Hoisting tool and fixture thereof

Abstract

The present application discloses a hoisting tool and a fixture thereof. The fixture comprises a support frame, a clamping mechanism, a pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism, and a pneumatic valve assembly. The clamping mechanism is arranged on the support frame and is movably arranged relative to the support frame at least in a first direction, such that a clamping space of the clamping mechanism has an adjustable size in the first direction. The pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism is connected to the clamping mechanism and can communicate with a gas source. Moreover, the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism is configured to, in response to an air pressure effect acting on the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism, drive the clamping mechanism to move in the first direction so as to adjust the size of the clamping space, and, after the air pressure effect is relieved, lock the clamping mechanism. The pneumatic valve assembly is configured to selectively conduct a gas path between the gas source and the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism such that air pressure acts on the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism, or block the gas path between the gas source and the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism so as to relieve the air pressure acting on the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism. According to the present application, the present state is maintained after the gas source is disconnected, thus reducing the risk of a battery falling off from the fixture, and improving the safety during battery hoisting.

Description

Lifting tooling and fixtures

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202410338534.9, entitled “Lifting tooling and clamps thereof,” filed on March 22, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present application belongs to the field of battery technology, and in particular relates to a lifting tool and a clamp thereof. Background Art

[0004] Batteries are widely used in electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, electric vehicles, electric airplanes, electric boats, electric toy cars, electric toy boats, electric toy airplanes and power tools, etc.

[0005] During the battery production or testing phase, batteries usually need to be hoisted, so the safety of the batteries during the hoisting process is of paramount importance.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The embodiments of the present application provide a lifting tool and a clamp thereof to improve the safety of the battery lifting process.

[0008] According to the first aspect of the present application, an embodiment of the present application provides a clamp for clamping a battery, the clamp comprising: a support frame; a clamping mechanism, provided on the support frame and comprising a clamping space, the clamping mechanism being movably arranged at least along a first direction relative to the support frame so that the size of the clamping space along the first direction is adjustable; an air-controlled self-locking mechanism, connected to the clamping mechanism and capable of being communicated with an air source, the air-controlled self-locking mechanism being configured to drive the clamping mechanism to move along the first direction in response to the action of air pressure acting on itself, thereby adjusting the size of the clamping space, and to lock the clamping mechanism after the action of the air pressure is released; and an air-controlled valve assembly, configured to selectively open the air path between the air source and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism so that the air pressure acts on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism or to block the air path between the air source and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism so as to release the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism.

[0009] In the clamp provided by the embodiment of the present application, the air-controlled valve assembly can open the air path between the air source and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism so that the air pressure from the air source acts on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism. The air-controlled self-locking mechanism can drive the clamping mechanism to move in the first direction in response to the air pressure, thereby adjusting the size of the clamping space of the clamping mechanism so that the clamping mechanism can clamp the battery. The air-controlled valve assembly can also block the air path between the air source and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism to release the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism, so that the air-controlled self-locking mechanism locks the clamping mechanism. At this time, the clamping mechanism can maintain the state of clamping the battery unchanged, realizing self-state maintenance after the air source is disconnected, reducing the risk of the battery falling from the clamp, and improving the safety of the battery lifting process. In addition, the components contained in the clamp provided by the embodiment of the present application can all be pneumatic components, which can realize full air source control, only require an air source, and do not require a power supply, thereby reducing the demand for energy types.

[0010] Optionally, the air-controlled valve assembly includes a main control valve, which includes a control port, an air inlet port and an air delivery port, the air inlet port being capable of being connected to an air source, and the air delivery port being connected to an air-controlled self-locking mechanism; the main control valve is configured to connect the air inlet port and the air delivery port in response to the pressure acting on the control port.

[0011] The embodiment of the present application utilizes a main control valve to control the on-off of the air path between the air source and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism. It only requires selectively applying pressure to the control port of the main control valve. The structure is simple and easy to control.

[0012] Optionally, the control port can be connected to the air source; the air control valve assembly includes a switch valve assembly, which is arranged in the first air path between the air source and the control port, and is configured to selectively open the first air path to allow air pressure to act on the control port or block the first air path to release the air pressure acting on the control port.

[0013] In this embodiment, the control port is connected to the gas source, making the main control valve a pneumatically controlled valve. This reduces costs, improves safety, and facilitates fault identification, facilitating subsequent maintenance. Furthermore, an on-off valve assembly is provided in the gas path between the control port and the gas source, enabling the main control valve to be controlled on and off, thus improving the controllability of the pneumatically controlled valve assembly.

[0014] Optionally, the switch valve assembly includes a first switch valve, which is provided in the first air path and is configured to block the first air path when the clamp is in a suspended state and to open the first air path when the clamp is in a rest state.

[0015] When the fixture is in the suspended state, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism cannot receive the action of air pressure, prompting the clamping mechanism to keep the battery clamped unchanged, thereby maintaining the state of the fixture in the suspended state and further improving the safety of the battery lifting process.

[0016] Optionally, the clamp further includes a hanging mechanism capable of being connected to the hanger, the hanging mechanism being disposed on the first supporting surface of the support frame and being movable relative to the first supporting surface in at least a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first supporting surface; the first on-off valve being connected to the hanging mechanism; and in a resting state, the hanging mechanism being movable in at least the second direction until the first on-off valve abuts the first supporting surface, thereby triggering the first on-off valve to close and open the first air path; and in a suspended state, the hanging mechanism being movable in at least the second direction until the first on-off valve separates from the first supporting surface, thereby opening the first on-off valve and blocking the first air path. Thus, the first on-off valve can be automatically switched between the suspended and resting states of the clamp, thereby reducing manual operation and the possibility of erroneous or forgotten operation.

[0017] Optionally, the hanging mechanism includes a hanging member, a connecting member, and a first limiter; the hanging member is connected to a side of the connecting member that faces away from the first support surface in the second direction; the first switch valve is connected to the connecting member, and the connecting member is rotatable relative to the first support surface so that the connecting member has a motion component in the second direction; the first limiter is provided on a side of the connecting member that faces away from the first support surface in the second direction and is fixed relative to the first support surface to limit the freedom of movement of the connecting member in the second direction away from the first support surface. The rotation of the connecting member drives the first switch valve to generate a motion component of appropriate magnitude in the second direction, thereby achieving state switching of the first switch valve with a simple and reliable structure.

[0018] Optionally, the first supporting surface is fixedly connected to a support, which movably extends through the connecting member in the second direction. The support includes an axial limit portion, which is located on a side of the connecting member facing away from the first supporting surface. The suspension mechanism further includes an elastic member mounted on the support, with opposite ends of the elastic member in the second direction respectively abutting the connecting member and the axial limit portion. In the suspended state, the elastic member is in a compressed state. The elastic member can increase the force acting on the connecting member that causes it to rotate toward the first supporting surface, thereby ensuring that the connecting member can move to a position where the first switch valve abuts the first supporting surface, thereby ensuring that the first switch valve can be effectively triggered and closed.

[0019] Optionally, a second air circuit and a third air circuit independent of each other are formed between the air supply port and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism, and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism is configured to drive the clamping mechanism to increase the clamping space along the first direction in response to the air pressure from the second air circuit, and to drive the clamping mechanism to reduce the clamping space along the first direction in response to the air pressure from the third air circuit; the first air circuit includes a first branch and a second branch, the switch valve assembly includes a second switch valve, a third switch valve and a fourth switch valve, the third switch valve and the fourth switch valve are respectively arranged in the first branch and the second branch, and the second switch valve is arranged on the upstream side of the first branch and the second branch along the airflow direction; the main control valve is configured to connect the air inlet port to the second air circuit when the first branch is in a conducting state, and to connect the air inlet port to the third air circuit when the second branch is in a conducting state.

[0020] The second on-off valve serves as a common valve for both the first and second branches. The connection between the first and second branches, as well as the increase or decrease in the clamping space, requires both valves to be triggered to close simultaneously, reducing the possibility of misoperation and further improving the reliability and safety of the clamp control.

[0021] Optionally, the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism includes a self-locking port, which is connected to the first air circuit so that the air pressure from the first air circuit acts on the self-locking port, and the connection point between the self-locking port and the first air circuit is located on the downstream side of the second switch valve and on the upstream side of the first branch and the second branch; the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism is configured to lock the clamping mechanism after the air pressure acting on the self-locking port is released.

[0022] The embodiment of the present application provides a self-locking port on the pneumatic self-locking mechanism, and selectively activates the self-locking function of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism by turning the air pressure at the self-locking port on and off, thereby providing another layer of insurance for maintaining the state of the clamping mechanism and improving reliability.

[0023] Optionally, a second air circuit and a third air circuit that are independent of each other are connected between the main control valve and the pneumatic self-locking mechanism. The pneumatic self-locking mechanism is configured to drive the clamping mechanism to increase the clamping space along the first direction in response to the air pressure from the second air circuit, and to drive the clamping mechanism to reduce the clamping space along the first direction in response to the air pressure from the third air circuit; the clamp also includes an indicator, which is telescopically arranged on the support frame; the indicator is connected to one of the second air circuit and the third air circuit, and is configured to extend in response to the air pressure in the air circuit in which it is located, and retract after the air pressure is released.

[0024] The embodiment of the present application uses air pressure to control the action of the indicator through the ingenious design of the fixture air path structure, thereby replacing the existing indicator light. On the one hand, there is no need to provide power for the indicator, which reduces the types of energy for the fixture. On the other hand, the air-controlled indicator is low-cost, easy to identify faults, easier to maintain, and safer.

[0025] Optionally, the clamping mechanism includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the first clamping member and the second clamping member being arranged relative to each other along a first direction to define a clamping space therebetween; the first clamping member and the second clamping member are both connected to a pneumatic self-locking mechanism and are driven by the pneumatic self-locking mechanism to move toward or away from each other along the first direction. Thus, when moving toward each other, a relatively balanced force can be applied to the battery, improving clamping stability; and when moving away from each other, the battery can be completely released, facilitating further battery operations.

[0026] Optionally, the first and second clamping members are each provided with a first limiting mechanism and a second limiting mechanism on one side of the clamping space along the first direction; the first limiting mechanism and the second limiting mechanism are respectively located within the range of motion of the first and second clamping members along the first direction, thereby limiting the distance the first and second clamping members can move toward each other. This prevents damage to the battery caused by excessive movement of the first and second clamping members toward each other, and compensates for the low control accuracy of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism of the pneumatic control element.

[0027] Optionally, both the first and second limiting mechanisms include a buffer member and a hard limiting member connected to the support frame. The buffer member includes a buffer portion that is retractable relative to the support frame along a first direction. When the buffer portion is extended, the buffer portion is located on a side of the hard limiting member that is further away from the clamping space along the first direction. This reduces the possibility of damage to the structure caused by hard contact between the clamping member and the hard limiting member.

[0028] Optionally, a third limiting mechanism and a fourth limiting mechanism are respectively provided on the side of the first clamping member and the second clamping member facing away from the clamping space in the first direction; the third limiting mechanism and the fourth limiting mechanism are respectively located within the range of motion of the first clamping member and the second clamping member in the first direction, so as to limit the distance of the first clamping member and the second clamping member from moving away from each other. This prevents the first clamping member and the second clamping member from interfering with other structures during the transition of the movement away from each other, thereby reducing the working space required for the clamp to operate.

[0029] Optionally, the third and fourth limiting mechanisms each include a buffer member and a hard limit member connected to the support frame. The buffer member includes a buffer portion that is retractable relative to the support frame along a first direction. When the buffer portion is extended, the buffer portion is located on a side of the hard limit member that is closer to the clamping space along the first direction. This reduces the possibility of damage to the structure caused by hard contact between the clamp member and the hard limit member.

[0030] Optionally, the clamp further includes a positioning member extending along a second direction intersecting the first direction, with one end of the positioning member along the second direction being connected to the support frame, and the other end being capable of plugging into a positioning hole on the battery. The positioning member can pre-position the battery in a direction perpendicular to the second direction, thereby maintaining the battery in an appropriate relative position with the clamp, thereby facilitating secure clamping of the battery by the clamping mechanism.

[0031] According to the second aspect of the present application, the present application also provides a lifting tool, which includes the clamp provided in any embodiment of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following briefly introduces 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 these drawings without creative work.

[0033] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a clamp provided in an embodiment of the present application, wherein the clamp is clamping a battery.

[0034] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the clamp shown in FIG1 .

[0035] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of the air path of the fixture shown in FIG1 .

[0036] FIG4 is a schematic diagram showing the structural principle of the main control valve of the fixture shown in FIG1 .

[0037] FIG5 is a structural diagram of the hanging mechanism of the clamp shown in FIG1 and its related structures.

[0038] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism of the clamp shown in FIG1 .

[0039] FIG. 7 is a schematic structural diagram of the first limiting mechanism of the clamp shown in FIG. 1 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The following embodiments of the technical solution of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of the present application and are therefore only examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs; the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit this application; the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof in the specification and claims of this application and the above-mentioned figure descriptions are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used solely to distinguish different objects and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or to implicitly specify the quantity, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the technical features indicated. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "plurality" means more than two, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0043] References herein to "embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment 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.

[0044] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" is simply a description of the association relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, m and / or n can represent: m exists alone, m and n exist simultaneously, and n exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the associated objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0045] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the term "plurality" refers to more than two (including two).

[0046] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the orientations or positional relationships indicated by technical terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", and "circumferential" are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they cannot be understood as limitations on the embodiments of the present application.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, technical terms such as "installed," "connected," "connected," and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integration; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; internal connections between two components or interactions between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application based on specific circumstances.

[0048] In the embodiments of this application, "parallel" includes not only absolute parallelism but also approximately parallelism as commonly understood in engineering practice. Similarly, "perpendicular" also includes not only absolute perpendicularity but also approximately perpendicularity as commonly understood in engineering practice. For example, if the angle between two directions is 85°-90°, they are considered perpendicular; if the angle between two directions is 0°-5°, they are considered parallel.

[0049] During the battery production process, batteries may need to be moved. Furthermore, to improve battery reliability, various tests are often required. These tests require the use of lifting equipment to hoist the batteries. While suspended, if the clamps holding the batteries loosen or come undone due to power outages or misoperation, there is a significant risk of the batteries falling, which could damage the batteries and pose a significant safety hazard.

[0050] Based on the above considerations, an embodiment of the present application provides a clamp for clamping a battery, which includes a support frame, a clamping mechanism, a pneumatic self-locking mechanism, and a pneumatic valve assembly. The clamping mechanism, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism, and the pneumatic valve assembly are all arranged on the support frame, and the clamping mechanism has a clamping space capable of accommodating a battery. The pneumatic valve assembly can conduct the air path between the air source and the pneumatic self-locking mechanism so that the air pressure from the air source acts on the pneumatic self-locking mechanism. The pneumatic self-locking mechanism can drive the clamping mechanism to move in a first direction in response to the action of the air pressure, thereby adjusting the size of the clamping space of the clamping mechanism so that the clamping mechanism can clamp the battery. The pneumatic valve assembly can also block the air path between the air source and the pneumatic self-locking mechanism to release the air pressure acting on the pneumatic self-locking mechanism, so that the pneumatic self-locking mechanism locks the clamping mechanism. At this time, the clamping mechanism can maintain the state of clamping the battery unchanged, thereby realizing the self-state maintenance of the clamp after the air source is disconnected, reducing the risk of the battery falling from the clamp, and improving the safety of the battery lifting process.

[0051] The battery referred to in the embodiments of this application refers to a single physical module that includes one or more battery cells to provide higher voltage and capacity. For example, the battery referred to in this application may include a battery module or a battery pack. A battery generally includes a casing that encloses one or more battery cells. The casing prevents liquids or other foreign matter from affecting the charging or discharging of the battery cells.

[0052] In some embodiments, the box body can be used as a part of the chassis structure of the vehicle. For example, part of the box body can become at least a part of the floor of the vehicle, or part of the box body can become at least a part of the cross beam and longitudinal beam of the vehicle.

[0053] In some embodiments, the battery may be an energy storage device, including an energy storage container, an energy storage cabinet, and the like.

[0054] In the embodiment of the present application, the battery cell may be a secondary battery cell. A secondary battery cell refers to a battery cell that can be continuously used by activating active materials by charging after the battery cell is discharged.

[0055] The battery cells can be lithium-ion battery cells, sodium-ion battery cells, sodium-lithium-ion battery cells, lithium metal battery cells, sodium metal battery cells, lithium-sulfur battery cells, magnesium-ion battery cells, nickel-hydrogen battery cells, nickel-cadmium battery cells, lead-acid battery cells, etc., which are not limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0056] As an example, the battery cell can be a cylindrical battery cell, a prismatic battery cell or a battery cell of other shapes. The prismatic battery cell includes a square shell battery cell, a blade-shaped battery cell, a polygonal battery, such as a hexagonal battery, etc. There is no special limitation in this application.

[0057] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clamp provided by one embodiment of the present application, clamping a battery. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the clamp shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the air path of the clamp shown in Figure 1. For ease of illustration and understanding, a battery 3 is shown in Figure 1, and an air source 2 is also shown in Figure 3. Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the clamp 1 provided by an embodiment of the present application includes a support frame 10, a clamping mechanism 20, a pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30, and an air-controlled valve assembly 40. The clamping mechanism 20 is disposed on the support frame 10 and includes a clamping space 21. The clamping mechanism 20 is movable relative to the support frame 10 at least along a first direction X, so that the size of the clamping space 21 along the first direction X is adjustable. The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is connected to the clamping mechanism 20 and is capable of communicating with the air source 2. The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is configured to drive the clamping mechanism 20 in the first direction X in response to air pressure acting on it, thereby adjusting the size of the clamping space 21, and to lock the clamping mechanism 20 when the air pressure is released. The air-controlled valve assembly 40 is configured to selectively open the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 so that the air pressure acts on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 or to block the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 so as to release the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30.

[0058] The clamping space 21 of the clamping mechanism 20 is used to accommodate the battery 3. When the battery 3 is accommodated in the clamping space 21 and the size of the clamping space 21 along the first direction X is adjusted to be substantially equal to the size of the battery 3 along the first direction X, the clamping mechanism 20 can be in a state of clamping and holding the battery 3.

[0059] The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 has a self-locking function. When the self-locking function is activated, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 can maintain its own state unchanged.

[0060] The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is connected to the gas source 2, thereby driving the clamping mechanism 20 under the action of the gas pressure output by the gas source 2. After the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is disconnected from the gas source 2, the self-locking function of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is activated, maintaining its state unchanged. In other words, the energy source of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is the gas source.

[0061] The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 can be relatively fixedly connected to the clamping mechanism 20, and the connection method between the two includes but is not limited to screw connection, clamping, welding, riveting, etc.

[0062] The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 can move in the first direction X under the action of the gas pressure output by the gas source 2, thereby driving the clamping mechanism 20 connected thereto to move in the first direction X. When the gas pressure acting on the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 disappears, the self-locking function of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is activated, thereby maintaining the state of the clamping mechanism 20 while maintaining its own state unchanged.

[0063] Optionally, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 may be a cylinder with a self-locking function.

[0064] The air-controlled valve assembly 40 is used to open or block the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30. Under external influence, the air-controlled valve assembly 40 can open the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30, allowing the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 to receive air pressure from the air source 2. The air-controlled valve assembly 40 can also open the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 under external influence, thereby relieving the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 and eliminating the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30. External influences acting on the air-controlled valve assembly 40 can originate from user operations.

[0065] The clamp 1 provided in the embodiment of the present application includes a support frame 10, a clamping mechanism 20, a pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30, and a pneumatic valve assembly 40. The clamping mechanism 20 has a clamping space 21 capable of accommodating a battery 3. The pneumatic valve assembly 40 can conduct an air path between the air source 2 and the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 so that the air pressure from the air source 2 acts on the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30. The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 can drive the clamping mechanism 20 to move along the first direction X in response to the air pressure, thereby adjusting the size of the clamping space 21 of the clamping mechanism 20, so that the clamping mechanism 20 can clamp the battery 3 in the clamping space 21. The air-controlled valve assembly 40 can also block the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 to release the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30, so that the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 locks the clamping mechanism 20. At this time, the size of the clamping space 21 remains unchanged, and the clamping mechanism 20 can maintain the state of clamping the battery 3 unchanged, thereby realizing the self-state maintenance of the clamp 1 after the air source is disconnected, reducing the risk of the battery 3 falling from the clamp 1, and improving the safety of the battery 3 lifting process.

[0066] Furthermore, all components included in the fixture 1 provided in the embodiment of the present application may be pneumatic components, which can achieve full air source control and only require an air source but no power supply, thereby reducing the demand for energy types.

[0067] In some embodiments, the pneumatically controlled valve assembly 40 includes a main control valve 41. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the structural principles of the main control valve of the clamp shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 3 and 4, the main control valve 41 includes a control port 411, an air inlet port 412, and an air delivery port 413. The air inlet port 412 is capable of communicating with the air source 2, while the air delivery port 413 is in communication with the pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism 30. The main control valve 41 is configured to connect the air inlet port 412 and the air delivery port 413 in response to pressure applied to the control port 411.

[0068] The air inlet port 412 can be connected to the air source 2 through the air inlet pipeline 59 , and the gas provided by the air source 2 flows to the air inlet port 412 through the air inlet pipeline 59 .

[0069] The control port 411 can be connected to a device capable of generating air pressure or other pressure. When the control port 411 receives pressure, the air inlet port 412 and the air delivery port 413 are connected to form an air path, allowing gas flowing out of the air inlet port 412 to flow to the air delivery port 413, and then to the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 connected to the air delivery port 413. When the pressure acting on the control port 411 disappears or the control port 411 does not receive pressure, the air inlet port 412 and the air delivery port 413 are disconnected, and no air path is formed between them.

[0070] The number of the gas delivery ports 413 may be two, and the main control valve 41 may selectively connect the gas inlet port 412 with one of the gas delivery ports 413 .

[0071] The embodiment of the present application utilizes the main control valve 41 to control the on-off of the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 . It is only necessary to selectively apply pressure to the control port 411 of the main control valve 41 . The structure is simple and easy to control.

[0072] In some embodiments, the control port 411 can be connected to a gas source. The gas control valve assembly 40 includes a switch valve assembly 42, which is disposed in the first gas path 51 between the gas source and the control port 411 and is configured to selectively open the first gas path 51 to allow gas pressure to act on the control port 411 or block the first gas path 51 to release the gas pressure acting on the control port 411.

[0073] The gas source communicated with the control port 411 may be the gas source 2 or other gas sources.

[0074] The air source connected to the control port 411 is used to realize the control function of the main control valve 41 , and the air source 2 connected to the air inlet port 412 is used to provide air pressure for the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 to realize the control function of the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 .

[0075] The switch valve assembly 42 can open the first air path 51 under external action, and the control port 411 is subjected to the air pressure from the air source to open the air inlet port 412 and the air delivery port 413; the switch valve assembly 42 can also block the first air path 51 under external action to release the air pressure acting on the control port 411 and thereby block the air inlet port 412 and the air delivery port 413.

[0076] In this embodiment of the present application, control port 411 is connected to the air source, making main control valve 41 a pneumatically controlled valve. This reduces costs, improves safety, and facilitates fault identification, facilitating subsequent maintenance. Furthermore, an on-off valve assembly 42 is provided in the air path between control port 411 and the air source. This on-off valve assembly 42 controls the on / off state of main control valve 41, improving the controllability of pneumatically controlled valve assembly 40.

[0077] In some embodiments, the switch valve assembly 42 includes a first switch valve 421, which is arranged in the first air path 51 and is configured to block the first air path 51 when the clamp 1 is in a suspended state and to open the first air path 51 when the clamp 1 is in a shelved state.

[0078] When the clamp 1 is in the suspended state, the first on-off valve 421 is in the open state; when the clamp 1 is in the rest state, the first on-off valve 421 is in the closed state. The on-off state switching of the first on-off valve 421 can be automatically achieved during the switching process between the suspended state and the rest state of the clamp 1, or it can be achieved through external operation.

[0079] Optionally, the first switch valve 421 may be provided on the upstream side of the first gas path 51 along the gas flow direction. When the first switch valve 421 is opened, the entire first gas path 51 may be cut off from the gas source, further improving safety.

[0080] When the clamp 1 is in a suspended state, the battery 3 clamped by the clamping mechanism 20 is suspended to a certain height. The consequences of the battery 3 falling from the clamp 1 are more serious. To this end, the embodiment of the present application provides a first switch valve 421 in the first air path 51. When the clamp is in a suspended state, the first switch valve 421 blocks the first air path 51, thereby releasing the air pressure acting on the control port 411 and disconnecting the air inlet port 412 from the air supply port 413. The air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 cannot receive the air pressure and prompts the clamping mechanism 20 to maintain the state of clamping the battery 3 unchanged, thereby maintaining the state of the clamp 1 in the suspended state and further improving the safety of the battery 3 hoisting process.

[0081] When the clamp is in the rest state, the first switch valve 421 connects the first air path 51, allowing the air pressure of the air source to act on the control port 411, thereby forming an air path between the air inlet port 412 and the air output port 413. The air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 can receive the air pressure to drive the clamping mechanism 20 to move along the first direction X, so as to facilitate clamping or releasing the battery 3 and realize normal control function.

[0082] In some embodiments, the fixture 1 further includes a hanging mechanism 60, which is connectable to the sling. The hanging mechanism 60 is disposed on the first support surface 11 of the support frame 10 and is movable relative to the first support surface 11 at least along a second direction Y, with the second direction Y being perpendicular to the first support surface 11. The first on-off valve 421 is connected to the hanging mechanism 60. In the rest state, the hanging mechanism 60 moves at least along the second direction Y until the first on-off valve 421 abuts against the first support surface 11, thereby triggering the closure of the first on-off valve 421 and opening the first air path 51. In the suspended state, the hanging mechanism 60 moves at least along the second direction Y until the first on-off valve 421 separates from the first support surface 11, thereby opening the first on-off valve 421 and blocking the first air path 51.

[0083] Under the hanging action of the sling, the hanging mechanism 60 has at least a sub-movement along the second direction Y. Of course, the hanging mechanism 60 may also have a sub-movement along other directions.

[0084] When the clamp 1 switches from the suspended state to the rest state, the hanging mechanism 60 moves at least along the second direction Y toward the first support surface 11, driving the first switch valve 421 to move toward the first support surface 11, and the first switch valve 421 gradually abuts against the first support surface 11, thereby triggering the first switch valve 421 to close.

[0085] When the clamp 1 switches from the rest state to the suspension state, the hanging mechanism 60 moves at least along the second direction Y toward the direction away from the first support surface 11, driving the first switch valve 421 to move toward the direction away from the first support surface 11, and the first switch valve 421 gradually separates from the first support surface 11, thereby triggering the first switch valve 421 to open.

[0086] Specifically, Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the suspension mechanism and related structures of the fixture shown in Figure 1 . The first on-off valve 421 may include a switch body 4211 and a touch panel 4212. The switch body 4211 is connected to the suspension mechanism 60, and the touch panel 4212 is retractably connected to the switch body 4211 along the second direction Y. When the first on-off valve 421 moves toward the first support surface 11, the touch panel 4212 abuts against the first support surface 11 and gradually retracts into the switch body 4211, switching the first on-off valve 421 to a closed state. When the first on-off valve 421 moves away from the first support surface 11, the touch panel 4212 separates from the first support surface 11 and gradually extends out of the switch body 4211, switching the first on-off valve 421 to an open state.

[0087] In the embodiment of the present application, the first switch valve 421 is connected to the hanging mechanism 60, and the hanging mechanism 60 is configured to have at least a movement component in the second direction Y when the state of the clamp 1 is switched. This allows the opening and closing state of the first switch valve 421 to be automatically switched during the switching process of the clamp 1 between the suspended state and the shelving state, thereby reducing manual operation and the possibility of misoperation or forgotten operation.

[0088] In some embodiments, the suspension mechanism 60 may include a suspension member 61, a connector 62, and a first stopper 63. The suspension member 61 is connected to the side of the connector 62 that faces away from the first support surface 11 along the second direction Y. The first on-off valve 421 is connected to the connector 62, which is rotatable relative to the first support surface 11, such that the connector 62 has a motion component along the second direction Y. The first stopper 63 is disposed on the side of the connector 62 that faces away from the first support surface 11 along the second direction Y and is fixed relative to the first support surface 11 to limit the freedom of movement of the connector 62 along the second direction Y away from the first support surface 11. The rotation of the connector 62 drives the first on-off valve 421 to generate a suitable motion component in the second direction Y, thereby achieving state switching of the first on-off valve 421 with a simple and reliable structure.

[0089] The hanging member 61 is used to connect with the sling, and it has any structure that is convenient for connecting with the sling. Optionally, the hanging member 61 can be a hanging ring.

[0090] The connecting member 62 may be a connecting plate to provide a larger connectable area.

[0091] A support member 12 may be provided on the first support surface 11, and the connecting member 62 may be rotatably connected to the support member 12 so as to suspend the connecting member 62 on one side of the first support surface 11 along the second direction Y, thereby increasing the rotation range of the connecting member 62, so that the connecting member 62 and the first switch valve 421 have a displacement component along the second direction Y that is sufficient to realize the state switching of the first switch valve 421.

[0092] A support rod 13 may also be provided on the first support surface 11, and a first stopper 63 is provided on the support rod 13. The support rod 13 may pass through the connecting member 62 along the second direction Y and may be movable relative to the connecting member 62. The support rod 13 may be fixedly connected to the first support surface 11 or integrally formed.

[0093] Optionally, the second direction Y can be vertical, and the first support surface 11 can be parallel to the horizontal direction. When the hanger 61 is connected to the sling and hoisted, the connector 62 rotates upward, causing the first on-off valve 421 to move upward, gradually separating the touch panel 4212 of the first on-off valve 421 from the first support surface 11, and the first on-off valve 421 opens. When the clamp 1 is in a resting state, the connector 62 can rotate downward under the action of its own gravity and the hanger 61, causing the first on-off valve 421 to move downward, gradually contacting the touch panel 4212 of the first on-off valve 421 with the first support surface 11, and closing the first on-off valve 421.

[0094] In other embodiments, the movement of the connecting member 62 may also be translation along the second direction Y.

[0095] In some embodiments, a support column 14 is fixedly connected to the first support surface 11. The support column 14 movably extends through the connector 62 along the second direction Y. The support column 14 includes an axial stopper 15 located on the side of the connector 62 facing away from the first support surface 11. The suspension mechanism 60 also includes an elastic member 64 mounted on the support column 14. Opposite ends of the elastic member 64 along the second direction Y abut against the connector 62 and the axial stopper 15, respectively. In the suspended state, the elastic member 64 is in a compressed state.

[0096] The support column 14 is provided through the connecting member 62 and is movable relative to the connecting member 62. The support column 14 can be fixedly connected to the first supporting surface 11 or integrally formed with the first supporting surface 11.

[0097] The outer diameter of the axial limiting portion 15 is larger than the diameter of the through hole on the connecting member 62 for the support column 14 to pass through.

[0098] When the clamp 1 is in the suspended state, the connecting member 62 rotates toward the axial stopper 15, and the elastic member 64 is compressed by the squeezing action of the connecting member 62 and the axial stopper 15. After the clamp 1 switches from the suspended state to the resting state, the elastic member 64 stretches and recovers its deformation, pushing the connecting member 62 to rotate toward the first support surface 11.

[0099] The elastic member 64 can increase the force acting on the connecting member 62 to cause it to rotate toward the first support surface 11, so as to ensure that the connecting member 62 can move to a position where the first switch valve 421 can abut against the first support surface 11, thereby ensuring that the first switch valve 421 can be effectively triggered and closed.

[0100] In some embodiments, a second air path 52 and a third air path 53 are formed between the air supply port 413 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30, and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 is configured to drive the clamping mechanism 20 to increase the clamping space 21 along the first direction X in response to air pressure from the second air path 52, and to drive the clamping mechanism 20 to decrease the clamping space 21 along the first direction X in response to air pressure from the third air path 53. The first air path 51 includes a first branch 511 and a second branch 512, and the switch valve assembly 42 includes a second switch valve 422, a third switch valve 423, and a fourth switch valve 424. The third switch valve 423 and the fourth switch valve 424 are respectively disposed in the first branch 511 and the second branch 512, and the second switch valve 422 is connected to the upstream side of the first branch 511 and the second branch 512 in the airflow direction. The main control valve 41 is configured to connect the intake port 412 to the second air path 52 when the first branch path 511 is in an open state, and to connect the intake port 412 to the third air path 53 when the second branch path 512 is in an open state.

[0101] Furthermore, the first gas path 51 further includes a first trunk 513 connected upstream of the first branch 511 and the second branch 512 , and communicating with both the first branch 511 and the second branch 512 .

[0102] Only when the second switch valve 422 and the third switch valve 423 are in the closed state at the same time, the first branch 511 is opened, the air inlet port 412 is connected to the second air path 52, and the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 can drive the clamping mechanism 20 to increase the clamping space 21 along the first direction X, thereby releasing the clamped battery 3.

[0103] Only when the second switch valve 422 and the fourth switch valve 424 are in the closed state at the same time, the second branch 512 is opened, the air inlet port 412 is connected to the third air path 53, and the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 can drive the clamping mechanism 20 to reduce the clamping space 21 along the first direction X, thereby clamping the battery 3.

[0104] In other words, the second on-off valve 422 serves as a common valve for conducting the first branch 511 and the second branch 512. The conduction of the first branch 511 and the second branch 512, as well as the increase or decrease of the clamping space 21, requires the simultaneous triggering of the closure of both valves, thereby reducing the possibility of misoperation and further improving the reliability and safety of the control of the clamp 1.

[0105] Furthermore, the first on-off valve 421 can be connected to the upstream side of the second on-off valve 422. Optionally, the first on-off valve 421 is provided on the first trunk line 513. The first on-off valve 421 serves as the first switch between the entire first gas path 51 and the gas source 2. Only when the first on-off valve 421 is closed can the first gas path 51 be connected. When the first on-off valve 421 is open, the first gas path 51 cannot be connected.

[0106] In the embodiment of the present application, the first switch valve 421 that opens and closes according to the state of the clamp 1 is arranged on the upstream side of the first gas path 51 adjacent to the gas source 2, which can minimize the risk of the battery 3 falling and improve the safety of the battery 3 during the lifting process.

[0107] In some embodiments, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 includes a self-locking port 31, which is connected to the first air path 51 so that the air pressure from the first air path 51 acts on the self-locking port 31. The connection point between the self-locking port 31 and the first air path 51 is located downstream of the second on-off valve 422 and upstream of the first branch 511 and the second branch 512. The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is configured to lock the clamping mechanism 20 after the air pressure acting on the self-locking port 31 is released.

[0108] Only when both the first on-off valve 421 and the second on-off valve 422 are closed can gas within the first air path 51 flow to the self-locking port 31. Only when the self-locking port 31 is acted upon by air pressure from the first air path 51 does the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 enter a controlled state. Once the air pressure acting on the self-locking port 31 is released, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 activates its self-locking function. At this point, regardless of the presence of air pressure in the second and third air paths 52 and 53, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 remains inoperative.

[0109] The embodiment of the present application sets a self-locking port 31 on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30, and selectively activates the self-locking function of the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 by turning on and off the air pressure of the self-locking port 31, thereby providing another layer of insurance for maintaining the state of the clamping mechanism 20 and improving reliability.

[0110] In some embodiments, a second air path 52 and a third air path 53, each independent of the other, are connected between the main control valve 41 and the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30. The pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 is configured to drive the clamping mechanism 20 to increase the clamping space 21 in the first direction X in response to air pressure from the second air path 52, and to drive the clamping mechanism 20 to decrease the clamping space 21 in the first direction X in response to air pressure from the third air path 53. The clamp 1 further includes an indicator member 71, which is retractably mounted on the support frame 10. The indicator member 71 is connected to one of the second air path 52 and the third air path 53 and is configured to extend in response to air pressure in the air path and retract when the air pressure is released.

[0111] Optionally, the indicator 71 may be connected to the second air path 52. When the second air path 52 is open, the air pressure in the second air path 52 may act on the indicator 71, causing the indicator 71 to extend, thereby indicating that the clamping mechanism 20 is in the released state, releasing the battery 3. When the second air path 52 is blocked, the air pressure in the second air path 52 is released, and the indicator 71 retracts, thereby indicating that the clamping mechanism 20 is in the clamped state, clamping the battery 3.

[0112] Optionally, the indicator 71 may also be connected to the third air path 53. The difference is that when the indicator 71 is extended, it indicates that the clamping mechanism 20 is in a clamping state of clamping the battery 3, and when the indicator 71 is retracted, it indicates that the clamping mechanism 20 is in a release state of releasing the clamped battery 3.

[0113] The embodiment of the present application provides an indicator 71, which can clearly indicate the status of the clamping mechanism 20 using the status of the indicator 71, making it easier for personnel to observe. More importantly, the embodiment of the present application uses pneumatic pressure to control the operation of the indicator 71 through the clever design of the air circuit structure of the clamp 1, replacing the existing indicator light. On the one hand, there is no need to provide power to the indicator 71, reducing the energy types of the clamp 1. On the other hand, the pneumatically controlled indicator 71 is lower in cost, easier to identify faults, more convenient to maintain, and safer.

[0114] In some embodiments, the clamping mechanism 20 includes a first clamping member 22 and a second clamping member 23. The first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 are arranged relative to each other along a first direction X to define a clamping space 21 between the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23. The first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 are both connected to a pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 and are driven by the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 to move toward or away from each other along the first direction X.

[0115] When the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 move toward each other along the first direction X under the drive of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30, the clamping space 21 can be reduced along the first direction X; when the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 move away from each other along the first direction X under the drive of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30, the clamping space 21 can be increased along the first direction X.

[0116] The first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 can both be clamping claws.

[0117] The first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 may have mutually symmetrical structures.

[0118] The first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 both include a bottom bracket, which can support the battery 3 from bottom to top, so as to improve the stability and reliability of the clamping mechanism 20 in clamping the battery 3 .

[0119] The embodiment of the present application provides two clamping members that can move toward or away from each other. This can not only apply a relatively balanced force to the battery 3 when moving toward each other, thereby improving the clamping stability, but also completely release the battery 3 when moving away from each other, thereby facilitating the next step of operation on the battery 3.

[0120] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism of the clamp shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 3 and 6, in some embodiments, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 may include a main body 32, a first telescopic rod 33, and a second telescopic rod 34. The first telescopic rod 33 and the second telescopic rod 34 are both telescopically connected to the main body 32 along a first direction X. The first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 may be fixedly connected to the first telescopic rod 33 and the second telescopic rod 34, respectively. The main body 32 defines an enclosed cavity within, and includes a first port 35 and a second port 36 that communicate with the enclosed cavity.

[0121] Furthermore, the gas delivery port 413 of the main control valve 41 may include a first gas delivery port 4131 and a second gas delivery port 4132. A second gas path 52 is formed between the first gas delivery port 4131 and the first port 35, and a third gas path 53 is formed between the second gas delivery port 4232 and the second port 36. The control port 411 of the main control valve 41 may include a first control port 4111 and a second control port 4112. A first branch 511 is connected to the first control port 4111, and a second branch 512 is connected to the second control port 4112.

[0122] When the first control port 4111 is acted upon by air pressure from the first branch circuit 511, the air inlet port 412 communicates with the first air supply port 4131, thereby connecting the air source to the second air circuit 52. The air pressure from the second air circuit 52 is then delivered to the enclosed cavity of the main body 32, causing the first and second telescopic rods 33, 34 to extend out of the main body 32 in opposite directions, thereby driving the first and second clamping members 22, 23 to move away from each other. Excess air within the main body 32 is returned to the second air supply port 4132 via the third air circuit 53 and exhausted through the first exhaust port 414 of the main control valve 41.

[0123] When air pressure from the second branch circuit 512 is applied to the second control port 4112, the air inlet port 412 communicates with the second air supply port 4132, thereby connecting the air source and the third air circuit 53. The air pressure from the third air circuit 53 is delivered to the enclosed cavity of the main body 32, causing the first and second telescopic rods 33, 34 to retract into the main body 32 in opposite directions, thereby driving the first and second clamping members 22, 23 to move toward each other. Excess air in the main body 32 can return to the first air supply port 4131 via the second air circuit 52 and be discharged through the second exhaust port 415 of the main control valve 41.

[0124] Optionally, the main control valve 41 may be a two-position five-way single air-controlled valve. The first switch valve 421 , the second switch valve 422 , the third switch valve 423 and the fourth switch valve 424 may all be three-way single air-controlled valves.

[0125] In some embodiments, referring to FIG2 , a first limiting mechanism 81 and a second limiting mechanism 82 are respectively provided on one side of the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 facing the clamping space 21 along the first direction X. The first limiting mechanism 81 and the second limiting mechanism 82 are respectively located within the range of motion of the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 along the first direction X to limit the distance that the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 can move toward each other.

[0126] The first limiting mechanism 81 is within the range of motion of the first clamping member 22 along the first direction X. When the first clamping member 22 moves along the first direction X, it can touch the first limiting mechanism 81, thereby limiting the first clamping member 22 from continuing to move along the first direction X toward the clamping space 21.

[0127] The second limiting mechanism 82 is within the range of motion of the second clamping member 23 along the first direction X. When the second clamping member 23 moves along the first direction X, it can touch the second limiting mechanism 82, thereby limiting the second clamping member 23 from continuing to move along the first direction X toward the clamping space 21.

[0128] The first limiting mechanism 81 and the second limiting mechanism 82 cooperate to limit the distance that the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 can move toward each other, so that the clamping space 21 has a minimum size along the first direction X. It is understood that the minimum size of the clamping space 21 along the first direction X can be roughly equivalent to the size of the battery 3 along the first direction X.

[0129] The embodiment of the present application provides a first limiting mechanism 81 and a second limiting mechanism 82 to prevent the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 from moving toward each other and damaging the battery 3, thereby compensating for the defect of low control accuracy of the pneumatic self-locking mechanism 30 of the pneumatic control element.

[0130] In some embodiments, the first limiting mechanism 81 and the second limiting mechanism 82 each include a buffer and a hard limiting member connected to the support frame 10. The buffer includes a buffer portion that is retractable relative to the support frame 10 along the first direction X. When the buffer portion is in an extended state, the buffer portion is located on a side of the hard limiting member that is further away from the clamping space 21 along the first direction X.

[0131] Figure 7 is a schematic structural diagram of the first limiting mechanism of the clamp shown in Figure 1. Taking the first limiting mechanism 81 as an example, the first limiting mechanism 81 includes a buffer 811 and a hard limiting member 812. The buffer 811 includes a buffer portion 813, and the buffer portion 813 is retractably arranged relative to the support frame 10 along the first direction X. When the buffer portion 813 is in an extended state, the buffer portion 813 is located on the side of the hard limiting member 812 that is further away from the clamping space 21 along the first direction X. As a result, the buffer portion 813 of the first limiting mechanism 81 can contact the first clamping member 22 before the hard limiting member 812 of the first limiting mechanism 81, and shrink under the push of the first clamping member 22. As the buffer portion 813 gradually shrinks, the resistance to the first clamping member 22 gradually increases, thereby slowly preventing the first clamping member 22 from continuing to move and reducing the moving speed of the first clamping member 22. When the first clamping member 22 moves to the point of hard contact with the hard stop member 812 , the speed is relatively low, thereby reducing the possibility of damage to the structure caused by the hard contact between the first clamping member 22 and the hard stop member 812 .

[0132] It is understandable that after the first clamping member 22 is separated from the buffer portion 813 , the buffer portion 813 can automatically restore to the extended state.

[0133] The structure and function of the second limiting mechanism 82 are similar to those of the first limiting mechanism 81 , and are not described in detail here.

[0134] 2 , a third limiting mechanism 83 and a fourth limiting mechanism 84 are respectively provided on the side of the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 facing away from the clamping space 21 along the first direction X. The third limiting mechanism 83 and the fourth limiting mechanism 84 are respectively located within the range of motion of the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 along the first direction X to limit the distance that the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 can move away from each other.

[0135] The third limiting mechanism 83 is within the range of movement of the first clamping member 22 along the first direction X. When the first clamping member 22 moves along the first direction X, it can touch the third limiting mechanism 83, thereby limiting the first clamping member 22 from continuing to move along the first direction X in a direction away from the clamping space 21.

[0136] The fourth limiting mechanism 84 is within the movement range of the second clamping member 23 along the first direction X. When the fourth limiting mechanism 84 moves along the first direction X, it can touch the fourth limiting mechanism 84, thereby limiting the second clamping member 23 from continuing to move along the first direction X toward the direction away from the clamping space 21.

[0137] The third limiting mechanism 83 and the fourth limiting mechanism 84 cooperate to limit the distance that the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 can move away from each other, so that the clamping space 21 has a maximum size along the first direction X. It is understood that the maximum size of the clamping space 21 along the first direction X is greater than the size of the battery 3 along the first direction X.

[0138] The embodiment of the present application provides a third limiting mechanism 83 and a fourth limiting mechanism 84 to prevent the first clamping member 22 and the second clamping member 23 from interfering with or interfering with other structures due to the transition of movement away from each other, thereby reducing the working space required for the clamp 1 to work.

[0139] In some embodiments, the third limiting mechanism 83 and the fourth limiting mechanism 84 both include a buffer member and a hard limiting member connected to the support frame 10, the buffer member includes a buffer portion, and the buffer portion is retractably arranged relative to the support frame 10 along the first direction X. When the buffer portion is in an extended state, the buffer portion is located on a side of the hard limiting member closer to the clamping space 21 along the first direction X.

[0140] The structures and functions of the third limiting mechanism 83 and the fourth limiting mechanism 84 are similar to those of the first limiting mechanism 81 , and are not described in detail here.

[0141] The positions of the first limiting mechanism 81 , the second limiting mechanism 82 , the third limiting mechanism 83 and the fourth limiting mechanism 84 along the first direction X relative to the support frame 10 are all adjustable, so that the clamp 1 can adapt to batteries 3 of different sizes.

[0142] The first limiting mechanism 81, the second limiting mechanism 82, the third limiting mechanism 83 and the fourth limiting mechanism 84 may all include a mounting plate connected to the support frame. The buffer member and the hard limiting member are both arranged on the corresponding mounting plate.

[0143] In some embodiments, the fixture 1 further includes a positioning member 90 extending along a second direction Y intersecting the first direction X. One end of the positioning member 90 along the second direction Y is connected to the support frame 10 , and the other end can be plugged into a positioning hole on the battery 3 .

[0144] The positioning member 90 can pre-position the battery 3 in a direction perpendicular to the second direction Y, so that the battery 3 maintains a suitable relative position with the clamp 1 , which is conducive to the clamping mechanism 20 reliably clamping the battery 3 .

[0145] There may be a plurality of positioning members 90 to accurately position the battery 3 in directions perpendicular to the second direction Y. Optionally, there may be four positioning members 90 , which are respectively provided at the four corners of the support frame 10 .

[0146] According to the second aspect of the present application, an embodiment of the present application further provides a lifting tool. The lifting tool provided by the embodiment of the present application includes the clamp 1 provided by any embodiment.

[0147] The lifting tool provided in the embodiment of the present application includes the clamp 1 provided in any of the above embodiments, and thus has the same technical effect, which will not be described in detail here.

[0148] The clamp 1 provided in the embodiment of the present application includes a support frame 10, a clamping mechanism 20, an air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30, and an air-controlled valve assembly 40. The clamping mechanism 20 is provided on the support frame 10 and includes a clamping space 21. The clamping mechanism 20 is movable relative to the support frame 10 at least along a first direction X, so that the size of the clamping space 21 along the first direction X is adjustable. The air-controlled valve assembly 40 includes a main control valve 41, a first switch valve 421, a second switch valve 422, a third switch valve 423, and a fourth switch valve 425. When the clamp 1 is in a suspended state, the first switch valve 421 is disconnected, blocking the air path between the air source and the air-controlled valve assembly 40. The various control functions of the clamp 1 are suppressed, thereby maintaining the state of the clamp 1 when the air source is disconnected. When the clamp 1 is in a shelved state, the first switch valve 421 is closed, and the clamp 1 can use the relevant control functions. Optionally, when the second on-off valve 422 and the third on-off valve 423 are triggered and closed simultaneously, air is delivered to the air-controlled valve assembly 40 via the second air path. The air-controlled valve assembly 40 can drive the two clamping members of the clamping mechanism 20 to move away from each other, thereby increasing the clamping space 21 and releasing the battery 3. When the second on-off valve 422 and the fourth on-off valve 424 are triggered and closed simultaneously, air is delivered to the air-controlled valve assembly 40 via the third air path. The air-controlled valve assembly 40 can drive the two clamping members of the clamping mechanism 20 to move toward each other, thereby decreasing the clamping space 21 and clamping the battery 3. During the movement of the two clamping members toward and away from each other, multiple limiting mechanisms can be used to limit the movement of the two clamping members to protect the battery 3. Before clamping the battery 3, the battery 3 can be positioned using the positioning member 90.

[0149] The clamp 1 provided in the embodiment of the present application can release the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 after the air path between the air source 2 and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 is blocked, so that the air-controlled self-locking mechanism 30 locks the clamping mechanism 20. At this time, the size of the clamping space 21 remains unchanged, and the clamping mechanism 20 can maintain the state of clamping the battery 3 unchanged, thereby realizing the self-state maintenance of the clamp 1 after the air source is disconnected, reducing the risk of the battery 3 falling from the clamp 1, and improving the safety of the battery 3 lifting process.

[0150] The embodiment of the present application uses only one energy source, air source, to realize the protection function of the clamp 1 in various working states, and can use the pneumatic indicator 71 to achieve the status display function, meeting the need to visually confirm the working status of the equipment.

[0151] The fixture 1 provided in the embodiment of the present application utilizes pneumatic components exclusively, replacing electronic components. This achieves full air source control, requiring only an air source, not a power source, thus reducing energy requirements. Furthermore, pneumatically controlled components are easier to identify faults than electrically controlled components, providing greater maintenance and safety benefits, and are less expensive.

[0152] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and they should all be included in the scope of the claims and specification of the present application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the various embodiments can be combined in any way. The present application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions that fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A clamp for holding a battery, comprising: Support frame; a clamping mechanism, provided on the support frame and comprising a clamping space, wherein the clamping mechanism is movably arranged relative to the support frame at least along a first direction so that the size of the clamping space along the first direction is adjustable; a pneumatic self-locking mechanism connected to the clamping mechanism and capable of communicating with an air source, the pneumatic self-locking mechanism being configured to drive the clamping mechanism to move in the first direction in response to air pressure acting on the mechanism, thereby adjusting the size of the clamping space, and to lock the clamping mechanism after the air pressure is released; as well as The air-controlled valve assembly is configured to selectively open the air path between the air source and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism so that the air pressure acts on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism or to block the air path between the air source and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism so as to release the air pressure acting on the air-controlled self-locking mechanism.

2. The clamp according to claim 1, wherein The air-controlled valve assembly includes a main control valve, which includes a control port, an air inlet port and an air delivery port. The air inlet port can be connected to an air source, and the air delivery port is connected to the air-controlled self-locking mechanism; the main control valve is configured to connect the air inlet port and the air delivery port in response to the pressure acting on the control port.

3. The clamp according to claim 2, wherein The control port can be communicated with a gas source; The air-controlled valve assembly includes a switch valve assembly, which is arranged in a first air path between the air source and the control port, and is configured to selectively open the first air path to allow air pressure to act on the control port or block the first air path to release the air pressure acting on the control port.

4. The clamp according to claim 3, wherein The switch valve assembly includes a first switch valve, which is provided in the first air path and is configured to block the first air path when the clamp is in a suspended state and to open the first air path when the clamp is in a rest state.

5. The clamp according to claim 4, wherein The clamp further includes a hanging mechanism, the hanging mechanism being connectable to the hanger, the hanging mechanism being disposed on the first supporting surface of the support frame and being movable relative to the first supporting surface at least along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first supporting surface; The first switch valve is connected to the hanging mechanism. In the rest state, the hanging mechanism moves at least along the second direction until the first switch valve abuts against the first support surface, thereby triggering the first switch valve to close and open the first gas path. In the suspended state, the hanging mechanism moves at least along the second direction until the first switch valve is separated from the first support surface, thereby opening the first switch valve to block the first air path.

6. The clamp according to claim 5, wherein The hanging mechanism includes a hanging member, a connecting member and a first limiting member; The hanging member is connected to the side of the connecting member away from the first supporting surface along the second direction; the first switch valve is connected to the connecting member, and the connecting member is rotatable relative to the first supporting surface so that the connecting member has a movement component along the second direction; the first limit member is provided on the side of the connecting member away from the first supporting surface along the second direction, and is fixed relative to the first supporting surface to limit the freedom of movement of the connecting member along the second direction away from the first supporting surface.

7. The clamp according to claim 6, wherein The first supporting surface is fixedly connected to a pillar, the pillar movably passes through the connecting member along the second direction, the pillar includes an axial limiting portion, and the axial limiting portion is located on a side of the connecting member away from the first supporting surface; The hanging mechanism also includes an elastic member, which is installed on the pillar. The two opposite ends of the elastic member along the second direction are respectively in contact with the connecting member and the axial limiting portion; in the suspended state, the elastic member is in a compressed state.

8. The clamp according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein: A second air path and a third air path, which are independent of each other, are formed between the air supply port and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism. The air-controlled self-locking mechanism is configured to drive the clamping mechanism to increase the clamping space along the first direction in response to air pressure from the second air path, and to drive the clamping mechanism to decrease the clamping space along the first direction in response to air pressure from the third air path. The first gas path includes a first branch and a second branch, and the switch valve assembly includes a second switch a shutoff valve, a third on-off valve, and a fourth on-off valve, wherein the third on-off valve and the fourth on-off valve are respectively provided on the first branch and the second branch, and the second on-off valve is provided on the upstream side of the first branch and the second branch in the airflow direction; The main control valve is configured to connect the intake port to the second air path when the first branch path is in an open state, and to connect the intake port to the third air path when the second branch path is in an open state.

9. The clamp according to claim 8, wherein The pneumatically controlled self-locking mechanism includes a self-locking port, the self-locking port being connected to the first gas path so that the gas pressure from the first gas path acts on the self-locking port, and the connection point between the self-locking port and the first gas path being located downstream of the second on-off valve and upstream of the first branch path and the second branch path; The air-controlled self-locking mechanism is configured to lock the clamping mechanism after the air pressure acting on the self-locking port is released.

10. The clamp according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein: A second air circuit and a third air circuit, each independent of the other, are connected between the main control valve and the air-controlled self-locking mechanism. The air-controlled self-locking mechanism is configured to drive the clamping mechanism to increase the clamping space in the first direction in response to air pressure from the second air circuit, and to drive the clamping mechanism to decrease the clamping space in the first direction in response to air pressure from the third air circuit. The clamp also includes an indicator, which is retractably provided on the support frame; the indicator is connected to one of the second air path and the third air path, and is configured to extend in response to the air pressure in the air path and retract after the air pressure is released.

11. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The clamping mechanism includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member, wherein the first clamping member and the second clamping member are arranged opposite to each other along the first direction to define the clamping space between the first clamping member and the second clamping member; The first clamping member and the second clamping member are both connected to the pneumatic self-locking mechanism, and are driven by the pneumatic self-locking mechanism to move toward or away from each other along the first direction.

12. The clamp according to claim 11, wherein The first clamping member and the second clamping member are oriented toward the clamping space along the first direction A first limiting mechanism and a second limiting mechanism are respectively provided on one side; The first limiting mechanism and the second limiting mechanism are respectively located within the movement range of the first clamping member and the second clamping member along the first direction to limit the distance of the first clamping member and the second clamping member moving toward each other.

13. The clamp according to claim 12, wherein The first limiting mechanism and the second limiting mechanism both include a buffer member and a hard limiting member connected to the support frame. The buffer member includes a buffer portion, which is telescopically arranged relative to the support frame along the first direction. When the buffer portion is in an extended state, the buffer portion is located on a side of the hard limiting member that is further away from the clamping space along the first direction.

14. The clamp according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: A third limiting mechanism and a fourth limiting mechanism are respectively provided on one side of the first clamping member and the second clamping member away from the clamping space along the first direction; The third limiting mechanism and the fourth limiting mechanism are respectively located within the movement range of the first clamping member and the second clamping member along the first direction, so as to limit the distance of the first clamping member and the second clamping member moving away from each other.

15. The clamp according to claim 14, wherein The third limiting mechanism and the fourth limiting mechanism both include a buffer member and a hard limiting member connected to the support frame, the buffer member includes a buffer portion, and the buffer portion is telescopically arranged relative to the support frame along the first direction. When the buffer portion is in an extended state, the buffer portion is located on a side of the hard limiting member that is closer to the clamping space along the first direction.

16. The clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The clamp also includes a positioning member, which extends along a second direction intersecting the first direction. One end of the positioning member along the second direction is connected to the support frame, and the other end can be plugged into and matched with the positioning hole on the battery.

17. A lifting tool comprising the clamp according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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