Description:FIELD OF INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to a battery module or a battery pack lifting fixture. Particularly, the present invention relates to the fixture design and method of lifting battery module. More particularly, the present invention relates to the battery module or the battery pack lifting fixture that utilizes multi-hook safety locks used for loading and exchanging heavy components, ensuring that the lifting process is smooth and safe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[002] Battery modules include extremely corrosive acids that are hazardous when exposed to skin or any other body parts. Also, heavy battery packs require safety measures because they pose the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) caused by manual handling of heavy weighing machinery. The traditional methods of handling the assembly of battery modules involve using manual, mechanical and automated systems, resulting in defects and misalignment or disordered positioning or time consuming and complex design. The battery comes in different shapes and sizes having distinguished weights making it difficult for users to lift the assembly and therefore the need to have a system to address the safety as well as ergonomic issues arises.

[003] There are several prior art documents that disclose battery lifting, one of them is Design and Analysis of Battery Box Lifter, international journal of engineering & technology that discloses design and working of scissor mechanism and helpful to lift and drop of battery box.

[004] Another patent application US5707094A titled “Battery lift apparatus for electric vehicles” discloses a rectangular-shaped carrier beam of electrically insulative plastic material, formed with a plurality of manifold passageways which, in combination with a plurality of flexible lines, provide a distribution network for supplying pressurized system air to a plurality of suction assemblies mounted on the beam. First and second handles, secured adjacent opposite end faces of the beam, enable a pair of operators to readily position each battery on the tray. The first actuator handle is mounted by a bracket assembly supporting a valve block pair of valve unit actuators controlling up and down movement of the air hoist cable, and a pilot valve actuator is adapted for supplying vacuum releasing system air to each vacuum cup.

[005] Another patent application DE102019102017A1 titled “Lifting device and method for handling a battery module” discloses a lifting device and a battery module. The lifting device comprises a base body and an L-shaped gripping hook, which is set up to engage in a receiving opening in a housing of the battery module. The lifting device is further developed in that the base body is mounted so as to be pivotable about a pivot axis and at least two rigid L-shaped gripping hooks are included, each of which has a first and a second leg, the first legs of the L-shaped gripping hooks each being rigidly connected to the base body and the second legs extending transversely to the pivot axis.

[006] However, the cited document has disadvantage that the presence of pneumatic cylinder which requires to be periodically maintained, and more manpower is used.

[007] In order to overcome the problem associated with state of arts, there is a need for the development of a system that utilizes end plate and adjustable hooks for making the system user-friendly by utilizing the mechanical structure and adaptable to various battery sizes.

OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION

[001] The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a fixture for lifting battery module or battery pack.
[008] Another objective of the present invention is to reduce errors while lifting the battery module or battery pack.

[009] Yet another objective of the present invention is to ensure durability and resistance to electrolyte spills by the battery module or battery pack.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to design a system so that the system is able to be integrated with gantry cranes, forklifts, and hydraulic lift tables.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a system that lifts the battery module or battery pack vertically and safely.

[0012] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a system that has mechanical and electronic control according to the requirement.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a safe, efficient, and ergonomic system.

[0014] Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a method to handle large, heavy battery module or battery pack, which is crucial for industries such as electric vehicle production and large-scale energy storage solutions.

[0015] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a framework that includes vertical and angular supports that hold and align the battery modules efficiently.

[0016] Other objectives and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, the aspects of the present invention are disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] The present invention will be better understood after reading the following detailed description of the presently preferred aspects thereof with reference to the appended drawings, in which the features, other aspects and advantages of certain exemplary embodiments of the invention will be more apparent from the accompanying drawing in which:

[0018] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a battery module lifting fixture;

[0019] Figure 1 (a) illustrates a frame structure;

[0020] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the lifting fixture;

[0021] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the lifting fixture for holding a battery module by placing a plurality of hooks over a plurality of end caps; and

[0022] Figure 4 illustrates perspective view of the lifting fixture with the battery module.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0023] The present invention relates to a fixture of lifting battery module. The lifting fixture comprises of a battery module to be lifted, a plurality of tubes coupled to form a frame structure, a plurality of straps attached to two opposite sides of the frame structure, a plurality of hooks clamped on the end caps for holding the battery module, each hook fixed at the lower end of each strap and a plurality of clips, each clip attached to each strap for loosening and tightening the straps. Further, the battery module comprises of a cooling tube, a plurality of end caps coupled equidistantly to the cooling tube, having a pair of barb ends at both the ends of the end caps.

[0024] The present invention also provides a method for lifting battery module through the lifting fixture. The method comprises steps of: placing a battery module on the ground surface, coupling a plurality of tubes to form a frame structure, attaching a plurality of straps on the two opposite sides of the frame structure, connecting a hook at the lower end of each strap, attaching a clip on each strap for tightening and loosening the straps, connecting a crane hook with the frame structure, moving the crane slowly near the battery module to clamp the hooks of the frame structure to barb ends of the end caps of the battery module, lifting slowly the battery module, placed at a workstation, for placing the battery module into a battery casing placed at another workstation, ensuring the battery module remains stable and removing all the hooks from the battery module and the crane hook from the fixture after completion of the battery module lifting process.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0025] The following detailed description and embodiments set forth herein below are merely exemplary out of the wide variety and arrangement of instructions which can be employed with the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. All the features disclosed in this specification may be replaced by similar other or alternative features performing similar or same or equivalent purposes. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, they all are within the scope of the present invention.

[0026] Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0027] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention.

[0028] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0029] It should be emphasized that the term “comprises/comprising” when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.

[0030] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a battery module lifting fixture. Particularly, the present invention relates to a fixture and method of lifting battery modules. More particularly, the present invention relates to the battery module lifting fixture that utilizes multi-hook safety locks used for loading and exchanging heavy components, ensuring that the lifting and carrying process are smooth and safe.

[0031] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a fixture (100) comprises of a battery module (102) to be lifted, a plurality of tubes (110) coupled to form a frame structure (112), a plurality of straps (114) attached to two opposite sides of the frame structure (112), a plurality of hooks (116) clamped on the end caps (106) for holding the battery module (102), each hook (116) fixed at the lower end of each strap (114) and a plurality of clips (118), each clip (118) attached to each strap (114) for loosening and tightening the straps (114).

[0032] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the fixture (100). In a preferred embodiment, the fixture (100) for lifting the battery module (102) is depicted that enhances safety and precision during assembly. This fixture (100) includes ergonomic design that ensures easy handling and reducing strain on workers. With built-in safety mechanisms, the fixture (100) streamlines the assembly process while minimizing injury risks. The disclosure uses multi-hooks (116) safety locks used for loading and exchanging heavy components, ensuring that the lifting process is smooth and safe.

[0033] The fixture (100) includes the plurality of tubes (110) coupled to form a frame structure (112) as shown in figure 1(a). Further, the frame structure (112) provides a secure and stable platform for lifting and positioning the battery modules (112), minimizing the risk of damage and ensuring a safer working environment. The tubes (110) are used for making the frame structure (112) stronger. In an exemplary embodiment, the tubes (110) are made with a material including, but not limited to, mild steel sheet, stainless steel, carbon steel, alloy steel. Further, the tubes (110) may be coupled through the means of including, but not limited to, welding, fastening screws and the like.

[0034] The plurality of straps (114) are attached to two opposite sides of the frame structure (112) as illustrated in figure 2. The hooks (116) and straps (114) are checked properly if there is any damage or wear. The fixture (100) is positioned above the battery module (102) and the hooks (116) and the straps (114) are positioned at the designated lifting points on the battery module (102). In an exemplary embodiment, the straps (114) are made with a material including, but not limited to, nylon, leather and polyester.

[0035] As illustrated in figure 3 of the present disclosure, the plurality of hooks (116) are provided for loading and exchanging heavy components. The battery module (102) to be lifted, comprises of a cooling tube (104), a plurality of end caps (106) coupled equidistantly to the cooling tube (104), having a pair of barb ends (108) at both the ends of the end caps (106). The hooks (116) are connected on the barb ends (108) of the end caps (106) for holding the battery module (102) and each hook (116) is fixed at the lower end of each strap (114). In an exemplary embodiment, the hooks (116) are of two different lengths, both types of hooks (116) each at least 22-25 quantity are used. The hooks (116) are covered with a rubber sleeve to avoid electrical hazards. Two different dimensions of hooks (116) are used to lift the battery module (102) as the cooling tube (104) in the battery module (102) has two different end plate lengths. The length of the end plate may be such as, but not limited to, 22 mm to 25 mm and 49 mm to 52 mm.

[0036] In another exemplary embodiment, the fixture (100) is able to lift the battery module (102) and a battery pack, depending on the need of a user, weighing around or above 1000 kg. Further, the battery module (102) may include, but not limited to, lithium-ion, sodium-ion, nickel-cadmium, hybrid, lead acid battery module and the like.

[0037] The clip (118) is attached on the straps (114) such that the straps (114) run through the clip (118). Each clip (118) is attached to each strap (114) for loosening and tightening the straps (114). In an exemplary embodiment, the clip (118) may be such, but not limited to, ratchet, pin, reversible, double ring, roller, clamp closure, screw in, anchor, center bar and engravable.

[0038] In an embodiment, the present invention also provides a method as shown in figure 4, of lifting a battery module through the system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprises the following steps:-

? placing a battery module (102) on the ground surface;
? coupling a plurality of tubes (110) to form a frame structure (112);
? attaching a plurality of straps (114) on the two opposite sides of the frame structure (112);
? connecting a hook (116) at the lower end of each strap (114);
? attaching a clip (118) on each strap (114) for tightening and loosening the straps (114);
? connecting a crane hook with the frame structure (112);
? moving the crane slowly near the battery module (102) to clamp the hooks (116) of the frame structure (112) to barb ends (108) of the end caps (106) of the battery module (102);
? lifting slowly the battery module (102), placed at a workstation, for placing the battery module (102) into a battery casing placed at another workstation, ensuring the battery module (102) remains stable; and
? removing all the hooks (116) from the battery module (102) and the crane hook from the fixture (100) after completion of the battery module (102) lifting process.

[0039] In an embodiment the advantages of the present invention are enlisted herein:
o The present invention reduces errors while lifting the battery module.
o The present invention ensures durability and resistance to electrolyte spills by the battery modules.
o The present invention provides a fixture is able to be integrated with gantry cranes, forklifts, and hydraulic lift tables.
o The present invention provides a fixture that lifts the battery modules vertically and safely.
o The present invention provides a fixture that has mechanical and electronic control according to the requirement.
o The present invention provides a safe, efficient, and ergonomic way of lifting battery modules.
o The present invention provides a method to handle large, heavy battery modules, which is crucial for industries such as electric vehicle production and large-scale energy storage solutions.
o The present invention provides a framework including vertical and angular supports that hold and align the battery modules efficiently.

[0040] While this invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A lifting fixture (100) for lifting battery module, comprising:
o a battery module (102) to be lifted, comprising a cooling tube (104), a plurality of end caps (106) coupled equidistantly to the cooling tube (104), having a pair of barb ends (108) at both the ends of the end caps (106);
o a plurality of tubes (110) coupled to form a frame structure (112);
o a plurality of straps (114) attached to two opposite sides of the frame structure (112);
o a plurality of hooks (116) clamped on the end caps (106) for holding the battery module (102), each hook (116) fixed at the lower end of each strap (114); and
o a plurality of clips (118), each clip (118) attached to each strap (114) for loosening and tightening the straps (114).

2. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lifting fixture (100) lifts the battery module (102) and a battery pack.

3. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery module (102) is selected from lead acid battery, lithium-ion battery, or hybrid battery.

4. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tubes (110) are coupled together by means of welding or fastening screws.

5. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tubes (110) are made with a material selected from a group of mild steel sheet, stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloy steel.

6. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hooks (116) are covered with a rubber sleeve.

7. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hooks (116) are made with mild steel sheet.

8. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the straps (114) are made with a material selected from a group of nylon, leather, and polyester.
9. The lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the clips (118) are selected from a group of reversible clips, double ring clips, roller clips, clamp closure clips, screw in clips, anchor clips, center bar clips, and engravable clip.

10. A method for lifting battery modules through the lifting fixture (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising steps of:
• placing a battery module (102) on the ground surface;
• coupling a plurality of tubes (110) to form a frame structure (112);
• attaching a plurality of straps (114) on the two opposite sides of the frame structure (112);
• connecting a hook (116) at the lower end of each strap (114);
• attaching a clip (118) on each strap (114) for tightening and loosening the straps (114);
• connecting a crane hook with the frame structure (112);
• moving the crane slowly near the battery module (102) to clamp the hooks (116) of the frame structure (112) to barb ends (108) of the end caps (106) of the battery module (102);
• lifting slowly the battery module (102), placed at a workstation, for placing the battery module (102) into a battery casing placed at another workstation, ensuring the battery module (102) remains stable; and
• removing all the hooks (116) from the battery module (102) and the crane hook from the fixture (100) after completion of the battery module (102) lifting process.