DESC:VEHICLE
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICTIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202221074285 filed on 21/12/2022, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Generally, the present disclosure relates to a mechanism for removal of battery pack. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to battery pack swapping arrangement for electric vehicle.
BACKGROUND
The development of electric vehicles (EVs) has brought new challenges, particularly in managing battery packs. The battery packs are a crucial part of EVs, supplying the power needed for operation. Traditionally, handling such battery packs, especially installing and removing them, has been difficult. Such a difficulty often arises because the battery packs are placed in hard-to-reach areas, such as inside the vehicle seats. The process usually requires manual effort, which can be time-consuming and physically demanding.
In light of the aforesaid challenges, multiple solutions have focused on making the handling of battery packs easier. Such solutions have focused on reducing the physical effort and time needed to install and remove the batteries, which is important for improving the safety and ease of use of EVs. Further, by simplifying the battery pack handling process, the overall user experience with electric vehicles can be enhanced, potentially leading to wider adoption of the technology.
Thus, there exists a need for improved management of battery packs that overcomes the one or more problems associated with the removal or reinstallation of battery packs from electric vehicles as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a battery pack swapping arrangement for electric vehicle that simplifies and enhances the process of installing and removing battery packs in electric vehicles.
In accordance with first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a mechanism for removal of at least one battery pack of an electric vehicle (EV), the system comprising a battery compartment disposed beneath a seat, wherein the battery compartment receives the at least one battery pack and a lifting unit operably connected to the seat and the at least one battery pack, wherein the battery lifting unit enables lifting of the at least one battery pack up to a pre-determined level upon opening of the seat.
The present disclosure provides a mechanism for battery pack swapping arrangement for electric vehicle that simplifies and enhances the process of installing and removing battery packs in electric vehicles. Advantageously, the mechanism significantly reduces the physical effort required to access and handle the battery pack, particularly beneficial for packs located in hard-to-reach areas. Furthermore, the mechanism decreases the time needed for the installation and removal processes, enhancing the overall efficiency in battery management. Advantageously, the mechanism ensures a safer handling process, minimizing the risk of injury or damage during battery pack manipulation. Furthermore, the mechanism contributes to the improved reliability and stability of the battery pack once installed, ensuring a secure and effective electrical connection with the power management system of the vehicle.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
FIG. 1 illustrates a side perspective view of a battery pack swapping arrangement for electric vehicle.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of a motor of an electric vehicle and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the terms ‘electric vehicle’, ‘EV’, and ‘EVs’ are used interchangeably and refer to any vehicle having stored electrical energy, including the vehicle capable of being charged from an external electrical power source. This may include vehicles having batteries which are exclusively charged from an external power source, as well as hybrid-vehicles which may include batteries capable of being at least partially recharged via an external power source. Additionally, it is to be understood that the ‘electric vehicle’ as used herein includes electric two-wheeler, electric three-wheeler, electric four-wheeler, electric pickup trucks, electric trucks and so forth.
As used herein, the term 'mechanism' refers to a coordinated assembly of parts and components designed to perform a specific function or series of functions within a system. In the present disclosure, 'mechanism' particularly pertains to the integrated system within an electric vehicle (EV) that facilitates the removal and installation of battery packs. The mechanism includes various interconnected elements such as lifting units, safety locks, telescopic arms, hydraulic units, and control units, all working in unison to provide a controlled and efficient means of handling the battery packs. The mechanism may involve mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic components, configured to translate actions such as the opening of a seat into the lifting, stabilization, and safe handling of the battery pack. Furthermore, the term encompasses the structural design, operational features, and safety measures inherent to the system, which collectively contribute to the ease of use, safety, and effectiveness of the battery management process in electric vehicles.
As used herein, the term 'battery pack' refers to a collection of electrochemical cells assembled together to function as a single unit, designed to store and supply electrical energy for various applications. In the present disclosure, the 'battery pack' specifically pertains to the energy storage device used in electric vehicles (EVs). The battery pack is composed of multiple cells and modules that work collectively to provide the necessary power for the operation of the EV. The battery pack is characterized by the capacity to store a significant amount of electrical energy, the ability to deliver the energy efficiently to the drive system of the vehicle, and the compatibility with the charging infrastructure of the vehicle. Additionally, the battery pack includes integral components such as thermal management systems, protective casing, and electrical connection interfaces, which ensure safe, reliable, and optimal performance within the EV. The term 'battery pack' as used herein also encompasses the structural and functional aspects of the unit, including the design, configuration, and the means by which the battery pack is integrated and maintained within the electric vehicle.
As used herein, the term 'battery pack compartment' refers to a designated enclosure within a vehicle to house and protect the battery pack. In the present disclosure, the 'battery pack compartment' is a structured space optimized for accommodating the battery pack securely and efficiently. The battery pack compartment is typically designed to conform to the size, shape, and connectivity requirements of the battery pack, ensuring stable placement and easy accessibility for maintenance or replacement. The battery pack compartment may include features such as thermal insulation, protective padding, and secure fastening mechanisms, all of which contribute to the safe and effective operation of the battery pack within the EV.
As used herein, the term 'seat' refers to a component within a vehicle designed to provide a sitting place for the occupant. In the present disclosure, the seat also serves as an integrated element of the battery pack handling mechanism in an electric vehicle. The seat is uniquely designed to facilitate access to the battery pack compartment, often being mounted or positioned above the battery pack. The design of the seat includes aspects that allow the seat to be opened or moved, thereby enabling access to the battery pack compartment beneath the seat.
As used herein, the term 'lifting unit' refers to a mechanical, electrical or electromechanical assembly that is part of the mechanism for handling the battery pack in an electric vehicle. The 'lifting unit' is specifically designed to raise and lower the battery pack to facilitate installation and removal. The lifting unit may comprise various components such as motors, gears, telescopic arms, hydraulic or pneumatic systems, and control units, all working in coordination to achieve the lifting action. The lifting unit is characterized by the ability to lift the battery pack smoothly and securely to a predetermined height, aligning with ergonomic and safety considerations. The lifting is an integral part of the battery pack handling mechanism, ensuring that the process of battery pack installation and removal is efficient, safe, and user-friendly.
Figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment describes a side perspective view of a battery pack swapping arrangement 100 for removal of at least one battery pack 102 of an electric vehicle (EV) 104. The mechanism 100 is strategically integrated within the EV 104 to optimize the process of battery pack management, such as, for swapping of the battery pack 104. The mechanism 100 comprises a battery compartment 106 disposed beneath a seat 108. The battery compartment 106 receives the at least one battery pack 102. The mechanism 100 comprises a lifting unit 110 operably connected to the seat 108 and the at least one battery pack 102. The battery pack 102, which is a critical component of the EV 104, stores electrical energy for the operation of the vehicle 104. The battery pack 102 is positioned within the battery compartment 106. The battery compartment 106, situated beneath a seat 108, securely houses the battery pack 102. Such a placement of the battery compartment 106 under the seat 108 utilizes space efficiently and contributes to a more balanced distribution of weight within the EV 104, enhancing vehicle stability.
The seat 108 accommodates passengers while also serving as an access point to the battery pack 102. The dual functionality of the seat 108 allows for the removal of the battery pack 102 without altering the external structure or aesthetics of the EV 104.
The battery lifting unit 110 enables lifting of the at least one battery pack 102 up to a pre-determined level upon opening of the seat 108. The lifting unit 110 initiates the lifting of the battery pack 102 up to the pre-determined level when the seat 108 is opened. Such a feature of the lifting unit 110 eliminates the need for manual lifting, reducing physical strain and the risk of injury associated with handling heavy battery packs. The automated lifting process, triggered by the opening of the seat 108, also ensures that the battery pack 102 is raised to an ergonomic height, facilitating easier and safer removal or installation.
The incorporation of the lifting unit 110 into the mechanism 100 streamlines the process of battery pack manipulation by not only simplifying the process but also significantly reducing the time required for battery installation and removal such as during swapping of a discharged battery pack 102 with a charged battery pack 102, thereby, enabling quick battery pack exchange or maintenance when needed.
In an embodiment, the lifting unit 110 initiates the lifting of the at least one battery pack 102 in response to the seat 108 being opened to a predetermined angle. The predetermined angle is carefully selected to ensure optimal accessibility and safety for the user. Further, when the seat 108 reaches the angle, the lifting unit 110 is triggered, smoothly elevating the battery pack 102 to a height that facilitates easy removal or maintenance. Such a lifting unit 110 improves user-friendliness, as the lifting unit 110 allows the lifting process to be seamlessly integrated with the natural action of opening the seat 108, thereby eliminating any additional steps or manual interventions.
In another embodiment, lifting unit 110 comprises a safety lock to prevent descent of a lifted battery pack 102. The safety lock engages automatically when the battery pack 102 is lifted to the desired height. The inclusion of this safety lock is essential to prevent any unintentional descent of the battery pack 102, which could lead to potential damage or safety hazards. The safety lock is particularly advantageous in scenarios where the vehicle may be on an incline or in motion, as the safety lock ensures that the battery pack 102 remains securely in the lifted position until manually released, thereby providing an additional layer of safety and reliability.
In an embodiment, the lifting unit 110 comprises a set of telescopic arms to lift the at least one battery pack 102 to the pre-determined level. The telescopic arms provide a smooth and controlled lifting motion for the battery pack 102. The telescopic design allows for a compact form when not in use, conserving space within the vehicle 104. Further, upon activation the telescopic arms extend to lift the battery pack 102 to the predetermined level. Such an extension is carefully calibrated to ensure a balanced and stable lifting process. The telescopic arms are associated with efficiency and the minimal space occupied, thereby making the telescopic arms an ideal solution for the confined spaces within electric vehicles. Additionally, the robust construction ensures durability and longevity, making the telescopic arms well-suited for repeated use in the demanding environment of an EV 104.
In another embodiment, each telescopic arm comprises a plurality of segments that extend in a linear fashion to enable lifting of the at least one battery pack 102. The segments extend in the linear fashion, enabling the efficient and controlled lifting of the at least one battery pack 102. The segmented design of the telescopic arms allows for a compact form when retracted, conserving space within the vehicle. Further, upon activation, the segments smoothly extend, providing a steady and gradual lifting motion. Such a design is particularly advantageous as the design allows for a high degree of flexibility in adjusting the lifting height, accommodating different sizes and weights of battery packs. The linear extension of the telescopic arms ensures a balanced lifting process, minimizing the risk of tilting or misalignment of the battery pack 102. Consequently, the telescopic arm implemented using the plurality of segments enhances the precision and adaptability of the lifting unit 110, making the lifting unit 110a versatile and effective solution for various electric vehicle models.
In an embodiment, each telescopic arm is operated by a hydraulic unit to allow controlled movement of the at least one battery pack up 102 to a pre-determined level. The hydraulic unit allows for controlled movement of the at least one battery pack 102 up to the pre-determined level. The use of hydraulics in the telescopic arms offers a smooth and consistent lifting force, which is crucial for handling heavy battery packs safely and efficiently. The hydraulic system provides the necessary power to lift the battery pack 102 while allowing for precise control over the speed and extent of the lifting process. The incorporation of the hydraulic unit offers significant technical advantages, including the ability to handle heavier loads and the provision of a more controlled and stable lifting experience. The hydraulic operation also contributes to the durability of the lifting unit 110, as hydraulic systems are known for their robustness and longevity, especially in demanding operational environments like those found in electric vehicles.
In an embodiment, the lifting unit 110 comprises at least one from a scissor lift mechanism, a pantograph mechanism, a cantilever lift mechanism, a screw jack lift unit, a pneumatic lift unit, a hydraulic lift and a robotic arm unit to lift the at least one battery pack 102 to the pre-determined level. Each of the mechanisms offers distinct advantages in terms of lifting capacity, stability, and control. For example, the scissor lift mechanism provides a stable lifting platform and is well-suited for heavy battery packs, whereas the pantograph mechanism allows for a greater range of motion. The cantilever and screw jack lift units offer high precision and load-bearing capacity. The pneumatic and hydraulic lifts provide smooth, controlled lifting action, and the robotic arm unit adds flexibility and precision. Such a diversity in lifting units 110 allows for customization based on the specific design and functional requirements of different EV models, thereby enhancing the versatility of the mechanism 100.
In another embodiment, the seat 108 and the lifting unit 110 are linked through a connecting unit that translates an upward motion of the seat into the lifting action of the at least one battery pack 102. The connecting unit translates the upward motion of the seat 108 into the lifting action of the at least one battery pack 102. Further, when the seat 108 is raised, the connecting unit activates the lifting unit 110, which in turn lifts the battery pack 102. The connecting unit simplifies the operation, making the lifting process intuitive and user-friendly. The connection between the seat 108 and the lifting unit 110 is robust and reliable, ensuring consistent performance over time. Such an integrated approach not only simplifies the design but also reduces the number of moving parts, thereby enhancing the overall durability and maintenance ease of the mechanism 100.
In an embodiment, the seat 108 comprises a locking device to secure the seat 108 in a rested position and an uplifted position. The locking device secures the seat 108 in both the rested position and the uplifted position. The locking device ensures that the seat 108 remains stable and secure in the position that the seat 108 is set, providing safety to the user and preventing unintended movement that could disrupt the battery pack 102 handling process. The ability to lock the seat 108 in the uplifted position is particularly beneficial during the removal or installation of the battery pack 102, as the locking provides unobstructed access to the battery compartment 106. The locking further adds an extra layer of security and stability to the mechanism 100, making the mechanism 100 a safer and more reliable solution for handling battery packs in EVs.
In another embodiment, the mechanism 100 further comprises a control unit to control activation and operation of the lifting unit 110. The control unit plays a critical role in coordinating the lifting process, ensuring that the movement of the battery pack 102 is smooth and controlled. The control unit can be programmed with various parameters such as lifting speed, height, and angle, allowing for a customizable experience based on different battery pack sizes and weights. The control unit provides a significant technical advantage by enabling precise control over the lifting process, thereby enhancing safety and efficiency. The integration of the control unit into the mechanism 100 also allows for potential automation and remote operation possibilities, making the battery pack 102 removal and installation process more convenient and user-friendly.
In an embodiment, the lifting unit 110 enables terminal disconnection of the at least one battery pack 102 before lifting. Such terminal disconnection is crucial for ensuring the safety of the operation of the mechanism 100, as the lifting unit 110 electrically isolates the battery pack 102 from the electrical system of the EV 104, preventing any accidental short circuits or electrical hazards during the lifting process. Such terminal disconnection is especially important in maintenance scenarios or emergency situations where quick and safe disconnection of the battery pack 102 is necessary. The terminal disconnection further adds a layer of safety to the mechanism 100, making the mechanism 100 a more reliable and secure solution for handling battery packs in electric vehicles 104.
In another embodiment, the lifting unit 110 comprises a retractable support to stabilize the at least one battery pack 102 during the lifting process. The retractable support stabilizes the at least one battery pack 102 during the lifting process. The support mechanism ensures that the battery pack 102 remains steady and secure while being elevated, reducing the risk of tilting or imbalance that could lead to damage or safety concerns. The retractable support is particularly advantageous as the retractable support adds a level of stability to the lifting process, ensuring that the battery pack 102 is handled safely and efficiently. The retractable nature of the retractable support also ensure easy storage of the lifting unit 110 when not in use, maintaining the compact design of the mechanism 100 without impeding the normal usage of the seat 108 or the interior space of the EV 104.
Modifications to embodiments and combination of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.

,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A mechanism (100) for removal of at least one battery pack (102) of an electric vehicle (EV) (104), the mechanism (100) comprising:
- a battery compartment (106) disposed beneath a seat (108), wherein the battery compartment (106) receives the at least one battery pack (102); and
- a lifting unit (110) operably connected to the seat (108) and the at least one battery pack (102), wherein the battery lifting unit (110) enables lifting of the at least one battery pack (102) up to a pre-determined level upon opening of the seat (108).
2. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) initiates the lifting of the at least one battery pack (102) in response to the seat (108) being opened to a predetermined angle.
3. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) comprises a safety lock to prevent descent of a lifted battery pack (102).
4. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) comprises a set of telescopic arms to lift the at least one battery pack (102) to the pre-determined level.
5. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) comprises at least one from: a scissor lift mechanism, a pantograph mechanism, a cantilever lift mechanism, a screw jack lift unit, a pneumatic lift unit, a hydraulic lift and a robotic arm unit to lift the at least one battery pack (102) to the pre-determined level.
6. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat (108) and the lifting unit (110) are linked through a connecting unit that translates an upward motion of the seat (108) into the lifting action of the at least one battery pack (102).
7. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the seat (108) comprises a locking device to secure the seat (108) in a rested position and an uplifted position.
8. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a control unit to control activation and operation of the battery hoisting unit.
9. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) enables terminal disconnection of the at least one battery pack (102) before lifting.
10. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting unit (110) comprises a retractable support to stabilize the at least one battery pack (102) during the lifting process.
11. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein each telescopic arm comprises a plurality of segments that extend in a linear fashion to enable lifting of the at least one battery pack (102).
12. The mechanism (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein each telescopic arm is operated by a hydraulic unit to allow controlled movement of the at least one battery pack (102) up to a pre-determined level.

Dated 19 December 2023 Kumar Tushar Srivastava
IN/PA- 3973
Agent