is realized by suspending the locking and unlocking platform. In this way, the locking and unlocking platform and the suspension mechanism can at least partially overlap in the height direction, which is beneficial to lowering the height of the vehicle battery swap device, reducing the demand for vehicle chassis height space, and improving the vehicle battery swap device's adaptability to battery swaps of different vehicle chassis heights.

[0114] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a battery swapping scenario according to some embodiments of the vehicle battery swapping device disclosed herein. Referring to Figure 1 , in some embodiments of the vehicle battery swapping device, vehicle 40 can be a fuel-powered vehicle, a gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. The new energy vehicle can be a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid electric vehicle, and the vehicle can be a household vehicle or a commercial vehicle. A battery assembly 41 can be disposed at the bottom of vehicle 40.

[0115] The vehicle battery swap device can remove the battery assembly 41 installed on the vehicle 40 at the bottom of the vehicle 40, and can also install the battery assembly 41 on the vehicle 40 at the bottom of the vehicle 40. The vehicle battery swap device can enter the height space H formed between the bottom of the vehicle 40 and the support surface G. The support surface G can be the ground of the battery swap station or the surface of the battery swap platform.

[0116] The battery assembly 41 can be used to power the vehicle 40. For example, the battery assembly 41 can serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 40 and can be used for the circuit system of the vehicle 40, such as the power requirements for starting, navigating, and operating the vehicle 40. The battery assembly 41 can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle 40, but can also serve as the driving power source for the vehicle 40, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving force for the vehicle 40.

[0117] Vehicle 40 may also be equipped with axles, wheels, a motor, and a controller. The controller is used to control the power supplied to the motor by the battery assembly 41. For example, when vehicle 40 is powered by the battery assembly 41, the battery assembly 41 replaces or partially replaces fuel or natural gas to provide the motor with the power required for constant speed and acceleration. The motor is used to drive the axles, which in turn drives the wheels.

[0118] Battery assembly 41 may include one or more batteries. Different battery assemblies may have different batteries in at least one of their size, shape, specifications, quantity, and location. In addition to the batteries, battery assembly 41 may also include a frame structure for securing the batteries.

[0119] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement device according to the present disclosure.

[0120] 1 and 2 , an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a vehicle battery replacement device for replacing a battery assembly 41 of a vehicle 40. The vehicle battery replacement device includes: a walkable chassis 10, a locking and unlocking platform 20, a suspension mechanism 50, and a lifting mechanism 30. The locking and unlocking platform 20 is provided on the walkable chassis 10. The suspension mechanism 50 is connected to the locking and unlocking platform 20. The lifting mechanism 30 is provided on the walkable chassis 10 and is connected to the locking and unlocking platform 20 through the suspension mechanism, and is configured to drive the locking and unlocking platform 20 to rise and fall.

[0121] The lifting mechanism 30 is connected to the locking and unlocking platform 20 through the suspension mechanism 50, and the lifting and lowering action of the locking and unlocking platform 20 is realized by suspending the locking and unlocking platform 20. In this way, the locking and unlocking platform 20 and the suspension mechanism 50 can at least partially overlap in the height direction, which is beneficial to lowering the height of the vehicle battery swap device, reducing the demand for vehicle chassis height space, and improving the vehicle battery swap device's adaptability to battery swaps of different vehicle chassis heights.

[0122] In this embodiment, the walkable chassis 10 can be moved on the support surface G by a walking mechanism. Specifically, the walking mechanism can adopt rollers that can move on a plane or rail wheels that can move on a rail.

[0123] The locking and unlocking platform 20 is used to mount the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 and support the new battery assembly to be replaced or the old battery assembly to be removed. The lifting mechanism 30 is used to drive the locking and unlocking platform 20 up and down, thereby docking, locking, or unlocking the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 with the battery assembly 41, and to raise or lower the height of the battery assembly supported by the locking and unlocking platform 20 by raising or lowering the locking and unlocking platform 20.

[0124] The suspension mechanism 50 exerts an upward pull on the locking / unlocking platform 20, thereby driving the lifting and lowering of the locking / unlocking platform 20 in a suspended manner. This allows the connection point between the locking / unlocking platform 20 and the suspension mechanism 50 to be positioned lower, allowing the locking / unlocking platform 20 to be driven and raised within a lower height range. This also reduces the overall height of the vehicle battery swapping device, thereby reducing the required height space under the vehicle chassis. For vehicles with different chassis heights, the vehicle battery swapping device of this embodiment has a lower overall height, thus meeting the battery swapping needs of vehicles with a variety of chassis heights.

[0125] FIG3 is an enlarged view of the position corresponding to circle B in FIG2 . Referring to FIG2 and FIG3 , in some embodiments, the suspension mechanism 50 includes a plurality of flexible slings 51 , each of which has a first end connected to the locking and unlocking platform 20 and a second end connected to the lifting mechanism 30 .

[0126] The flexible sling 24 may include a rope or a chain, and when a heavy object is hung, the heavy object is lower than the hanging point under the action of gravity. The flexible sling 51 is used to achieve the connection between the locking and unlocking platform 20 and the lifting mechanism 30, which not only reduces the height of the vehicle battery replacement device, but also enables the flexible sling 51 to achieve the floating of the locking and unlocking platform 20 relative to the walkable chassis 10, so that when the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 matches the locking head of the battery assembly 41, the lateral force can be removed, reducing the risk of damage to the locking and unlocking mechanism due to force caused by installation or operation errors. In other embodiments, the suspension mechanism 50 may also include a guide pulley to guide the flexible sling 51. In this case, the guide pulley may be higher than the locking and unlocking platform 20 to which the flexible sling 24 is connected, and the hanging point is also allowed to be set at a lower position.

[0127] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the installation structure of the movable chassis and the lifting mechanism in some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement device according to the present disclosure. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the position corresponding to circle A in Figure 2.

[0128] With reference to Figures 2-5, in some embodiments, the lifting mechanism 30 includes a lifting frame 31 and a lifting drive mechanism 32. The lifting frame 31 is connected to the second end of each flexible sling 51. The lifting drive mechanism 32 is disposed on the walkable chassis 10 and is drivingly connected to the lifting frame 31. The lifting drive mechanism 32 is configured to drive the lifting frame 31 upward and downward, thereby synchronously raising and lowering the locking and unlocking platform 20.

[0129] The lifting frame 31 is connected to the second end of each flexible sling 51, and the flexible sling 51 is used to suspend the locking and unlocking platform 20. In this way, by driving the lifting frame 31 to rise and fall, the locking and unlocking platform 20 can be raised and lowered synchronously with the lifting frame 31 to meet the needs of the overall lifting of the battery assembly.

[0130] In Figure 2, four corners of each of the multiple locking and unlocking platforms 20 are connected to a flexible sling 51, and each flexible sling 51 is connected to the lifting frame 31, so that the overall lifting of the lifting frame 31 can drive the synchronous lifting of each locking and unlocking platform 20.

[0131] The lifting drive mechanism 32 may adopt the mechanism shown in FIG5 , which drives the lifting frame 31 to be raised or lowered by a chain. The operation of the chain may be driven by a drive element such as a motor or a cylinder. The lifting drive mechanism 32 may also adopt other drive forms, such as using an electric push rod or a cylinder to drive the lifting frame 31 to be raised or lowered.

[0132] Referring to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the lifting frame 31 includes: a first lifting member 311, a second lifting member 312 and a connecting beam 313, the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312 are arranged opposite to each other, the locking and unlocking platform 20 is located between the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312, the two ends of the connecting beam 313 are fixedly connected to the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312 respectively, the end of the locking and unlocking platform 20 adjacent to the first lifting member 311 is connected to the first lifting member 311 through the flexible sling 51, and the end of the locking and unlocking platform 20 adjacent to the second lifting member 312 is connected to the second lifting member 312 through the flexible sling 51.

[0133] In Figure 3 , the first and second lifting members 311, 312 each have multiple suspension points 31c for connecting to flexible slings 24, thereby suspending each locking and unlocking platform 20. The first and second lifting members 311, 312 connect the two ends of the locking and unlocking platform 20, and are connected by a connecting beam 313. This allows the lifting frame 31 to achieve an integrated lifting motion, reducing the risk of the lifting frame flipping during the lifting process.

[0134] Referring to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the upper side of the first lifting member 311 and the upper side of the second lifting member 312 have a gap 31a, and the flexible sling 51 is located at the connection point between the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312, and the solid part 31b of the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312 surrounds the gap 31a.

[0135] By connecting the flexible sling 51 to the solid part 31b of the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312 surrounding the gap 31a, the flexible sling 51 can be connected to the higher hanging points 31c of the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312 respectively, and the gap 31a can facilitate the entry of related structures for carrying the battery assembly, simplifying the loading and unloading operations of the battery assembly relative to the vehicle battery replacement device.

[0136] 4 , in some embodiments, the connecting beam 313 has one or more weight-reducing holes 3131 arranged at intervals along the extending direction of the connecting beam 313 .

[0137] The weight of the connecting beam 313 is reduced by using the weight-reducing holes 3131 on the connecting beam 313 , so as to reduce the weight of the lifting frame 31 , thereby facilitating the reduction of the overall weight of the vehicle battery exchange device.

[0138] In Figure 4, the size of the middle section of the connecting beam 313 in the length direction in the third direction dr3 may be larger than the sizes of other sections adjacent to the two side ends in the third direction dr3 to increase its rigidity. When setting the weight-reducing holes 313, the weight-reducing holes 313 with larger sizes than those in other sections may be set in the middle section to reduce weight to a greater extent.

[0139] Referring to Figures 2 to 4, in some embodiments, the vehicle battery exchange device includes a plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms 20, and the plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms 20 are arranged at intervals along at least one direction perpendicular to the lifting direction of the locking and unlocking platforms 20, and the lifting frame 31 is connected to the plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms 20 through the plurality of flexible slings.

[0140] In Figure 2, the vehicle battery swapping device includes three locking and unlocking platforms 20, which are spaced apart along a first direction dr1. By providing multiple locking and unlocking platforms 20, the battery swapping needs of a wider variety of battery assembly 41 combinations can be met. In other embodiments, the vehicle battery swapping device may include only one locking and unlocking platform 20.

[0141] By setting up multiple locking and unlocking platforms 20 arranged at intervals, the battery replacement needs of more diverse battery assembly combinations can be met, and the lifting frame 31 and the multiple locking and unlocking platforms 20 are connected through multiple flexible slings 51, so that the multiple locking and unlocking platforms 20 can be lifted and lowered synchronously by driving the lifting frame 31 to meet the needs of overall lifting of the battery assembly.

[0142] 2 and 4 , in some embodiments, the lifting frame 31 includes a plurality of connecting beams 313 , and the number of the connecting beams 313 is the same as the number of the locking and unlocking platforms 20 , and the number of the connecting beams 313 corresponds to the number of the locking and unlocking platforms 20 .

[0143] When each locking and unlocking platform 20 is connected to the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312 through multiple flexible slings, the connecting beam 313 corresponding to each locking and unlocking platform 20 can make the force on the lifting frame 31 more uniform, reducing the risk of excessive deformation due to local force.

[0144] Figure 6 is a structural diagram of the locking and unlocking platform in some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement device according to the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 6, in some embodiments, the locking and unlocking platform 20 includes: a frame structure 21 and at least one locking and unlocking mechanism 22. The frame structure 21 is configured to support the battery assembly 41 to be installed or removed. At least one locking and unlocking mechanism 22 is provided on the frame structure 21 for realizing locking or unlocking of the battery assembly 41 relative to the vehicle 40.

[0145] Compared to related art designs in which the locking and unlocking platform 20 relies on thick flange plates to ensure the rigidity required to support the battery assembly 41, this embodiment utilizes a locking and unlocking platform 20 comprising a frame structure 21 with a strong load-bearing capacity to support the battery assembly 41 and install the locking and unlocking mechanism 22. This eliminates the need for flange plates while still meeting the rigidity requirements of the locking and unlocking platform 20, reducing the overall height of the locking and unlocking platform 20. This reduces the required height space under the vehicle 40 chassis required by the vehicle battery swapping device and improves the adaptability of the vehicle battery swapping device to battery swapping on vehicles with different chassis heights. Furthermore, the frame structure 21 provides ample space for installation and removal of the frame structure and related components, making installation and removal more convenient.

[0146] The frame structure 21 is a support structure formed by connecting a plurality of beams, and the connection methods may include welding, riveting or bolting, and may also include pin connection and other methods.

[0147] Figure 7 is a structural diagram of the frame structure in some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement device according to the present disclosure. Referring to Figures 6 and 7, in some embodiments, the frame structure 21 includes a pair of load-bearing beams 211 and a connecting beam 212. In the pair of load-bearing beams 211, the load-bearing beams 211 have a load-bearing surface 2112 for supporting the battery assembly 41 to be installed or removed. The connecting beam 212 is located between the pair of load-bearing beams 211 and is fixedly connected to the pair of load-bearing beams 211.

[0148] The pair of load beams 211 can be a pair of load beams 211, multiple pairs of load beams 211, or at least two adjacent groups of load beams 211 in the multiple load beams 211. The connecting beam 212 is used to connect the pair of load beams 211 so that the pair of load beams 211 and the connecting beam 212 form an integral structure.

[0149] In this embodiment, the pair of load beams 211 are used to support the battery assembly 41, and the connecting beams 212 are used to fix the relative positions of the pair of load beams 211 and improve the load-bearing capacity of the load beams 211. In addition, this frame structure 21 is also lighter in weight.

[0150] 7 , in some embodiments, the load beam 211 has a plurality of mounting portions 2111 , and the at least one locking and unlocking mechanism 22 is selectively installable in at least some of the plurality of mounting portions 2111 .

[0151] In addition to supporting the battery assembly 41 , the load-bearing beam 211 also provides an installation portion 2111 for the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 , so that the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 can be selectively installed according to the position of the locking head of the battery assembly 41 , thereby achieving adaptability to locking and unlocking different battery assemblies 41 .

[0152] In Figures 6 and 7, it can be seen that the load beam 211 is provided with multiple mounting portions 211, some of which are already equipped with the locking and unlocking mechanisms 22, while others are not. The location of the locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 within these mounting portions 211 can be determined based on the specific circumstances of the battery assembly 41. For example, the location of the locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 can be determined based on the size, dimensions, and composition of the battery assembly 41, as well as the relative position of the locking head, to meet the battery replacement requirements of different battery assemblies 41 relative to the vehicle 40.

[0153] Referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the mounting portion 2111 includes a mounting hole 2111a that penetrates the load-bearing beam 211 along a first direction dr1, the first direction dr1 is parallel to the load-bearing surface 2112 of the load-bearing beam 211, and forms an angle with the extension direction of the load-bearing beam 211, the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 is arranged in the mounting hole 2111a, and has an output end that protrudes upward relative to the load-bearing surface 2112 of the load-bearing beam 211.

[0154] In Figures 2, 6, and 7, a first direction dr1 is parallel to the bearing surface 2112 of the bearing beam 211 and forms an angle with the extension direction of the bearing beam 211. This angle can be 90°, or other angles greater or less than 90°. A second direction dr2 is parallel to the extension direction of the bearing beam 211, and a third direction dr3 is perpendicular to the bearing surface 2112 of the bearing beam 211.

[0155] The locking and unlocking mechanism 22 is installed by passing through the mounting hole 2111a of the load-bearing beam 211 along the first direction dr1, and the output of the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 protrudes upward, so that the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 partially overlaps with the load-bearing beam 211 in height, thereby saving the height occupied by the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 in the direction perpendicular to the load-bearing surface 2112 of the load-bearing beam 211, which is beneficial to further reduce the overall height of the locking and unlocking platform 20, reduce the requirement for the vehicle 40 chassis height space required by the vehicle battery swap device, and improve the battery swap adaptability of the vehicle battery swap device to different vehicle 40 chassis heights.

[0156] Referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the mounting portion 2111 also includes a first positioning groove 2111b located on the side wall of the load-bearing beam 211, and the first positioning groove 2111b is concave relative to the side wall of the load-bearing beam 211 along the first direction dr1. The mounting hole 2111a is located at the bottom of the first positioning groove 2111b, and a portion of the outer contour of the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 is configured to be embedded in the first positioning groove 2111b when the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 is inserted into the mounting hole 2111a.

[0157] Part of the outer contour of the locking and unlocking structure 22 can be inserted into the first positioning groove 2111b and contact the inner sidewall of the first positioning groove 2111b to achieve a snap-fitting effect. The locking and unlocking structure 22 can be positioned and secured together by the first positioning groove 2111b and the mounting hole 2111a. The first positioning groove 2111b on the sidewall of the load beam 211 locates the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 during installation in the mounting hole 2111a, thereby improving the alignment between the output end of the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 and the locking head of the battery.

[0158] 7 , in some embodiments, the first positioning groove 2111 b extends along a vertical direction of the bearing surface 2112 of the bearing beam 211 to at least one of the bearing surface 2112 of the bearing beam 211 and an opposite side surface 2113 of the bearing surface 2112 .

[0159] In Figure 7, it can be seen that the first positioning groove 2111b extends upward to the bearing surface 2112 and downward to the opposite side surface 2113. For the first positioning groove 2111b that extends to at least one of the bearing surface 2112 and the opposite side surface 2113 of the bearing surface 2112, the first positioning groove can be machined along the third direction dr3 from the bearing surface 2112 or the opposite side surface 2113. This helps to simplify the machining process of the first positioning groove 2111b and improve machining efficiency.

[0160] Referring to Figure 6, in some embodiments, the locking and unlocking platform 20 includes a plurality of locking and unlocking mechanisms 22, and the plurality of locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 include two groups of the locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 arranged at intervals on the paired load-bearing beams 211, and the two groups of the locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 are staggered along the extension direction of the load-bearing beams 211.

[0161] In Figure 6, two sets of locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 are mounted on two load-bearing beams 211 of a frame structure 21. Each set of locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 includes multiple locking and unlocking mechanisms, and each locking and unlocking mechanism is separated from other locking and unlocking mechanisms on the same load-bearing beam 211 in the second direction dr2 and staggered from locking and unlocking mechanisms on adjacent load-bearing beams 211.

[0162] In this way, by staggering the locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 respectively installed on the paired load-bearing beams 211 in the extension direction of the load-bearing beams 211, the risk of interference between the locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 corresponding to adjacent batteries in the battery assembly 41 or adjacent battery assemblies 41 can be reduced.

[0163] 6 , in some embodiments, the locking and unlocking platform 20 further includes a guide structure 23 . The guide structure 23 is disposed on the load-bearing beam 211 and is configured to guide the movement of the battery assembly 41 relative to the frame structure 21 .

[0164] By guiding the movement of the battery assembly 41 through the guide structure 23 on the unlocking platform 20 , the battery assembly 41 can be smoothly and stably removed from or installed on the vehicle 40 .

[0165] 6 , in some embodiments, the guide structure 23 includes a pin seat 231 and a guide pin 232. The pin seat 231 can be selectively disposed at at least one location on the outer sidewalls of the pair of load beams 211. The guide pin 232 is disposed on the pin seat 231 and protrudes upward relative to the load bearing surface 2112 of the load beam 211.

[0166] The upwardly protruding guide pin 232 is installed by a pin holder 231 provided on the outer side wall of the load-bearing beam 211, which allows for convenient loading, unloading, and replacement of the guide pin 232. The location of the pin holder 231 on the outer side wall of the load-bearing beam 211 is optional, so that it can be adjusted accordingly according to the specific location of the guide holes of different battery assemblies 41, thereby meeting the guidance requirements of different battery assemblies 41. In terms of quantity, one or more pin holders 231 can be provided. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, each of the two load-bearing beams 211 of the guide structure 23 is provided with a pin holder 231, and the pin holders 231 are staggered in the second direction dr2.

[0167] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, in some embodiments, the load-bearing beam 211 has a second positioning groove 2111c located on the outer side wall of the pair of load-bearing beams 211, and the pin seat 231 is embedded in the second positioning groove 2111c and fixedly connected to the bottom of the second positioning groove 2111c. The second positioning groove 2111c is concave relative to the side wall of the load-bearing beam 211 along the first direction dr1, and extends in a direction perpendicular to the load-bearing surface 2112 of the load-bearing beam 211.

[0168] The second positioning groove 2111 c is used to position the pin seat 231 , and the guide angle accuracy of the guide pin provided on the pin seat is improved through the stable positioning of the pin seat 231 .

[0169] 6 , in some embodiments, the frame structure 21 includes a plurality of the connecting beams 212 , and the pin seat 231 is disposed opposite to an end portion of at least one of the plurality of connecting beams 212 connected to the load-bearing beam 211 .

[0170] The pin seat 231 is arranged at a position opposite to the connection end of the connecting beam 212, so that the force can be transmitted to the corresponding connecting beam 212 when the guide pin 232 or the pin seat 231 is subjected to a lateral force, thereby improving the overall rigidity of the locking and unlocking platform 20.

[0171] In Figure 7, it can be seen that each second positioning groove 2111c is located at a position on the load-bearing beam corresponding to the two ends of part of the connecting beam 212. When the pin seat 231 is installed in the second positioning groove 2111c, the lateral contact between the second positioning groove 2111c and the pin seat 231 helps to transmit the lateral force exerted on the guide pin 232 or the pin seat 231 to the load-bearing beam, thereby further improving the overall stiffness of the locking and unlocking platform 20.

[0172] 6 and 7 , in some embodiments, the connecting beam 212 includes a support plate 2121 and a reinforcement structure 2122. The support plate 2121 has a bearing surface 2121a for supporting a battery assembly 41 to be installed or removed. The reinforcement structure 2122 is fixedly connected to the support plate 2121 and at least one of the paired load-bearing beams 211.

[0173] The reinforcement structure 2122 may include reinforcing ribs and may be located on the underside of the support plate 2121. Using a support plate 2121 capable of supporting the battery assembly 41 as the connecting beam 212 can increase the supporting area of ​​the battery assembly 41, improve the supporting stability of the battery assembly 41, and reduce the stiffness requirements of the load-bearing beam 211, thereby reducing the material and size requirements for the load-bearing beam 211. The reinforcement structure 2122 can strengthen the support plate 2121, reducing deformation of the support plate 2121 when supporting the battery assembly 41.

[0174] In some embodiments, the bearing surface 2121 a of the support plate 2121 is flush with the bearing surface 2112 of the bearing beam 211 .

[0175] By making the bearing surface 2121a of the support plate 2121 flush with the bearing surface 2112 of the bearing beam 211 , the frame structure 21 can form a larger and flatter supporting area for the battery assembly 41 , thereby improving the stability of the support of the battery assembly 41 .

[0176] Referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the frame structure 21 includes at least three connecting beams 212, which are arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the load-bearing beam 211, and together with the paired load-bearing beams 211, enclose at least two areas arranged along the extension direction of the load-bearing beam 211. The locking and unlocking platform 20 includes multiple locking and unlocking mechanisms 22, and part of the structure of each locking and unlocking mechanism 22 is located in one of the at least two areas.

[0177] In Figure 7 , the four connecting beams 212 and the two supporting beams 211 enclose three areas A1, A2, and A3, arranged along the extension direction of the supporting beams 211. In Figure 6 , it can be seen that the four locking and unlocking mechanisms 22, mounted on the supporting beam segments corresponding to each area, are partially located within that area and staggered to avoid interference, thus effectively utilizing space.

[0178] Multiple areas A1, A2, and A3 are enclosed by the load-bearing beam 211 and the connecting beam 212 to accommodate part of the structure of the locking and unlocking mechanism 22, so that the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 partially overlaps with the frame structure 21 in the horizontal space, which is beneficial to reducing the horizontal size of the locking and unlocking platform 20, and further beneficial to arranging more locking and unlocking platforms 20 to meet the battery replacement needs of different combinations of battery assemblies 41.

[0179] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the locking and unlocking mechanism in some embodiments of the vehicle battery swapping device according to the present disclosure. Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram of the locking and unlocking mechanism in some embodiments of the vehicle battery swapping device according to the present disclosure.

[0180] With reference to Figures 8 and 9, in some embodiments, the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 includes a right-angle reversing reducer 221, a motor 222, and a locking and unlocking sleeve 223. The right-angle reversing reducer 221 is disposed through and fixedly connected to the mounting hole 2111a. The motor 222 is drivingly connected to the right-angle reversing reducer 221 and is located inside the pair of load beams 211. The locking and unlocking sleeve 223 is rotatably disposed within the right-angle reversing reducer 221 and is located outside the pair of load beams 211. The motor 222 extends relative to the right-angle reversing reducer 221 in a direction parallel to the first direction dr1. The locking and unlocking sleeve 223 serves as the output end of the locking and unlocking mechanism 22, extending upward relative to the right-angle reversing reducer 221 in a direction perpendicular to the load surface 2112 of the load beam 211.

[0181] A right-angle reversing reducer 221 is used to connect the horizontally arranged motor 222 and the vertically output locking and unlocking sleeve 223, so that the locking and unlocking sleeve 223 can match the locking head on the battery assembly 41, and the battery can be locked or unlocked through the right-angle reversing reducer 221 under the drive of the motor 222. Moreover, this right-angle structure occupies less height space, which is conducive to further reducing the overall height of the locking and unlocking platform 20, reducing the required height space of the vehicle 40 chassis required by the vehicle battery replacement device, and improving the adaptability of the vehicle battery replacement device to different vehicle 40 chassis heights.

[0182] In some embodiments, the motor 222 comprises a servo motor.

[0183] The use of a servo motor to drive the locking and unlocking sleeve 223 can improve the accuracy of the locking and unlocking operation and reduce the risk of failure of the locking and unlocking operation.

[0184] Referring to Figure 9, in some embodiments, the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 also includes an elastic member 224, which is arranged in the right-angle reversing reducer 221 and connected to the locking and unlocking sleeve 223. The locking and unlocking sleeve 223 is configured to move downward relative to the right-angle reversing reducer 221 in response to a downward extrusion force, and cause the elastic member 224 to deform.

[0185] During the docking process between the locking and unlocking mechanism 22 and the battery's locking head, the locking head may not reach the matching position with the locking hole at the top of the locking and unlocking sleeve 223, and thus cannot form an interlocking relationship between the locking head and the locking hole. At this time, the locking and unlocking sleeve 223 is subjected to a downward extrusion force, causing it to move downward relative to the right-angle reversing reducer 221, thereby compressing the elastic member 224. When the motor 222 drives the locking and unlocking sleeve 223 to rotate, the elastic member 224 can provide an elastic force to engage the locking hole when the locking hole rotates to a position aligned with the battery's locking head, thereby connecting the locking and unlocking sleeve 223 with the battery's locking head, thereby further realizing locking or unlocking the battery.

[0186] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a battery replacement system is provided, comprising the vehicle battery replacement device of any of the aforementioned embodiments. A battery replacement system using the aforementioned vehicle battery replacement device can meet a wider range of battery replacement needs.

[0187] In some specific embodiments, as shown in Figures 2-9, a vehicle battery swapping device includes: a walkable chassis 10, multiple locking and unlocking platforms 20, a suspension mechanism 50, and a lifting mechanism 30. The multiple locking and unlocking platforms 20 are disposed on the walkable chassis 10 and arranged along a first direction dr1. The lifting mechanism 30 is disposed on the walkable chassis 10 and connected to the frame structure 21 of each locking and unlocking platform 20 via multiple flexible slings 51 to drive the locking and unlocking platforms 20 to rise and fall.

[0188] For each locking and unlocking platform 20, multiple locking and unlocking mechanisms 22 are provided on the frame structure 21 for locking or unlocking the battery assembly 41 relative to the vehicle 40. The frame structure 21 includes two load-bearing beams 211 and multiple connecting beams 212 positioned between the two load-bearing beams 211. The load-bearing beams 211 are provided with multiple mounting holes 2111a extending through the load-bearing beams 211 along a first direction dr1. Each locking and unlocking mechanism 22 extends transversely through the mounting holes 2111a, with one portion positioned within the area enclosed by the load-bearing beams 211 and the connecting beams 212 and staggered relative to one another. The other portion is provided with a locking and unlocking sleeve 223 and extends upward in a direction perpendicular to the load-bearing surface 2112 of the load-bearing beams 211.

[0189] The load beam 211 is further provided with a first positioning groove 2111b and a second positioning groove 2111c, which are respectively used to fix and position the unlocking mechanism 22 and the pin holder 231. The pin holder 231 is provided with a guide pin for guiding the movement of the battery assembly 41 relative to the frame structure 21.

[0190] The lifting mechanism 30 includes a lifting frame 31 and a lifting drive mechanism 32. The lifting frame 31 includes a first lifting member 311, a second lifting member 312, and a plurality of connecting beams 313. The first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312 are arranged opposite each other, and the plurality of locking and unlocking platforms 20 are located between the first lifting member 311 and the second lifting member 312. One end of the plurality of connecting beams 313 is fixedly connected to the first lifting member 311, and the other end is fixedly connected to the second lifting member 312. The frame structure 21 of the plurality of locking and unlocking platforms 20 is connected to the first lifting member 311 at one end adjacent to the first lifting member 311 via a flexible sling 24, and the frame structure 21 of the plurality of locking and unlocking platforms 20 is connected to the second lifting member 312 at one end adjacent to the second lifting member 312 via a flexible sling 24.

[0191] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications may be made thereto and equivalent components may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In particular, the various technical features described in the various embodiments may be combined in any manner, provided no structural conflicts exist. The present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but encompasses all technical solutions within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle battery replacement device, used for replacing a battery assembly (41) of a vehicle (40), comprising: A walkable chassis (10); A locking and unlocking platform (20) is arranged on the walkable chassis (10); A suspension mechanism (50) connected to the locking and unlocking platform (20); and A lifting mechanism (30) is arranged on the walkable chassis (10) and is connected to the locking and unlocking platform (20) via the suspension mechanism (50), and is configured to drive the locking and unlocking platform (20) to rise and fall.

2. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 1, wherein: The suspension mechanism (50) comprises a plurality of flexible slings (51), the first end of each flexible sling (51) being connected to the locking and unlocking platform (20), and the second end of each flexible sling (51) being connected to the lifting mechanism (30).

3. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 2, wherein: The lifting mechanism (30) comprises: A lifting frame (31) connected to the second end of each flexible sling (51); and A lifting drive mechanism (32) is arranged on the walkable chassis (10) and is drivingly connected to the lifting frame (31), and is configured to drive the lifting frame (31) to rise and fall, thereby driving the locking and unlocking platform (20) to rise and fall synchronously.

4. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 3, wherein: The lifting frame (31) comprises: a first lifting member (311), a second lifting member (312) and a connecting beam (313); the first lifting member (311) and the second lifting member (312) are arranged opposite to each other; the locking and unlocking platform (20) is located between the first lifting member (311) and the second lifting member (312); two ends of the connecting beam (313) are respectively fixedly connected to the first lifting member (311) and the second lifting member (312); one end of the locking and unlocking platform (20) adjacent to the first lifting member (311) is connected to the first lifting member (311) through the flexible sling (51); and one end of the locking and unlocking platform (20) adjacent to the second lifting member (312) is connected to the second lifting member (312) through the flexible sling (51).

5. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 4, wherein: The upper side of the first lifting member (311) and the upper side of the second lifting member (312) are provided with a notch (31a), and the flexible sling (51) is located at the connection point between the first lifting member (311) and the second lifting member (312) at the solid part (31b) of the first lifting member (311) and the second lifting member (312) surrounding the notch (31a).

6. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The connecting beam (313) has one or more weight-reducing holes (3131) arranged at intervals along the extending direction of the connecting beam (313).

7. The vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein: The vehicle battery replacement device comprises a plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms (20), wherein the plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms (20) are arranged at intervals along at least one direction perpendicular to the lifting direction of the locking and unlocking platforms (20), and the lifting frame (31) is connected to the plurality of the locking and unlocking platforms (20) via the plurality of flexible slings.

8. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 7, wherein: The lifting frame (31) comprises a plurality of connecting beams (313), and the number of the connecting beams (313) is the same as the number of the locking and unlocking platforms (20), and they correspond one to one.

9. The vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The locking and unlocking platform (20) comprises: A frame structure (21) configured to support a battery assembly (41) to be installed or removed; and At least one locking and unlocking mechanism (22) is arranged on the frame structure (21) and is used to achieve locking or unlocking of the battery assembly (41) relative to the vehicle (40).

10. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 9, wherein: The frame structure (21) comprises: A pair of load beams (211), the load beams (211) having a load surface (2112) for supporting a battery assembly (41) to be installed or removed; and The connecting beam (212) is located between the pair of load-bearing beams (211) and is fixedly connected to the pair of load-bearing beams (211).

11. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 10, wherein: The load-bearing beam (211) has a plurality of mounting portions (2111), and the at least one locking and unlocking mechanism (22) is selectively installed in at least some of the plurality of mounting portions (2111).

12. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 11, wherein: The mounting portion (2111) comprises a mounting hole (2111a) penetrating the load-bearing beam (211) along a first direction (dr1), the first direction (dr1) being parallel to a load-bearing surface (2112) of the load-bearing beam (211) and forming an angle with an extension direction of the load-bearing beam (211), the locking and unlocking mechanism (22) being passed through the mounting hole (2111a) and having an output end protruding upward relative to the load-bearing surface (2112) of the load-bearing beam (211).

13. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 12, wherein: The mounting portion (2111) further comprises a first positioning groove (2111b) located on a side wall of the load-bearing beam (211), wherein the first positioning groove (2111b) is recessed relative to the side wall of the load-bearing beam (211) along the first direction (dr1), and the mounting hole (2111a) is located at the bottom of the first positioning groove (2111b), and a portion of the outer contour of the locking and unlocking mechanism (22) is configured to be embedded in the first positioning groove (2111b) when the locking and unlocking mechanism (22) is inserted into the mounting hole (2111a).

14. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 13, wherein: The first positioning groove (2111b) extends along a vertical direction of the bearing surface (2112) of the bearing beam (211) to at least one of the bearing surface (2112) of the bearing beam (211) and an opposite side surface (2113) of the bearing surface (2112).

15. The vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein: The locking and unlocking mechanism (22) comprises: A right-angle reversing reducer (221) is passed through the mounting hole (2111a) and fixedly connected to the mounting hole (2111a); A motor (222) is drivingly connected to the right-angle reversing reducer (221) and is located inside the pair of load-bearing beams (211); and A locking and unlocking sleeve (223) is rotatably arranged in the right-angle reversing reducer (221) and is located outside the paired load-bearing beams (211); The motor (222) extends in a direction parallel to the first direction (dr1) relative to the right-angle reversing reducer (221), and the locking and unlocking sleeve (223) serves as an output end of the locking and unlocking mechanism (22), and extends upward in a direction perpendicular to the bearing surface (2112) of the bearing beam (211) relative to the right-angle reversing reducer (221).

16. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 15, wherein: The motor (222) comprises a servo motor.

17. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The locking and unlocking mechanism (22) further comprises an elastic member (224), wherein the elastic member (224) is arranged in the right-angle reversing reducer (221) and is connected to the locking and unlocking sleeve (223), wherein the locking and unlocking sleeve (223) is configured to be displaced downward relative to the right-angle reversing reducer (221) in response to a downward extrusion force, and to deform the elastic member (224).

18. The vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein: The locking and unlocking platform (20) comprises a plurality of locking and unlocking mechanisms (22), the plurality of locking and unlocking mechanisms (22) comprising two groups of locking and unlocking mechanisms (22) arranged at intervals on the paired load-bearing beams (211), the two groups of locking and unlocking mechanisms (22) being staggered along the extension direction of the load-bearing beams (211).

19. The vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 10 to 18, wherein: The locking and unlocking platform (20) further comprises: A guide structure (23) is disposed on the load-bearing beam (211) and is configured to guide the battery assembly (41) Movement relative to the frame structure (21).

20. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 19, wherein: The guide structure (23) comprises: A pin seat (231) is selectively disposed at at least one position on the outer side wall of the pair of load beams (211); and A guide pin (232) is arranged on the pin seat (231) and protrudes upward relative to the bearing surface (2112) of the bearing beam (211).

21. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 20, wherein: The load-bearing beam (211) has a second positioning groove (2111c) located on the outer side wall of the pair of load-bearing beams (211); the pin seat (231) is embedded in the second positioning groove (2111c) and fixedly connected to the groove bottom of the second positioning groove (2111c); the second positioning groove (2111c) is concave relative to the side wall of the load-bearing beam (211) along a first direction (dr1) and extends along a direction perpendicular to the load-bearing surface (2112) of the load-bearing beam (211); the first direction (dr1) is parallel to the load-bearing surface (2112) of the load-bearing beam (211).

22. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 20 or 21, wherein: The frame structure (21) comprises a plurality of connecting beams (212), and the pin seat (231) is arranged opposite to an end portion of at least one of the plurality of connecting beams (212) connected to the load-bearing beam (211).

23. The vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 10 to 22, wherein: The connection beam (212) comprises: A support plate (2121) having a bearing surface (2121a) for supporting a battery assembly (41) to be installed or removed; and A reinforcing structure (2122) is fixedly connected to the support plate (2121) and at least one of the paired load-bearing beams (211).

24. The vehicle battery replacement device according to claim 23, wherein: The bearing surface (2121a) of the support plate (2121) is flush with the bearing surface (2112) of the bearing beam (211).

25. The vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 10 to 24, wherein: The frame structure (21) comprises at least three connecting beams (212), the at least three connecting beams (212) are arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the load-bearing beam (211), and together with the paired load-bearing beams (211), enclose at least two areas (A1, A2, A3) arranged along the extension direction of the load-bearing beam (211), and the locking and unlocking platform (20) comprises a plurality of locking and unlocking mechanisms (22), and a partial structure of each locking and unlocking mechanism (22) is located in one of the at least two areas (A1, A2, A3).

26. A battery replacement system, comprising: A vehicle battery replacement device according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

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