DESC:SWAPPABLE BATTERY COMPARTMENT FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICTIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202221075290 filed on 25/12/2022, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Generally, the present disclosure relates to an electric vehicle. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to an electric vehicle comprising a battery pack compartment to accommodate at least one pie-slice shaped battery pack.
BACKGROUND
The advent of electric vehicles has revolutionized the automotive industry, offering a sustainable and economical alternative to conventional ICE (internal combustion engine)-based vehicles. Such vehicles are characterized by the reliance on electric power units that derive operating power from one or more battery packs. Typically, the electric vehicles are designed with a load-bearing chassis that houses such battery packs.
However, existing designs of battery packs and battery-pack compartments in EVs are associated with several limitations. For example, the limited space available within the EV chassis complicates the process of swapping of battery packs. The conventional design of battery packs typically characterized by a rectangular or cubical shape, increases the aforesaid issue. Consequently, when users attempt to remove the battery packs from such chassis, the users encounter difficulties due to the battery packs getting stuck against the back wall or frame tubes of the battery-pack compartments. Such an issue not only makes the battery pack removal cumbersome but also poses a risk of damage to the battery pack as well as the EV.
Moreover, the traditional method of removing the battery pack involves lifting the battery pack up to waist height and subsequently moving the battery pack to a specific location (such as, into a battery pack charging station). Such a method is ergonomically challenging while also posing a risk of injury to the user, given the considerable weight of the battery pack. Further, to address such challenges, some EV designs have introduced a side-swapping mechanism for the battery pack. However, side-swapping mechanisms are also associated with various drawbacks, such as, the shifting of weight towards the swapping side can lead to instability of the EV, potentially resulting in hardware damage and safety concerns for the user.
Thus, there exists a need for an EV that overcomes the one or more problems associated with conventional designs of battery packs to enable convenient, reliable and safe swapping of battery packs from EVs.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electric vehicle (EV) associated with improvement in the efficiency of swapping battery packs in EVs by reducing the time and effort required to remove and replace the battery packs, thereby enhancing user convenience and operational efficiency.
In accordance with first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electric vehicle comprising a vehicle frame, comprising a vertical member and at least one horizontal member. The electric vehicle comprises a battery pack compartment to accommodate at least one pie-slice shaped battery pack and a pivot mechanism to pivotally connect the battery pack compartment with the vertical member.
The present disclosure provides an EV that enables quicker and more efficient swapping of battery packs. Advantageously, the EV comprises the battery pack compartment that is pivotally connected to the vehicle frame, thereby, allowing for contactless tilted extraction of the battery pack and streamlining the swapping of the battery pack, making such swapping quicker and more efficient. Furthermore, the pie-slice shaped profile of the battery pack optimizes space utilization within the vehicle frame, thereby effectively addressing constraints associated with availability of limited space in the vehicle frame and allowing for a more compact battery pack compartment, thus contributing to efficient space management within the EV. Advantageously, the pie-slice shaped profile of the battery pack allows for a guided and smooth insertion and extraction of the battery pack from the vehicle frame, thus preventing mechanical jams and potential damage to the battery pack as well as the EV. Furthermore, the pie-slice shaped profile of the battery pack significantly contributes to a more lightweight and compact design of the EV, thereby allowing for a more efficient use of space within the vehicle frame and reducing the need for bulky, heavy framing or support structures typically required for traditional rectangular or cubical battery packs.
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 front perspective view of a vehicle frame of an electric vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of a battery pack compartment of the electric vehicle to accommodate at least one pie-slice shaped battery pack.
FIG. 3 illustrates a side perspective view of a pivot mechanism, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure.
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 "vehicle frame" refers to the structural foundation of a vehicle which supports various components such as the drivetrain, battery packs, wheels, body, and other structural and mechanical components. The vehicle frame is designed to provide rigidity and strength necessary for the integrity and safety of the vehicle, while also being shaped and configured to contribute to the overall aerodynamics and efficiency of the vehicle. The vehicle frame serves as the main support structure that determines the layout and distribution of mechanical and electrical systems within the vehicle.
As used herein, the term "vertical member" refers to a component of the vehicle frame that extends predominantly in a vertical direction when the vehicle is in its standard operational orientation. The vertical member is integral to the structural integrity of the vehicle frame, providing support and bearing loads that are typically vertical due to gravity, such as the weight of the components and passengers of the vehicle.
As used herein, the term "horizontal member" refers to a structural element of the vehicle frame that extends primarily in a horizontal direction, parallel to the ground when the vehicle is in a normal operating position. The horizontal member contributes to the lateral stability and weight distribution of the vehicle, supporting horizontal loads and helping to maintain the balance of the vehicle during operation.
As used herein, the term "battery pack compartment" refers to a designated space within the vehicle that is specifically designed to house and protect one or more battery packs. This compartment is typically engineered to accommodate the shape and size of the battery packs, to secure the battery packs in place, and to provide thermal management and protection from environmental conditions.
As used herein, the term "battery pack" refers to an assembly of one or more electrochemical cells capable of storing electrical energy for use in powering the electric vehicle. The battery pack includes not only the cells but also the associated hardware and electronics such as management systems for monitoring and controlling charge and discharge cycles.
As used herein, the term "pivot mechanism" refers to a mechanical system that allows for the rotational movement of two parts relative to each other around a fixed axis. In the context of a vehicle, a pivot mechanism enables components such as the battery pack compartment to move from a secured position to an accessible position, typically through the use of hinges, pins, bearings, or other rotational devices.
Figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment describes a vehicle frame 100 of an electric vehicle. The vehicle frame 100 is the central supporting structure that sustain various vehicle components while providing a robust foundation that ensures stability and safety. As shown, the vehicle frame 100 comprises a vertical member 102 and at least one horizontal member 104. The vertical member 102 upwards and contributes significantly to the vertical load-bearing capabilities of the vehicle frame 100. The presence of the vertical member 102 is crucial as the vertical member 102 imparts strength to the vehicle frame 100, enabling vehicle frame 100 to withstand the vertical forces and stress encountered during the operation of the vehicle. The horizontal member 104 extends laterally across the vehicle frame 100 from a front towards a rear of the vehicle frame 100. The horizontal member 104 serves to interlink different sections of the vehicle frame 100, ensuring that the forces and stresses are evenly distributed throughout the structure. The horizontal member 104 also plays an essential role in maintaining the structural balance of the vehicle frame 100, particularly when the vehicle navigates turns, providing resistance to lateral forces. Consequently, the vertical member 102 and the at least one horizontal member 104 collectively contribute to a lightweight yet sturdy framework that accommodates the unique distribution of weight in electric vehicles, primarily due to the placement of the battery and other electronic components, thereby optimizing the overall efficiency and handling characteristics of the vehicle.
Figure 2, in accordance with an embodiment describes a battery pack compartment 200 of the electric vehicle to accommodate at least one pie-slice shaped battery pack 202. The battery pack compartment 200 is characterized by the geometric configuration that complements the contour of the pie-slice shaped battery pack 202. The battery pack compartment 200 maximizes spatial efficiency within the electric vehicle, allowing for the integration of battery cells in a compact and organized manner. The design of the battery pack compartment 200 ensures that the pie-slice shaped battery pack 202 fits securely, minimizing movement and vibration during the operation of the electric vehicle while optimizing the use of space within the architecture of the electric vehicle.
The pie-slice shaped battery pack 202 that is accommodated within the battery pack compartment 200 contributes to an efficient layout, enabling a modular approach to power management. The unique shape of the battery pack 202 not only enables efficient space utilization within the battery pack compartment 200 but also serves a functional purpose in the context of vehicle dynamics and safety. Specifically, the pie-slice shaped battery pack 202 is geometrically manufactured to fit within the contours of the design of the electric vehicle, ensuring that the battery pack 202 avoids collisions with the elements of the vehicle frame (such as the vehicle frame 100 of Figure 1). The tapered edges and angular design of the battery pack 202 allow the battery pack 202 to be nestled into the vehicle frame without impinging on the structure of the vehicle frame or intruding into the space reserved for other critical components. Consequently, the design of the pie-slice shaped battery pack 202 not only maximizes the available space within the battery pack compartment 200 but also contributes to the overall structural integrity of the electric vehicle. Further, by aligning with the vehicle frame in such a manner as to minimize contact and potential interference, the battery pack 202 aids in maintaining a clear separation from the load-bearing elements of the vehicle frame (such as the vertical member 102 and the at least one horizontal member 104). Such separation is crucial in the event of a collision or impact, as the separation helps to reduce the risk of damage to the battery cells, which are among the sensitive components of the electric vehicle. Moreover, the pie-slice shape facilitates the strategic placement of the battery pack 202 in areas of the electric vehicle that are less likely to be affected by impacts, such as the lower central region of the vehicle. Such a placement is beneficial not only for protecting the battery pack 202 but also for enhancing the balance and stability of the vehicle by distributing the weight evenly and lowering the centre of gravity. Consequently, the pie-slice shaped design of the battery pack 202 allows for the electric vehicle to maintain a low centre of gravity, which is beneficial for vehicle stability and handling. The shape of the battery pack 202 also facilitates ease of installation and removal for maintenance or replacement purposes.
Figure 3, in accordance with another embodiment describes the pivot mechanism 300. As shown, the battery pack compartment 200 has been completely pivoted on the vertical member 102 of the vehicle frame 100 that the battery pack 202 is conveniently removed from the battery pack compartment 200 without causing contact of the battery pack 202 against the vertical member 102 and/or the at least one horizontal member 104. Consequently, the pivoting mechanism 300 facilitates convenient, contactless and safe swapping of the battery pack 202.
In an embodiment, the at least one battery pack 202 comprises a first end and a second end in mutually opposite directions, wherein the first end is smaller in width than the second end. Such a design of the battery pack 202 allows for a snug fit within the angular enclosure of the battery pack compartment 202, which may optionally exhibit a complementary shape. The narrower first end of the battery pack 202 is strategically designed to minimize the profile at one end, which can be particularly advantageous for placement towards the front of the vehicle, potentially reducing aerodynamic drag. The wider second end is beneficial for stability, offering a broader base that can rest against the inner walls of the battery pack compartment 202, thereby enhancing the centre of gravity of the vehicle and contributing to better weight distribution. The configuration can be especially useful in the case of multiple battery packs being placed adjacent to each other, as the tapered design allows the packs to fit together more efficiently, reducing wasted space and improving overall energy density within the battery pack compartment 200.
In another embodiment, the battery pack compartment 200 comprises a first end, wherein the pivot mechanism 300 pivotally connects the first end of the battery pack compartment 200 with the vertical member 102. The pivot mechanism 300 is an integral part of the design, enabling the battery pack compartment 200 to be accessed from a position that is most ergonomic and accessible for users. The first end serves as the pivotal anchor point, allowing the battery pack compartment 200 to move in an arc-like manner, thereby providing unobstructed access to the battery packs inside. The pivot mechanism 300 is robust to support the weight of the battery pack compartment 200 and the battery pack 202 stored therein while still allowing for smooth operation. Such a design ensures that the functionality of the vehicle frame 100 is not compromised by the addition of the pivot mechanism 300, maintaining the structural rigidity necessary for vehicle safety and performance.
In an embodiment, the pivot mechanism 300 enables opening/closing of the battery pack compartment 200 for mounting/dismounting of the at least one battery pack 202. The pivot mechanism 300 acts as a hinged joint that provides the necessary movement to access the battery pack compartment 200. Such a feature is particularly advantageous when the battery pack 202 needs to be swapped. The design of the pivot mechanism 300 ensures that the opening and closing actions are smooth and secure, avoiding abrupt movements that could potentially lead to damage or misalignment. In the closed position, the pivot mechanism 300 ensures that the battery pack compartment 200 is securely fastened to the vehicle frame 100, thereby preventing any rattling or shifting that could occur during the operation of the electric vehicle. The pivot mechanism 300 may also include safety features that lock the compartment 200 in place when the vehicle is in motion, providing an additional layer of security and safety.
The pivot mechanism 300 is a critical feature that allows for the battery pack compartment 200, which houses the battery pack (visible in Figure 2), to rotate relative to the vertical member 102. The pivot mechanism 300 is positioned and engineered in a manner that permits the battery pack compartment 200 to move from a resting position to an accessible position. Such movement enables to swap the battery pack within the compartment 200, such as a discharged battery pack with a charged battery pack. The pivot mechanism 300 is carefully integrated into the structure of the vertical member 102, ensuring that the pivot mechanism 300 does not compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle frame 100 while providing the necessary range of motion. Further, the pivot mechanism 300 comprises components that allow for a controlled and smooth pivotal movement. For example, the pivot mechanism 300 includes, but is not limited to, pivot pins, bearings, or bushings that facilitate rotation while bearing the weight of the battery pack compartment 200 and the contents of the battery pack compartment 200 (such as the battery pack, electrical connections and the like). The precise design of the pivot mechanism 300 is such that when actuated, the pivot mechanism 300 allows the battery pack compartment 200 to swing or tilt, granting easy access to the battery pack. Moreover, the location and method of attachment of the pivot mechanism 300 to the vertical member 102 are strategically chosen to ensure a balanced distribution of weight, thereby, ensures that when the battery pack compartment 200 is pivoted, the load does not induce undue stress on any single point of the vehicle frame, thus maintaining the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
In another embodiment, the electric vehicle comprises at least one support member to facilitate soft opening/closing of the battery pack compartment 200. The at least one support member assists the movement provided by the pivot mechanism 300, ensuring that the opening and closing action is not only smooth but also controlled to prevent any abrupt or forceful motion that could damage the battery pack compartment 200 or contents of the battery pack compartment 200. The support member may be implemented as a mechanical strut that provides a counterbalance to the weight of the battery pack compartment 200, allowing the battery pack compartment 200 to open with minimal effort and close gently without slamming. Such a feature is especially beneficial during the servicing of the battery pack 202, where careful handling is necessary to maintain safety and prevent any sudden jolts or movements.
In an embodiment, the at least one support member comprises a pneumatic cylinder to control soft opening/ closing of the battery pack compartment 200. The pneumatic cylinder utilizes pressurized air to assist in the controlled movement of the battery pack compartment 200, providing a cushioned action that mitigates the risk of abrupt or forceful movements. Such a feature is especially beneficial in managing the weight of the battery pack compartment 200, allowing for a more user-friendly interaction that requires less physical effort. Further, pneumatic cylinders can be adjusted for different levels of resistance, making the pneumatic cylinders suitable for use in electric vehicles of varying sizes and weights of the battery pack 202. The soft opening and closing action facilitated by the pneumatic cylinder contributes to increased longevity of the hinges of the battery pack compartment 200 and the overall user safety during operation.
In another embodiment, the electric vehicle comprises a door, mounted on the vehicle frame 100 for securing the battery pack compartment 200. The door acts as an additional layer of security for the battery pack compartment 200, serving as a safeguard against the ingress of debris, moisture, and other environmental factors that could potentially harm the battery pack 202. Further, the door provides a means to secure the battery pack compartment 200 when the vehicle is in motion or when parked, helping to deter theft or unauthorized access to the battery pack 202. The mounting of the door on the vehicle frame 100 is such that the door complements the design of the electric vehicle, maintaining the aesthetic integrity while fulfilling the protective role. The door may also be designed with locking mechanisms that can be engaged or disengaged manually or automatically, depending on the design specifications of the electric vehicle.
In an embodiment, the electric vehicle comprises a locking member to enable or disable pivot movement of the battery pack compartment 200. The locking member is a safety and security feature that controls the movement of the battery pack compartment 200 by locking the battery pack compartment 200 in place when pivot movement is not required or desired. The locking member ensures that the battery pack compartment 200 remains securely closed and does not inadvertently open during the operation of the vehicle, which could pose safety risks. The locking member can be manually or electronically operated, providing flexibility in how the battery pack compartment 200 is secured. Further, when unlocked, the pivot mechanism 300 is free to move, allowing the battery pack compartment 200 to open for access to the battery pack 202.
In another embodiment, the at least one support member comprises a hydraulic damper to control soft opening/ closing of the battery pack compartment 200. The hydraulic damper modulates the movement of the battery pack compartment 200, thereby enabling a smooth and controlled access to the battery pack 202. The hydraulic damper in the at least one support member operates by utilizing hydraulic fluid to resist rapid movements, thus ensuring that the opening and closing of the battery pack compartment 200 occurs in a gradual and controlled manner. The hydraulic damper prevents abrupt movements that could damage the battery pack 202 or the electric vehicle. The incorporation of the hydraulic damper into the at least one support member enhances the safety and reliability of the pivot mechanism 300. The hydraulic damper provides a means to control the kinetic energy during the opening and closing of the battery pack compartment 200, effectively reducing the risk of uncontrolled or accidental movements. Additionally, the hydraulic damper ensures that the battery pack compartment 200 can be securely held in both the open and closed positions, providing stability and security for the battery pack 202 during swapping of the battery pack 202.
Optionally, the electric vehicle comprises a U-shaped enclosure that partially or fully encloses the hydraulic damper. For example, the U-shaped enclosure is disposed such that edges of the U-shaped enclosure are disposed parallely/co-planarly with a front face of the battery pack compartment 200 and a curved portion of the U-shaped enclosure is disposed behind a rear face of the battery pack compartment 200. Further, the hydraulic damper is arranged between the rear face of the battery pack compartment 200 and the curved portion of the U-shaped enclosure. Consequently, such disposing of the hydraulic damper within the U-shaped enclosure enables to protect the hydraulic damper and/or the battery pack compartment 200 from shocks transmitted to the chassis during operation of the electric vehicle while also providing support to the battery pack compartment 200 during pivoting of the battery pack compartment 200.
In an embodiment, the at least one support member comprises a spring to control soft opening/ closing of the battery pack compartment 200. The spring mechanism acts as a counterweight to the mass of the battery pack compartment 200, providing a force that helps lift the battery pack compartment 200 as the battery pack compartment 200 opens and slows down the closing motion to prevent battery pack compartment 200 from shutting too quickly. The spring mechanism not only reduces the effort required to operate the battery pack compartment 200 but also minimizes wear and tear on the pivot mechanism 300 and the battery pack compartment 200. The spring mechanism is designed to have sufficient tension to balance the weight of the battery pack compartment 200, ensuring that the opening and closing are smooth and controlled actions that can be performed with ease by the user or service personnel.
In another embodiment, the battery pack compartment 200 is pie-slice shaped. The pie-slice configuration of the battery pack compartment 200 allows for a more efficient use of space within the architecture of the electric vehicle. Such a shape of the battery pack compartment 200 is conducive to accommodating battery packs that need to conform to specific spatial constraints within the vehicle, particularly in designs where space optimization is critical. The angular design of the pie-slice shape enables the battery pack compartment 200 to fit seamlessly into the vehicle frame 100, thereby reducing the overall footprint and improving aerodynamic properties of the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the battery pack compartment 200 is L-shaped comprising a vertical plate and a horizontal plate, and wherein the horizontal plate is pie-slice shaped. The L-shape provides a sturdy structure for the battery pack compartment 200, with the vertical plate adding strength and rigidity, and the pie-slice shaped horizontal plate allowing for the innovative placement of battery packs. Such a design maximizes the available space within the vehicle frame 100 and positions the battery packs in a manner that can contribute to a lower centre of gravity for the vehicle, enhancing stability and handling.
In another embodiment, the battery pack compartment 200 comprises at least one guide rail for guiding the at least one battery pack 202 in and out of the battery pack compartment 200. The guide rail ensures precise alignment and smooth transition of the battery pack 202 during insertion or removal, which is critical to avoid damage to the battery pack 202 or the battery pack compartment 200. The guide rail can be especially useful when the battery pack 202 is heavy or bulky, providing a mechanical advantage that aids in the ergonomics of battery handling. Such a feature simplifies maintenance procedures and can enhance the safety and efficiency of the swapping process of the battery pack 202.
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
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. An electric vehicle comprising:
- a vehicle frame (100), comprising a vertical member (102) and at least one horizontal member (104);
- a battery pack compartment (200) to accommodate at least one pie-slice shaped battery pack (202); and
- a pivot mechanism (300) to pivotally connect the battery pack compartment (200) with the vertical member (102).
2. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one battery pack (202) comprises a first end and a second end in mutually opposite directions, wherein the first end is smaller in width than the second end.
3. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery pack compartment (200) comprises a first end, wherein the pivot mechanism (300) pivotally connects the first end of the battery pack compartment (200) with the vertical member (102).
4. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pivot mechanism (300) enables opening/closing of the battery pack compartment (200) for mounting/dismounting of the at least one battery pack (202).
5. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, comprising at least one support member to facilitate soft opening/closing of the battery pack compartment (200).
6. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, comprising a door, mounted on the vehicle frame (100) for securing the battery pack compartment (200).
7. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, comprising a locking member to enable or disable pivot movement of the battery pack compartment (200).
8. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one support member comprises a hydraulic damper to control soft opening/ closing of the battery pack compartment (200).
9. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one support member comprises a spring to control soft opening/ closing of the battery pack compartment (200).
10. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 5, wherein the at least one support member comprises a pneumatic cylinder to control soft opening/ closing of the battery pack compartment (200).
11. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery pack compartment (200) is pie-slice shaped.
12. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery pack compartment (200) is L-shaped comprising a vertical plate and a horizontal plate, and wherein the horizontal plate is pie-slice shaped.
13. The electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery pack compartment (200) comprises at least one guide rail for guiding the at least one battery pack in and out of the battery pack compartment (200).

Dated 15 December 2023 Kumar Tushar Srivastava
IN/PA- 3973
Agent for the Applicant