Description:FORM 2

THE PATENT ACT, 1970
(39 of1970)
And
THE PATENT RULES, 2003
(As amended)

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

BATTERY CLAMPING SYSTEM FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE

BILITI ELECTRIC INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED
of Indian nationality, having address at Flat 306, Laxmi Enclave, Karol Bagh Colony, Padmanabha Nagar, Mehdipatnam, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500028, India

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed. 
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention is primarily related to a simple, robust, and an easy-to-use system for clamping a battery in a battery mounting structure. The invention reduces the complexity involved with individual manual clamping of multiple clamps. The novel clamping technique allows rigid locking and ensures strong clamping minimizing vibrations.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A major issue faced in electric vehicles, especially logistic electric vehicles where large batteries are used is clamping and securement of such large batteries.

There are many key challenges faced by various original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the field of electric vehicles. One of the major problems faced is clamping of battery in the electric vehicles. Though battery clamping seems simple and easy, proper positioning and securement of the battery in the mounting frame, is a challenge. The battery must be tightly secured with minimal or no vibration transfer. Given the size of the batteries, installing them on a single mount or two mounts would be insufficient. This becomes even more challenging when the electric vehicle is a logistic vehicle, especially where a much larger battery is needed.

JP5650094B2 discloses a battery pack assembly jig configured to assemble a battery case to a stack assembly. The battery pack assembly comprises of a clamping mechanism, holding portion, and a support arm. The clamp mechanism holds the stack assembly by pressing and positioning with respect to stack assembly. The holding portion holds the battery case, a rotation mechanism rotates the surface at an inclination angle, and a pair of toggle clamps that are provided on the support portions of the displacement shafts. The toggle clamps protrude towards the inside of the frame. The gripping operation of the stack assembly and maintaining the position are realized only by toggle clamps.

CA3018906C discloses a tonneau system mounting assembly configured to cover and protect a cargo bed or unoccupied portion of a vehicle from environmental degradation. The mounting assembly comprises a retainer, a rotary member, and a toggle latch. The retainer consists of a receiving portion having an axis and it also consists of supporting portion and a rotary member. The supporting portion extends from the receiving portion and is positioned substantially perpendicular to the axis of the receiving portion. The rotary portion rotatably engages the receiving portion to rotate about the axis of the receiving portion. The rotary portion also comprises a lever extending away from the rotary portion and positioned substantially perpendicular to the axis of the receiving portion. When the tonneau section is secured in the mounting assembly, the toggle latch is configured to prevent rotation of the rotary member.

US11034176B2, US10900678B2, and JP6463827B2 disclose a hermetically sealed gas enclosure assembly and system that can be readily transportable and assembled. The gas enclosure assembly has a window panel or service window in each wall panel, where each window panel or service window has a glove port. The panel section is constructed for receiving a service window panel having a set of four clamping cleats that are used to clamp service window into service window panel section using a set of four reverse acting toggle clamps mounted on service window frame for each readily removable service window.

The toggle clamps or the toggle latches disclosed in the prior art are difficult to operate, are tedious, and involve time-consuming tasks. Also, pin in a hole locking mechanism known in the art for clamping, does not provide firm locking due to the clearance between the pin and the hole.

Hence, there is a strong need for a simple, robust, and easy to use system that will help alleviate the aforementioned issues. Hence, the present invention is focused on providing a solution that is simple, reliable, and cost-effective.

The present invention is aimed at a novel approach whereby it allows a simple and efficient technique for the user to rigidly secure the battery to the electric vehicle.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
The principal object of the present invention is to ensure rigid clamping of a battery in an electric vehicle.

Another object of the present invention is to ensure proper securement of the battery inside the mounting structure.

Yet another object of the present invention is to ensure securement of the battery with minimal or no vibration transfer.

Still yet another object of the present invention is to ensure clamping of the battery at multiple positions to provide stronger securement and reduced vibrations.

Further, another object of the present invention is to eliminate the burden of performing the tedious task of clamping the battery at multiple positions where the clamping is difficult to access.

Further, still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a simple and reliable technique of clamping a battery with a single user action.

Further, still yet another object of the present invention is to provide easy accessibility to a user to clamp and unclamp even larger size batteries.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention deals with a simple, cost-effective, and reliable system of securing a battery in the electric vehicle.

The present invention is related to a battery clamping system for an electric vehicle that has multiple clamping means for the securement of the battery inside a mounting structure. A simple and reliable clamping system is designed such that it enables rigid and strong securement of the battery. Said battery clamping system includes a mechanical clamping means for proper positioning and securement of the battery and prevent it from disengaging.

The battery clamping system of the present invention comprises toggle clamps for rigidly securing the battery inside a battery clamping system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The summary of the present invention, as well as the detailed description, are better
understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings that illustrate one or more possible embodiments of the present invention, wherein
Fig. 1 illustrates the front hidden view of a standard configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 illustrates the top hidden view of a standard configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of A of Fig. 1 of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of B of Fig. 2 of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 5 illustrates the isometric view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 6 illustrates the rear view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 7 illustrates the top view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 8 illustrates the enlarged detailed views of C and D of Fig 6 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 9 illustrates the rear view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 10 illustrates the enlarged detailed views of C and D of Fig 9 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 11 illustrates the isometric view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 12 illustrates the left view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 13 illustrates the rear view (E-E of Fig. 12) of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 14 illustrates the bottom view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 15 illustrates the enlarged detail view of E of Fig 12 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 16 illustrates the rear view (E-E shown in Fig. 12) of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 17 illustrates the enlarged detail view of E from Fig 16 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 18 illustrates the isometric view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 19 illustrates the rear view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 20 illustrates the top view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 21 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of G from Fig. 19 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 22 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of G from Fig. 20 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 23 illustrates the rear view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 24 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of G from Fig 23 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 25 illustrates the isometric view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 26 illustrates the rear view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 27 illustrates the top view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 28 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of H of Fig. 26 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 29 illustrates the rear view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 30 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of H of Fig. 29 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 31 illustrates the isometric view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 32 illustrates the front view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 33 illustrates the left section (I-I shown in Fig. 32) view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 34 illustrates the bottom view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 35 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of I of Fig. 33 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 36 illustrates the left view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 37 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of I of Fig. 36 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 38 illustrates the isometric view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 39 illustrates the front view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 40 illustrates the left view of a configuration a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 41 illustrates the top view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in in a locked position in accordance with further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 42 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of J of Fig. 39 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 43 illustrates the front view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 44 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of J of Fig. 43 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 45 illustrates the isometric view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 46 illustrates the bottom view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 47 illustrates the rear section (R-R shown in Fig. 46) of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 48 illustrates the top section (S-S shown in Fig. 47) of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 49 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of K of Fig. 47 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in a locked position in accordance with still further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 50 illustrates the front view of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with still further yet another embodiment of the present invention;
and
Fig. 51 illustrates the enlarged detailed view of K of Fig. 50 of a configuration of a battery clamping system in an unlocked position in accordance with still further yet another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is related to a simple battery clamping system comprising a mechanical clamping means.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, and Fig. 4, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention could be toggle clamp or cam lock.

A toggle clamp, also called a quick clamp, a quick release clamp, or an over-center clamp, is a fastening device that usually consists of a handle, a holding bar, a linkage system of pivot pins, and one or more levers. The handle is used to control the device, the holding bar is used to grip the workpiece, and the handle is used to boost the applied force. Once the engagement of the workpiece is made, the toggle clamp locks. The toggle clamp typically serves to secure an object tightly in order to prevent it from moving, dislodging, or disengaging upon application of pressure.
The battery is placed in a mechanical structure (3), wherein, said mechanical structure (3) has a plurality of rails at the bottom (4). Said rails on the mechanical structure (3) slide into the rails (5) provided on the frame (6) of the chassis of the electric vehicle. Said mechanical clamping means (2) uses the space adjacent, above, or below the frame (6) for clamping. The toggle clamp or cam lock, locks the rails (4) on the mechanical structure (3) with the rails (5) on the frame (6) of the chassis. Said toggle clamp could be a vertical toggle clamp, horizontal toggle clamp, plunger toggle clamp or push action toggle clamp, hook action toggle clamp, plier action toggle clamp, and cam action toggle clamp. Said toggle clamp can be placed at one or more positions of the frame (6). Said toggle clamps could be same or could be two different toggle clamps.

According to one of the embodiments, as shown in Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, and Fig. 10, said mechanical structure (3) comprises rails (4) at the bottom. Said rails (4) slide into the rails (5) provided on the frame (6) of the chassis to position and limit the vertical movement. The rails (5) on the frame (6) could be C type, and are provided with cuts (8). Said cuts (8) provides access between the rails (4) on the mechanical structure (3) and the toggle clamps for locking and unlocking. Said toggle clamps could be positioned at one or more corners of said frame (6). Said toggle clamps could be toggles selected from H-toggle and V-toggle. Said H-toggle and V-toggle are positioned adjacent to said frame (6). Said toggle clamps are connected to each other with the help of a handle (7). Said handle (7) is connected to said toggle clamps (2a) and (2b), such that it is rotatable at the point of connection. Said handle (7) is connected to the H-toggle and V-toggle, to clamp and unclamp the toggle clamps (2a) and (2b) as shown in Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8, Fig. 9, and Fig. 10. Said handle (7) can be used as an actuating lever. Said handle (7) can be moved forward or backward for actuation. Moving the handle (7) forward will lock said toggle clamps (2a) and (2b) as shown in Fig. 6. Similarly, moving the handle (7) backwards will unlock said toggle clamps (2a) and (2b), as shown in Fig. 9. Moving the handle (7) either forward or backward, respectively locks or unlocks said toggle clamps (2a and 2b), and secures the mechanical structure (3) in position in the rails (5) of the frame (6). Said handle (7) is designed such that, it does not obstruct the sliding movement of the mechanical structure (3) into and out of the rails (5) on the frame (6). Although two different types of toggle clamps, i.e., H-toggle and V-toggle are used for clamping the battery in accordance with this embodiment, the mechanism to lock and unlock the battery is simple and reliable.

According to another embodiment, as shown in Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16, and Fig. 17, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, and a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of said mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention is a toggle clamp. The rails (5) on the frame (6) could be C type, and are provided with cuts (8). The rails (4) present on at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3) slide into the rails (5) provided on the frame (6) of the chassis of the vehicle to position and limit the vertical movement. Said toggle clamps could be positioned at one or more corners on the frame (6). Said one or more toggle clamps for clamping the battery, in accordance with some of the embodiments of the present invention, are V-toggles (2c). According to an embodiment of the present invention, said V-toggles (2c) are positioned below said frame (6). Said V-toggles (2c) are connected to each other with the help of a handle (7). Said handle (7) can be used as an actuating lever. Said handle (7) is connected to the V-toggles (2c) such that it is rotatable at the point of connection. Said handle (7) can be moved forward or backward for actuation. Moving the handle (7) forward locks said V-toggles (2c) as shown in Fig. 12. Similarly, moving the handle (7) backwards unlocks said V-toggles (2c) as shown in Fig. 16. This way, moving the handle (7) either forward or backward can respectively lock or unlock said V-toggles (2c), and secures the mechanical structure (3) in position in the rails (5) of the frame (6). Said handle (7) is designed such that, it does not obstruct the sliding movement of the mechanical structure (3) into and out of the rails (5) on the frame (6). When said V-toggles (2c) move forward, said V-toggles (2c) move into a locking position, thereby pressing said rails (4) on the mechanical structure (3) into said rails (5) of the said frame (6). The design of said battery clamping system (1) according to this embodiment, requires the battery to be lifted gently and pressed against the top surface of the rails (5) on the frame (6) for locking. This is achieved by the force leveraged from the toggle clamp. By placing the V-toggles (2c) below the frame (6), a lot of space is created adjacent to said frame (6). Also, the toggle clamps are of the same type with simple construction, and lock uniquely by pushing the battery against the gravity.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20, Fig. 21, Fig. 22, Fig. 23, and Fig. 24, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, and a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) is a toggle clamp, wherein said toggle clamps are V-toggles (2d). Said mechanical structure (3) comprises a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom, and said rails (4) slide into the rails (5) on the frame (6) of the chassis of the vehicle. The rails (5) on the frame (6) could be C type, wherein cuts (8) are provided on the rails (5) at the corners on the frame (6) Said cuts (8) provide access between the rails (4) on the mechanical structure (3) and the toggle clamps for locking and unlocking. The rails (4) of said mechanical structure (3) slide into rails (5) of the frame (6) to position and limit the vertical movement. Said V-toggles (2d) could be positioned at one or more corners of the frame (6). Said V-toggles (2d) are positioned adjacent to said frame (6). Said V-toggles (2d) are connected to each other with the help of a handle (7). Said handle (7) is connected to the V-toggles (2d) such that, it is rotatable at the point of connection. Said handle (7) could also be connected to the V-toggles (2d) in a way such that, it is fixed at the point of connection to the toggle clamps. Said V-toggles (2d) are connected by a slider-crank mechanism which joins the movement of the V-toggles (2d). A pair of links (9) connects in a pivot manner the left side and right side of said handle (7) and is pivoted in a sliding manner at the middle portion placed inside a slot (10). Said handle (7) is connected to said V-toggles (2d) to clamp and unclamp the V-toggles (2d). Said handle (7) can be used as actuating lever. Said handle (7) can be moved forward or backward for actuation. Moving the handle (7) forward will lock said V-toggles (2d) as shown in Fig. 19. Similarly, moving the handle (7) backwards will unlock said V-toggles (2d) as shown in Fig. 23. Moving the handle (7) forward or backward can respectively lock or unlock said V-toggles (2d), and secure the battery in position inside the mechanical structure (3). When said V-toggle (2d) is rotated on one side, the link (9) moves up and down causing the movement of the V-toggle (2d) on the other side. Said handle (7) is designed such that it does not obstruct the sliding movement of the battery into and out of the mechanical structure (3). The link (9) and slot (10) mechanism provide motion to said V-toggles (2d). It helps convert motion of one toggle into opposite motion of another toggle. Said mechanism is simple and robust in nature.
According to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Fig. 25, Fig. 26, Fig. 27, Fig. 28, Fig. 29, and Fig. 30, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, and a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of said mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention is a toggle clamp. According to this embodiment, said mechanical structure (3) comprises rails (4) at the bottom. Said rails (4) of said mechanical structure (3) slide into the rails (5) on the frame (6) of the chassis of the vehicle to position and limit the vertical movement. The rails (5) on the frame (6) could be C type, and are provided with cuts (8). Said cuts (8) provide access between the rails (4) on the mechanical structure (3) and the toggle clamps for locking and unlocking. Said toggle clamps could be positioned at one or more corners of said frame (6). Said toggle clamps are V-toggles (2h). Said V-toggles (2h) are positioned above said frame (6). Said toggle clamps (2h) are connected to each other with the help of a handle (7). Said battery clamping system (1) further comprises a mechanism integrated with the movement of said V-toggles (2h). Said mechanism comprises a pulley (15) with a belt (16) which is connected to said V-toggles (2h) to clamp and unclamp the V-toggles (2h). Said pulley (15) and belt (16) are connected to said V-toggles (2h) such that rotation of said pulley (15) causes the movement of said V-toggles (2h). Based on the movement of said pulley (15), said V-toggles (2h) are locked or unlocked. Said V-toggles (2h) rotate in opposite directions. Rotating the pulley (14) forward locks said V-toggles (2h) as shown in Fig. 26. Similarly, rotating the pulley (15) backwards unlocks said toggle clamps (2h) as shown in Fig. 29. Rotating the pulley (15) either forward or backward respectively locks and unlocks said V-toggles (2h), and secures the battery in position inside the mechanical structure (3). The battery clamping system (1) in accordance with this embodiment, provides a simple mechanism to actuate all the toggles simultaneously.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Fig. 31, Fig. 32, Fig. 33, Fig. 34, Fig. 35, Fig. 36, and Fig. 37, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, and a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of the said mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention is a toggle clamp. According to this embodiment, said mechanical structure (3) comprises rails (4) at the bottom that slide into rails (5) present on the frame (6) of the chassis of the vehicle. Said toggle clamps could be positioned at one or more corners of the frame (6). Said one or more toggle clamps used for clamping the battery could be latch type toggles (2e) as shown in Fig. 31. Said latch type toggles (2e) are positioned below said frame (6). Said latch type toggles (2e), pass through a slot (12) such that they stay in position and do not fall due to gravity even when in an unlocked position. Said latch type toggles (2e) are connected to each other with the help of a handle (7). Said handle (7) is connected to the latch type toggles (2e) such that, it is rotatable at the point of connection. A C-shaped hook (11) is provided at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3) that locks with the latch type toggles (2e) and keeps the mechanical structure (3) clamped rigidly. Said handle (7) is connected to the latch type toggles (2e), to clamp and unclamp the latch type toggles (2e). Said handle (7) can be used as an actuating lever. Said handle (7) can be moved forward or backward for actuation. Moving the handle (7) forward will lock said latch type toggles (2e) as shown in Fig. 33. Similarly, moving the handle (7) backwards will unlock said latch type toggles (2e) as shown in Fig. 36. This way, moving the handle (7) either forward or backward can lock and unlock said latch type toggles (2e) and retain the battery in position inside the mechanical structure (3). Said handle (7) is designed such that, it does not obstruct the sliding movement of the battery into and out of the mechanical structure (3). By placing the latch type toggles (2e) below the frame (6), a lot of space is created adjacent to said frame (6). Also, connecting the toggles together is simple and reliable.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Fig. 38. Fig. 39, Fig. 40, Fig. 41, Fig. 42, Fig. 43, and Fig. 44, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, and a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention is a toggle clamp. According to this embodiment, said mechanical structure (3) comprises a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom that slide into the rails (5) on the frame (6) of the chassis of the vehicle to position and limit the vertical movement. The rails (5) on the frame (6) could be C type, and are provided with cuts (8). Said cuts (8) are provided on the rails (5) at the corners of the frame (6). Said cuts (8) provides access between the rails (4) present on the mechanical structure (3) and the toggle clamps for locking and unlocking. Said toggle clamps could be positioned at one or more corners of the frame (6). Said one or more toggle clamps used for clamping the battery could be sliding toggles (2f). Said sliding toggles (2f) are positioned above said frame (6). Said sliding toggles (2f) are connected to each other with the help of a handle (7). Said handle (7) is connected to the sliding toggles (2f) such that, it is rotatable at the point of connection. Said handle (7) is connected to the sliding toggles (2f), to clamp and unclamp the sliding toggles (2f). Said handle (7) can be used as actuating lever. Said handle (7) can be moved forward or backward for actuation. The sliding toggles (2f) slide based on the actuation of the handle (7). Moving the handle (7) forward will lock said sliding toggles (2f) as shown in Fig. 39 by pressing the rails (4) of the mechanical structure (3) against said rails (5) of the frame (6). Similarly, moving the handle (7) backwards will unlock said sliding toggles (2f) as shown in Fig. 43. Moving the handle (7) forward or backward can lock and unlock said sliding toggles (2f), and retain the battery in position inside the mechanical structure (3). Said handle (7) is designed such that, it does not obstruct the sliding movement of the battery into and out of the mechanical structure (3). By placing the sliding toggles (2f) above the frame (6), a lot of space is created adjacent to said frame (6). Also, it requires only a single handle for connecting the toggles.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Fig. 45, Fig. 46, Fig. 47, Fig. 48, Fig. 49, Fig. 50, and Fig. 51, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, and a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) in accordance with this embodiment of the present invention is a cam lock (2g). According to this embodiment, said mechanical structure (3) has rails (4) at the bottom. Said rails (4) of said mechanical structure (3) slide into the rails (5) on the frame (6) of the chassis of the vehicle to position and prevent the vertical movement. Said rails (4) on said mechanical structure (3) has a slot (13) as shown in Fig. 48, wherein the central rod (14) of said cam locks (2g) slides in without obstruction. Said cam locks (2g) could be positioned at one or more corners of the frame (6). Said cam locks (2g) are positioned below said frame (6). Said cam locks (2g) are connected to each other with the help of a handle (7). Said handle (7) is connected to the cam locks (2g) such that, it is rotatable at the point of connection. Said handle (7) is connected to the cam locks (2g), to clamp and unclamp the cam locks (2g). Said handle (7) can be used as actuating lever. Said handle (7) can be moved forward or backward for actuation. The cam profile on the handle (7) presses the mechanical structure (3) against the frame (6) to clamp the mechanical structure (3). Moving the handle (7) forward will lock said cam locks (2g) by pressing the rails (4) on the mechanical structure (3) against the rails (5) on the frame (6) as shown in Fig. 46. Similarly, moving the handle (7) backwards will unlock said cam locks (2g) as shown in Fig. 50. Moving the handle (7) either forward or backward can respectively lock or unlock said cam locks (2g), and secures the battery in position inside the mechanical structure (3). Said handle (7) is designed such that, it does not obstruct the sliding movement of the battery into and out of the mechanical structure (3). Minimum space is utilized for clamping the cam locks (2g) to said frame (6). Also, it requires only single handle for connecting the toggles.

It is to be understood that the toggle clamps may be one or more types of toggle clamps.

In accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention, the battery clamping system (1) comprises of a mechanical clamping means (2), a mechanical structure (3) for housing a battery, and a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3). Said mechanical clamping means (2) in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention, is one or more of toggle clamps or cam locks. The battery is placed in the mechanical structure (3) and is secured to a frame (6) with the help of a plurality of rails (4) provided at the bottom of the mechanical structure (3). The frame (6) has rails (5) and is fixed to the chassis of the vehicle. One or more toggle clamp or cam locks, lock the mechanical structure (3). Said toggle clamps can be placed at one or more positions of the frame (6). Said mechanical structure (3) comprises a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom. Said rails (4) on the mechanical structure (3) slide into the rails (5) on the frame (6) of the chassis of the vehicle, to position and limit the vertical movement of the battery. The rails (5) on the frame (6) could be C type. Said toggle clamps could be positioned at one or more corners of the frame (6). Said toggle clamps are connected to each other with the help of a handle. Said handle (7) can be used as an actuating lever. Said handle (7) can be moved forward or backward for actuation. Moving the handle forward or backward can respectively lock or unlock said toggle clamps, and secures the mechanical structure (3) in position with the rails (5) on the frame (6). Said handle is designed such that, it does not obstruct the sliding movement of the battery inside and out of the mechanical structure (3).

The battery clamping system of the present invention has an advantage of securing the battery rigidly in the mechanical structure (3) with the help of a single handle thereby enhancing the life of the battery, and in turn the life of the vehicle.

It is to be understood, however, that the present invention would not be limited by any means to the components, arrangements and materials that are not specifically described, and any change to the components, variations, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope described in the present invention.
, Claims:We claim:
1. A battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle comprising:
a) a mechanical clamping means (2);
b) a mechanical structure (3) holding a battery comprising
a plurality of rails (4) at the bottom;
c) a plurality of rails (5) on a frame (6); and
d) a handle (7);
wherein,
said mechanical clamping means (2) is provided for locking and securing said mechanical structure (3) and frame (6).
2. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said mechanical clamping means (2) is one or more toggle clamps, or cam locks for clamping said mechanical structure (3).
3. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one or more toggle clamps, or cam locks could be positioned at the corners of said mechanical structure (3).
4. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said toggle clamps could be of the same type or could be of different types.
5. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said handle (7) connects said toggle clamps, and is rotatable at the point of connection.
6. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein movement of said handle (7) in the forward or backward direction locks or unlocks said toggle clamps.
7. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one or more toggle clamps for clamping said mechanical structure (3) could be H-toggle, V-toggle, or a combination thereof.
8. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 7, wherein said H-toggle, V-toggle, or a combination thereof, are positioned adjacent to said mechanical structure (3).
9. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one or more toggle clamps for clamping said mechanical structure (3) could be V-toggles.
10. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein said V-toggles are positioned below said mechanical structure (3).
11. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein said rails (5) on the frame (6) comprise cuts (8).
12. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein said V-toggles are positioned adjacent to said mechanical structure (3).
13. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 12, wherein said toggle clamps are connected by a mechanism integrated with the movement of said toggle clamps.

14. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 13, wherein said mechanism is a slider-crank mechanism comprising a pair of links (9) that connects in a pivot manner the left side and right side of said handle (7), and is pivoted in a sliding manner at the middle portion placed inside a slot (10).
15. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein said V-toggles are positioned above said mechanical structure (3).
16. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein said battery clamping system (1) further comprises a pulley (15) and belt drive (16).
17. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 15, wherein movement of said toggle clamps is based on said pulley (15) and belt drive (16).
18. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one or more toggle clamps for clamping said mechanical structure (3) are latch type toggles.
19. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 18, wherein said latch type toggles are positioned below said mechanical structure (3).
20. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 19, wherein said mechanical structure (3) further comprises a C-shaped hook (11) at the bottom of said mechanical structure (3).
21. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one or more toggle clamps for clamping said mechanical structure (3) could be sliding toggles.
22. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 21, wherein said sliding toggles are positioned above said mechanical structure (3).
23. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 1, wherein said toggle clamps for clamping the battery could be cam lock clamps.
24. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 23, wherein said cam lock clamps are positioned below said mechanical structure (3).
25. The battery clamping system (1) for an electric vehicle as claimed in claim 24, wherein said rails (4) on said mechanical structure (3) has a slot (13), and the central rod (14) of said cam locks (2g) slides in.