Traction battery mounting assembly and method

Abstract

An exemplary traction battery assembly includes a battery pack and a fixing assembly, etc. The fixing assembly fixes the battery pack to a structural member of a vehicle. The fixing assembly is disposed along a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack and is configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structural member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to attachment assemblies for use in connection with traction batteries, and more particularly to attachment assemblies that maintain the traction battery connected to a vehicle structure and isolated from loads during, for example, a crash event. Background Art

[0002] Electric vehicles differ from conventional motor vehicles in that they are selectively driven using one or more electric machines powered by a traction battery. The electric machines may drive the electric vehicle instead of or in addition to an internal combustion engine. Exemplary electric vehicles include hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

[0003] The traction battery may be a relatively high voltage traction battery that selectively provides power to the electric motor and other electrical loads of the electric vehicle. For example, the traction battery may be packaged within a luggage compartment of the electric vehicle. Summary of the invention

[0004] A traction battery assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes a battery pack of a vehicle and a fixing assembly for fixing the battery pack to a structural member of the vehicle, etc. The fixing assembly is disposed along a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack and is configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structural member.

[0005] In another non-limiting embodiment of the foregoing assembly, the fixing assembly includes a track and a groove slidably retained by the track. The track and the groove slide relative to each other when the fixing assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

[0006] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the battery pack has a plurality of sides extending vertically from a top of the battery pack to a bottom of the battery pack. One of the tracks or grooves is disposed through one of the plurality of sides. Another of the tracks or grooves is secured directly to a vehicle structure.

[0007] Another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies includes a dampener that inhibits movement of the groove relative to the track.

[0008] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the fixed assembly includes a slider bracket and a pin that slides relative to the slider bracket within a hole of the slider bracket when the fixed assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

[0009] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the battery pack has a plurality of sides extending vertically from a top of the battery pack to a bottom of the battery pack. One of the slider brackets or pins is directly secured to one of the plurality of sides. Another of the slider brackets or pins is directly secured to a vehicle structure.

[0010] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the securing assembly includes a swing arm pivotally secured to the battery pack at a first pivot and pivotally secured to the vehicle structure at a second pivot. The swing arm pivots relative to the battery pack and the vehicle structure when the securing assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

[0011] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the battery pack has a plurality of sides extending vertically from a top of the battery pack to a bottom of the battery pack. The first pivot extends directly from one of the plurality of sides. The second pivot extends directly from the vehicle structure.

[0012] Another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies includes a wedge configured to move the battery pack vertically away from a surface of the vehicle in response to an impact load being applied to the rear of the vehicle.

[0013] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the first pivot and the second pivot are aligned along a horizontally extending pivot axis.

[0014] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the securing assembly includes a plurality of brackets that support the battery pack in a position vertically spaced from a trunk floor of the vehicle.

[0015] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, each of the plurality of brackets is configured to move from a shorter lengthwise position to a longer lengthwise position to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure in response to an impact load being applied to the rear of the vehicle.

[0016] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, each of the plurality of brackets includes a first portion secured to a vehicle structure, a second portion secured to a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack, and a third portion extending from the first portion to the second portion. The first portion and the second portion are closer to each other when the corresponding bracket is in a shorter longitudinal position than in a longer longitudinal position.

[0017] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the load is applied in a loading direction along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The bracket elongates in the loading direction when moving from the shorter longitudinal position to the longer longitudinal position.

[0018] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the battery pack has a plurality of sides extending vertically from a top of the battery pack to a bottom of the battery pack. The securing assembly is secured to one of the plurality of sides closest to a front wheel of the vehicle.

[0019] In a further non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing assemblies, the battery pack is disposed above a trunk floor of the vehicle.

[0020] A traction battery securing method according to another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes transitioning a securing assembly from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to a vehicle structure within a trunk compartment. The securing assembly secures a horizontally facing side of the battery pack to a vehicle structure.

[0021] In another non-limiting embodiment of the aforementioned fixing method, the fixing assembly includes a track and a groove slidably held by the track. The conversion includes sliding the groove relative to the track when the fixing assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

[0022] In another non-limiting embodiment of the foregoing securing method, the securing assembly includes a swing arm pivotally secured to the battery pack at a first pivot and pivotally secured to the vehicle structure at a second pivot. The transition includes pivoting the swing arm relative to the battery pack and the vehicle structure when the securing assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

[0023] In another non-limiting embodiment of any of the foregoing securing methods, the securing assembly includes a plurality of brackets that support the battery pack at a position vertically spaced from a trunk floor of the vehicle. The transition includes moving each of the plurality of brackets from a shorter lengthwise position to a longer lengthwise position to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure in response to an impact load being applied to the rear of the vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] According to the detailed description, various features and advantages of the disclosed examples will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The drawings accompanying the detailed description can be briefly described as follows:

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing an exemplary powertrain system for an electric vehicle is shown;

[0026] Figure 2 A rear portion of an electric vehicle is shown with selected areas removed to reveal the components secured within the trunk compartment of the electric vehicle. Figure 1 traction battery for the powertrain;

[0027] Figure 3 The use of a fixing assembly to fix the Figure 2 A top view of the traction battery in the luggage compartment;

[0028] Figure 4 A perspective view of a luggage compartment is shown with selected portions cut away to show the Figure 3 The location of the traction battery and the fixing assembly part;

[0029] Figure 5 Shows the collision event Figure 3 A top view of

[0030] Figure 6 Shows the collision event Figure 4 perspective drawing;

[0031] Figure 7 Shown along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 in FIG.

[0032] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a luggage compartment compartment with selected portions cut away to illustrate a traction battery and a portion of a securing assembly according to another exemplary embodiment;

[0033] Fig. 9 Shows the collision event Figure 8 perspective drawing;

[0034] Fig.10 Shown along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 in FIG.

[0035] Fig.11 shows a top view of a traction battery secured within a luggage compartment using a securing assembly according to yet another exemplary embodiment;

[0036] Fig.12 Shown from Fig.11 A close-up, top view of the bracket that holds the assembly in place;

[0037] Fig.13 Shown along Fig.12 A cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 in FIG.

[0038] Fig.14 Shows the collision event Fig.12 A close-up, top view of the bracket;

[0039] Fig.15 Shown is the Fig.11 Another exemplary bracket for use in a fixing assembly of;

[0040] Fig.16 Shown is the Fig.11 Another exemplary bracket for use in a fixing assembly of;

[0041] Fig.17 shows a side view of a luggage compartment compartment with selected portions cut away to illustrate a traction battery and a portion of a securing assembly according to yet another exemplary embodiment;

[0042] Fig.18 Shows the collision event Fig.17 Fixed components;

[0043] Fig.19 shows a top view of a luggage compartment compartment with a traction battery and a portion of a fastening assembly according to a further exemplary embodiment;

[0044] Fig. 20 A side view of the luggage compartment is shown with selected portions cut away to show the Fig.19 The location of the traction battery and the fixing assembly part;

[0045] Fig.21 shows the collision event with Fig. 20 A top view of the luggage compartment compartment with the traction battery and part of the fixing assembly;

[0046] Fig. 22 A side view of the luggage compartment is shown with selected portions cut away to show the Fig.21 The location of the traction battery and the fixing assembly part;

[0047] Fig.23 Shown from Fig.19 A close-up, side view of one of the pivoting assemblies of the fixed assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] The present disclosure relates to a securing assembly for securing a traction battery within an electric vehicle. The securing assembly includes features that help maintain the traction battery connected to a structure of the electric vehicle when forces are applied to the electric vehicle, such as those generated by a crash event.

[0049] Figure 1 A powertrain system 10 for an electric vehicle is schematically shown. Although described as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), it should be understood that the concepts described herein are not limited to HEVs and may extend to any other type of electric vehicle, including but not limited to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel cell vehicles, etc.

[0050] The powertrain 10 includes a battery pack 14 having a plurality of battery arrays 18, an internal combustion engine 20, a motor 22, and a generator 24. The battery pack 14 provides a traction battery. The motor 22 and the generator 24 are types of electric machines. The motor 22 and the generator 24 can be separate or in the form of a combined motor-generator.

[0051] In this embodiment, the powertrain 10 is a power split powertrain that employs a first drive system and a second drive system. The first and second drive systems generate torque to drive one or more sets of vehicle drive wheels 28. The first drive system includes a combination of an engine 20 and a generator 24. The second drive system includes at least a motor 22, a generator 24, and a battery pack 14. The motor 22 and the generator 24 are part of the electric drive system of the powertrain 10.

[0052] The engine 20 and the generator 24 may be connected via a power transfer unit 30, such as a planetary gear set. Of course, other types of power transfer units, including other gear sets and transmissions, may be used to connect the engine 20 to the generator 24. In one non-limiting embodiment, the power transfer unit 30 is a planetary gear set including a ring gear 32, a sun gear 34, and a planetary gear carrier assembly 36.

[0053] Generator 24 may be driven by engine 20 through power transfer unit 30 to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy. Generator 24 may alternatively function as a motor to convert electrical energy into kinetic energy, thereby outputting torque to shaft 38 connected to power transfer unit 30.

[0054] Ring gear 32 of power transfer unit 30 is connected to shaft 40, which is connected to vehicle drive wheels 28 through second power transfer unit 44. Second power transfer unit 44 may include a gear set having a plurality of gears 46. Other power transfer units may be used in other examples.

[0055] Gear 46 transfers torque from engine 20 to differential 48 to ultimately provide traction to vehicle drive wheels 28. Differential 48 may include a plurality of gears capable of transferring torque to vehicle drive wheels 28. In this example, second power transfer unit 44 is mechanically connected to axle 50 through differential 48 to distribute torque to vehicle drive wheels 28.

[0056] The motor 22 can be selectively used to drive the vehicle drive wheels 28 by outputting torque to a shaft 52 that is also connected to the second power transfer unit 44. In this embodiment, the motor 22 and the generator 24 cooperate to form part of a regenerative braking system in which both the motor 22 and the generator 24 can be used as motors to output torque. For example, the motor 22 and the generator 24 can each output power to recharge the batteries of the battery pack 14.

[0057] Reference now Figure 2-7The battery pack 14 in the exemplary non-limiting embodiment is disposed within a trunk compartment 60 at a rear portion 62 of an electric vehicle 64. A traction battery securing assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is used to secure the battery pack 14 within the trunk compartment 60.

[0058] In other examples, the battery pack 14 is secured in another area of ​​the electric vehicle 64 , such as mounted in a rear seat area, mounted under the rear of the electric vehicle 64 , or mounted under the center of the electric vehicle 64 .

[0059] The battery pack 14 may be a relatively small or medium sized traction battery, such as a traction battery used in a mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) or a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV). Alternatively, the battery pack 14 may be a relatively large sized traction battery, such as a traction battery used in a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), or even a traction battery used in a battery electric vehicle (BEV). That is, the same type of traction battery securing assembly 100 may be scaled and adjusted, and then used to secure traction batteries of various types and sizes.

[0060] The traction battery mounting assembly 100 secures the battery pack 14 above the luggage compartment floor 68 of the electric vehicle 64. The traction battery mounting assembly 100 is disposed along the horizontally facing side 72 of the battery pack 14 (see FIG. Figure 7 ). Another traction battery mounting assembly 100' is disposed along another horizontally facing side 72 of the battery pack 14. Generally, the horizontally facing side 72 is aligned along a plane perpendicular to the ground.

[0061] The horizontally oriented side 72 generally extends between a vertical top 76 and a vertical bottom 80 of the battery pack 14. Generally, the vertical top 76 and the vertical bottom 80 of the battery pack 14 are aligned along a plane parallel to the ground.

[0062] In this example, the horizontally oriented sides 72 include two opposing sides that face laterally toward the lateral sides of the electric vehicle 64 , and two opposing horizontally oriented sides that face the front of the electric vehicle 64 and the rear of the electric vehicle 64 , respectively.

[0063] The traction battery mounting assembly 100 is configured to be responsive to an impact load, such as an impact load applied to the rear portion 62 of the electric vehicle 64 in a direction D. Figure 3 and 4 The first position moves to Figure 5 and 6 The load in direction D is along the longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle 64 extending from the front wheels to the rear wheels of the vehicle.

[0064] In other examples, the traction battery securing assembly 100 is reconfigured so that the traction battery securing assembly 100 is configured to move from the first position to the second position in response to an impact load applied in another direction. For example, the traction battery securing assembly 100 may secure the battery pack 14 below the floor of the electric vehicle 64 (outside of the trunk compartment 60) and move from the first position to the second position in response to an impact load being applied to the side of the electric vehicle 64 in a direction perpendicular to the direction D.

[0065] In this example, the traction battery mounting assembly 100 includes a pair of grooves 110 and a pair of tracks 114 (or tabs). Each of the grooves 110 slidably receives one of the tracks 114 such that each of the tracks 114 interlocks within one of the grooves 110. Although two grooves 110 and two tracks 114 are used in this example, other examples may include more or less than two grooves 110 and tracks 114.

[0066] The exemplary groove 110 is a slot formed directly into the horizontally oriented side 72 of the battery pack 14. In this example, the groove 110 and the track 114 have a dovetail cross-section, which facilitates maintaining cross-vehicle alignment of the groove 110 and the track 114. In some examples, the horizontally oriented side 72 is extruded with the groove 110.

[0067] The rails 114 extend from a frame 118 that is secured directly to a vehicle structure 84, such as a rail of the electric vehicle 64. The frame 118 may be bolted to the vehicle structure 84. In some examples, the frame 118 is extruded with the rails 114.

[0068] The example grooves 110 are defined by respective horizontally oriented sides 72 of the battery pack 14. However, in other examples, one or more grooves are defined by the frame 118 and one or more rails are defined by the horizontally oriented sides 72.

[0069] When a sufficient load is applied to the rear portion 62 of the electric vehicle 64 in the direction D, the battery pack 14 slides forward relative to the trunk floor 68 and the frame 118. This relative movement of the battery pack 14, among other things, prolongs the time that the load is applied to the battery pack 14, which can desirably reduce the peak load applied to the battery pack 14. In addition, the securing assembly 100 helps to keep the battery pack 14 secured to the vehicle structure 84 throughout the crash event.

[0070] In the exemplary embodiment, traction battery mount assembly 100 additionally includes a damper assembly 124. In this example, damper assembly 124 includes a spring extending from a first end portion 128 to a second end portion 132. First end portion 128 is secured to a stop 134 of battery pack 14, and second end portion 132 is secured to frame 118 of mount assembly 100.

[0071] The spring is compressed as the battery pack 14 slides forward relative to the luggage compartment floor 68 and the frame 118. Figure 3 and 4 In Figure 5 and 6 The compression of the spring as the battery pack 14 slides forward relative to the luggage compartment floor 68 and the frame 118 can resist movement of the battery pack 14, which can further reduce the peak load applied to the battery pack 14.

[0072] Although the damper assembly 124 is described as a spring, other types of damper assemblies may be used, such as a fluid-based damper.

[0073] In some examples, the frame 118 is secured to the horizontally oriented side 72 by one or more attachments 140 (e.g., welds). The attachments 140 are designed to break in response to a load above a threshold. The attachments 140 limit movement of the rails 114 within the grooves 110 during operation of the electric vehicle 64 before sufficient load is applied to the rear 62 of the electric vehicle 64 in the direction D. The attachments 140 effectively prevent the battery pack 14 from moving during typical operation of the electric vehicle 64, such as during hard stops during a driving cycle.

[0074] Reference now Figure 8-10 A traction battery securing assembly 200 according to another exemplary non-limiting embodiment engages one of the horizontally facing sides 72 of the battery pack 14 to secure the battery pack 14 to the vehicle structure 84. Another securing assembly 200 connects the opposite horizontally facing side of the battery pack 14 to the vehicle structure 84.

[0075] The traction battery mounting assembly 200 includes a slider bracket 204 and a pin 208. In this example, the pin 208 is a threaded fastener, such as a bolt, that is received within a hole 212 of the slider bracket 204.

[0076] For example, the slider bracket 204 is secured directly to the horizontally oriented side 72 of the battery pack 14 with threaded fasteners 218. When a sufficient load is applied to the rear portion 62 of the electric vehicle 64 in the direction D, the battery pack 14 slides forward relative to the luggage compartment floor 68 and the pin 208. The slider bracket 204 is secured to the horizontally oriented side 72 and the pin 208 so that the battery pack 14 slides forward relative to the luggage compartment floor 68 and the pin 208. Figure 8 Location to Fig. 9 The position of the battery pack 14 is repositioned rearwardly and moved together with the remainder of the battery pack 14 within the hole 212.

[0077] The pin 208 is secured directly to a pin bracket 220 that is secured directly to the vehicle structure 84. This results in the pin 208 effectively maintaining its position as the slider bracket 204 moves forward relative to the electric vehicle 64. For example, the pin 208 may be secured to the pin bracket 220 by a weld nut.

[0078] The exemplary securing assembly 200 includes a slider bracket 204 having a hole 212 that is secured directly to the battery pack 14, and a pin bracket 220 that is secured to the vehicle structure 84. In other examples, this arrangement can be reversed such that the slider bracket is secured to the vehicle structure 84 and the pin bracket is secured to the battery pack 14.

[0079] The traction battery securing assembly 200 allows the battery pack 14 to move relative to the vehicle structure 84 while retaining the battery pack 14 secured to the vehicle structure 84. This prolongs the time that loads are applied to the battery pack 14, thereby reducing the peak loads experienced by the battery pack 14 while still retaining the battery pack 14.

[0080] Reference now Figure 11-13 A traction battery securing assembly 300 according to another exemplary non-limiting embodiment engages one of the horizontally facing sides 72 of the battery pack 14 to secure the battery pack 14 to the vehicle structure 84. Another securing assembly connects the opposite horizontally facing side of the battery pack 14 to the vehicle structure 84.

[0081] The mounting assembly 300 includes a plurality of brackets 304 that support the battery pack 14 in a position vertically spaced from the trunk floor 68 (see FIG. Fig.13 ). In this example, the fixing assembly 300 includes three brackets 304 fixed to one of the horizontally oriented sides 72. Other numbers of brackets 304 including more than three brackets 304 or less than three brackets 304 may be used. The brackets 304 are relatively rigid in the vertical direction to support the weight of the battery pack 14.

[0082] The brackets 304 each include a first portion 308 secured directly to the vehicle structure 84 , a second portion 310 secured to the horizontally facing side 72 of the battery pack 14 , and a third portion 312 extending from the first portion 308 to the second portion 310 .

[0083] When a sufficient load is applied to the rear portion 62 of the electric vehicle 64 in the direction D, the bracket 304 of the fixing assembly 300 is moved from Fig.12 The shorter longitudinal position extends to Fig.14In the shorter longitudinal position, each of the first portion 308 and the second portion 310 is located at a position shorter than the bracket 304. Fig.14 closer to each other when in the longitudinal position.

[0084] The extension of the bracket 304 allows the battery pack 14 to slide forward relative to the luggage compartment floor 68 and the vehicle structure 84 while maintaining the battery pack 14 fixed to the vehicle structure 84. This relative movement of the battery pack 14, among other things, prolongs the time that loads are applied to the battery pack 14, which can desirably reduce the peak loads applied to the battery pack 14.

[0085] In some examples, one or more brackets 304 of the mounting assembly 300 that are farther from the rear portion 62 of the electric vehicle 64 may be intentionally designed to have a longer “stroke” or extension in response to a load being applied to the rear portion 62 in the direction D. This approach may allow the battery pack 14 to potentially travel further in response to a load being applied to the rear portion 62 in the direction D even when shorter brackets 304 or brackets 304 closer to the rear portion 62 have fully extended themselves and have separated from the vehicle structure 84 .

[0086] Brackets 304 away from rear portion 62 may be secured using relatively large mechanical fasteners (eg, M10 threaded fasteners) to ensure that battery pack 14 remains secured to vehicle structure 84 throughout load application in direction D even when bracket 304 has absorbed energy beyond its limits.

[0087] Brackets 304 closer to the rear portion 62 may be secured using relatively small fasteners (eg, M8 threaded fasteners). However, these brackets 304 are more likely to separate from the vehicle structure 84 than brackets 304 further from the rear portion 62.

[0088] refer to Fig.15 ,exist Fig.11 Another exemplary bracket 304a for use in the fixation assembly 300 may include two distinct bend regions within the third portion 312a, rather than a single bend region.

[0089] exist Fig.11 Yet another exemplary bracket 304B for use within the traction battery mount assembly 300 includes more than two flexure regions.

[0090] Reference now Fig.17 and 18 , the traction battery mounting assembly 400 according to another exemplary non-limiting embodiment is along a horizontally oriented side 72' facing forward within the electric vehicle 64. That is, the horizontally oriented side 72' of the battery pack 14 faces the front wheels of the electric vehicle 64.

[0091] The traction battery mounting assembly 400 includes a bracket 404 having a first end portion 408 secured to the luggage compartment floor 68 of the luggage compartment compartment 60. A second end portion 412 of the bracket 404 is secured to the horizontally facing side 72' of the battery pack 14.

[0092] In this example, the first end portion 408 is secured to the trunk floor 68 with mechanical fasteners, although other attachment methods may be utilized including, for example, welding the first end portion 408 to the trunk floor 68 .

[0093] In this example, the second end portion 412 is secured to the horizontally oriented side 72' by welding. In other examples, other attachment methods may be used, including, for example, bolting the second end portion 412 to the horizontally oriented side 72'.

[0094] In response to a collision event, the bracket 404 moves from Fig.17 Fold to Fig.18 Thus, the securing assembly 400 allows the battery pack 14 to move relative to the vehicle structure 84 while maintaining the battery pack 14 secured to the vehicle structure 84. This prolongs the time that the load is applied to the battery pack 14, thereby reducing the peak load experienced by the battery pack 14 while still maintaining the battery pack 14.

[0095] Reference now Figure 19-23 , a traction battery mount assembly 500 according to another exemplary non-limiting embodiment includes a plurality of swing arms 504 that secure a horizontally oriented side 72 of a battery pack 14 to a vehicle structure 84. In this example, the mount assembly 500 includes two swing arms 504 secured to the horizontally oriented side 72. Another mount assembly 500 includes a swing arm 504 secured to an opposite horizontally oriented side 72.

[0096] Each of the swing arms 504 includes a first end portion 508 pivotally secured to a swing arm bracket 510 via a first pivot 512. For example, the swing arm bracket 510 is claw-shaped and is secured directly to the horizontally facing side 72 of the battery pack 14 by welding. Each of the swing arms 504 also includes a second end portion 516 pivotally secured to the vehicle structure 84 at a second pivot 520. A pin may provide the first pivot 512 and the second pivot 520. The pin providing the first pivot 512 holds the swing arm bracket 510 relative to the first end portion 508 while allowing pivotal movement of the swing arm bracket 510 relative to the swing arm 504. The first pivot 512 and the second pivot 520 are configured for pivoting about a horizontally extending pivot axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the electric vehicle 64.

[0097] In response to the impact load being applied in direction D, the battery pack 14 moves in direction D2 from Fig.19 and 20 Move the position to Fig.21 and 22 The swing arm 504 pivots about the first pivot 512 and the second pivot 520 to allow this movement. The swing arm 504 maintains its connection with the horizontally oriented side 72 and the vehicle structure 84 during movement of the battery pack 14 relative to the vehicle structure 84.

[0098] As the battery pack 14 moves relative to the vehicle structure 84, the battery pack 14 is effectively moved vertically upward from the trunk floor 68 of the trunk compartment 60. This allows the battery pack 14 to be moved out of the tire well of the trunk compartment 60, which may be desirable.

[0099] In this example, the wedge 524 is secured to a surface of the electric vehicle, here the trunk floor 68. When a load is applied to the rear of the vehicle in direction D, the wedge 524 is driven forward toward the battery pack 14. The movement of the wedge 524 causes the battery pack 14 to contact and slide along the inclined surface 528 of the wedge 524. The wedge 524 helps initiate the movement of the battery pack 14 in direction D. R from Fig.19 and 20 Location to Fig.21 and 22 movement of the position.

[0100] Other examples may omit the wedge 524 .

[0101] The exemplary traction battery securing assemblies described above are shown along the horizontally oriented sides of the battery pack and are shown secured to these horizontally oriented sides of the battery pack. In other examples, the traction battery securing assemblies may be along the sides of the battery pack, but secured to, for example, the vertical top side of the battery pack, the vertical bottom side of the battery pack, or both.

[0102] Various fixing assemblies can be used together or separately to provide the desired movement of the traction battery in response to a load being applied to the rear of the electric vehicle. For example, a fixing assembly 500 having a swing arm 504 can be used with a fixing assembly 400 having a bracket 404 along the side 72 facing away from the rear of the electric vehicle.

[0103] Features of the disclosed examples include a traction battery securing assembly that can support a traction battery during a crash event while ensuring that the traction battery effectively remains connected to a vehicle structure.

[0104] It should be understood that terms such as "top", "bottom", "vertical", and "horizontal" are used in this disclosure with reference to the normal posture of the battery pack and the vehicle. That is, the horizontal line is aligned with the ground, and the vertical line is perpendicular to the ground. These terms are used herein for the purpose of explanation and should not be considered otherwise limiting.

[0105] The foregoing embodiments are exemplary rather than restrictive in nature. Changes and modifications to the disclosed examples that do not necessarily depart from the essence of the present disclosure may become apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the scope of legal protection afforded to the present disclosure can only be determined by studying the following claims.

Claims

1. A traction battery assembly, comprising: The vehicle's battery pack; and A securing assembly for securing the battery pack to a vehicle structure, the securing assembly being disposed along a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack and being configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure, wherein the securing assembly includes a track and a groove slidably retained by the track, wherein the groove slides relative to the track when the securing assembly moves from the first position to the second position, and the traction battery assembly includes a damper that prevents movement of the groove relative to the track.

2. The traction battery assembly of claim 1 further comprising a frame, wherein the rail extends from one of the frame and the horizontally facing side of the battery pack, and the groove is disposed through the other of the frame and the horizontally facing side of the battery pack.

3. The traction battery assembly of claim 1 , wherein the battery pack has a plurality of sides extending vertically from a top of the battery pack to a bottom of the battery pack, wherein one of the rail or the groove is disposed through one of the plurality of sides, and the other of the rail or the groove is secured directly to the vehicle structure.

4. The traction battery assembly of claim 2, further comprising at least one attachment securing said frame to said battery pack, at least one of said attachments being configured to break in response to said load being above a threshold to allow said battery pack to move relative to said vehicle structure.

5. The traction battery assembly of claim 1 wherein the battery pack is disposed above a luggage compartment floor of the vehicle.

6. A traction battery assembly, comprising: The vehicle's battery pack; and A fixing assembly for fixing the battery pack to a vehicle structure, the fixing assembly being disposed along a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack and being configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure, wherein the fixing assembly comprises a slider bracket and a pin, wherein the pin slides relative to the slider bracket within a hole of the slider bracket when the fixing assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

7. The traction battery assembly of claim 6, wherein the battery pack has a plurality of sides extending vertically from a top of the battery pack to a bottom of the battery pack, wherein one of the slider bracket or the pin is directly secured to one of the plurality of sides, and the other of the slider bracket or the pin is directly secured to the vehicle structure.

8. A traction battery assembly, comprising: The vehicle's battery pack; and a securing assembly for securing the battery pack to a vehicle structure, the securing assembly being disposed along a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack and being configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure, wherein the securing assembly includes a swing arm pivotally secured to the battery pack at a first pivot and pivotally secured to the vehicle structure at a second pivot, wherein the swing arm pivots relative to the battery pack and the vehicle structure when the securing assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

9. The traction battery assembly of claim 8, further comprising a wedge configured to vertically move the battery pack away from a surface of the vehicle in response to an impact load being applied to the rear of the vehicle.

10. The traction battery assembly of claim 8, wherein the first pivot and the second pivot are aligned along a horizontally extending pivot axis.

11. A traction battery assembly, comprising: The vehicle's battery pack; and A securing assembly for securing the battery pack to a vehicle structure, the securing assembly being disposed along a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack and being configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure, wherein the securing assembly includes a plurality of brackets that support the battery pack in a position vertically spaced from a luggage compartment floor of the vehicle.

12. The traction battery assembly of claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of brackets is configured to move from a shorter lengthwise position to a longer lengthwise position to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure in response to an impact load being applied to the rear of the vehicle.

13. The traction battery assembly of claim 12, wherein each of said plurality of brackets includes a first portion secured to said vehicle structure, a second portion secured to said horizontally oriented side of said battery pack, and a third portion extending from said first portion to said second portion, wherein said first portion and said second portion are closer to each other when the corresponding bracket is in said shorter lengthwise position than in said longer lengthwise position.

14. The traction battery assembly of claim 12, wherein the load is applied in a load direction along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the bracket extending in the load direction when moving from the shorter lengthwise position to the longer lengthwise position.

15. The traction battery assembly of claim 8 or 11, wherein the battery pack has a plurality of sides extending vertically from a top of the battery pack to a bottom of the battery pack, and the fixing assembly is fixed to one of the plurality of sides closest to a front wheel of the vehicle.

16. A method for fixing a traction battery, comprising: transitioning a securing assembly from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow movement of a battery pack relative to a vehicle structure, the securing assembly securing a horizontally facing side of the battery pack to the vehicle structure, wherein the securing assembly includes a track and a groove slidably retained by the track, wherein the transitioning includes sliding the groove relative to the track when the securing assembly moves from the first position to the second position; and Movement of the battery pack from the first position to the second position is resisted by a damper.

17. The traction battery securing method of claim 16, wherein at least one attachment secures the frame of the securing assembly to the battery pack to maintain the battery pack in the first position, and the method further comprises breaking the at least one attachment to allow the battery pack to move relative to the vehicle structure from the first position to the second position.

18. A method for fixing a traction battery, comprising: A securing assembly is transitioned from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow the battery pack to move relative to a vehicle structure, the securing assembly securing a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack to the vehicle structure, wherein the securing assembly includes a swing arm pivotally secured to the battery pack at a first pivot and pivotally secured to the vehicle structure at a second pivot, wherein the transition includes pivoting the swing arm relative to the battery pack and the vehicle structure when the securing assembly moves from the first position to the second position.

19. A method for fixing a traction battery, comprising: Transitioning a securing assembly from a first position to a second position in response to a load to allow movement of a battery pack relative to a vehicle structure, the securing assembly securing a horizontally oriented side of the battery pack to the vehicle structure, wherein the securing assembly includes a plurality of brackets that support the battery pack in a position vertically spaced from a trunk floor of the vehicle, wherein the transitioning includes moving each of the plurality of brackets from a shorter lengthwise position to a longer lengthwise position in response to an impact load being applied to a rear portion of the vehicle to allow movement of the battery pack relative to the vehicle structure.

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