Vehicle body and vehicle having same

Abstract

A vehicle body and a vehicle having same. The vehicle body comprises: a battery compartment, wherein the battery compartment is provided with a first connector (20) and is used for accommodating a battery (300) provided with a second connector (310), the second connector (310) being used for mating with the first connector (20) in the direction opposite to the direction of gravity; and a sheath (10), wherein the sheath (10) is configured to be cylindrical, and the sheath (10) comprises a first end and a second end arranged opposite to each other in the direction of gravity. The first end is provided with a first opening to cover at least part of the first connector (20) in the sheath (10), and the second end is provided with a second opening, which faces the second connector (310). In a projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection of the second opening completely covers the projection of the first opening, and the projection area of the second opening is greater than the projection area of the first opening.

Description

The vehicle body and the vehicle having it

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202422836127.9, filed on November 20, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of battery swapping technology, and in particular to a vehicle body and a vehicle having the same. Background Technology

[0004] When swapping batteries for electrical devices such as vehicles, during the process of disconnecting or plugging in the connectors, accumulated mud, dust, or water that has fallen during rainy weather can easily fall into the connectors, causing short circuits, mechanical damage, or other damage.

[0005] Application content

[0006] This application aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this application proposes a vehicle body that can reliably and stably waterproof and dustproof the connector during battery swapping operations.

[0007] This application also proposes a vehicle belonging to the aforementioned vehicle body.

[0008] According to a vehicle body according to a first aspect of this application, the vehicle body includes a battery housing, the battery housing having a first connector, the battery housing for accommodating a battery having a second connector, the second connector for mating with the first connector in the opposite direction of gravity, the vehicle body including a sheath configured in a cylindrical shape, the sheath including a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other in the direction of gravity, the first end being connected to the vehicle body, and the first end having a first opening to cover at least a portion of the first connector within the sheath, the second end having a second opening facing the second connector; wherein, when projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection of the second opening completely covers the projection of the first opening, and the projected area of ​​the second opening is larger than the projected area of ​​the first opening.

[0009] According to the vehicle body of this application, by setting a protective sleeve, a first opening is provided at the first end of the protective sleeve to cover at least part of the first connector, and a second opening is provided at the second end of the protective sleeve, and the projection of the second opening in the direction of vertical gravity completely covers the projection of the first opening, and the projection area of ​​the second opening is larger than the projection area of ​​the first opening, so that when the mud, sand, dust and other dust accumulated on the protective sleeve slide down the surface of the protective sleeve from the second end, they are farther away from the second connector. Thus, when the vehicle body is performing battery swapping operations, the probability of mud, sand, dust and rainwater falling into the second connector can be greatly reduced, and the protective sleeve can play a good role in waterproofing and dustproofing the first connector and the second connector, so that the vehicle body can perform battery swapping operations more stably and the vehicle body can operate more stably.

[0010] In some embodiments of this application, on a projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection edge of the first opening is a first edge, the projection edge of the second opening is a second edge, and the first edge and the second edge are spaced apart.

[0011] In this embodiment, the first edge of the first opening and the second edge of the second opening are spaced apart, so that the second opening and the second connector can maintain a spaced-apart position relationship in their circumferential direction. This allows the edge of the second opening to maintain a stable distance from the second connector, so that when dirt, dust, rainwater, etc. on the sheath slide off from the second end at various positions on the circumferential surface of the sheath, they are always at a greater distance from the second connector. This makes the waterproof and dustproof effect of the sheath on the second connector and the first connector better and more stable.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the minimum distance between the first edge and the second edge is greater than or equal to 30 mm.

[0013] In this embodiment, the minimum distance between the first edge and the second edge is set to be greater than or equal to 30mm, so that the second opening has a sufficiently large coverage area relative to the first opening, thereby making the distance between the second opening and the second connector sufficiently far, so that the probability of dirt, dust and water falling into the second connector when they slide down is stably and reliably reduced, so that the sheath can more stably and reliably play a role in waterproofing and dustproofing the first connector and the second connector.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the cross-sectional dimensions of the sheath gradually increase in the direction of gravity.

[0015] In this embodiment, the cross-sectional size of the sheath gradually increases in the direction of gravity, which makes it easier for dust and dirt to slide off under their own weight when they fall onto the sheath. This reduces the amount of dust and dirt accumulating on the sheath, further reducing the probability of dust and dirt falling into the second connector, and giving the sheath a better waterproof and dustproof effect.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, the first plane is configured to be perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the boundary line between the first plane and the sheath is the first boundary line, the projection of the first opening onto the first plane along the direction of gravity is the first edge, and the greater the distance between the first plane and the first opening along the direction of gravity, the greater the minimum distance between the first boundary line and the first edge.

[0017] In this embodiment, the greater the distance between the first plane and the first opening along the direction of gravity, the greater the minimum distance between the first boundary line and the first edge, which can well meet the setting and usage requirements of the sheath in this embodiment, so that the sheath can have a good waterproof and dustproof effect.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, the outer peripheral surface of the sheath is an inclined surface that is tilted relative to the direction of gravity, and the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath and the direction of gravity is greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 80 degrees.

[0019] In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the sheath is formed as a slope, and the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath and the direction of gravity is set to be greater than or equal to 10 degrees. This ensures that the end of the sheath facing the second connector has a sufficient opening to cover the second connector, allowing the sheath to fit well with the first and second connectors during assembly and use. In this embodiment, setting the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath and the direction of gravity to be less than or equal to 80 degrees allows the opening at the end of the sheath facing the second connector to be smaller while still meeting the requirement of covering the second connector. This results in a smaller space occupied by the sheath in the vehicle and makes assembly of the sheath with the first and second connectors more convenient.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath is connected to the first connector, and the sheath is sealed to the first connector.

[0021] In this embodiment, the sheath is sealed to the first connector, which can effectively reduce the probability that dust, mud, water, etc. will flow into the inside of the sheath from the gap between the sheath and the first connector and then fall into the second connector. This allows the sheath to more stably and reliably provide waterproof and dustproof protection for the second connector and the first connector during battery swapping operations.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath is a waterproof component.

[0023] In this embodiment, by setting the sheath as a waterproof component, the sheath can reliably isolate rainwater, water droplets and other liquids from the outside of the sheath, thereby achieving a good waterproof effect at the first connector and the second connector.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, at least a portion of the sheath is configured to be expandable or contractable along the direction of gravity such that the distance between the second end and the first end along the direction of gravity is variable.

[0025] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the sheath is configured to be expandable or retractable along the direction of gravity, so that the distance between the second end and the first end along the direction of gravity is variable. This allows the sheath to have a larger protective range along the direction of gravity during the docking and disassembly of the first and second connectors, while ensuring good docking between the first and second connectors. As a result, the sheath can provide better protection and reliability for the first and second connectors, and can better perform the functions of waterproofing and dustproofing.

[0026] In one embodiment of this application, the sheath is configured to be in a retracted state when the first connector and the second connector are connected, and in an extended state when the first connector and the second connector are completely separated. In the extended state, the dimension of the sheath along the direction of gravity is a first dimension, and in the retracted state, the dimension of the sheath along the direction of gravity is a second dimension, wherein the first dimension is larger than the second dimension.

[0027] In this embodiment, the first dimension of the sheath along the direction of gravity when it is in the unfolded state is set to be greater than the second dimension of the sheath along the direction of gravity when it is in the retracted state. This allows the sheath to achieve better waterproof and dustproof effects when the second connector is docked or separated from the first connector. The sheath can more stably and reliably protect the second connector from dust and water, enabling the vehicle body and battery to operate more stably and allowing the vehicle to perform battery swapping operations more stably.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath is a flexible component, or the sheath is a foldable component.

[0029] In this embodiment, the sheath is set as a flexible or foldable part, which has a simple structure and can meet the needs of repeated unfolding and folding of the sheath.

[0030] In one embodiment of this application, the sheath further includes a counterweight, at least one of which is fixed to the second end.

[0031] In this embodiment, the sheath is equipped with a counterweight, which allows the sheath to unfold under the weight of the counterweight. The structure is simple and easy to set up, allowing the sheath to unfold by gravity on its own. This greatly reduces the difficulty of opening the sheath manually or the increased cost caused by setting up a mechanical structure for unfolding. The sheath can reliably and stably provide waterproof and dustproof protection for the second connector and the first connector during the separation process, giving the sheath a good performance.

[0032] In some examples of this application, the counterweight extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the sheath.

[0033] In this embodiment, the counterweight is set to extend in a ring along the circumference of the sheath, so that the second end of the sheath can receive the gravity of the counterweight at various positions in the circumference. This allows the second end of the sheath to move stably and reliably as a whole along the direction of gravity to unfold the sheath, making the sheath more stable during use and maintaining a stable and good protective effect.

[0034] In some examples of this application, the number of counterweights is multiple, and the multiple counterweights are arranged at intervals between the first end and the second end along the direction of gravity.

[0035] In this embodiment, multiple counterweights are arranged at intervals on the sheath between the first and second ends along the direction of gravity. Each counterweight can limit, support, and fix different positions of the sheath, so that the sheath can unfold and retract more stably and reliably along the direction of gravity under the combined action of multiple counterweights. This greatly reduces the interference of the sheath on the insertion and engagement of the first and second connectors when unfolding and retracting, making the vehicle run more stably during use.

[0036] In some examples of this application, the counterweight is located on the inside of the sheath.

[0037] In this embodiment, the counterweight is placed on the inside of the sheath, which can effectively reduce the probability of the counterweight forming an uneven outer surface when placed on the outer circumference of the sheath. This reduces the probability of dust, mud, water, etc. accumulating on the sheath when sliding down its outer circumference. Therefore, after the sheath is unfolded, dust, water, etc., can smoothly and reliably slide to the outside of the second connector. This further reduces the probability of dust accumulated during the re-connection of the second and first connectors falling into the second connector. This allows the sheath to provide stable and reliable waterproof and dustproof protection for the power-changing connection between the first and second connectors, resulting in better overall performance.

[0038] In some examples of this application, the sidewall of the sheath is formed with a receiving cavity, and the counterweight is disposed within the receiving cavity.

[0039] In this embodiment, the sheath is provided with a receiving cavity, and the counterweight is placed inside the receiving cavity. The structure is simple, and the counterweight can strengthen the structure of the sheath, so that the sheath can be stably and reliably unfolded or retracted along the direction of gravity, thereby providing stable and reliable protection for the vehicle when it is performing battery swapping operations.

[0040] In some embodiments of this application, the battery includes a housing, the housing having a side surface facing the first connector in the direction of gravity formed as a mounting surface, the second connector being fixed to the housing and partially protruding from the mounting surface, and when the first connector and the second connector are connected, the sheath is used to cover the outside of the second connector and contact the mounting surface.

[0041] In this embodiment, the housing has a mounting surface that mates with the sheath. During long-term vehicle operation, the sheath, in conjunction with the mounting surface and the sealing connection with the first connector, provides a stable and reliable seal for the first insertion portion of the first connector and the second insertion portion of the second connector. This allows the sheath to completely cover the first and second insertion portions, thus providing excellent waterproofing and dustproofing. The mounting surface provides good support for the sheath and applies a stable thrust to it during insertion, causing the sheath to retract. This allows the sheath to automatically unfold and retract during the insertion and separation of the first and second connectors, making the sheath more convenient to use.

[0042] The vehicle according to the second aspect of this application includes: a battery and a vehicle body according to the first aspect of this application, wherein the battery is installed in the battery housing.

[0043] According to the vehicle of this application, by setting the vehicle body of the first aspect described above, the vehicle body is provided with a protective sleeve. The first end of the protective sleeve is provided with a first opening to cover at least a portion of the first connector. The second end of the protective sleeve is provided with a second opening, and the projection of the second opening in the direction of vertical gravity completely covers the projection of the first opening. The projection area of ​​the second opening is larger than the projection area of ​​the first opening. This allows the mud, sand, dust, and other dust accumulated on the protective sleeve to slide down the surface of the protective sleeve from the second end at a greater distance from the second connector. As a result, when the vehicle body is performing battery swapping operations, the probability of mud, sand, dust, rainwater, etc. falling into the second connector can be greatly reduced. The protective sleeve can play a good role in waterproofing and dustproofing the first and second connectors, thereby allowing the vehicle body to perform battery swapping operations more stably and making the vehicle body operate more stably.

[0044] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle from another angle according to an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the first connector and the second connector, the housing and the sheath according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the first connector and the second connector, the housing and the sheath from another angle according to an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the first connector and the second connector, the housing and the sheath from another angle according to an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the first connector and the second connector after the sheath has been removed during insertion and mating according to an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the sheath in the unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Reference numerals: 100, vehicle body; 10, sheath; 11, counterweight; 20, first connector; 21, first insertion part; 200, motor; 300, battery; 310, second connector; 311, second insertion part; 320, housing; 321, mounting surface; 400, controller; 1000, vehicle. Detailed Implementation

[0053] The embodiments of the technical solution of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this application and are therefore merely examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application.

[0054] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, in the specification, claims, and foregoing description of the drawings are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0055] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0056] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0057] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more (including two).

[0058] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the technical terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0059] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0060] Currently, vehicles and other devices use battery swapping to replenish their electrical energy. During battery swapping, dust or water accumulated on the connectors can easily fall into the connectors, causing short circuits, mechanical damage, and other issues. This can lead to problems such as poor connection, short circuits, and burn-out during the connection process, resulting in malfunctions in the electrical system of the device and a decrease in the operational stability of the device.

[0061] Based on the above considerations, in this embodiment, a protective sleeve is provided at the connector, which plays a good role in waterproofing and dustproofing the connector, making the vehicle run more stably during battery swapping operations.

[0062] The vehicle can be a gasoline-powered vehicle, a natural gas-powered vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, or range-extended electric vehicles, etc. A battery is installed in the vehicle's main body, which can be located at the bottom, front, or rear of the vehicle. The battery can be used to power the vehicle; for example, it can serve as the vehicle's operating power source. The vehicle may also include a controller and a motor. The controller is used to control the battery's power supply to the motor, for example, to meet the vehicle's power needs during starting, navigation, and driving.

[0063] In some embodiments of this application, the battery can not only serve as the operating power source for the vehicle, but also as the driving power source for the vehicle, replacing or partially replacing fuel or natural gas to provide driving power for the vehicle.

[0064] The vehicle 1000 according to a first aspect embodiment of the present application is described below with reference to Figures 1-7. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the vehicle 1000 according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the vehicle 1000 from another angle according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, the housing 320 and the sheath 10 according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, the housing 320 and the sheath 10 from another angle according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, the housing 320 and the sheath 10 from yet another angle according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 after insertion and engagement with the sheath 10 removed according to an embodiment of the present application; Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the sheath 10 in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0065] As shown in Figures 1-7, according to the first aspect of this application, the vehicle body 100 includes a battery compartment, which is provided with a first connector 20. The battery compartment is used to accommodate a battery 300 provided with a second connector 310. The second connector 310 is used to dock with the first connector 20 in the opposite direction of gravity (as shown in the z-direction of Figure 3). The vehicle body 100 includes a sheath 10, which is configured as a cylinder. The sheath 10 includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other in the direction of gravity. The first end is connected to the vehicle body 100 and has a first opening to cover at least a portion of the first connector 20 in the sheath 10. The second end has a second opening and the second opening is directed toward the second connector 310. In a projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection of the second opening completely covers the projection of the first opening, and the projection area of ​​the second opening is larger than the projection area of ​​the first opening.

[0066] In this embodiment, the vehicle body 100 is provided with a battery compartment for accommodating the battery 300. The battery compartment is provided with a first connector 20, and the battery 300 is provided with a second connector 310. The first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are connected to each other, allowing the battery 300 to supply power to the vehicle body 100. When the vehicle body 100 is undergoing a battery swapping operation, the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are disconnected. The battery 300 that has consumed power is removed from the battery compartment and replaced with a charged battery 300. The charged battery 300 is inserted into the battery compartment and reconnected to the first connector 20 through the second connector 310, allowing the battery 300 to continue supplying power to the vehicle body 100, thereby shortening the recharging time of the vehicle 1000 and realizing the battery swapping operation of the vehicle 1000. Exemplarily, the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 can be battery swapping connectors. The first end of the sheath 10 is connected to the vehicle body 100. Exemplarily, the first end can be connected to the vehicle body 100 through the first connector 20.

[0067] In this embodiment, the battery 300 may include one or more battery cell assemblies. The battery 300 provides voltage and capacity to the power user. The battery cell assembly may include multiple battery cells, which can be connected in series, parallel, or mixed connection via a busbar as needed. In some embodiments, the battery cell assembly may be composed of multiple battery cells arranged together. The battery cell assembly may be a battery 300 module housed in a housing 320. For example, when the vehicle 1000 is in operation, the battery 300 can store and provide electrical energy to the vehicle 1000, enabling the vehicle 1000's electronic control system and other systems to operate normally.

[0068] In this embodiment, the second connector 310 of the battery 300 docks with the first connector 20 in the opposite direction of gravity. The second connector 310 and the first connector 20 can be plugged in. For example, the first connector 20 can be arranged above the second connector 310. After the battery 300 is assembled into the battery housing, the second connector 310 of the battery 300 moves from bottom to top to dock with the first connector 20. Here, the direction of gravity does not only refer to the strict direction of gravity. The docking direction of the second connector 310 and the first connector 20, that is, the direction of gravity, can have a certain angle of deviation from the strict direction of gravity to meet the flexible and convenient docking operation of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 during actual docking operations. The direction of gravity refers to the direction of free fall of an object under the action of gravity.

[0069] The sheath 10 provided on the vehicle body 100 has a first end and a second end that are arranged opposite to each other along the direction of gravity. The first end is connected to the vehicle body 100 and has a first opening to cover at least a portion of the first connector 20. Specifically, the sheath 10 can cover the portion of the first connector 20 that is mated and connected to the second connector 310 to provide stable protection.

[0070] The second end has a second opening facing the second connector 310. On the projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection of the second opening along the direction of gravity completely covers the projection of the first opening. After the second connector 310 is mated with the first connector 20, the sheath 10 can also cover at least part of the second connector 310 through the second opening. During the process of separating the second connector 310 from the first connector 20, the sheath 10 can also maintain the state of covering at least part of the second connector 310 for a period of time while the second connector 310 is moving, for example, for a period of time before the second connector 310 is completely separated from the first connector 20, or for a period of time before the second connector 310 moves away from the first connector 20 by a certain distance in the direction of gravity.

[0071] The projected area of ​​the second opening on the projection plane is larger than that of the first opening. In other words, the opening at the second end of the sheath 10 is larger than the opening at the first end, and the sheath 10 has a larger coverage area towards the second connector 310. For example, when the projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity is horizontal, in the horizontal direction, the coverage area of ​​the second opening at the second end is larger than the coverage area of ​​the first opening at the first end. Therefore, the distance between the edge of the second opening and the second connector 310 is greater than the distance between the edge of the first opening and the first connector 20. For example, the sheath 10 can form a gradually increasing horn structure from the first end towards the second end.

[0072] During the long-term use of vehicle 1000, dust and mud accumulate on the sheath 10. Sheath 10 protects the mating position of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310. Therefore, when vehicle 1000 is performing a battery swap, during the process of separating the second connector 310 from the first connector 20, the dust, mud, and water on the sheath 10 begin to slide off the outer surface of the sheath 10 under the action of vibration. Since the second opening at the second end of the sheath 10 has a large coverage area and is far from the second connector 310 in the horizontal direction, the distance between the mud and dust sliding off the second end of the sheath 10 and the second connector 310 is relatively far.

[0073] In this embodiment, the projected area of ​​the second opening is set to be larger than that of the first opening, so that accumulated mud, sand, dust, and water can slide off from a position farther away from the second connector 310. This can effectively reduce the probability of mud, sand, dust, and rainwater falling into the second connector 310 when it is separated from the first connector 20. This allows the sheath 10 to play a good role in waterproofing and dustproofing the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, making the vehicle body 100 operate more stably during battery swapping.

[0074] In this embodiment, the battery compartment is equipped with a first connector 20 that docks with the second connector 310 of the battery 300. The structure is simple and facilitates the separation and connection of the battery 300 and the main power user, making it more convenient and faster for the vehicle 1000 to perform battery swapping operations.

[0075] According to the embodiments of this application, the vehicle body 100 is provided with a protective sleeve 10. The first end of the protective sleeve 10 is provided with a first opening to cover at least a portion of the first connector 20. The second end of the protective sleeve 10 is provided with a second opening, and the projection of the second opening in the vertical direction of gravity completely covers the projection of the first opening. The projection area of ​​the second opening is larger than the projection area of ​​the first opening. This allows the mud, sand, dust, and other dust accumulated on the protective sleeve 10 to slide down the surface of the protective sleeve 10 from the second end at a greater distance from the second connector 310. As a result, when the vehicle body 100 is performing a battery swapping operation, the probability of mud, sand, dust, rainwater, etc. falling into the second connector 310 can be greatly reduced. The protective sleeve 10 can play a good role in waterproofing and dustproofing the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, thereby enabling the vehicle body 100 to perform battery swapping operations more stably and making the vehicle body 100 operate more stably.

[0076] In some embodiments of this application, on a projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection edge of the first opening is the first edge, the projection edge of the second opening is the second edge, and the first edge and the second edge are spaced apart.

[0077] In this embodiment, the projected edge of the first opening is the first edge, and the edge of the second opening is the second edge. The first edge and the second edge are arranged at intervals. Since the sheath 10 is cylindrical, the first edge can be formed as an annular shape, and the second edge can also be formed as an annular shape. The first edge and the second edge are arranged at intervals. The first edge can be located inside the circumference of the second edge. Along the circumference of the first edge or along the circumference of the second edge, the first edge and the second edge always maintain a positional relationship of being spaced apart. When the sheath 10 covers the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, since the sheath 10 is provided with the first opening to cover at least part of the first connector 20, the relative position of the first opening and the first connector 20 is relatively stable. After the second connector 310 and the first connector 20 are connected, the relative position of the second connector 310 and the first connector 20 also remains stable. The second edge is arranged at intervals with the first edge, so that the second opening can always maintain a positional relationship of being spaced apart from the second connector 310 in the circumference direction. That is, the second opening can always maintain a certain distance from the second connector 310 in the circumference direction.

[0078] In this embodiment, the first edge of the first opening and the second edge of the second opening are spaced apart, so that the second opening and the second connector 310 can maintain a spaced position relationship in their circumferential direction. This allows the edge of the second opening to maintain a stable distance from the second connector 310, so that when dirt, dust, rainwater, etc. on the sheath 10 slide off from the second end at various positions on the circumferential surface of the sheath 10, they are always at a greater distance from the second connector 310. This makes the waterproof and dustproof effect of the sheath 10 on the second connector 310 and the first connector 20 better and more stable.

[0079] In one embodiment of this application, the minimum distance between the first edge and the second edge can be greater than or equal to 30 mm.

[0080] In this embodiment, the minimum distance between the first edge and the second edge is set to be greater than or equal to 30mm. For example, the minimum distance between the first edge and the second edge can be 30mm, 31mm, 32mm, 33mm, 35mm, 40mm, etc. For example, when the first edge and the second edge are circular, the minimum distance refers to the difference between the radius of the first edge and the radius of the second edge.

[0081] In this embodiment, the minimum distance between the first edge and the second edge is set to be greater than or equal to 30mm, so that the second opening has a sufficiently large coverage area relative to the first opening, thereby making the second opening far enough away from the second connector 310. This reduces the probability of dirt, dust, water, etc., falling into the second connector 310 when they slide down, thus making the sheath 10 more stable and reliable in providing waterproof and dustproof protection for the first connector 20 and the second connector 310.

[0082] In some embodiments of this application, the cross-sectional dimensions of the sheath 10 gradually increase in the direction of gravity.

[0083] In this embodiment, the cross-sectional size of the sheath 10 gradually increases in the direction of gravity, so the outer surface of the sheath 10 can form a sloping structure that extends from the first end to the second end. When dirt, dust and rainwater accumulate on the surface of the sheath 10, the dirt, dust and rainwater slide down along the sloping surface of the sheath 10 under their own gravity.

[0084] In this embodiment, the cross-sectional size of the sheath 10 gradually increases in the direction of gravity, which makes it easier for dust and dirt to slide off under their own gravity when they fall onto the sheath 10. This reduces the amount of dust and dirt accumulating on the sheath 10, and further reduces the probability of dust and dirt falling into the second connector 310, so that the sheath 10 can have a better waterproof and dustproof effect.

[0085] In one embodiment of this application, the first plane is configured to be perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the boundary line between the first plane and the sheath 10 is the first boundary line, the projection of the first opening onto the first plane along the direction of gravity is the first edge, and the greater the distance between the first plane and the first opening along the direction of gravity, the greater the minimum distance between the first boundary line and the first edge.

[0086] In this embodiment, the first plane is perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The boundary line between the first plane and the sheath 10 is set as the first boundary line, which refers to the outline formed on the first plane when the sheath 10 intersects with the first plane. That is, the outline of the cross section of the sheath 10 on the first plane. The projection edge of the first opening on the first plane is the first edge. The greater the distance between the first plane and the first opening in the direction of gravity, the more the sheath 10 moves away from the first opening along the direction of gravity. Specifically, the position of the first opening remains unchanged, that is, the position of the sheath 10 is fixed. The first plane moves away from the first opening along the direction of gravity. Then the position of the first boundary line formed by the sheath 10 and the first plane also moves towards the second end along the direction of gravity. In this process, the greater the minimum distance between the first boundary line and the first edge, that is, the first intersection line moves away from the first edge. It can be seen that the sheath 10 is a cylindrical structure with a radial dimension that gradually increases in the direction from the first end to the second end.

[0087] In this embodiment, the greater the distance between the first plane and the first opening along the direction of gravity, the greater the minimum distance between the first boundary line and the first edge, which can well meet the setting and usage requirements of the sheath 10 in this embodiment, so that the sheath 10 can have a good waterproof and dustproof effect.

[0088] In one embodiment of this application, the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 10 is an inclined surface that is tilted relative to the direction of gravity, and the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 10 and the direction of gravity is greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 80 degrees.

[0089] For example, as shown in Figure 5, the included angle α in the figure represents the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 10 and the direction of gravity. The included angle α can be 10 degrees, 11 degrees, 13 degrees, 15 degrees, 19 degrees, 25 degrees, 40 degrees, 60 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, etc. The value of the included angle between the outer peripheral surface and the direction of gravity can be reasonably set according to needs.

[0090] In this embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 10 is formed as an inclined plane, and the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 10 and the direction of gravity is set to be greater than or equal to 10 degrees. This ensures that the end of the sheath 10 facing the second connector 310 has a sufficient opening to cover the second connector 310, allowing the sheath 10 to fit well with the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 during assembly and use. In this embodiment, the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath 10 and the direction of gravity is set to be less than or equal to 80 degrees. This allows the opening at the end of the sheath 10 facing the second connector 310 to be smaller while still meeting the requirement of covering the second connector 310. This results in a smaller space occupied by the sheath 10 in the vehicle 1000, making it easier to assemble the sheath 10 with the first connector 20 and the second connector 310.

[0091] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath 10 is connected to the first connector 20, and the sheath 10 is sealed to the first connector 20.

[0092] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is sealed to the first connector 20. For example, the first end of the sheath 10 can be sealed to the first connector 20, or the second end of the sheath 10 can be sealed to the first connector 20 by means of a sealing strip plus a binding or a band.

[0093] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is sealed to the first connector 20, which can effectively reduce the probability of dust, mud, water and other substances flowing into the inside of the sheath 10 from the gap between the sheath 10 and the first connector 20 and then falling into the second connector 310. This allows the sheath 10 to more stably and reliably provide waterproof and dustproof protection for the second connector 310 and the first connector 20 during battery swapping operations.

[0094] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath 10 may be a waterproof component.

[0095] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is a waterproof component, such as a waterproof cloth, rubber component, silicone sleeve, etc.

[0096] In this embodiment, by setting the sheath 10 as a waterproof component, the sheath 10 can reliably isolate rainwater, water droplets and other liquids from the outside of the sheath 10, thereby achieving a good waterproof effect at the first connector 20 and the second connector 310.

[0097] In some embodiments of this application, at least a portion of the sheath 10 is configured to be expandable or retractable in the direction of gravity so that the distance between the second end and the first end in the direction of gravity is variable.

[0098] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the sheath 10 is configured to be expandable or retractable along the direction of gravity. For example, the sheath 10 can be configured as a deformable component. Exemplarily, after the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are mated, the sheath 10 can be in a fully retracted state, providing waterproofing and dustproofing for the first connector 20 and the second connector 310. After the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are disconnected, the sheath 10 can be in a fully expanded state, covering the first connector 20 for subsequent mating operations. During the docking process, the sheath 10 can retract along the direction of gravity to reduce obstruction to the docking operation of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310. At this time, when the second connector 310 moves into the unfolding range of the sheath 10, the sheath 10 can protect the sheath 10. During the disconnection process of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, the sheath 10 can unfold along the direction of gravity. At this time, before the sheath 10 is fully unfolded, during the period when the second connector 310 is within the unfolding range of the sheath 10, the sheath 10 can still protect the second connector 310.

[0099] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the sheath 10 is configured to be expandable or retractable along the direction of gravity, so that the distance between the second end and the first end along the direction of gravity is variable. This allows the sheath 10 to have a larger protective range along the direction of gravity during the docking and disassembly of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, while ensuring good docking between the first connector 20 and the second connector 310. As a result, the sheath 10 can provide better protection and reliability for the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, and can better perform the function of waterproofing and dustproofing.

[0100] In one embodiment of this application, the sheath 10 is configured to be in a retracted state when the first connector 20 is connected to the second connector 310, and in an extended state when the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are completely separated. In the extended state, the dimension of the sheath 10 along the direction of gravity is a first dimension, and in the retracted state, the dimension of the sheath 10 along the direction of gravity is a second dimension, wherein the first dimension is larger than the second dimension.

[0101] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is configured to be in a retracted state when the first connector 20 is connected to the second connector 310, and in an extended state when the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are completely separated. Therefore, when the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are connected, the sheath 10 can be in a retracted state. When the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are completely separated, i.e., when the second connector 310 is completely outside the envelope of the first connector 20, the sheath 10 can be in a fully extended state. The dimension of the sheath 10 in the extended state along the direction of gravity is a first dimension, and the dimension of the sheath 10 in the retracted state along the direction of gravity is a second dimension. The first dimension is larger than the second dimension, meaning that the sheath 10 has a longer protective range after being extended along the direction of gravity. During the process of the second connector 310 and the first connector 20 separating from the beginning to the complete separation, or during the process of the second connector 310 and the first connector 20 completely separating to being fully connected, the sheath 10 changes its protective range accordingly as the positions of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 change in the direction of gravity.

[0102] In this embodiment, the first dimension of the sheath 10 in the direction of gravity when it is in the unfolded state is set to be greater than the second dimension of the sheath 10 in the direction of gravity when it is in the folded state. This allows the sheath 10 to achieve better waterproof and dustproof effects when the second connector 310 is docked or separated from the first connector 20. The sheath 10 can more stably and reliably provide dustproof and waterproof protection for the second connector 310, enabling the vehicle body 100 and the battery 300 to operate more stably together, and the vehicle 1000 to perform battery swapping operations more stably.

[0103] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath 10 may be a flexible component.

[0104] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is set as a flexible part. For example, the sheath 10 can be a waterproof cloth, a flexible rubber part, or a silicone sleeve, etc.

[0105] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is set as a flexible component with a simple structure, which can well meet the needs of unfolding and retracting the sheath 10.

[0106] In one embodiment of this application, referring to Figures 3 and 4, when the sheath 10 is in the unfolded state, the cross-sectional shape of the sheath 10 can be one of a circle, an ellipse, an oblong shape, and a polygon.

[0107] In this embodiment, when the sheath 10 is in the unfolded state, the cross-sectional shape of the sheath 10 can be circular, elliptical, oblong, or polygonal. For example, when the outer contours of the projections of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 on the projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity are approximately circular, the sheath 10 can be set to have a circular cross-sectional shape. When the outer contours of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are approximately elliptical, the sheath 10 can be set to have an elliptical cross-section. The cross-sectional shape of the sheath 10 can be set according to the shape and structure of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310.

[0108] In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the sheath 10 is set to one of the following: circular, elliptical, oblong, and polygonal. This allows the cross-sectional shape of the sheath 10 to be adaptively selected according to the shape and structure of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310. This enables the sheath 10 to be better fitted over the outside of the first connector 20 and to properly cover the second connector 310 when unfolded. This improves the compatibility of the sheath 10 with the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, and enhances the waterproof and dustproof performance of the sheath 10.

[0109] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath 10 may be an annular cylindrical shape.

[0110] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is an annular cylindrical shape. When the sheath 10 is in the unfolded state, the sheath 10 can form a frustum structure with the center through it. The outer circumferential surface of the sheath 10 is an annular surface extending in the circumferential direction.

[0111] The sheath 10 is configured as an annular cylindrical shape, so that the sheath 10 can stably cover the second connector 310 in the circumferential direction.

[0112] In some embodiments of this application, the sheath 10 is a foldable component.

[0113] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is configured as a foldable component. The sheath 10 can be folded up or unfolded. For example, the sheath 10 can adopt a retractable corrugated tube structure.

[0114] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is set as a foldable part, which has a simple structure and can meet the needs of repeated unfolding and folding of the sheath 10.

[0115] In one example of this application, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the first connector 20 may include a first insertion portion 21, and the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are connected by insertion through the first insertion portion 21 and the second insertion portion 311. One end of the sheath 10 is sleeved on the outside of the first insertion portion 21 and is sealed to the first insertion portion 21.

[0116] In this embodiment, one end of the sheath 10 is fitted over the outside of the first plug-in portion 21 and is sealed to the first plug-in portion 21. The first plug-in portion 21 is plugged into the second plug-in portion 311. When the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are plugged into each other, the sheath 10 can cover the first plug-in portion 21 and the second plug-in portion 311. During the long-term use of the vehicle 1000, dust, mud, rainwater, etc. fall onto the first connector 20 and the sheath 10. The sheath 10 can be sealed to the first plug-in portion 21 to reliably provide waterproof and dustproof protection for the first plug-in portion 21 and the second plug-in portion 311. When the vehicle 1000 is performing a battery swap, the second connector 310 is separated from the first connector 20, and the accumulated dust, mud, water, etc. slide down the outer surface of the sheath 10 to the outside of the second connector 310.

[0117] In this embodiment, the first connector 20 includes a first plug-in portion 21 and a second plug-in portion 311 that are plugged in and connected, which can well meet the usage needs of the vehicle 1000. One end of the sheath 10 is sleeved on the outside of the first plug-in portion 21 and sealed to the first plug-in portion 21, which can make the sheath 10 reliably and stably waterproof and dustproof the first plug-in portion 21 and the second plug-in portion 311, thus making the use effect of the sheath 10 better.

[0118] In one embodiment of this application, as shown in FIG5, when the sheath 10 is unfolded, the dimension of the second end of the sheath 10 along the first direction (x direction as shown in FIG5) is the third dimension. The second connector 310 may include a second plug-in portion 311. The first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are plugged and connected through the second plug-in portion 311. The dimension of the second plug-in portion 311 in the first direction is the fourth dimension. The ratio of the third dimension to the fourth dimension can be greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to 8. The first direction is perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

[0119] In this embodiment, when the sheath 10 is unfolded, the second end of the sheath 10 is set to a third dimension along the first direction, and the second plug-in part 311 is set to a fourth dimension along the first direction. The first direction is perpendicular to the direction of gravity. It can be understood that the shape and structure of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 can have various forms. On the projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection of the second plug-in part 311 can be formed as a circle, ellipse, rectangle, oblong, etc. In this embodiment, the first direction can be selected and set according to the different shape and structure of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310.

[0120] For example, when the projection of the second insertion part 311 is circular, the first direction can be consistent with the radial direction of the second insertion part 311, and the size of the second insertion part 311 in the first direction is the diameter of the second insertion part 311. For example, when the projection of the second insertion part 311 is rectangular, the first direction can be consistent with the long side direction or the short side direction of the second insertion part 311, and the size of the second insertion part 311 in the first direction can be the long side dimension or the short side dimension of the second insertion part 311. The first direction can also be represented as two directions consistent with the long side direction and the short side direction, to cover the cases where the second insertion part 311 has different dimensions in the long side direction and the short side direction, as well as the setting of the first direction when the projection of the second insertion part 311 is other shapes, which will not be listed one by one here.

[0121] In this embodiment, the ratio of the third dimension to the fourth dimension is set to be greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to 8. Referring to Figure 5, L1 represents the third dimension and L2 represents the fourth dimension. The ratio of L1 to L2 can be greater than or equal to 2 and less than or equal to 8. For example, the ratio of the third dimension L1 to the fourth dimension L2 can be 2, 2.5, 2.6, 3.5, 4, 6, 8, etc.

[0122] In this embodiment, the ratio of the third dimension to the fourth dimension is set to be greater than or equal to 2, which allows the sheath 10 to have a certain distance between the second plug portion 311 in the first direction, so that the sheath 10 can conveniently and stably cover the second connector 310. The ratio of the third dimension to the fourth dimension is less than or equal to 8, so that the dimension of the sheath 10 in the first direction is within a certain range, thereby reducing the interference between the sheath 10 and other structural components during assembly, and allowing the sheath 10 to be assembled stably and conveniently.

[0123] In some examples of this application, referring to FIG5, when the sheath 10 is unfolded, the distance between the second insertion part 311 at the end edge in the first direction and the second end of the sheath 10 at the end edge in the first direction can be greater than 5 cm.

[0124] Referring to Figure 5, L3 represents the distance between the second insertion part 311 at the end edge in the first direction and the second end of the sheath 10 at the end edge in the first direction when the sheath 10 is unfolded. L3 can be 5.5cm, 5.6cm, 6cm, 6.2cm, etc.

[0125] In this embodiment, when the sheath 10 is in the unfolded state, the distance between the second insertion part 311 at the end edge in the first direction and the second end of the sheath 10 at the end edge in the first direction is set to be greater than 5cm. This allows for a larger gap between the periphery of the sheath 10 and the periphery of the second insertion part 311, thus ensuring that the second insertion part 311 can be stably positioned within the sheath 10. Furthermore, during the insertion and connection of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, there is a larger space between the periphery of the end of the sheath 10 facing the second insertion part 311 and the periphery of the second insertion part 311. This provides sufficient space for the sheath 10 to retract, thereby reducing the probability of interference between the sheath 10 and the connection between the first insertion part 21 and the second insertion part 311. This results in better cooperation between the sheath 10, the first connector 20, and the second connector 310 during the battery swapping operation of the vehicle 1000.

[0126] In one embodiment of this application, as shown in Figures 5 and 7, the sheath 10 may further include a counterweight 11, at least one counterweight 11 being fixed to the second end.

[0127] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 includes a counterweight 11, which can be a metal part such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper, or a ceramic part. During the separation of the second connector 310 from the first connector 20, the second end of the sheath 10 moves downward under the gravity of the counterweight 11, causing the sheath 10 to gradually unfold. The second connector 310 can gradually detach from the first connector 20 under the cover of the gradually unfolding sheath 10. Dust, water, and other substances present on the outer peripheral surface of the first connector 20 and the sheath 10 can fall to the outside of the second connector 310 under the influence of weight.

[0128] In this embodiment, at least one counterweight 11 is fixed to the second end. The number of counterweights 11 can be set as needed. For example, there can be one, two, three, four, etc. When only one counterweight 11 is set, the counterweight 11 is fixed to the second end of the sheath 10.

[0129] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is equipped with a counterweight 11, which allows the sheath 10 to be unfolded under the gravity of the counterweight 11. The structure is simple and easy to set up, allowing the sheath 10 to unfold by gravity on its own. This greatly reduces the difficulty of opening the sheath 10 manually or the increased cost caused by setting up a mechanical structure for unfolding. The sheath 10 can stably and reliably provide waterproof and dustproof protection for the second connector 310 and the first connector 20 during the separation process, so that the sheath 10 can have a good performance.

[0130] In some examples of this application, the counterweight 11 may extend in a ring shape along the circumference of the sheath 10.

[0131] The counterweight 11 can extend in a ring shape along the circumference of the sheath 10. For example, the shape of the cross section of the counterweight 11 perpendicular to its extension direction can be set as a circle, ellipse, quadrilateral or oblong, etc., as needed, wherein the ring is a closed ring.

[0132] In this embodiment, the counterweight 11 is configured to extend in a ring along the circumference of the sheath 10, so that the second end of the sheath 10 can receive the gravity of the counterweight 11 at various positions in the circumference, thereby enabling the second end of the sheath 10 to move stably and reliably as a whole along the direction of gravity to unfold the sheath 10, making the sheath 10 more stable and maintaining a stable and good protective effect during use.

[0133] In some examples of this application, referring to Figure 4, the number of counterweights 11 can be one.

[0134] In this embodiment, there is one counterweight 11. The counterweight 11 is set at the second end of the sheath 10. When the sheath 10 is unfolded, the sheath 10 gradually unfolds in the direction of gravity under the gravity of the counterweight 11.

[0135] In this embodiment, the number of counterweights 11 is set to one, and the fewer counterweights 11 make the cost of the sheath 10 lower.

[0136] In some examples of this application, there are multiple counterweights 11, which are spaced apart between the first end and the second end along the direction of gravity.

[0137] In this embodiment, there are multiple counterweights 11, such as two, three, four, five, six, etc. The multiple counterweights 11 are arranged at intervals between the first and second ends. The multiple counterweights 11 can be evenly or non-evenly spaced on the sheath 10 as needed, with one counterweight 11 located at the second end of the sheath 10. When the sheath 10 is unfolded, it can unfold in the direction of gravity under the weight of the multiple counterweights 11.

[0138] It is understandable that during the process of the sheath 10 closing and unfolding, there may be wrinkles and positional deviations in various parts of the sheath 10 along the direction of gravity. For example, when closing, part of the sheath 10 may shift to the position between the first connector 20 and the second plug-in part 311, thereby adversely affecting the plug-in connection between the first connector 20 and the second connector 310.

[0139] In this embodiment, multiple counterweights 11 are arranged at intervals on the sheath 10 between the first end and the second end along the direction of gravity. Each counterweight 11 can limit, support and fix different positions of the sheath 10, so that the sheath 10 can be unfolded and retracted more stably and reliably along the direction of gravity under the cooperation of multiple counterweights 11. This greatly reduces the interference of the sheath 10 on the insertion and engagement of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 when unfolding and retracting, and makes the vehicle 1000 operate more stably during use.

[0140] In one example of this application, the number of counterweights 11 may be less than or equal to six.

[0141] In this embodiment, the number of counterweights 11 is set to be less than or equal to six. For example, the number of counterweights 11 can be one, two, three, four, five, or six.

[0142] In this embodiment, the number of counterweights 11 is set to less than or equal to six, which can reduce the risk of high cost or heavy weight caused by too many counterweights 11, and enable the counterweights 11 to work stably with the sheath 10 to unfold and retract during long-term use.

[0143] In some examples of this application, the counterweight 11 may be located inside the sheath 10.

[0144] In this embodiment, the counterweight 11 is disposed on the inner side of the sheath 10. For example, the counterweight 11 can be embedded in the sheath 10 on the inner side of the sheath 10, or the counterweight 11 can be arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the sheath 10. The counterweight 11 and the sheath 10 can be fixed by wrapping, bonding, welding or other methods according to the actual situation.

[0145] In this embodiment, the counterweight 11 is placed inside the sheath 10, which can effectively reduce the probability of the counterweight 11 forming an uneven outer surface when placed on the outer circumference of the sheath 10. This reduces the probability of dust, mud, water, etc. accumulating on the sheath 10 when sliding down its outer circumference. As a result, after the sheath 10 is unfolded, dust, water, etc. can smoothly and reliably slide to the outside of the second connector 310. This further reduces the probability of dust and other contaminants accumulating in the second connector 310 during the re-connection of the first connector 20. This allows the sheath 10 to provide a stable and reliable waterproof and dustproof function for the power replacement connection between the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, resulting in better performance of the sheath 10.

[0146] In some examples of this application, the sidewall of the sheath 10 may be formed with a receiving cavity, and the counterweight 11 is disposed in the receiving cavity.

[0147] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 has a receiving cavity that extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the sheath 10. The counterweight 11 is disposed in the receiving cavity. For example, the sheath 10 and the counterweight 11 can be integrally formed. The counterweight 11 can also be assembled into the receiving cavity through the opening of the receiving cavity. The opening of the receiving cavity can be formed on the inner surface of the sheath 10. The counterweight 11 can be connected and fixed to the receiving cavity by adhesive bonding. The counterweight 11 can also be assembled into the receiving cavity in other ways, which are not specifically limited here.

[0148] In this embodiment, the sheath 10 is provided with a receiving cavity, and the counterweight 11 is set in the receiving cavity. The structure is simple. The counterweight 11 can strengthen the structure of the sheath 10, so that the sheath 10 can be stably and reliably unfolded or retracted along the direction of gravity. Thus, when the vehicle 1000 is performing battery swapping operations, the sheath 10 can play a stable and reliable protective role.

[0149] In some embodiments of this application, the battery 300 may include a housing 320, the side surface of the housing 320 facing the first connector 20 in the direction of gravity is formed as a mounting surface, the second connector 310 is fixed to the housing 320 and partially protrudes from the mounting surface, and when the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are connected, the sheath 10 is used to cover the outside of the second connector 310 and contact the mounting surface.

[0150] In this embodiment, the battery 300 includes a housing 320, which can be used to accommodate multiple battery cells. Exemplarily, the housing 320 may include a first housing and a second housing, which are fastened together to form a closed space inside the housing 320 to accommodate the battery cell assembly. Here, "closed" refers to covering or shutting off; it can be sealed or unsealed. The first housing may be a top cover or a bottom plate.

[0151] For example, the housing 320 may also include a top cover, a frame, and a bottom plate, with the top cover and bottom plate respectively connected to the frame, so that the interior of the housing 320 forms a closed space to accommodate individual battery cells.

[0152] For example, the housing 320 may also be part of the chassis structure of the vehicle 1000. For instance, a portion of the housing 320 may be at least a portion of the floor of the vehicle 1000, or a portion of the housing 320 may be at least a portion of the crossbeams and longitudinal beams of the vehicle 1000.

[0153] In this embodiment, the side surface of the housing 320 facing the first connector 20 in the direction of gravity is formed as a mounting surface 321. When the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are connected, the sheath 10 contacts the mounting surface 321. Specifically, the direction of gravity can be up and down. The sheath 10 can expand and contract along the direction of gravity under the gravity of the counterweight 11. When the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are connected, the sheath 10 is in a contracted state. At this time, the sheath 10 contacts the mounting surface 321, and the second end of the sheath 10 abuts against the mounting surface 321.

[0154] When the vehicle 1000 is performing a battery swap, the battery 300 is separated from the vehicle body 100, the second connector 310 is separated from the first connector 20, and the mounting surface 321 gradually moves away from the first connector 20 along the direction of gravity. During the process of the mounting surface 321 moving away from the first connector 20, within a certain range of the movement of the mounting surface 321, the end of the sheath 10 facing the mounting surface 321 can maintain contact with the mounting surface 321 under the action of the counterweight 11 until the sheath 10 is fully unfolded. When the mounting surface 321 moves further away from the first connector 20, the end of the sheath 10 facing the mounting surface 321 separates from the mounting surface 321.

[0155] After the battery 300 is replaced in vehicle 1000, when the replaced charged battery 300 is plugged into the electrical body, the mounting surface 321 moves toward the first connector 20. The second end of the sheath 10 gradually moves toward the first connector 20 under the push of the mounting surface 321 so that the sheath 10 closes. During the closing process of the sheath 10, the end of the sheath 10 facing the mounting surface 321 is always in contact with the mounting surface 321. After the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are plugged in, the sheath 10 returns to the closed state.

[0156] In this embodiment, the housing 320 has a mounting surface 321 that mates with the sheath 10. During long-term operation of the vehicle 1000, the sheath 10, in conjunction with the mounting surface 321 and the sealing connection with the first connector 20, provides a stable and reliable sealing effect on the first insertion portion 21 of the first connector 20 and the second insertion portion 311 of the second connector 310. This allows the sheath 10 to completely cover the first insertion portion 21 and the second insertion portion 311, thus providing excellent waterproof and dustproof protection. The mounting surface 321 provides good support for the sheath 10 and applies a stable pushing force to the sheath 10 during insertion, causing the sheath 10 to retract. This allows the sheath 10 to automatically unfold and retract during the insertion and separation of the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, making the sheath 10 more convenient to use.

[0157] The vehicle 1000 according to a second aspect embodiment of the present application is described below with reference to Figures 1-7.

[0158] As shown in Figures 1-7, the vehicle 1000 according to an embodiment of this application includes: a battery 300 and a vehicle body 100 according to a first aspect embodiment of this application, wherein the battery 300 is installed in a battery storage compartment.

[0159] Other configurations and operations of the vehicle 1000 according to the embodiments of this application are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0160] According to the vehicle 1000 of the present application embodiment, by setting the vehicle body 100 of the first aspect embodiment above, by setting a protective sleeve 10, the first end of the protective sleeve 10 is provided with a first opening to cover at least part of the first connector 20, and the second end of the protective sleeve 10 is provided with a second opening, and the projection of the second opening in the vertical direction of gravity completely covers the projection of the first opening, and the projection area of ​​the second opening is larger than the projection area of ​​the first opening, so that when the mud, sand, dust and other dust accumulated on the protective sleeve 10 slide down the surface of the protective sleeve 10 from the second end, they are farther away from the second connector 310. Thus, when the vehicle body 100 is performing battery swapping operations, the probability of mud, sand, dust and rainwater falling into the second connector 310 can be greatly reduced, and the protective sleeve 10 can play a good role in waterproofing and dustproofing the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, so that the vehicle body 100 can perform battery swapping operations more stably and the vehicle body 100 can operate more stably.

[0161] A vehicle 1000 according to a specific embodiment of this application will now be described with reference to Figures 1-7.

[0162] As shown in Figures 1-7, the vehicle 1000 includes a vehicle body 100, a motor 200, a controller 400, and a battery 300. The controller 400 controls the battery to supply power to the motor 200. The vehicle body 100 has a battery compartment, which is equipped with a first connector 20 and is used to accommodate the battery 300. The vehicle body 100 includes a sheath 10. The first connector 20 includes a first insertion portion 21. The battery 300 includes a housing 320 and a second connector 310. The surface of the housing 320 facing the first connector 20 is formed as a mounting surface 321. The second connector 310 is disposed on the housing 320 and includes a second insertion portion 311. The second insertion portion 311 is disposed on one side of the mounting surface 321 of the housing 320. The first insertion portion 21 and the second insertion portion 311 are inserted and engaged.

[0163] The sheath 10 is provided with counterweights 11, which are circular rings. There are five counterweights 11, which are arranged at intervals along the direction of gravity on the inner side of the sheath 10 and are fixedly connected to the sheath 10. The cross-section of the sheath 10 is circular, and the cross-sectional size of the sheath 10 gradually increases along the direction of gravity. At the two ends of the sheath 10 along the direction of gravity are the first end and the second end, respectively, and each end is provided with a counterweight 11. The first end of the sheath 10 is fitted onto the outside of the first insertion part 21 and is sealed to the first connector 20. The second end of the sheath 10 is set towards the second connector 310 along the direction of gravity.

[0164] During the battery swapping process of vehicle 1000, when the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are plugged in, the second end of the sheath 10 contacts the mounting surface 321 and gradually closes, so that after the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are plugged in, the sheath 10 accumulates between the first connector 20 and the mounting surface 321, covering the first plug-in part 21 and the second plug-in part 311. During the battery swapping process, when the first connector 20 and the second connector 310 are separated, the sheath 10 opens under its own weight and the weight of the counterweight 11, and water or mud on the first connector 20 falls along the outer periphery of the sheath 10 to the outside of the second plug-in part 311.

[0165] In this embodiment, a first opening is provided at the first end of the sheath 10 to cover at least a portion of the first connector 20, and a second opening is provided at the second end of the sheath 10. The projection of the second opening in the direction of vertical gravity completely covers the projection of the first opening. The projection area of ​​the second opening is larger than that of the first opening. This allows the mud, sand, dust, and other debris accumulated on the sheath 10 to slide down the surface of the sheath 10 from the second end at a greater distance from the second connector 310. As a result, when the vehicle body 100 is performing a battery swap, the probability of mud, sand, dust, rainwater, etc. falling into the second connector 310 can be greatly reduced. This allows the sheath 10 to play a good role in waterproofing and dustproofing the first connector 20 and the second connector 310, thereby enabling the vehicle body 100 to perform battery swap operations more stably and making the vehicle body 100 operate more stably.

[0166] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and not to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle body, wherein, The vehicle body includes a battery compartment, which is provided with a first connector (20). The battery compartment is used to accommodate a battery (300) provided with a second connector (310). The second connector (310) is used to dock with the first connector (20) in the opposite direction of gravity. The vehicle body includes: A sleeve (10) is configured as a cylinder and includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other in the direction of gravity. The first end is connected to the vehicle body and has a first opening to cover at least a portion of the first connector (20) in the sleeve (10). The second end has a second opening and the second opening is directed toward the second connector (310). Wherein, the projection of the second opening is projected along the direction of gravity on a projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection of the second opening completely covers the projection of the first opening, and the projection area of ​​the second opening is greater than the projection area of ​​the first opening.

2. The vehicle body according to claim 1, wherein, On a projection plane perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the projection edge of the first opening is the first edge, the projection edge of the second opening is the second edge, and the first edge and the second edge are spaced apart.

3. The vehicle body according to claim 2, wherein, The minimum distance between the first edge and the second edge is greater than or equal to 30 mm.

4. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, In the direction of gravity, the cross-sectional dimensions of the sheath (10) gradually increase.

5. The vehicle body according to claim 4, wherein, The first plane is configured to be perpendicular to the direction of gravity, the boundary line between the first plane and the sheath is the first boundary line, the projection of the first opening onto the first plane along the direction of gravity is the first edge, the greater the distance between the first plane and the first opening along the direction of gravity, the greater the minimum distance between the first boundary line and the first edge.

6. The vehicle body according to claim 4, wherein, The outer peripheral surface of the sheath (10) is an inclined surface that is tilted relative to the direction of gravity, and the angle between the outer peripheral surface of the sheath (10) and the direction of gravity is greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 80 degrees.

7. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The sheath (10) is connected to the first connector (20), and the sheath (10) is sealed to the first connector (20).

8. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The sheath (10) is a waterproof component.

9. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, At least a portion of the sheath (10) is configured to be expandable or retractable along the direction of gravity so that the distance between the second end and the first end along the direction of gravity is variable.

10. The vehicle body according to claim 9, wherein, The sheath (10) is configured to be in a retracted state when the first connector (20) and the second connector (310) are connected, and in an extended state when the first connector (20) and the second connector (310) are completely separated. In the unfolded state, the size of the sheath (10) along the direction of gravity is a first size, and in the folded state, the size of the sheath (10) along the direction of gravity is a second size, wherein the first size is larger than the second size.

11. The vehicle body according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The sheath (10) is a flexible component, or the sheath (10) is a foldable component.

12. The vehicle body according to claim 11, wherein, The sheath (10) also includes a counterweight (11), at least one of which is fixed to the second end.

13. The vehicle body according to claim 12, wherein, The counterweight (11) extends in a ring shape along the circumference of the sheath (10).

14. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 12-13, wherein, The number of the counterweights (11) is multiple, and the multiple counterweights (11) are arranged at intervals between the first end and the second end along the direction of gravity.

15. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 12-14, wherein, The counterweight (11) is located on the inside of the sheath (10).

16. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 12-14, wherein, The sidewall of the sheath (10) has a receiving cavity, and the counterweight (11) is disposed in the receiving cavity.

17. The vehicle body according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein, The battery (300) includes a housing (320), on which a mounting surface (321) is formed on the side facing the first connector (20) in the direction of gravity. The second connector (310) is fixed to the housing (320) and partially protrudes from the mounting surface (321). When the first connector (20) is connected to the second connector (310), the sleeve (10) is used to be fitted on the outside of the second connector (310) and to contact the mounting surface (321).

18. A vehicle, wherein, include: The battery (300) and the vehicle body according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein the battery (300) is installed in the battery housing.

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