Vehicle battery-swapping positioning device, battery-swapping system, and battery-swapping method

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a vehicle battery-swapping positioning device, a battery-swapping system, and a battery-swapping method. The vehicle battery-swapping positioning device comprises: a limiting component (1), comprising a first recess (11), wherein the first recess (11) extends in a first direction (x) and is used for accommodating front wheels (102) of a vehicle (101), and the first direction (x) is the axial direction of the front wheels (102); and first driving mechanisms (2), configured to drive the limiting component (1) to move in a second direction (y) so as to adjust the positioning position of the limiting component (1) during battery swapping of the vehicle (101), wherein the second direction (y) is perpendicular to the first direction (x), and the second direction (y) is the traveling direction of the vehicle (101).

Description

Vehicle battery replacement positioning device, battery replacement system and battery replacement method Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This disclosure is based on the Chinese application with application number 202410268601.4 and application date March 8, 2024, and claims its priority. The disclosed content of the above-mentioned Chinese application is hereby introduced into this disclosure as a whole. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the field of vehicle battery replacement, and in particular to a vehicle battery replacement positioning device, a battery replacement system and a battery replacement method. Background Art

[0003] Due to limited battery capacity, electric vehicles require battery replacement to maintain long-range operation. Currently, some vehicles are lifted to replace batteries, while others, due to their weight, are more suitable for trench replacement. When using trench replacement, how to adapt the trench to meet the battery replacement needs of different types of vehicles is a pressing issue. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this application is to improve the compatibility of vehicle battery replacement positioning devices.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present application, a vehicle battery replacement positioning device is provided, comprising:

[0006] a limiting component, comprising a first groove, the first groove extending along a first direction and being used to accommodate a front wheel of the vehicle, the first direction being an axial direction of the front wheel; and

[0007] The first driving mechanism is configured to drive the limiting component to move along the second direction to adjust the positioning position of the limiting component when the vehicle is changing batteries. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction and is the direction of vehicle travel.

[0008] This embodiment drives the limiting component to move along the second direction through the first driving mechanism, and can automatically adjust the positioning position of the limiting component along the second direction when the vehicle replaces the battery, meet the positioning requirements of vehicles with different wheelbases, and improve the compatibility of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the positioning position is configured to be determined based on a first distance between a battery compartment of the vehicle and an axis of a front wheel along a second direction.

[0010] This embodiment determines the positioning position according to the first distance between the battery compartment of the vehicle and the axis of the front wheel along the second direction to meet the positioning requirements of different vehicles during battery replacement and improve the positioning accuracy.

[0011] In some embodiments, a second groove is provided on the base surface where the vehicle is located, and the second groove is configured to provide a battery replacement operation space. The safe operating distance between the front of the battery compartment and the wall of the second groove along the second direction is a second distance, and the positioning position is configured to be determined based on the first distance and the second distance.

[0012] This embodiment can realize chassis battery replacement by setting a second groove on the base surface where the vehicle is located; by determining the positioning position of the limiting component according to the first distance and the second distance, it can improve the positioning accuracy during vehicle battery replacement, meet the positioning requirements of different vehicles, and improve the compatibility of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device.

[0013] In some embodiments, two first driving mechanisms are provided, and the two first driving mechanisms are spaced apart along the first direction and are respectively used to drive the two ends of the limiting component along the first direction.

[0014] This embodiment drives the two ends of the limiting component along the first direction respectively by two first driving mechanisms spaced apart along the first direction, which can increase the smoothness of the movement of the limiting component, make the two ends of the limiting component move synchronously, improve the movement accuracy of the limiting component, and further improve the positioning accuracy of the vehicle during battery replacement.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first drive mechanism comprises:

[0016] A chain transmission mechanism, including a chain;

[0017] A first connecting member connected between the chain and the limiting member; and

[0018] The first power component is configured to drive the chain transmission mechanism to move.

[0019] In this embodiment, the first power component drives the chain transmission mechanism to move, thereby causing the chain to drive the limiting component to move along the second direction, thereby improving the smoothness and stability of the movement of the limiting component.

[0020] In some embodiments, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device also includes: a second driving mechanism, configured to drive the limiting component to move along a third direction, so as to lift the limiting component away from the initial height position when the position of the limiting component along the second direction needs to be adjusted, and to return the limiting component to the initial height position when battery replacement positioning is required. The third direction is perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction.

[0021] This embodiment raises the limiting component through the second driving mechanism, which can avoid friction between the limiting component and the base surface when it is necessary to adjust the position of the limiting component along the second direction, thereby improving the smoothness of the movement of the limiting component, and returning to the initial position after the position of the limiting component is adjusted to fix its position, so as to reliably position the front wheel.

[0022] In some embodiments, the second drive mechanism comprises:

[0023] A wedge-shaped block includes a guide surface, and the guide surface includes an inclined surface segment;

[0024] A second connecting member extending along the first direction, with a first end connected to the limiting member;

[0025] a rolling member disposed at the second end of the second connecting member, the rolling member being configured to move relatively along the inclined surface segment; and

[0026] The second power component is configured to drive the wedge block to move along the second direction so as to move the rolling element along the inclined surface segment.

[0027] This embodiment cooperates with the wedge block and the rolling element to convert the movement output by the second power component along the second direction into smooth movement of the limiting component along the third direction, thereby improving the stability and accuracy of the movement of the limiting component along the third direction; the use of the inclined surface during the lifting process can reduce the energy consumption of the second power component, and the use of the inclined surface and gravity during the lowering process can enable the limiting component to descend smoothly.

[0028] In some embodiments, the second driving mechanism further comprises:

[0029] A moving block extends along the second direction, and the moving block is provided with a through hole;

[0030] The second driving mechanism is arranged on a side of the moving block away from the limiting component along the first direction, and the second connecting member is connected to the rolling member through the through hole and is movable in the through hole along the third direction.

[0031] In this embodiment, the through hole on the moving block has a guiding function. When the second power component drives the wedge block to move and the rolling member moves, the through hole guides the second connecting member to move up and down, thereby driving the moving block and the limiting member connected to the second connecting member to move only up and down; moreover, the through hole has a limiting function, and the dimensions of the second connecting member and the through hole in the second direction are adapted. In the process of the first driving mechanism driving the limiting member to move along the second direction, it can prevent the second connecting member or the rolling member and the wedge block from shifting in position along the second direction, thereby improving the stability of the movement of the limiting member, improving the movement accuracy of the limiting member, and thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the vehicle during battery replacement.

[0032] In some embodiments, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device further includes a guide assembly, which includes:

[0033] a guide rail extending along the second direction; and

[0034] The guide wheel is provided at the bottom of the moving block and is configured to cooperate with the guide rail.

[0035] This embodiment provides a guide wheel at the bottom of the moving block and cooperates with the guide rail to improve the smoothness and stability of the moving block, prevent the moving block from deviating from the second direction during movement, and thus improve the accuracy of the moving position of the limiting component.

[0036] In some embodiments, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device further includes:

[0037] a rack extending in the second direction; and

[0038] The supporting component is connected between the limiting component and the first driving mechanism. The supporting component has fixed teeth, and the fixed teeth are configured to engage with the rack when the battery is replaced and positioned to limit the movement of the limiting component along the second direction.

[0039] This embodiment can fix the limiting component in the positioning position by engaging the fixed tooth with the rack when the battery is positioned, preventing the limiting component from moving in the second direction during the battery replacement process, and preventing the battery replacement accuracy and safety from being affected by the accidental movement of the vehicle; when it is necessary to adjust the position of the limiting component along the second direction, the fixed tooth and the rack can also be easily disengaged.

[0040] In some embodiments, the support member comprises:

[0041] a vertical plate extending along the second direction, the vertical plate being connected to one end of the limiting component along the first direction; and

[0042] The fixing plate is arranged on the side of the vertical plate away from the limiting component, and fixing teeth are provided on the fixing plate.

[0043] In this embodiment, the vertical plate is connected to the limiting component, and an additional fixed plate is provided to cooperate with the rack. The rack can be arranged on the outside of the vertical plate along the first direction without affecting the movement of the limiting component. Moreover, after the fixed tooth is engaged with the rack, the bottom surface of the vertical plate can be located below the top surface of the rack, which is conducive to making the bottom surface of the limiting component fall on the base surface to provide stable support for the vehicle.

[0044] In some embodiments, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device also includes a guide assembly, which includes a guide rail extending along the second direction. The guide rail is used to provide guidance for the movement of the limiting component. The guide rail is spaced apart from the rack and is located on the side of the rack away from the limiting component.

[0045] This embodiment arranges the guide rail on the side of the rack away from the limiting component, so that the guide assembly, the second drive mechanism and the first drive mechanism can all be located at a position further outward from the limiting component. There is ample space to arrange the guide assembly and the drive mechanism, which can optimize the spatial layout of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first driving mechanism includes a chain transmission mechanism, the chain transmission mechanism includes a chain, and the rack tooth pitch is an integer multiple of the chain pitch.

[0047] This example makes the rack pitch an integer multiple of the chain pitch, which makes it easier for the chain rotation to be transmitted to the supporting component, and the fixed teeth and rack to match accurately when the vertical plate falls, thereby improving the smoothness of the engagement of the fixed teeth and rack and improving the operator's user experience.

[0048] According to a second aspect of the present application, a vehicle battery swapping system is provided, comprising the vehicle battery swapping positioning device of the above embodiment.

[0049] The vehicle battery swapping system of this embodiment drives the limiting component to move along the second direction through the first driving mechanism, and can adjust the positioning position of the limiting component along the second direction when the vehicle is swapping batteries, meet the positioning requirements of vehicles with different wheelbases, and improve the compatibility of the vehicle battery swapping system.

[0050] According to a third aspect of the present application, a vehicle battery replacement method based on the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the above embodiment is provided, comprising:

[0051] Obtain the positioning position of the limiting component;

[0052] The limiting component is moved to a positioning position along the second direction by the first driving mechanism;

[0053] The vehicle is advanced until the front wheels are located in the first groove to perform battery replacement on the vehicle.

[0054] The vehicle battery replacement method of this embodiment obtains the positioning position of the limiting component and moves the limiting component to the positioning position along the second direction, so that the front wheel is located in the first groove and then the battery of the vehicle is replaced. This can meet the positioning requirements of vehicles with different wheelbases and improve the compatibility of vehicle battery replacement.

[0055] In some embodiments, a second groove is provided on the base surface on which the vehicle is located, and the second groove is configured to provide a battery replacement operation space. Obtaining the positioning position of the limiting component includes:

[0056] Obtaining a first distance between a battery compartment of the vehicle and an axis of a front wheel along a second direction;

[0057] Obtaining a second distance between the front of the battery compartment and the wall of the second groove along the second direction;

[0058] The positioning position is determined according to the first distance and the second distance.

[0059] This embodiment obtains the first distance and the second distance to determine the positioning position, which can improve the positioning accuracy when the vehicle is changing batteries, meet the positioning requirements of different vehicles, and improve the compatibility of vehicle battery replacement. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the drawings without creative work.

[0061] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of some embodiments of the vehicle and vehicle battery replacement system of the present application.

[0062] FIG2 is a partial structural diagram of some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the present application.

[0063] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of the state of some embodiments of the present application in which the vehicle is at a positioning position.

[0064] Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the present application in which the fixed teeth are disengaged from the rack.

[0065] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of some embodiments of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the present application in which the fixed teeth and the rack are engaged.

[0066] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of some embodiments of the rack of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the present application.

[0067] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of some embodiments of the chain of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the present application.

[0068] In the drawings, the drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0069] Marking Description:

[0070] 1. Limiting member; 11. First groove; 2. First driving mechanism; 211. Chain; 212. First connecting member; 213. First power member; 22. Second driving mechanism; 221. Wedge block; 221A. Inclined section; 221B. Plane section; 222. Second connecting member; 223. Rolling member; 224. Second power member; 225. Moving block; 226. Through hole; 23. Guide assembly; 231. Guide rail; 232. Guide wheel; 3. Support member; 32. Rack; 311. Vertical plate; 312. Fixed plate; 313. Fixed tooth; 4. Second groove;

[0071] 101. Vehicle; 102. Front wheel; 103. Battery compartment; 104. Front axle; x, first direction; y, second direction; z, third direction; L1, first distance; L2, second distance; L3, third distance; L4, fourth distance; L5, fifth distance; L6, sixth distance; L7, seventh distance. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

[0073] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the term "multiple" refers to more than two (including two). Similarly, "multiple groups" refers to more than two groups (including two groups), and "multiple pieces" refers to more than two pieces (including two pieces).

[0074] This application uses descriptions of directions or positional relationships such as "up", "down", "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "inside" and "outside" to facilitate the description of this application, and does not indicate or imply that the device referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Therefore, it should not be understood as limiting the scope of protection of this application.

[0075] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. "Perpendicular" does not strictly refer to perpendicularity, but rather to the tolerances allowed. "Parallel" does not strictly refer to parallelism, but rather to the tolerances allowed. The directional terms used in the following description refer to the directions shown in the figures and are not intended to limit the specific structure of this application.

[0076] It should also be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediary. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0077] References herein to "embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least some embodiments of the present application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it constitute an independent or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments. It is understood, both explicitly and implicitly, by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0078] Batteries are widely used in electric vehicles such as vehicles. Due to the limited capacity of batteries, the power supply time is limited, so the batteries need to be replaced during long-distance operation.

[0079] In conventional battery swap stations, for heavier vehicles, such as heavy truck chassis, it's not practical to lift them up for battery swapping. Instead, a trench is created on the ground to provide space for battery swapping. Once a vehicle enters the battery swapping area, its front wheels need to cross the trench, and positioning grooves on the base surface guide the vehicle into the desired position.

[0080] However, vehicles with different wheelbases require different positioning positions, and fixed positioning grooves can only be used for vehicles with the same wheelbase, making battery replacement less versatile.

[0081] Based on the above problems, the present application provides a vehicle battery replacement positioning device that can meet the positioning requirements of vehicles with different wheelbases and improve the compatibility of vehicle battery replacement positioning.

[0082] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 to 7, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the present application includes: a limiting component 1, including a first groove 11, the first groove 11 extends along a first direction x and is used to accommodate the front wheel 102 of the vehicle 101, the first direction x is the axial direction of the front wheel 102; and a first driving mechanism 2, configured to drive the limiting component 1 to move along the second direction y to adjust the positioning position of the limiting component 1 when the vehicle 101 replaces the battery, the second direction y is perpendicular to the first direction x, and the second direction y is the direction of travel of the vehicle 101.

[0083] The vehicle 101 also includes a battery compartment 103 and a front axle 104. In the length direction of the vehicle 101, the front wheel 102 is located in front of the battery compartment 103, and the rear wheel is located behind the battery compartment 103. The front axle 104 extends along the first direction x, and the two front wheels 102 are spaced apart at both ends of the front axle 104 along the first direction x.

[0084] First groove 11 is a positioning groove. The second direction y is aligned with the length of vehicle 101. Along the second direction y, the height of first groove 11 in the middle region is lower than the height of first groove 11 at both ends. Positioning member 1 is disposed on a base surface. Front wheel 102 of vehicle 101 is positioned within first groove 11, while rear wheels of vehicle 101 are positioned on the base surface. The base surface can be, for example, the ground or a platform accessible to vehicle 101.

[0085] This embodiment drives the limiting component 1 to move along the second direction y through the first driving mechanism 2, and can automatically adjust the positioning position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y when the vehicle is changing batteries, so as to meet the positioning requirements of vehicles with different wheelbases and improve the compatibility of the vehicle battery changing positioning device.

[0086] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 , the positioning position is configured to be determined according to a first distance L1 between the battery compartment 103 of the vehicle 101 and the axis of the front wheel 102 along the second direction y.

[0087] The first distance L1 between the battery compartment 103 and the axis of the front wheel 102 along the second direction y, that is, the distance between the battery compartment 103 and the front axle 104 along the second direction y, or the distance between the front end surface of the battery compartment 103 and the axis of the front wheel 102 or the axis of the front axle 104 along the second direction y.

[0088] This embodiment determines the positioning position according to the first distance L1 between the battery compartment 103 of the vehicle 101 and the axis of the front wheel 102 along the second direction y to meet the positioning requirements of different vehicles 101 during battery replacement and improve the positioning accuracy.

[0089] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1, a second groove 4 is provided on the base surface where the vehicle 101 is located. The second groove 4 is configured to provide a battery replacement operation space. The safe operating distance between the front of the battery compartment 103 and the wall of the second groove 4 along the second direction y is a second distance L2, and the positioning position is configured to be determined based on the first distance L1 and the second distance L2.

[0090] The main portion of the second groove 4 is located below the base surface and is also referred to as a ground groove. When determining the positioning position, the third distance L3 used to characterize the positioning position is the distance between the axis of the front wheel 102 and the front inner wall of the second groove 4 along the second direction y. Third distance L3 = first distance L1 - second distance L2. This determines the position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y. The length of the second groove 4 along the second direction y is the fourth distance L4, and the length of the battery compartment 103 along the second direction y is the fifth distance L5.

[0091] The depth of the second groove 4 needs to meet the operating space required for battery replacement. During battery replacement, automated equipment can enter the second groove 4 to perform the battery replacement operation, such as a rail-guided vehicle (RGV) or a robot.

[0092] Optionally, as shown in FIG3 , the safe operating distance between the rear of the battery compartment 103 and the rear wall of the second groove 4 along the second direction y is also the second distance L2 .

[0093] This embodiment can realize chassis battery replacement by setting a second groove 4 on the base surface where the vehicle 101 is located; by determining the positioning position of the limiting component 1 according to the first distance L1 and the second distance L2, it can improve the positioning accuracy during vehicle battery replacement, meet the positioning requirements of different vehicles, and improve the compatibility of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device.

[0094] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 , two first driving mechanisms 2 are provided. The two first driving mechanisms 2 are spaced apart along the first direction x and are respectively used to drive the two ends of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x.

[0095] This embodiment drives the two ends of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x respectively by two first driving mechanisms 2 arranged at intervals along the first direction x, which can increase the smoothness of the movement of the limiting component 1, make the two ends of the limiting component 1 move synchronously, improve the movement accuracy of the limiting component 1, and further improve the positioning accuracy during vehicle battery replacement.

[0096] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 7 , the first driving mechanism 2 includes:

[0097] A chain transmission mechanism, comprising a chain 211;

[0098] A first connecting member 212 is connected between the chain 211 and the limiting member 1; and

[0099] The first power component 213 is configured to drive the chain transmission mechanism to move.

[0100] The chain 211 extends as a whole along the second direction y, and the first power component 213 drives the chain transmission mechanism to move, so that the chain moves along the second direction y, and then drives the limiting component 1 to move along the second direction y through the first connecting member 212.

[0101] Optionally, the first power component 213 may be an electric motor or a hydraulic motor.

[0102] In this embodiment, the first power component 213 drives the chain transmission mechanism to move, thereby causing the chain 211 to drive the limiting component 1 to move along the second direction y, thereby improving the smoothness and stability of the movement of the limiting component 1.

[0103] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device also includes: a second driving mechanism 22, which is configured to drive the limiting component 1 to move along the third direction z, so as to lift the limiting component 1 away from the initial height position when the position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y needs to be adjusted, and to return the limiting component 1 to the initial height position when battery replacement positioning is required. The third direction z is perpendicular to the first direction x and the second direction y.

[0104] The initial height position of the limiting component 1 is the height position of the base surface, for example, z=0.

[0105] This embodiment raises the limiting component 1 through the second driving mechanism 22, and can avoid friction between the limiting component 1 and the base surface when it is necessary to adjust the position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y, thereby improving the smoothness of the movement of the limiting component 1, and returning to the initial position after the position of the limiting component 1 is adjusted to fix its position, so as to reliably position the front wheel 102.

[0106] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the second driving mechanism 22 includes:

[0107] The wedge-shaped block 221 includes a guide surface, and the guide surface includes an inclined surface segment 221A;

[0108] The second connecting member 222 extends along the first direction x, and a first end thereof is connected to the limiting member 1;

[0109] a rolling member 223 disposed at the second end of the second connecting member 222, the rolling member 223 being configured to move relatively along the inclined surface segment 221A; and

[0110] The second power component 224 is configured to drive the wedge block 221 to move along the second direction y, so that the rolling element 223 moves along the inclined surface segment 221A.

[0111] The second power component 224 drives the wedge block 221 to move along the second direction y, so that the second connecting member 222 moves along the third direction z during the movement of the rolling member 223 along the inclined surface segment 221A, thereby realizing the movement of the limiting component 1 along the third direction z.

[0112] When it is necessary to lift the limiting component 1, the output end of the second power component 224 extends, driving the wedge block 221 to move in the second direction y, so that the rolling element 223 moves upward along the inclined surface segment 221A. Optionally, the guide surface may further include a flat segment 221B, one end of which is horizontally connected to the top of the inclined surface segment 221A and the other end extends toward the second power component 224, so as to facilitate the position maintenance of the rolling element 223 after it rises along the inclined surface segment 221A to the flat segment 221B.

[0113] When the limiting component 1 needs to be lowered, the output end of the second power component 224 is shortened, driving the wedge block 221 to move along the second direction y, so that the rolling element 223 moves downward along the inclined surface section 221A. The second power component 224 is a push rod mechanism, such as an electric push rod, a cylinder, or a hydraulic cylinder.

[0114] Optionally, in the second direction y, the second power component 224 can be provided at the end of the wedge block 221 away from the second groove 4, or at the end of the wedge block 221 close to the second groove 4. Optionally, the second connecting member 222 can be restricted to move only in the third direction z by a vertically extending long hole.

[0115] This embodiment cooperates with the wedge block 221 and the rolling element 223 to convert the movement output by the second power component 224 along the second direction y into a smooth movement of the limiting component 1 along the third direction z, thereby improving the stability and accuracy of the movement of the limiting component 1 along the third direction z; the use of the inclined surface during the lifting process can reduce the energy consumption of the second power component 224, and the use of the inclined surface and gravity during the lowering process can enable the limiting component 1 to descend smoothly.

[0116] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1 , two second driving mechanisms 22 are provided. The two second driving mechanisms 22 are spaced apart along the first direction x and are respectively used to drive the two ends of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x to move along the third direction z.

[0117] This embodiment drives the two ends of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x respectively by two second driving mechanisms 22 spaced apart along the first direction x, which can increase the smoothness of the movement of the limiting component 1 along the third direction z, and make the two ends of the limiting component 1 rise or fall synchronously, so that when the position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y needs to be adjusted, the limiting component 1 can be reliably disengaged from the base surface, thereby smoothly adjusting the position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y, and reliably cooperating with the base surface after the position of the limiting component 1 is adjusted, preventing the limiting component 1 from moving during the process of the front wheel 102 entering the first groove 11, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the vehicle during battery replacement.

[0118] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the second driving mechanism 22 further includes:

[0119] The moving block 225 extends along the second direction y, and the moving block 225 is provided with a through hole 226;

[0120] The second driving mechanism 22 is arranged on a side of the moving block 225 away from the limiting component 1 along the first direction x. The second connecting member 222 passes through the through hole 226 and is connected to the rolling member 223 and is movable in the through hole 226 along the third direction z.

[0121] The movable block 225 may be a long plate-like structure extending along the second direction y, such as a rectangular plate-like structure, with its thickness aligned with the first direction x. The movable block 225 may be used to secure the second drive mechanism 22, the wedge block 221, the second power component 224, and the first connector 212.

[0122] In this embodiment, the through hole 226 on the moving block 225 has a guiding function. When the second power component 224 drives the wedge block 221 to move and the rolling member 223 moves, the through hole 226 guides the second connecting member 222 to move up and down, thereby driving the moving block 225 and the limiting component 1 connected to the second connecting member 222 to move only up and down; moreover, the through hole 226 has a limiting function, and the dimensions of the second connecting member 222 and the through hole 226 in the second direction y are adapted. In the process of the first driving mechanism 2 driving the limiting component 1 to move along the second direction y, it can prevent the second connecting member 222 or the rolling member 223 and the wedge block 221 from positional displacement along the second direction y, thereby improving the stability of the movement of the limiting component 1, improving the movement accuracy of the limiting component 1, and thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the vehicle during battery replacement.

[0123] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1 and FIG2 , the vehicle battery replacement positioning device further includes a guide component 23, and the guide component 23 includes:

[0124] A guide rail 231 extending along a second direction y; and

[0125] The guide wheel 232 is provided at the bottom of the moving block 225 and is configured to cooperate with the guide rail 231 .

[0126] This embodiment provides a guide wheel 232 at the bottom of the moving block 225 and cooperates with the guide rail 231 to improve the smoothness and stability of the movement of the moving block 225, prevent the moving block 225 from deviating from the second direction y during movement, and thereby improve the accuracy of the moving position of the limiting component 1.

[0127] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1 to FIG6 , the vehicle battery replacement positioning device further includes:

[0128] a rack 32 extending along a second direction y; and

[0129] The supporting component 3 is connected between the limiting component 1 and the first driving mechanism 2 along the first direction x. The supporting component 3 has a fixed tooth 313. The fixed tooth 313 is configured to engage with the rack 32 when the battery is replaced and positioned to limit the movement of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y.

[0130] When the position of the limiting component 1 needs to be adjusted along the second direction y, the fixed tooth 313 is disengaged from the rack 32. The support component 3 is connected to the end of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x, and the second connecting member 222 is connected between the support component 3 and the rolling member 223. The rolling member 223 moves synchronously with the fixed tooth 313.

[0131] When the limiting component 1 needs to be moved, as shown in Figure 4, the rolling element 223 moves upward along the third direction z, and the fixed tooth 313 moves upward and disengages from the rack 32; in the case of battery replacement positioning, as shown in Figure 5, the rolling element 223 moves downward along the third direction z, and the fixed tooth 313 falls and engages with the rack 32.

[0132] Optionally, two racks 32 and two support members 3 are provided, the two racks 32 are respectively provided on both sides of the limiting member 1, and the two support members 3 are respectively provided on both sides of the limiting member 1. Optionally, one or more fixed teeth 313 may be provided.

[0133] This embodiment can fix the limiting component 1 in the positioning position by engaging the fixed tooth 313 with the rack 32 when the battery is positioned, preventing the limiting component 1 from moving along the second direction y during the battery replacement process, and preventing the battery replacement accuracy and safety from being affected by the accidental movement of the vehicle 101; when it is necessary to adjust the position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y, the fixed tooth 313 and the rack 32 can also be easily disengaged.

[0134] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1 to FIG5 , the support member 3 includes:

[0135] A vertical plate 311 extending along the second direction y, the vertical plate 311 being connected to one end of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x; and

[0136] The fixing plate 312 is disposed on the side of the vertical plate 311 away from the limiting component 1 , and fixing teeth 313 are provided on the fixing plate 312 .

[0137] The vertical plate 311 may be higher than the limiting component 1 along the third direction z to provide a connection space for the first end of the second connecting member 222 . The second connecting member 222 is connected between the vertical plate 311 and the rolling member 223 .

[0138] Optionally, by bending the second connecting member 222 or other structural layout, the supporting member 3 may also not be provided with a vertical plate 311, and the fixed plate 312 is directly provided on the end face of the limiting member along the first direction x, and the second connecting member 222 is directly connected between the vertical plate 311 and the rolling member 223.

[0139] Optionally, the fixing plate 312 may be provided with one or more fixing teeth 313. The fixing plate 312 may be provided with one or more fixing teeth 313. For example, the fixing plate 312 may be provided with two fixing teeth 313, which are spaced apart along the second direction y and are provided on both sides of the second connecting member 222. The fixing teeth 313 may be provided at the bottom of the fixing plate 312.

[0140] In this embodiment, the vertical plate 311 is connected to the limiting component 1, and an additional fixed plate 312 is provided to cooperate with the rack 32. The rack 32 can be arranged on the outside of the vertical plate 311 along the first direction x without affecting the movement of the limiting component 1. Moreover, after the fixed tooth 313 is engaged with the rack 32, the bottom surface of the vertical plate 311 can be located below the top surface of the rack 32, which is conducive to making the bottom surface of the limiting component 1 fall on the base surface to provide stable support for the vehicle.

[0141] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device also includes a guide assembly 23, the guide assembly 23 includes a guide rail 231 extending along the second direction y, the guide rail 231 is used to provide guidance for the movement of the limiting component 1, the guide rail 231 is spaced apart from the rack 32 and the guide rail 231 is arranged on the side of the rack 32 away from the limiting component 1.

[0142] This embodiment arranges the guide rail 231 on the side of the rack 32 away from the limiting component 1, so that the guide assembly 23, the second drive mechanism 22 and the first drive mechanism 2 can all be located at a position further outward of the limiting component 1. There is ample space to set the guide assembly and the drive mechanism, which can optimize the spatial layout of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device.

[0143] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 to 7, the first driving mechanism 2 includes a chain transmission mechanism, the chain transmission mechanism includes a chain 211, and the tooth pitch L7 of the rack 32 is an integer multiple of the pitch L6 of the chain 211. For example, L7 = L6.

[0144] The tooth pitch L7 is the distance between the centers of two adjacent teeth of the rack 32 along the second direction y, and the pitch L6 is the center distance between adjacent rollers of the chain 211.

[0145] In this example, by making the tooth pitch L7 of the rack 32 an integer multiple of the pitch L6 of the chain 211, it is possible to facilitate the precise matching of the fixed teeth 313 and the rack 32 when the vertical plate 311 falls after the chain 211 rotates and transmits it to the supporting component 3, thereby improving the smoothness of the engagement of the fixed teeth 313 and the rack 32 and enhancing the user experience of the operator.

[0146] The working principle of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the present application is explained below through a specific embodiment.

[0147] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the vehicle battery replacement positioning device includes a limiting component 1, a first driving mechanism 2, a second driving mechanism 22, a guide assembly 23, a rack 32 and a support component 3, wherein the limiting component 1 includes a first groove 11, the first groove 11 extends along a first direction x and is used to accommodate the front wheel 102 of the vehicle 101, and the first direction x is the axial direction of the front wheel 102; the first driving mechanism 2 is configured to drive the limiting component 1 to move along the second direction y to adjust the positioning position of the limiting component 1 when the vehicle 101 replaces the battery, and the second direction y is perpendicular to the first direction x, and the second direction y is the direction of travel of the vehicle 101; the second driving mechanism 22 is configured to drive the limiting component 1 to move along the third direction z, so as to lift the limiting component 1 from the initial height position when the position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y needs to be adjusted, and to return the limiting component 1 to the initial height position when the battery replacement positioning needs to be performed, and the third direction z is perpendicular to the first direction x and the second direction y.

[0148] A second groove 4 is provided on the base surface where the vehicle 101 is located. The second groove 4 is configured to provide a battery replacement operation space. The safe operating distance between the front of the battery compartment 103 and the wall of the second groove 4 along the second direction y is a second distance L2. The positioning position is configured to be determined based on the first distance L1 and the second distance L2. The third distance L3 = first distance L1 - second distance L2.

[0149] The second driving mechanism 22 includes a wedge block 221, a second connecting member 222, a rolling member 223, a second power component 224 and a moving block 225, wherein the wedge block 221 includes a guide surface, the guide surface includes an inclined surface section 221A and a flat surface section 221B, the flat surface section 221B is higher than the inclined surface section 221A and has a smooth transition at the connection, the inclined surface section 221A can reduce the work done by the second power component 224, and the flat surface section 221B can facilitate the rolling member 223 to maintain its position; the second connecting member 222 extends along the first direction x, and its first end is connected to the limiting member 1; the rolling member 223 is provided at the second end of the second connecting member 222, The rolling member 223 is configured to move relative to the inclined surface section 221A; the second power component 224 is configured to drive the wedge block 221 to move along the second direction y so that the rolling member 223 moves along the inclined surface section 221A; the moving block 225 extends along the second direction y, and the moving block 225 is provided with a through hole 226. The second driving mechanism 22 is arranged on the side of the moving block 225 away from the limiting component 1 along the first direction x. The second connecting member 222 is connected to the rolling member 223 through the through hole 226 and can move along the third direction z in the through hole 226. The through hole 226 can limit the position of the second connecting member 222 along the second direction y.

[0150] The second power component 224 can be disposed along the second direction y at the end of the rolling element 223 away from the second groove 4. The second power component 224 is a push rod mechanism. When the limiting component 1 needs to be lifted, the output end of the second power component 224 extends, driving the wedge block 221 to move along the second direction y toward the second groove 4, so that the rolling element 223 moves upward along the inclined surface section 221A, ultimately resting on the flat surface section 221B to maintain the position of the limiting component 1. When the limiting component 1 needs to be lowered, the output end of the second power component 224 retracts, driving the wedge block 221 to move along the second direction y toward the direction away from the second groove 4, so that the rolling element 223 moves from the flat surface section 221B into the inclined surface section 221A and moves downward along the inclined surface section 221A.

[0151] The support component 3 includes a vertical plate 311 and a fixed plate 312. The vertical plate 311 extends along the second direction y and is connected to one end of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x. The fixed plate 312 is arranged on the side of the vertical plate 311 away from the limiting component 1. The bottom of the fixed plate 312 is provided with a fixed tooth 313. The fixed tooth 313 is configured to engage with the rack 32 when the battery is replaced and positioned to limit the movement of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y. The rack 32 extends along the second direction y. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the tooth pitch L7 of the rack 32 is an integer multiple of the pitch L6 of the chain 211, so that the fixed tooth 313 and the rack 32 precisely match when the vertical plate 311 falls. Optionally, the vertical plate 311 can be higher than the limiting component 1 along the third direction z to provide connection space for the first end of the second connecting member 222, which is connected between the vertical plate 311 and the rolling member 223.

[0152] In the case of non-battery replacement positioning, for example, during the movement of the limiting component 1, the fixed tooth 313 is disengaged from the rack 32. The supporting component 3 is connected to the end of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x, and the second connecting member 222 is connected between the supporting component 3 and the rolling member 223. The rolling member 223 moves synchronously with the fixed tooth 313. In the case of needing to move the limiting component 1, as shown in FIG4 , the rolling member 223 moves upward along the third direction z, and the fixed tooth 313 moves upward and disengages from the rack 32. In the case of battery replacement positioning, as shown in FIG5 , the rolling member 223 moves downward along the third direction z, and the fixed tooth 313 falls and engages with the rack 32.

[0153] The guide assembly 23 includes a guide rail 231 extending along the second direction y. The guide rail 231 is used to guide the movement of the limiting component 1. The guide assembly 23 also includes a guide wheel 232 located at the bottom of the moving block 225. The guide wheel cooperates with the guide rail 231 to prevent the limiting component 1 from deviating from the second direction y during movement. The guide rail 231 is spaced apart from the rack 32 and is located on the side of the rack 32 away from the limiting component 1. This positions the guide assembly 23 and the second drive mechanism 22 on the outside of the limiting component 1, thereby optimizing the spatial layout of the vehicle battery replacement positioning device.

[0154] In some optional embodiments, as shown in Figure 1, there are two first drive mechanisms 2, which are spaced apart along the first direction x and are respectively used to drive the two ends of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x; there are two second drive mechanisms 22, which are spaced apart along the first direction x and are respectively used to drive the two ends of the limiting component 1 along the first direction x to move along the third direction z; there are two racks 32 and two support components 3, and the two racks 32 are respectively arranged on both sides of the limiting component 1, and the two support components 3 are respectively arranged on both sides of the limiting component 1; the above embodiments can improve the stability and accuracy of the movement of the limiting component 1, and improve the accuracy of vehicle battery replacement.

[0155] Secondly, the present application provides a vehicle battery replacement system, including the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the above embodiment. Furthermore, the vehicle battery replacement system includes a platform, the upper surface of the platform is used as the base surface, or the ground is used as the base surface, and a second groove 4 is provided on the upper surface of the platform or the ground. The vehicle battery replacement system may also include a bridge frame assembly provided in the second groove 4, the bridge frame assembly includes a support plate, and the bridge frame assembly can be selectively switched between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the support plate covers a part of the second groove 4 for the vehicle 101 to pass through, for example, for the front wheels 102 of the vehicle 101 to pass before the battery replacement, and for the rear wheels of the vehicle 101 to pass after the battery replacement; in the second position, the bridge frame assembly avoids the area where the battery compartment 103 is located in the first direction x, so that the vehicle 101 can complete the battery replacement.

[0156] The vehicle battery replacement system of this embodiment drives the limiting component 1 to move along the second direction y through the first driving mechanism 2, and can adjust the positioning position of the limiting component 1 along the second direction y when the vehicle replaces the battery, meet the positioning requirements of vehicles with different wheelbases, and improve the compatibility of the vehicle battery replacement system.

[0157] Again, the present application provides a vehicle battery replacement method based on the vehicle battery replacement positioning device of the above embodiment, which, in some embodiments, includes:

[0158] Obtaining the positioning position of the limiting component 1;

[0159] The limiting component 1 is moved to the positioning position along the second direction y by the first driving mechanism 2;

[0160] The vehicle 101 is moved forward until the front wheel 102 is located in the first groove 11 to perform battery replacement for the vehicle 101 .

[0161] The vehicle battery replacement method of this embodiment obtains the positioning position of the limiting component 1 and moves the limiting component 1 to the positioning position along the second direction, so that the front wheel 102 is located in the first groove 11 and then the battery of the vehicle 101 is replaced. This can meet the positioning requirements of vehicles with different wheelbases and improve the compatibility of vehicle battery replacement.

[0162] In some embodiments, a second groove 4 is provided on the base surface where the vehicle 101 is located. The second groove 4 is configured to provide a battery replacement operation space. Obtaining the positioning position of the limiting component 1 includes:

[0163] Obtain a first distance L1 between the battery compartment 103 of the vehicle 101 and the axis of the front wheel 102 along the second direction y;

[0164] Obtain a second distance L2 between the front of the battery compartment 103 and the wall of the second groove 4 along the second direction y;

[0165] The positioning position is determined according to the first distance L1 and the second distance L2.

[0166] The third distance L3 used to characterize the positioning position = the first distance L1 - the second distance L2. The third distance L3 is the distance between the axis of the front wheel 102 and the front inner sidewall of the second groove 4 along the second direction y.

[0167] This embodiment obtains the first distance L1 and the second distance L2 to determine the positioning position, which can improve the positioning accuracy when the vehicle is changing batteries, meet the positioning requirements of different vehicles, and improve the compatibility of vehicle battery replacement.

[0168] Although the present application has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, various modifications may be made thereto and components may be substituted with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present application. In particular, the various technical features described in the various embodiments may be combined in any manner as long as there are no structural conflicts. The present application 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 positioning device, comprising: A limiting component (1) comprising a first groove (11), the first groove (11) extending along a first direction (x) and used to accommodate a front wheel (102) of a vehicle (101), the first direction (x) being the axial direction of the front wheel (102); and The first driving mechanism (2) is configured to drive the limiting component (1) to move along a second direction (y) to adjust the positioning position of the limiting component (1) when the vehicle (101) is changing batteries, wherein the second direction (y) is perpendicular to the first direction (x), and the second direction (y) is the direction of travel of the vehicle (101).

2. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The positioning position is configured to be determined according to a first distance (L1) between a battery compartment (103) of the vehicle (101) and an axis of the front wheel (102) along the second direction (y).

3. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to claim 2, wherein: A second groove (4) is provided on the base surface on which the vehicle (101) is located, and the second groove (4) is configured to provide a battery replacement operation space, and a safe operating distance between the front of the battery compartment (103) and the wall of the second groove (4) along the second direction (y) is a second distance (L2), and the positioning position is configured to be determined according to the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2).

4. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Two first driving mechanisms (2) are provided, and the two first driving mechanisms (2) are arranged at intervals along the first direction (x) and are respectively used to drive the two ends of the limiting component (1) along the first direction (x).

5. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The first driving mechanism (2) comprises: A chain transmission mechanism, comprising a chain (211); A first connecting member (212) connected between the chain (211) and the limiting member (1); and The first power component (213) is configured to drive the chain transmission mechanism to move.

6. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: The second driving mechanism (22) is configured to drive the limiting component (1) to move along a third direction (z) so as to lift the limiting component (1) away from an initial height position when the position of the limiting component (1) along the second direction (y) needs to be adjusted, and to return the limiting component (1) to the initial height position when the battery needs to be replaced and positioned, wherein the third direction (z) is perpendicular to the first direction (x) and the second direction (y).

7. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to claim 6, wherein: The second driving mechanism (22) comprises: A wedge-shaped block (221) includes a guide surface, wherein the guide surface includes an inclined surface section (221A); A second connecting member (222) extends along the first direction (x), and a first end thereof is connected to the limiting member (1); a rolling member (223) provided at the second end of the second connecting member (222), the rolling member (223) being configured to move relatively along the inclined surface section (221A); and The second power component (224) is configured to drive the wedge block (221) to move along the second direction (y), so as to make the rolling element (223) move along the inclined surface segment (221A).

8. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to claim 7, wherein: The second driving mechanism (22) further comprises: A moving block (225) extends along the second direction (y), and the moving block (225) is provided with a through hole (226); The second driving mechanism (22) is arranged on a side of the moving block (225) away from the limiting component (1) along the first direction (x), and the second connecting member (222) passes through the through hole (226) to be connected to the rolling member (223) and is movable in the through hole (226) along the third direction (z).

9. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to claim 8, further comprising a guide assembly (23), wherein the guide assembly (23) comprises: A guide rail (231) extending along the second direction (y); and The guide wheel (232) is provided at the bottom of the moving block (225) and is configured to cooperate with the guide rail (231).

10. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising: a rack (32) extending along the second direction (y); and A support component (3) is connected between the limiting component (1) and the first driving mechanism (2), and the support component (3) has a fixed tooth (313). The fixed tooth (313) is configured to engage with the rack (32) in the case of battery replacement positioning to limit the movement of the limiting component (1) along the second direction (y).

11. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to claim 10, wherein: The supporting component (3) comprises: a vertical plate (311) extending along the second direction (y), the vertical plate (311) being connected to one end of the limiting component (1) along the first direction (x); and The fixing plate (312) is arranged on the side of the vertical plate (311) away from the limiting component (1), and the fixing teeth (313) are provided on the fixing plate (312).

12. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to claim 10 or 11 further includes a guide assembly (23), wherein the guide assembly (23) includes a guide rail (231) extending along the second direction (y), and the guide rail (231) is used to provide guidance for the movement of the limiting component (1), and the guide rail (231) is spaced apart from the rack (32) and the guide rail (231) is provided on the side of the rack (32) away from the limiting component (1).

13. The vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: The first driving mechanism (2) comprises a chain transmission mechanism, the chain transmission mechanism comprises a chain (211), and the tooth pitch (L7) of the rack (32) is an integer multiple of the pitch (L6) of the chain (211).

14. A vehicle battery swapping system, comprising the vehicle battery swapping positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A vehicle battery replacement method based on the vehicle battery replacement positioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising: Obtaining the positioning position of the limiting component (1); The limiting component (1) is moved to the positioning position along the second direction (y) by the first driving mechanism (2); The vehicle (101) is advanced until the front wheel (102) is located in the first groove (11) to perform battery replacement on the vehicle (101).

16. The vehicle battery replacement method according to claim 15, wherein: A second groove (4) is provided on the base surface where the vehicle (101) is located, and the second groove (4) is configured to provide a battery replacement operation space, and obtaining the positioning position of the limiting component (1) includes: Obtaining a first distance (L1) between a battery compartment (103) of the vehicle (101) and an axis of a front wheel (102) along the second direction (y); Obtaining a second distance (L2) between the front of the battery compartment (103) and the wall of the second groove (4) along the second direction (y); The positioning position is determined according to the first distance (L1) and the second distance (L2).

Images