[1] The present disclosure relates, in general, to the field of battery storage. In particular, the present disclosure relates to secure storage of battery during battery swapping/charging.

BACKGROUND
[2] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[3] Electric vehicles (EV) may be construed as a possible future for sustainable commuting, and to that end, technology development for EV has been an important focus in order to realise large scale implementation of EV. Though EV development, in itself, constitutes a big chunk of this the technology to flourish, related ecosystem for implementation of EV also plays a very important role. This includes EV component development and the much-required charging infrastructure.
[4] One of the primary limitations in current EV implementation is lack of charging infrastructure. Multiple innovations and technologies are being developed in this front to support the growing number of electric vehicles, one of the promising innovations being battery swapping, where a discharged battery pack of a vehicle is replaced with a fully charged battery, at designated charging stations. A primary challenge here, is to protect the battery being swapped from damage, since batteries are very expensive. In fact, it is estimated that up to 40% of the cost of an electric vehicle corresponds to the battery installed in the vehicle.
[5] Typically, batteries swapped at a battery swapping point are stored in a storage apparatus that has slots for multiple batteries to be stored. However, while being stored, changes in ambient temperature can cause damage to the battery. There may also be a chance of fall of the battery from the apparatus, resulting in catastrophic failure of the battery.
[6] There is, therefore, a requirement in the art for a means to provide adequate protection to a battery at a battery swapping point.

OBJECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE
[7] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus for secure storage of batteries.
[8] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus for storage of batteries that has a securing mechanism so as to prevent batteries from being dislodged from the apparatus.
[9] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus for storage of batteries that can maintain temperature of the battery within a desirable range.
[10] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an apparatus for storage of batteries that is sturdy and durable.

SUMMARY
[11] The present disclosure relates, in general, to the field of battery storage. In particular, the present disclosure relates to secure storage of battery during battery swapping/charging.
[12] In an aspect, present disclosure provides an apparatus for storage of batteries. The apparatus includes: a first unit comprising one or more compartments, each of the one or more compartments adapted for storage of a battery, wherein each of the one or more compartments is provided with an opening, the opening adapted to receive a battery; and a locking mechanism configured to each of the openings. The locking mechanism includes: a frame with a rectangular cross-section configured at the respective opening; and a link element, which includes: a first member comprising a first end and a second end, the first end adapted to move horizontally along a bottom section of the frame between a first position and a second position, and the second end adapted to move vertically along a first vertical section of the frame, wherein movement of the first end from the first position to the second positions effects movement of the second end from a bottom of the first vertical section to a top of the first vertical section respectively; and a second member comprising a first end and a second end, the first end adapted to move vertically along a second vertical section of the frame, and the second end kinematically coupled with the second end of the first member, wherein movement of the second end of the first member from the bottom of the first vertical section to the top of the first vertical section effects movement of the first end of the second member from bottom of the second vertical section to top of the second vertical section respectively. Actuation of the link mechanism defined as effecting movement of the first end of the first member from the first position to the second position effects movement of the first member and second member so as to at least partially block the respective opening to restrict movement of the respective battery through the respective opening.
[13] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism can be provided with a spring-operated device, which can include a pre-stressed spring to effect movement of the first end of the first member between the first position and the second position.
[14] In another embodiment, the spring-operated device can enable locking of the first end of the first member in either of the first position and the second position.
[15] In another embodiment, the spring-operated device can be operated by a solenoid device. In another embodiment, the solenoid device can be operable through a control unit on receipt, by the control unit, of a signal. In another embodiment, the signal to the control unit can be received through any of wired means and wireless means.
[16] In another embodiment, the apparatus can include one or more second units, each of which can include one or more compartments, and each of the one or more compartments can be adapted for storage of a battery. The each of the one or more compartments can be provided with an opening, which can receive a battery. In another embodiment, a locking mechanism can be configured to each of the openings, and actuation of the link mechanism can effect to, at least partially, block the respective opening to restrict movement of the respective battery through the respective opening.
[17] In another embodiment, when the first end of the first member is in the first position, the first member and the second member are in a collapsed state, which can be defined as the first member and the second member being towards the bottom section of the frame of the locking mechanism.
[18] In another embodiment, a solenoid hook can be provided at the top of the first vertical section, where the solenoid hook can be adapted to couple with the second end of the first member when the second end of the first member is at the top of the first vertical section.
[19] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[20] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.
[21] FIGs. 1A – 1C illustrate exemplary perspective representations of an apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[22] FIG. 1D illustrates an exploded representation of an apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[23] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary representation of locking mechanisms installed in openings of compartments of the proposed apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[24] FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary representation of a locking mechanism installed in an opening of a compartment of the proposed apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[25] FIGs. 2C – 2E illustrate exemplary representations of the locking mechanism at an open state, a partially closed state, and a closed state, respectively.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[26] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[27] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[28] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[29] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. These exemplary embodiments are provided only for illustrative purposes and so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention disclosed may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Various modifications will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure). Also, the terminology and phraseology used is for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Thus, the present invention is to be accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents consistent with the principles and features disclosed. For purpose of clarity, details relating to technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
[30] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non – claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.
[31] The present disclosure relates, in general, to the field of battery storage. In particular, the present disclosure relates to secure storage of battery during battery swapping/charging.
[32] In an aspect, present disclosure provides an apparatus for storage of batteries. The apparatus includes: a first unit comprising one or more compartments, each of the one or more compartments adapted for storage of a battery, wherein each of the one or more compartments is provided with an opening, the opening adapted to receive a battery; anda locking mechanism configured to each of the openings. The locking mechanism includes:a frame with a rectangular cross-section configured at the respective opening; anda link element, which includes: a first member comprising a first end and a second end, the first end adapted to move horizontally along a bottom section of the frame between a first position and a second position, and the second end adapted to move vertically along a first vertical section of the frame, wherein movement of the first end from the first position to the second positions effects movement of the second end from a bottom of the first vertical section to a top of the first vertical section respectively; and a second member comprising a first end and a second end, the first end adapted to move vertically along a second vertical section of the frame, and the second end kinematically coupled with the second end of the first member, wherein movement of the second end of the first member from the bottom of the first vertical section to the top of the first vertical section effects movement of the first end of the second member from bottom of the second vertical section to top of the second vertical section respectively. Actuation of the link mechanism defined as effecting movement of the first end of the first member from the first position to the second position effects movement of the first member and second member so as to at least partially block the respective opening to restrict movement of the respective battery through the respective opening.
[33] FIGs. 1A – 1C illustrate exemplary perspective representations of an apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[34] FIG. 1D illustrates an exploded representation of an apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[35] In an embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes a base 102 and one or more units (104-1, 104-2…104-n; hereinafter collectively and individually designated 104) for storage of batteries, the one or more units 104 stacked on top of another, and stacked on the base 102.
[36] In an embodiment, each unit 104 can include one or more compartments (106-1, 106-2…106-n; 108-1, 108-2…108-n; …10n-1, 10n-2…10n-n; hereinafter collectively and individually designated 106; 108…10n respectively), where each of the compartments (106, 108…10n) is adapted for storage on a battery.
[37] Referring herein to FIGs. 1A – 1D, the apparatus 100 can include three units (104-1, 104-2, 104-3; hereinafter collectively and individually designated 104) for storage of batteries, the one or more units 104 stacked on top of another, and stacked on the base 102.
[38] In another exemplary embodiment, each unit 104 can have two compartments (106-1, 106-2; 108-1, 108-2; 110-1, 110-2; hereinafter collectively and individually designated 106, 108, 110 respectively), where each of the compartments (106, 108, 110) is adapted for storage on a battery.
[39] In another embodiment, to accommodate different batteries, each of the compartments (106, 108, 110) can have differing cross-sections and dimensions.
[40] In an exemplary implementation, each of the openings (112, 114, 116) of the apparatus 100 has a square cross-section.
[41] In an exemplary implementation, FIGs. 1A, 1C and 1D illustrate battery 152-2 stored in compartment 106-2 and battery 156-1 stored in compartment 110-1.
[42] In another embodiment, each of the one or more compartments (106, 108, 110) can have an opening (112-1, 112-2; 114-1, 114-2; 116-1, 116-2; hereinafter collectively and individually designated 112, 114, 116 respectively) on a front side of the apparatus 100, where each of the openings (112, 114, 116) is adapted to receive a battery. The cross-section and dimension of each of the openings (112, 114, 116) can be so as to allow movement of the battery, with adequate tolerance such that movement of the battery through a respective opening is without causing hindrance to such movement.
[43] In another embodiment, to accommodate different batteries, each of the openings (112, 114, 116) can have differing cross-sections and dimensions.
[44] In an exemplary implementation, each of the openings (112, 114, 116) of the apparatus 100 has a square cross-section.
[45] In another embodiment, each of the one or more units 104 can have a length to accommodate the one or more compartments (106, 108, 110).
[46] In another embodiment, each of the one or more units 104 can have a width to accommodate a battery in each of the one or more compartments (106, 108, 110).
[47] In another embodiment, each of the openings (112, 114, 116) of the one or more compartments (106, 108, 110) can be provided with a locking mechanism to enable a battery stored in any of the one or more compartments to be secured within the compartment. In an exemplary implementation, FIGs. 1A, 1C and 1D illustrate locking mechanisms (118-1, 118-2) for compartments (108-1, 108-2) respectively of unit 104-2.
[48] In another embodiment, each of the one or more compartments (106, 108, 110) can be provided with a cooling mechanism to maintain temperature of battery stored in a respective compartment to within a desired range of temperatures for said battery. In an exemplary implementation, FIG. 1D illustrates a cooling mechanism 120-1 for compartment 106-1.
[49] Referring to FIG. 1D, at least one surface of each of the compartments (106, 108, 110) can have rollers to facilitate easy movement of the respective battery into any of the compartments (106, 108, 110). In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface of each of the compartments (106, 108, 110) can have a roller. In an exemplary implementation, FIGs. 1C and 1D illustrate rollers (122-1, 122-2, 124-1, 124-2) for compartments (108-1, 108-2, 110-1, 110-2) respectively.
[50] Referring again to FIGs. 1A – 1D, the base 102 of the apparatus 100 can have a width and a length of suitable value so as to provide stability to the apparatus 100, where the one or more units 104 are stacked one on top of each other. The base 102 can also be weighted in order that the apparatus 100 does not topple.
[51] In another embodiment, the base 102 can be adapted to be secured to a surface on which the apparatus 100 is placed, where the base 102 can be secured using one or more fasteners available in the art.
[52] In another embodiment, the apparatus 100 can be adapted to be secured to a surface against which a rear side of the apparatus 100 is abutted, where the rear side can be secured using one or more fasteners available in the art.
[53] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary representation of locking mechanisms installed in openings of compartments of the proposed apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary unit 104-2 (with reference to FIGs. 1A, 1C and 1D) with compartments (108-1, 108-2). The compartments (108-1, 108-2) are provided with locking mechanisms (118-1, 118-2), which can be installed in openings (114-1, 114-2).
[54] FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary representation of a locking mechanism installed in an opening of a compartment of the proposed apparatus for storage of batteries, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary locking mechanism 118-1 (with reference to FIGs. 1A, 1C and 1D) that is provided to the compartment 108-1 (not shown in figure) at the opening 114-1 (not shown in figure).
[55] In an embodiment, the locking mechanism 118-1 can include a frame 202 that can be installed at the opening 114-1. The frame 202 can have a cross-section similar to the opening. In the present exemplary embodiment, the frame 202 can have a square cross section. The frame can have at least three sections, a bottom section 204-1, a first vertical section 204-2 and a second vertical section 204-3.
[56] In another embodiment, the locking mechanism 118-1 can include a first member 206-1 with a first end and a second end. The first end of the first member 206-1 is configured to move between a first position and a second position along the bottom section 204-1. The second end of the first member is configured to move vertically along the first vertical section 204-2.
[57] In another embodiment, the locking mechanism can include second member 206-2 with a first end and a second end. The first end of the second member 206-2 is configured to move vertically along the second vertical section 204-3. The second end of the second member 206-2 is kinematically coupled with the second end of the first member 206-1.
[58] In another embodiment, when the locking mechanism 118-1 is in an un-actuated state (hereinafter, also referred to as “open state”), the first end of the first member 206-1 is at the first position, where the first member 206-1 and the second member 206-2 are collapsed and disposed at the bottom section 204-1. In the open state, the opening 114-1 is free of any obstruction and free movement of the respective battery is allowed.
[59] In another embodiment, when the locking mechanism 118-1 is in an actuated state (hereinafter, also referred to as “closed state”), the first end of the first member 206-1 is at the second position thereby effecting movement of the second end of the first member 206-1 to move to the top of the first vertical section 204-2. The second end of the second member 206-2 which is couple with the second end of the first member 206-1 is also effected to move to the top of the second vertical section 204-3. This results in the first member 206-1 and the second member 206-2 to at least partially covering the opening 114-1, thereby restricting motion of the respective battery through the opening 114-1.
[60] In another embodiment, the actuation of the locking mechanism 118-1 is through a pre-stressed spring-loaded component 208 (hereinafter, also referred to as “spring device”) provided at the bottom section 204-1. The spring device 208, when actuated, moves the first end of the first member 206-1 from the first position to the second position. The prestressed spring prevents return of the first end of the first member 206-1 to the first position freely. Further, when the second end of the first member 206-1 is at the top of the first vertical section 204-2, it applies a normal force on the second member 206-2 to place the first end of the second member 206-1 against top of the second vertical section 204-3, thereby preventing collapse of the second member 206-2.
[61] In another embodiment, the spring device 208 can be operated by a solenoid device (not shown in figure), which, in turn, can be operated by a control unit (not shown in figure). The control unit can receive instructions pertaining to operation of the spring device 208 through any or a combination of wired and wireless means.
[62] In an exemplary embodiment, the control unit can be operatively coupled to wireless network such as, without limitations, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, mobile network and radio network, and instructions pertaining to operation of the spring device 208 can be transmitted to the control unit through any or a combination of the above stated networks. In an exemplary embodiment, the control unit can be part of an internet-of-things environment.
[63] In another embodiment, a solenoid hook 210 can be provided at the top of the first vertical section 204-2. The solenoid hook 210 is adapted to couple with the second end of the first member 206-1, when said second end is at top of the first vertical section 204-2, thereby providing a hook to prevent collapse of the first member 206-1.
[64] FIGs. 2C – 2E illustrate exemplary representations of the locking mechanism at an open state, a partially closed state, and a closed state, respectively.
[65] Thus, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for storage of batteries with a locking mechanism for each compartment that houses a battery. The locking mechanism includes a frame that is coupled to opening of the compartment. Two members kinematically linked to each other are configured onto the frame such that movement of one of the members to a closed position also moves the other frame to a closed position. The close position is defined when the two members at least partially block the opening of the compartment, thereby restricting movement of the battery from within the compartment. The actuation of the locking mechanism is by a solenoid operated spring-loaded device that can be operated through a control unit that can be part of a wireless environment such as IoT. The apparatus is also provided with a cooler to maintain temperature of the battery.
[66] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive patent matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “includes” and “including” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc. The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practised with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
[67] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE DISCLOSURE
[68] The present disclosure provides an apparatus for secure storage of batteries.
[69] The present disclosure provides an apparatus for storage of batteries that has a securing mechanism so as to prevent batteries from being dislodged from the apparatus.
[70] The present disclosure provides an apparatus for storage of batteries that can maintain temperature of the battery within a desirable range.
[71] The present disclosure provides an apparatus for storage of batteries that is sturdy and durable.

Claims:1. An apparatus for storage of batteries, said apparatus comprising:
a first unit comprising one or more compartments, each of said one or more compartments adapted for storage of a battery, wherein each of said one or more compartments is provided with an opening, the opening adapted to receive a battery; and
a locking mechanism configured to each of the openings, said locking mechanism comprising:
a frame with a rectangular cross-section configured at the respective opening; and
a link element comprising:
a first member comprising a first end and a second end, said first end adapted to move horizontally along a bottom section of the frame between a first position and a second position, and said second end adapted to move vertically along a first vertical section of the frame, wherein movement of the first end from the first position to the second positions effects movement of the second end from a bottom of the first vertical section to a top of the first vertical section respectively; and
a second member comprising a first end and a second end, said first end adapted to move vertically along a second vertical section of the frame, and said second end kinematically coupled with the second end of the first member, wherein movement of the second end of the first member from the bottom of the first vertical section to the top of the first vertical section effects movement of the first end of the second member from bottom of the second vertical section to top of the second vertical section respectively, and
wherein actuation of the link mechanism defined as effecting movement of the first end of the first member from the first position to the second position effects movement of the first member and second member so as to at least partially block the respective opening to restrict movement of the respective battery through the respective opening.
2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism is provided with a spring-operated device comprising a pre-stressed spring to effect movement of the first end of the first member between the first position and the second position.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the spring-operated device enables locking of the first end of the first member in either of the first position and the second position.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the spring-operated device is operated by a solenoid device.
5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the solenoid device is operable through a control unit on receipt, by the control unit, of a signal.
6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the signal to the control unit is received through any of wired means and wireless means.
7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises one or more second units, each of said one or more second units comprising one or more compartments, and each of said one or more compartments adapted for storage of a battery, wherein each of said one or more compartments is provided with an opening, the opening adapted to receive a battery.
8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein a locking mechanism is configured to each of the openings, and wherein actuation of the link mechanism effects to least partially block the respective opening to restrict movement of the respective battery through the respective opening.
9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein when the first end of the first member is in the first position, the first member and the second member are in a collapsed state defined as the first member and the second member being towards the bottom section of the frame of the locking mechanism.
10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein a solenoid hook is provided at the top of the first vertical section, the solenoid hook adapted to couple with the second end of the first member when said second end of the first member is at the top of the first vertical section.