Housing for an electrical power storage device, electrical power storage device comprising a housing, and vehicle comprising an electrical power storage device

Abstract

A housing for an electrical power storage device is described. The housing includes a compartment having a bottom, a first wall and a second wall extending from the bottom. The housing also includes a first skirt portion and a second skirt portion as part of a downward retention assembly for retaining the housing downward. The first skirt portion and the second skirt portion are located on the first wall and the second wall, respectively, between 15% and 85% of the height of the first wall and the second wall from the bottom to the top.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 063,795, filed on August 10, 2010, and entitled “HOUSING FOR ELECTRICAL POWERSTORAGE DEVICE, ELECTRICAL POWER STORAGE DEVICE INCLUDING THE HOUSING, AND VEHICLE INCLUDING THE ELECTRICAL POWER STORAGE DEVICE,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 191,673, filed on May 21, 2021, and entitled “BATTERY CONNECTOR AND BATTERY COVER,” each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a power storage device, such as a lead-acid battery having a downward retention assembly. The downward retention assembly is typically mounted on the battery housing so that the battery can be connected to a vehicle using, for example, a clamp. Reference Figures 1 and 2 show an internal combustion engine 10 of a vehicle. A lead-acid battery 15 of a structure according to the prior art is also shown. The battery 15 is configured to provide at least part of the power to start or operate the vehicle and / or various vehicle systems. The vehicle can be one of a variety of types of vehicles, including automobiles, motorcycles, buses, leisure vehicles, boats, etc. The battery 15 includes a housing 20, which can be at least partially made of a plastic resin and has a box-like container (or compartment) 25.

[0004] For structures such as those shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the compartment 25 includes a skirt (shown as skirt 30, 35 in FIG. 2) at the bottom of the front, rear, and side walls (shown as walls 40, 45 in FIG. 2). A clamp (shown as clamp 50 in FIG. 1) is coupled to the skirt and secures the battery 15 in place. Having the downward holding assembly at the bottom of the battery does not provide the most secure connection of the battery to the vehicle. For example, due to the top of the battery being further away from the holding assembly, vibrations during operation of the vehicle can have more of an impact on the top of the battery. Another mounting alternative for the downward holding assembly as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 provides better stability. In addition, lead acid batteries typically have a positive terminal and a negative terminal. Example terminals can be substantially cylindrical posts that extend above the top surface of the battery cover or extend from the side of the battery container. In many applications, the terminals are connected to equipment or machines (such as vehicles) using a clamp-on connector. In some applications, the clamp-on connector can rotate and / or slide on the terminal, thereby not providing a secure or stable connection. In addition, any movement of the connector relative to the terminal can cause wear on the terminal and / or clamp, which can eventually affect the performance of the connection between the battery and the connector.

[0005] SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure discloses herein a downward holding assembly for a battery. The downward holding assembly, for at least one embodiment, includes a skirt positioned in the middle of the battery housing. Positioning the skirt in the middle of the housing limits the amount of the housing that protrudes above the battery mounting platform. In addition, the skirt positioned in the middle of the housing provides a more stable solution than prior art batteries.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, a housing for a power storage device is disclosed. The housing includes a compartment having a bottom, a first wall extending from the bottom, and a second wall extending from the bottom. The housing further includes a first skirt portion and a second skirt portion for holding the housing downward as part of a downward holding assembly. The first skirt portion and the second skirt portion are positioned on the first wall and the second wall, respectively, between 15% and 85% of a height of the first wall and the second wall from the bottom to a top of the first wall and the second wall.

[0008] In at least another embodiment, a power storage device including the housing is disclosed. In at least another embodiment, a vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle includes a mounting surface, a power storage device, and a downward holding assembly including a downward holding structure engaged with the first skirt portion and the second skirt portion.

[0009] The present disclosure discloses example terminals for batteries. The example terminals include one or more features that provide a more secure connection between a vehicle-mounted connector and the terminal than a traditional clamp-on connector. That is, the example terminals reduce or eliminate movement of the connector relative to the terminal, thereby reducing wear and improving the performance of the connection. In some examples, the terminal is a female terminal. In such examples, the terminal can include a ring or groove that is annular. In other such examples, the terminal can include a threaded portion. In other examples, the terminal includes one or more protrusions. Further, the portion of the cover that is adjacent to the terminal has a keyed portion to secure the connector.

[0010] These and further various advantages will be known from the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a representative power storage device coupled to an internal combustion engine in the prior art.

[0012] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a battery that can be used in the internal combustion engine of FIG. 1.

[0013] Figure 3 An example environment in which the power storage device described herein can be used.

[0014] Figure 4 An isometric view of a power storage device including an aspect of the present disclosure and disposed on a mounting surface.

[0015] Figure 5 A Figure 4 A first isometric view of a container of a power storage device.

[0016] Figure 6 A Figure 4 A second isometric view of a container of a power storage device.

[0017] Figure 7 A Figure 4 A third isometric view of a container of a power storage device.

[0018] Figure 8 A Figure 4 A side view of a container of a power storage device.

[0019] Figure 9 And Figure 10 An example of a power storage device with a first clamp that can be used to secure the power storage device is depicted.

[0020] Figure 11 And Figure 12 An example of a power storage device with a first clamp that can be used to secure the power storage device is depicted.

[0021] Figures 13 to 15Depicted including female terminals Figure 4 An alternative structure of an example power storage device.

[0022] Figure 16 Depicted are example terminals, such as Figures 13-15 For example terminals, see a more detailed diagram.

[0023] Figure 17 Depicts Figure 16 Cross-sectional view of an example terminal.

[0024] Figure 18 Depicted are example terminals, such as Figures 13 to 15 One of the example terminals, a more detailed diagram of an alternative structure.

[0025] Figure 19 depiction Figure 18 Cross-sectional view of an example terminal.

[0026] Figure 20 and Figure 21 Depicted are example terminals, i.e. Figures 13 to 15 A more detailed cross-sectional view of an alternative structure of one of the example terminals is similar to the example terminal.

[0027] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In some cases, details that are not necessary for understanding the present invention or other details that are difficult to perceive have been omitted. Of course, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the devices or processes shown here. Summary of the Invention

[0028] One or more specific embodiments are described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of the actual embodiments are described in this specification. It should be recognized that in the development of any such actual embodiment, such as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. Furthermore, it should be recognized that such development work may be complex and time-consuming, but will be a routine design, manufacturing, and production task for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0029] Referring to the drawings, a power storage device 100, particularly a rechargeable battery such as a lead-acid battery and a lithium-ion battery, is disclosed. According to one or more examples of embodiments, the power storage device 100 is a lead-acid battery. Various embodiments of the lead-acid battery can be sealed (e.g., maintenance-free) or unsealed (e.g., wet). According to one or more embodiments, the lead-acid battery 100 is preferably a sealed lead-acid battery or an AGM lead-acid battery for this purpose. Although specific examples are described and illustrated, the battery 100 can be any secondary battery suitable for the purposes given. In Figure 3 The battery 100 is provided in and illustrated in a vehicle 102.

[0030] Referring to Figures 4 to 8 A power storage device 100, such as a lead-acid battery, is illustrated. The power storage device 100 can be used in one of a variety of types of vehicles, including automobiles, motorcycles, buses, recreational vehicles, boats, etc. The power storage device 100 is configured to provide at least a portion of the electrical power for starting or operating the vehicle and / or various vehicle systems. In addition, it should be understood that the power storage device 100 can be used in a variety of applications not involving a vehicle, and such applications are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] A housing (or case) 105 of the power storage device 100 is disclosed. The housing 105 includes a box-like container (or compartment) 110, and at least the outer portion can be made of a partially plastic resin. In various configurations, including the one illustrated in Figures 5 to 8 The container 110 has a plurality of walls 115A-E. The walls 115A-E can be referred to as first through fifth walls 115A-E, respectively.

[0032] In various configurations, including the one illustrated in Figures 4 to 8 The interior of the container 110 includes six cell compartments 120A-F, which are separated by five interior partitions 125A-E between the walls 115A and 115C. In other embodiments, the number of partitions 125 and compartments 120 can be varied to result in power storage devices having different voltages.

[0033] Referring to Figure 3A cover (or lid) for the housing 105 and coupled to the container 110 is provided. The cover 130 includes a wall 135 and a raised edge (e.g., edges 140A and 140B) that is integral with the wall 135. As shown, the raised edge surrounds the lips 145A-D of the walls 115A-D. The cover 130 includes terminals 150A and 150B and fill tubes 155A and 155B. The fill tubes 155A and 155B allow for electrolyte to be added to the battery and for maintenance. To prevent electrolyte from spilling out of the fill tubes 155A and 155B and to allow for the venting of gases produced during electrochemical reactions, the housing 105 can also include one or more fill hole caps 160A and 160B and vents 165A-D.

[0034] Positive and negative terminals 150A and 150B can be found on one or more of the walls 115A-E and / or the cover 130 of the power storage device 100. The positive and negative terminals 150A and 150B typically include a portion that extends through the cover 130 and / or walls, depending on the design of the power storage device. As such, various arrangements and designs of terminals are possible.

[0035] For the configuration shown, the walls 115A-D can be referred to as side walls 115A-D. The wall 115E can be referred to as a bottom wall 115E and the wall 135 can be referred to as a top wall (or cover wall) 135. The bottom wall (or simply, the bottom) of the container 110 can be disposed on or within a mounting surface (or plinth) 170 (as Figure 3 is most clearly shown). Figure 3 The mounting surface 170 in FIG. 1 is exaggerated and includes a through hole 172. A downward retention assembly 175 is similar to the downward retention assembly 175 shown in FIG. 1. The downward retention assembly 175 can be used to secure the power storage device 100 in place. Referring to FIGS. 1 and Figures 9 to 12 , the downward retention assembly 175 includes a clamp 50 having a clamp bar 185, a bolt 190, a through hole 192, and a retention mechanism (e.g., a washer and a lock nut). In addition, Figure 9 An example of a power storage device having a clamp 50 that can be used with the example downward retention assembly 175 is described. In some examples, the clamp 50 is a C-clip type clamp including a C-shaped clamp bar 185 and a mounting tab 187 having a through hole 192A. The through hole 192A in the mounting tab 187 is aligned with a through hole 192B in a metal frame 194. A bolt 190 is positioned through the through holes 192A of the mounting tab 187 and the metal frame 194 to secure the power storage device 100. The metal frame 194 can be integral with or connected to the mounting surface 170. In some such examples, such as in Figure 10 and Figure 11In the example structure shown, the two sides of the C-clip bar 185 extend toward and contact the metal frame 194 such that the mounting tab 187 of the clip 50 is in direct contact with the metal frame 194. Alternatively, as shown in the example structure of Figure 12 and Figures 4 to 8 the two sides of the C-clip bar 185 only partially extend toward the metal frame 194 such that the mounting tab 187 is spaced from the metal frame 194. In some examples, the bolt is sized to extend between the mounting tab and the metal frame. Also included is a downward retention assembly 175 which is a skirt (discussed below). The design of the downward retention assembly in the prior art can vary according to the prior art.

[0036] Referring again to Figures 4 to 8 , the skirts 195A-D are integrally formed with the container 110. In the prior art, the skirts 195A-D include a number of battery clip mounting structures (the mounting structure 200 is labeled). As shown in Figure 4 the skirt (e.g., skirt 195A) includes a ceiling portion (e.g., 205A) and a support portion (e.g., support portion 210). The support portion 210 is shown as a fin to help support the ceiling portion 205. The ceiling portion 205 includes the battery clip mounting structure. It is contemplated that other skirts and skirt designs known in the prior art can be used in place of the illustrated skirt, including the illustrated ceiling and fin.

[0037] The sidewalls 115A-D of the container 100 have a height H defined from the bottom wall 115E to the top of the sidewalls 115A-D. Preferably, the skirt 195 is formed or affixed to the sidewalls 115A-D at a location between 15% and 85% of the height H of the sidewalls 115A-D from the bottom wall 115E to the top of the sidewalls 115A-D. Thus, the presence of the skirt 195 between 15% and 85% of the height H of the sidewalls 115A-D limits the amount of the housing 105 for the power storage device 100 that protrudes above the mounting surface 170. Furthermore, positioning the skirt between 15% and 85% of the height H of the sidewalls 115A-D provides a more stable solution than prior art batteries. In a preferred embodiment, the skirt panels 195 are formed or affixed to the side walls 115A-D at a location between 15% and 75% of the height H of the side walls 115A-D from the bottom wall 115E to the top of the side walls 115A-D. In a more preferred embodiment, the skirt panels 195 are formed or affixed to the side walls 115A-D at a location between 30% and 65% of the height H of the side walls 115A-D from the bottom wall 115E to the top of the side walls 115A-D. In an even more preferred embodiment, the skirt panels 195 are formed or affixed to the side walls 115A-D at a location between 40% and 60% of the height H of the side walls 115A-D from the bottom wall 115E to the top of the side walls 115A-D.

[0038] like Figures 13 to 21 The example structure of the power storage device shown also describes example terminals 150A, 150B. As shown in the example, the terminals 150A, 150B are located on a portion 215 of the battery cover 130 that is recessed (e.g., on a different plane) relative to the top surface 220 of the battery cover 130. Alternatively, the terminals 150A, 150B may be located on one side of the battery housing or housing. The example terminals 150A, 150B may be shaped so that only specific batteries or battery types can be used with specific connectors. The recessed portion 215 may also have a shape corresponding to a specific connector or type of connector. In some example structures, such as Figures 13 to 15 In the example depicted in FIG, example terminals 150A, 150B are female connectors (e.g., receiving connectors, receptacles, notches, slots, etc.) that allow for threaded or keyed connections, which are more secure than typical clamps on cylindrical terminals that extend above the surface of the battery. For example, the structure of the example terminals 150A, 150B described herein can reduce or prevent rotation of a connector coupled to the terminals 150A, 150B, which reduces wear on the terminals 150A, 150B and also provides a more secure connection to the terminals 150A, 150B.

[0039] Figure 16An example structure of a power storage device 100 with example female terminals 150A, 150B is depicted. The example power storage device as shown can be a lead acid battery including a positive terminal 150A and a negative terminal 150B. The example power storage device 100 can be used with a vehicle 102 or can be used in other applications. Alternatively, the power storage device 100 with female terminals 150A, 150B can be a different type of chemical battery (e.g., lithium ion) having a positive terminal and a negative terminal and having a similar cover or container.

[0040] Figure 17 and Figure 4 A more detailed view of the example terminals 150A, 150B shown in Figures 13-15 is drawn. Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the example terminals 150A, 150B in Figure 16 is drawn. Figure 17 and Figure 16 The example terminals 150A, 150B are female type connections. The example terminals 150A, 150B can be made of a lead-free conductive material such as aluminum, copper, steel, brass, etc. The use of a lead-free material can result in a battery 100 with no lead exposed. A battery 100 with no lead exposed can have many benefits (e.g., environmental benefits, health benefits) since the end consumer is not exposed to lead.

[0041] As shown in the structure of Figure 17 and Figure 16 The terminals 150A, 150B include partially protruding bumps 225 around the inner wall 230 of the terminals 150A, 150B. For example, as shown in Figure 17 and Figure 16 The terminals 150A, 150B include three evenly spaced bumps 225, each of which spans about 60 degrees (e.g., one sixth of a circle) around the inner circumference of the terminals 150A, 150B. The example bumps 225 have square edges, but any suitable shape, size, or number of bumps can be used in place. In the example shown, the bumps 225 are located closer to the top of the terminals 150A, 150B than to the bottom of the terminals 150A, 150B, but still remain a distance from the top edge of the terminals. Alternatively, the bumps 225 can be located in the middle of the terminal wall or closer to the bottom.

[0042] As shown in the example terminals of Figure 17 and Figure 16 The example terminals also include a sleeve 230 and a conductive bridge 235. However, as shown in Figure 17 and Figure 16The terminals 150A, 150B shown do not include a surrounding portion, so the material of the sleeve 230 and the conductive bridge 235 is the same as the terminals 150A, 150B. The terminals 150A, 150B can be leaded or leadless metals (e.g., aluminum, steel, copper, brass, etc.).

[0043] As described above, the terminals 150A, 150B are shown as being Figure 17 and Figure 16 The structure of the terminals 150A, 150B depicted makes the connection between the terminals 150A, 150B and the connector more secure. In addition, as Figure 17 and Figure 18 The top edges of the example terminals 150A, 150B described are raised relative to the recessed portion 215 of the cover 130. In the example shown, the cover 130 does not enclose the top edges 240 of the terminals 150A, 150B, but in other examples, the cover 130 can also enclose the top edges 240 of the terminals 150A, 150B. The edges of the recessed portion 215 have keys 245 to securely connect the connector. As shown in the example, the keyed portion 245 includes one or more slots 250 at the edges of the recessed portion 215. In particular, the slots 250 include a vertical portion 255 and a horizontal portion 260, which can allow the connector to be connected down into the terminals 150A, 150B and then turned to lock in place. In addition, the bottom of the surrounding portion of the terminals 150A, 150B can include a toothed portion 265 to prevent rotation or twisting of the terminals 150A, 150B.

[0044] Figures 13 to 15 A more detailed view of the example terminals 150A, 150B is depicted, as Figure 19 one of the example terminals 150A, 150B. Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of the example terminals 150A, 150B is depicted. Figure 18

[0045] Figure 19 and Figure 18 ​The example terminals 150A, 150B are female connections. The example terminals 150A, 150B can be made of a conductive lead-free material, such as aluminum, copper, steel, brass, etc. The use of a lead-free material can result in a battery with no exposed lead. Batteries with no exposed lead can have many benefits (e.g., environmental benefits, health benefits) since the lead is not accessible to an end consumer. The example terminals 150A, 150B include one or more annular rings 270, bumps, or ribs to help secure a corresponding male connector (e.g., a plug, pin, fork, etc.). For example, the corresponding connector can have annular slots that can be positioned or spaced on the connector to mate with the annular rings 270. Alternatively, the terminals can include annular slots and the connectors can include annular rings.

[0046] As shown in the example of FIGS. 1-2, the example terminals 150A, 150B are positioned in recessed portions 215 of the battery cover 130. The recessed portions 215 can be any suitable shape. In the example shown in FIGS. 1-2, the recessed portions 215 are square or rectangular. One or more corners can be rounded. In some examples, the terminals 150A, 150B can be off-center on the recessed portions 215. As shown in the example, the top edges 290 of the terminals 150A, 150B are raised relative to the recessed portions 215 of the battery cover 130. In addition, the top edges 290 shown are plastic and can be integrated with the cover 130. Alternatively, the top edges 290 of the terminals can be flush with the recessed portions 215 of the cover 130. Figure 19 Figures 13 to 15 As shown in the example of FIGS. 1-2, the example terminals 150A, 150B are positioned in recessed portions 215 of the battery cover 130. The recessed portions 215 can be any suitable shape. In the example shown in FIGS. 1-2, the recessed portions 215 are square or rectangular. One or more corners can be rounded. In some examples, the terminals 150A, 150B can be off-center on the recessed portions 215. As shown in the example, the top edges 290 of the terminals 150A, 150B are raised relative to the recessed portions 215 of the battery cover 130. In addition, the top edges 290 shown are plastic and can be integrated with the cover 130. Alternatively, the top edges 290 of the terminals can be flush with the recessed portions 215 of the cover 130.

[0047] As previously described in connection with Figure 18 As previously described in connection with Figure 19 Figure 20 As previously described in connection with

[0048] Figure 21 Figures 13 to 15 FIGS. 5-6 depict cross-sectional views of example terminals 150A, 150B, such as any of the example terminals 150A, 150B of FIGS. 1-4. Figure 20 Figure 21 Figures 13 to 15 The example terminals 150A, 150B of FIGS. 5-6 have threads 300 to receive a male connector with threads. In some examples, the threaded portion 300 also includes a keyed portion 305. Similar to the recessed portions of FIGS. 1-4, the example terminals 150A, 150B of FIGS. 5-6 have a top surface 310 and a bottom surface 320 that are substantially flat. In the example shown, the bottom surface 320 of one of the annular rings 270 is flush with the bottom surface 320 of the terminal 150A, 150B. The annular rings 270 can have any other suitable shape. Figure 20 Figure 21 and​​​​​​Figure 20 The recessed area 215 adjacent to the terminals 150A, 150B is substantially rectangular with rounded edges 310. In some examples, the edges 310 of the recessed portion 215 can be keyed 315 to ensure a secure connection between the connector and the terminals 150A, 150B. In the example shown, the key 315 adjacent to the recessed portion 215 includes one or more protrusions extending from the edges 310 of the recessed portion 215.

[0049] In such Figure 21 In the illustrated example terminals 150A and 150B, the terminals 150A and 150B include an inner portion 325 having threads 300 and a peripheral portion 330 connecting the inner portion 325 to the cover 130. In some examples, the inner portion 325 is made of a lead-free metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, copper, brass, etc.). A top edge 335 of the inner portion 325 extends within the peripheral portion 330 to a position adjacent to a top edge 340 of the peripheral portion. In some examples, the peripheral portion 330 may contain lead, while in other examples, the peripheral portion 330 may also be lead-free. The top edges 335, 340 of the inner portion 325 and the peripheral portion 330 are stepped, raised relative to the recessed portion 215 of the battery cover 130. Additionally, a portion of the cover 130 surrounds the terminals 150A, 150B and extends above the top edges 335 , 340 of the inner portion 325 and the peripheral portion 330 , but does not surround the top edges 335 , 340 .

[0050] like Figure 20 The example terminals 150A, 150B shown, the peripheral portion 330 and the inner portion 325 of the terminals 150A, 150B may have the same Figure 21 That is, the top edges 335 , 340 may also be stepped, convex relative to the recessed portion 215 of the battery cover 130 . Figure 21 The top edge 340 of the peripheral portion 330 of the example terminals 150A, 150B is enclosed in the plastic cover 130. Specifically, the edge 340 of the peripheral portion 330 extends beyond the top edge 335 of the inner portion 325, and the edge 340 is completely enclosed in the plastic cover 130. Therefore, if the peripheral portion 330 contains lead, Figure 20 The example terminals 150A, 150B described in do not have any exposed lead.

[0051] Figure 21 and Figure 16A sleeve 230 is also depicted electrically connected to the terminals 150A, 150B by the conductive bridge 235, the depicted sleeve 230 is similar to Figure 17 and Figures 13 to 15 the sleeve depicted. In the depicted example, the sleeve 230, the conductive bridge 235, and the surrounding portions of the terminals 105A, 150B can be of the same material, i.e., can be a leaded or lead-free metal. The example sleeve 230 and surrounding portions can include one or more annular arrow-like features 345 to ensure a secure, leak-free structure in the battery cover 130. Additionally, the bottom of the surrounding portions of the terminals can include a toothed portion 265 to prevent rotation or twisting of the terminals 150A, 150B. The sleeve 230 is to be in contact with the inner post, which is electrically connected to the electrode of one or more battery cells in the battery. As ​ depicted, a cap or cover can be placed over the example opening 350 of the sleeve 230. The example cap or cover can include a recess corresponding to the top edge 355 of the sleeve 230, which extends slightly above the lowest step portion of the battery cover 130 surrounding the sleeve 230, such that the cap or cover is securely coupled with the opening 350 of the sleeve 230. In some examples, the cover 130 with sleeve 203 and conductive bridge 235 can be retrofitted onto a lead-acid battery having traditional terminals to make the connection between the terminals and connectors described herein more secure, and / or to make the battery free of any exposed lead. There are many benefits (e.g., environmental benefits, health benefits) to a battery that is free of any exposed lead, as there are many adverse side effects of lead exposure. The example battery that is free of lead exposure eliminates the risk that those adverse side effects of lead exposure can be imparted to a consumer. Any lead surface that is exposed to the environment is a potential source of contamination. Thus, a battery that is free of exposed lead is also beneficial to the environment.

[0052] Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely meant to be examples. As such, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the aspects presented herein in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Furthermore, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather to provide an understandable description of the possible implementations. Various implementations are shown in the figures, which are by way of illustration only. The implementations are not limited to the illustrated structures or applications.

[0053] For example, elements shown as integrally formed can be constructed of multiple parts, or elements shown as multiple parts can be integrally formed, the operations of the interfaces can be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and / or components or connectors or other elements of the system can be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between elements can be varied (e.g., by varying the number of engagement slots or the size or type of engagement), the order or sequence of any processes or method steps can be varied or reordered according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions can be made to the designs, operating conditions, and layouts of the various embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present application.

[0054] The terms "a" and "one," as used herein, are defined as one or more. The term "plurality," as used herein, is defined as two or more. The term "another," as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms "including" and / or "having," as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The phrase at least one of means one or more of the listed items. As an example, the phrase "at least one of A and B" means A or B or AB (A and B).

[0055] In this disclosure, the term "coupled" means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining can be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining can include either a connection whereby two members are integrally formed as a single unitary body or a connection in which two members are connected to one another.

[0056] The terms fixedly, non-fixedly, and movably, and variations thereof, can be used herein. The term fixed and variations thereof means to make fast, stable, or stationary an object. It should be understood, however, that fixed does not necessarily mean permanent— rather, fixed simply means that a substantial or unusual amount of work is required to unfasten the object. The term movable and variations thereof means to change place, position, station easily. Herein, movable is used as the opposite of fixed. Additionally, the term non-fixed can also be used as the opposite of fixed.

[0057] The technical effects and technical problems in the specification are exemplary and not limiting. It should be pointed out that the embodiments described in the specification can have other technical effects and can solve other technical problems.

[0058] Aspects herein can be embodied in other forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof. Thus, reference should be made to the following claims, rather than to the foregoing specification as indicating the scope of the application.

Claims

1. A housing for a power storage device, the housing comprising: a compartment having a bottom, a first wall extending from the bottom, and a second wall extending from the bottom; as well as a down retention assembly coupled to the first wall and the second wall, wherein the down retention assembly is formed by a skirt panel that is integrally formed with the compartment and is located on the first wall and the second wall, and the height of the skirt panel is between 15% and 85% of the total height of the first wall and between 15% and 85% of the total height of the second wall.

2. The housing according to claim 1, wherein The height of the skirt on the first wall and the second wall is between 15% and 75% of the total height of the first wall and between 15% and 75% of the total height of the second wall; and Each of the skirt panels includes a roof portion and a fin, the fin serving as a supporting portion to support the roof portion.

3. The housing according to claim 1, wherein The down retention assembly includes a battery clip mounting tab.

4. The housing according to claim 1, further comprising: build; a first terminal, wherein the first terminal is a female connector; and The second terminal is a female connector.

5. The housing according to claim 4, wherein The first terminal and the second terminal include a plurality of protrusions, wherein the plurality of protrusions are evenly spaced around each of the respective first terminal and the second terminal.

6. The housing according to claim 4, wherein The first terminal and the second terminal include threaded portions.

7. The housing of claim 4, further comprising a first groove located near the first terminal and a second groove located near the second terminal, the first groove and the second groove allowing connection with a connector.

8. The housing according to claim 4, wherein The first terminal and the second terminal include a key structure.

9. The housing according to claim 4, wherein The first terminal and the second terminal include annular rings.

10. The housing according to claim 4, wherein The cover is configured to be coupled to the compartment, and the first terminal and the second terminal are located on corresponding portions of the cover or on a side of the compartment.

11. An electric power storage device, comprising the housing according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The power storage device according to claim 11, wherein The power storage device is a lead-acid battery.

13. The power storage device according to claim 11, wherein The power storage device is a lithium-ion battery.

14. A means of transport comprising: Mounting surface; The power storage device according to any one of claims 11 to 13; as well as A down retaining assembly clip includes a down retaining device that engages the down retaining assembly.

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