Battery fixture assembly and method of using the same

Abstract

The present technology relates generally to the technical field of batteries and more particularly to a battery fixture assembly for testing a single electrochemical cell or a plurality of electrochemical cells stacked on top of each other wherein the battery fixture assembly comprises at least one battery fixture and a base station; the battery fixing device comprises at least one fixing substrate; at least two movable plates arranged parallel to the base plate; wherein the movable plates have oppositely arranged surfaces for contacting an electrochemical cell mounted between the movable plates; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plate comprise a plurality of apertures, the plurality of apertures being at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates; a pressure sensor device disposed between the substrate and at least one of the movable plates, the pressure sensor device including a sensor member arranged to support the movable plate and configured to measure a pressure applied to the electrochemical cell; a plurality of rotatable bars insertable into the plurality of vertical channels, the plurality of rotatable bars configured to be rotatably coupled with at least one of the movable plates; wherein rotation of the plurality of rotatable levers causes one movable plate to move relative to the other movable plate, thereby clamping or releasing an electrochemical cell mounted therebetween; and a plurality of coupling members connected with the plurality of rotatable levers; wherein the base station comprises: a plurality of actuators configured for releasably coupling with a plurality of coupling members of the battery fixture and for causing rotation of the rotatable lever; and at least one motor configured to drive the actuator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology generally relates to the field of electrochemical cells, and more particularly to a fixture for testing one or more electrochemical cells (e.g., a single electrochemical cell or any number of electrochemical cells stacked on top of each other), and an assembly including the battery testing fixture and a base station. Background Art

[0002] Electrochemical batteries are widely used in various transportation applications, ranging from automobiles to aviation, from sailing to aviation. These batteries generally include multiple electrochemical cells arranged in parallel or in series and encapsulated in an external protective housing. Each individual battery is used as an independent battery, wherein its negative pole (anode) is linked to a negative terminal, and its positive pole (cathode) is connected to a positive terminal. These individual batteries can be composed of various stacks, each stack including an anode, an electrolyte and a cathode.

[0003] When assembled into a battery pack, there is inevitably surface pressure between cells. This mechanical compression affects the capacity, open circuit voltage, and internal resistance of both new and aged electrochemical cells. Before assembly, it is critical to study the performance and aging of the battery under pressure to improve quality and safety. For example, many studies have shown that applying a moderate amount of compression pressure to the battery can extend the cycle life of the battery compared to uncompressed batteries.

[0004] In a commonly used research setup, the test cell is mechanically fixed between a pair of plates by tightening a few screws with a torque wrench. However, this setup often results in an uneven pressure distribution on the test cell surface. As a result, the fixing plates may bend locally, resulting in torsion or twisting. Such local deformations impair the reliability, repeatability and accuracy of the measurements.

[0005] There are alternative battery fixture arrangements that can apply a more uniform pressure distribution by clamping the test battery between a pair of actuated (e.g., pneumatic) platens. However, these systems tend to be mechanically complex, expensive, and limit the number of batteries that can be tested simultaneously with a single press system. In addition, the battery must remain firmly fixed between the platens to maintain the applied pressure during electrochemical characterization, which makes it impractical for testing purposes when different test conditions (e.g., temperature changes) are required.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an improved method and apparatus for mechanically securing one or more electrochemical cells while reliably maintaining compressive pressure while subjecting them to various testing conditions. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present technology relates generally to the field of electrochemical cells, and more particularly to a fixture for testing electrochemical cells, an assembly including the battery testing fixture, and methods of using the assembly.

[0008] Reliable testing of clamped batteries under pressure is key to electrochemical characterization, planning, error detection, quality assurance, and other operational factors. It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve the consistency of such measurements by accurately applying compressive pressure to one or more electrochemical cells and reliably maintaining the compressive pressure under different test conditions. Therefore, a battery test fixture is disclosed herein that is movable and interactive while the battery is held clamped, thereby allowing different test conditions to be optionally applied at different test positions, which is compatible with many different test tools.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to apply compressive pressure more evenly and consistently on an electrochemical cell than existing battery fixtures. A more even pressure distribution can improve the performance and safety of the clamped battery and further extend battery life.

[0010] In addition, reliably applying a desired amount of compression pressure is essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the battery fixture. Therefore, another object of the present invention is to improve the accuracy and reliability of applying compression pressure while maintaining user-friendliness. Therefore, a base station is disclosed herein, which can be releasably connected to a battery fixture to controllably (automatically) apply or release compression pressure, advantageously uniform compression pressure, to one or more electrochemical cells installed in the battery fixture, and then, without changing the compression pressure applied to the electrochemical cell and without the need for additional fasteners such as nuts or similar components, it can release the battery fixture. The connection and release of the electrochemical cell to the base station is advantageously performed in a user-friendly manner that does not require complex interactions or laborious physical labor.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to enhance the versatility of the base station, particularly when used in conjunction with multiple battery fixtures having different sizes or different configurations (e.g., including different sensors mounted on the battery fixtures). Thus, according to one or more embodiments, the base station can be configured to adapt to different configurations of battery fixtures, thereby accommodating a variety of sizes that align with the size, dimensions, and number of electrochemical cells in a wide range of applications and test conditions. This adaptability makes it well suited for applications such as laboratory testing or shared production workshop use where rapid productivity is desired.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention relates to a battery fixture for use in conjunction with a base station, the battery fixture being configured to apply and maintain compressive pressure to one or more electrochemical cells, the battery fixture comprising:

[0013] - at least one fixed base plate;

[0014] - at least two movable plates arranged in parallel relation to the base plate; wherein the movable plates have oppositely arranged surfaces configured to clamp a battery mounted therebetween; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plate include a plurality of holes at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates;

[0015] - a plurality of rotatable rods insertable into the plurality of vertical channels, the plurality of rotatable rods being configured to be rotatably coupled to at least one movable plate; wherein rotation of the plurality of rotatable rods causes the movable plate to move relative to another movable plate, thereby clamping a battery mounted therebetween;

[0016] - a plurality of coupling members configured for releasably coupling the plurality of rotatable poles with the base station;

[0017] - A pressure sensor device mountable between the base plate and the at least one movable plate, the pressure sensor device comprising a sensor member arranged to support the movable plate and configured for measuring a pressure applied to the battery.

[0018] In some embodiments, the hole of at least one movable plate is threaded, and multiple rotatable rods have threaded portions complementary to the threaded holes of the movable plate; preferably, wherein the multiple rods can be inserted into multiple vertical channels in a manner such that their threaded portions are rotatably connected to the threaded holes of the movable plate.

[0019] In some embodiments, the coupling member is arranged on an end of the rotatable rod, preferably extending from the base plate.

[0020] In some embodiments, the coupling member comprises a socket arranged on the end of the rotatable rod, the socket having a fitting that mates with the actuator of the base station so that at least a portion of the actuator can be inserted into the coupling member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the battery fixing device includes an electrode connector device, which includes: a pair of contact pins arranged on one side of the movable plate and configured to electrically contact the electrodes of the battery; and a pair of electrical connectors arranged on the opposite side of the movable plate and electrically connected to the contact pins.

[0022] In some embodiments, the pair of contact pins have a contact distance between them that is adjustable to match the size of the electrode and / or battery tab; preferably adjustable in a direction defined along the length of the movable plate on which the electrode connector device is arranged, and / or adjustable in another direction relative to the movable plate on which the electrochemical cell can be mounted.

[0023] In some embodiments, a movable plate supported by the pressure sensor device is configured to prevent coupling with the threaded portions of the plurality of rotatable rods.

[0024] In some embodiments, a plurality of rotatable rods have unthreaded portions corresponding to positions of the movable plate supported by the pressure sensor.

[0025] In some embodiments, the battery fixture comprises an expansion sensor device configured to measure the expansion of the battery, preferably comprising a displacement sensor configured to measure the distance between the at least one movable plate and the at least one fixed plate.

[0026] In some embodiments, the battery fixing device includes: a second fixing plate arranged in parallel with the base plate at opposite ends of a plurality of rods; and a biasing member configured to bias the fixing plate away from at least one movable plate so that the fixing plate remains in a fixed position relative to at least one movable plate; and an expansion sensor device configured to measure the distance between the second fixing plate and the movable plate.

[0027] In some embodiments, the expansion sensor arrangement comprises a displacement sensor arranged between the second fixed plate and said movable plates and configured for contacting at least one movable plate; preferably mounted in a hole provided in said fixed plate.

[0028] In some embodiments, the at least one movable plate is configured to electrically insulate the battery; preferably, wherein the at least one movable plate is covered by an electrically insulating coating or comprises an electrically insulating material mounted on the at least one movable plate.

[0029] One aspect of the present invention is directed to a battery fixture assembly for applying and maintaining compressive pressure to one or more electrochemical cells, the battery fixture assembly comprising:

[0030] - a battery holder according to the invention, and

[0031] - a base station comprising: a plurality of actuators configured to releasably connect to a plurality of connecting members of the battery fixture; and at least one motor configured to drive the actuators to rotate a plurality of rods of the battery fixture, so that their rotation causes at least one movable plate to move relative to another movable plate, thereby clamping a battery installed between them.

[0032] In some embodiments, the battery fixture may be mounted on the base station such that the battery fixture may be freely switched between a coupled state and a released state without changing the compression pressure applied to the battery.

[0033] One aspect of the present invention relates to a battery fixture assembly for applying and maintaining compressive pressure on one or more electrochemical cells; wherein the battery fixture assembly includes at least one battery fixture and a base station;

[0034] Wherein, the battery fixing device comprises:

[0035] - at least one fixed base plate;

[0036] - at least two movable plates arranged parallel to the base plate; wherein the movable plates have oppositely arranged surfaces for contacting the electrochemical cells mounted between the movable plates; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plate comprise a plurality of holes which are at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates;

[0037] a pressure sensor device disposed between the base plate and at least one of the movable plates, the pressure sensor device comprising a sensor member arranged to support the movable plate and configured for measuring a pressure applied to the electrochemical cell;

[0038] - a plurality of rotatable rods insertable into the plurality of vertical channels, the plurality of rotatable rods being configured to be rotatably coupled to at least one of the movable plates; wherein rotation of the plurality of rotatable rods causes one movable plate to move relative to another movable plate, thereby clamping or releasing an electrochemical cell mounted therebetween; and,

[0039] - a plurality of coupling members connected to the plurality of rotatable rods;

[0040] The base station includes:

[0041] - a plurality of actuators configured for releasably coupling with a plurality of coupling members of the battery holding device and for causing rotation of the rotatable rod, and

[0042] - At least one electric motor configured to drive the actuator.

[0043] In some embodiments, the base station includes a plurality of motors configured to independently drive each actuator.

[0044] In some embodiments, wherein a plurality of actuators and / or motors are movably arranged such that their positions can be adjusted along at least one axis of movement to match the positions of corresponding coupling members of the battery holding device.

[0045] In some embodiments, multiple actuators and / or motors are movably arranged so that their positions can be adjusted along at least one movement axis to match the size of the battery fixture; preferably, by adjusting the mounting position of the base station to the size of multiple battery fixtures.

[0046] In some embodiments, multiple actuators and / or motors are movably coupled so as to move simultaneously along the surface of the base station, preferably in opposite directions.

[0047] In some embodiments, multiple actuators and / or motors are movably coupled such that their positions are adjusted simultaneously, preferably in opposite directions.

[0048] In some embodiments, the motor comprises a stepper motor configured to rotate at least one rod in a plurality of predetermined steps; preferably, the entire rod rotation is divided into steps of 5 nm or less.

[0049] In some embodiments, the press station comprises a control unit communicatively connected to the pressure sensor device to receive pressure sensing data from the pressure sensor device; wherein the control unit is operably connected to at least one motor and is configured to control actuation of at least one actuator based on the sensing data; preferably applying pressure to the battery based on user input.

[0050] In some embodiments, the press station includes a control unit configured to receive pressure sensing data from the pressure sensor device and configured to control actuation of the actuator to apply a selected pressure to the battery based on a user input.

[0051] In some embodiments, a plurality of electrochemical cells are stacked on top of each other on a movable plate of a cell holder.

[0052] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a battery fixture for use in conjunction with or when used in conjunction with a base station of a battery fixture assembly as described herein; wherein the battery fixture comprises: at least one fixed substrate; at least two movable plates arranged parallel to the substrate; wherein the movable plates have surfaces arranged oppositely for contacting an electrochemical cell mounted between the movable plates; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plate comprise a plurality of holes, the plurality of holes being at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates; a pressure sensor device disposed between the substrate and at least one of the movable plates The pressure sensor device includes a sensor component arranged to support the movable plate and configured to measure the pressure applied to the electrochemical cell; a plurality of rotatable rods, which can be inserted into the plurality of vertical channels, and the plurality of rotatable rods are configured to be rotatably connected to at least one of the movable plates; wherein rotation of the plurality of rotatable rods causes one movable plate to move relative to another movable plate, thereby applying or releasing compressive pressure to the electrochemical cell installed therebetween; and a plurality of connecting components connected to the plurality of rotatable rods, the plurality of connecting components being configured to be releasably connected to the plurality of rotatable rods of the base station.

[0053] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a base station for use in conjunction with or when used in conjunction with one or more battery fixtures of a battery fixture assembly as described herein; wherein the base station includes: a plurality of actuators configured to releasably connect to a plurality of connecting members of the battery fixture and to cause rotation of a rotatable rod; and at least one motor configured to drive the actuator.

[0054] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for applying and maintaining compressive pressure, preferably compressive pressure, to an electrochemical cell by using a fixture assembly according to the present invention; the method comprises the following steps:

[0055] - mounting the battery fixture on the base station by releasably coupling a plurality of coupling members of the battery fixture to a plurality of actuators of the base station;

[0056] - mounting the electrochemical cell on a removable plate of the cell holder;

[0057] - driving an actuator of the base station to cause rotation of the plurality of rods of the battery fixture so that at least one movable plate moves toward another movable plate, thereby applying or releasing compressive pressure on one or more batteries mounted therebetween;

[0058] - Releasing the battery holding device from the base station without changing the compressive pressure applied to the electrochemical cell. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] The following description of the drawings relates to specific embodiments of the present disclosure, which are exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the teachings or applications of the present invention.

[0060] Throughout the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the following components and features: battery holder (1); base plate (11); support plate (12); connecting plate (13); fixing plate (14); hole (15); center hole (16); rotatable rod (2); friction reducing device (21); biasing device (22); connecting member (3); electrochemical cell (4); electrically insulating cover (5); pressure sensor device (6); sensor member (61); sensor connector socket (62); electrode connector device (7); electrical contacts (71); electrical connector (72); expansion sensor device (8); base station (9); actuator (91); motor (92); user interface (94); display (95); shield (96); battery holder assembly (100).

[0061] Figure 1 An embodiment of a battery fixture assembly comprising a battery fixture 1 mountable on a base station 9 is shown.

[0062] Figure 2 An embodiment of the battery holding device 1 is shown in a perspective view.

[0063] Figure 3 Shown from the side view Figure 2 The battery fixing device 1.

[0064] Figure 4 The front view shows Figure 2 The battery fixing device 1.

[0065] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the battery holding device 1 is shown in a perspective view.

[0066] Figure 6 Shown from the side view Figure 5 The battery fixing device 1.

[0067] Figure 7 The front view shows Figure 5 The battery fixing device 1.

[0068] Figure 8 An embodiment of a base station 9 is shown in a perspective view.

[0069] Fig. 9 Shows the application Figure 8An exemplary actuator 91 and motor 92 of the base station 9.

[0070] Fig.10 An embodiment of a base station 9 with a movably arranged actuator 91 is shown from a top view.

[0071] Fig.11 A further embodiment of a base station 9 with a cover shield 96 is shown.

[0072] FIG12 shows the force (N) measured over time (seconds) within the battery fixture. The dashed line indicates the release of the battery fixture 1 from the base station 9. Specifically, Fig. 12A An example of low pressure (±50N) is shown. Fig. 12B An example of medium pressure (±1000N) is shown, and Fig. 12C An example of high pressure (±30000N) is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] In the following detailed description, the underlying technology of the present invention will be described with the aid of different aspects of the present invention. It will be readily understood that the various aspects of the present invention as generally described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings may be arranged, substituted, combined and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated and form part of the present disclosure. This description is intended to help the reader more easily understand the technical concept, but is not meant to limit the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the claims.

[0074] Specifically, the present disclosure relates to techniques capable of applying and maintaining compressive pressure to one or more electrochemical cells, and more specifically, to battery fixture assemblies and methods of using the same. As used herein, an "electrochemical cell" refers to a device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy or electrical energy into chemical energy by promoting a chemical reaction by the movement of electrons between two electrodes immersed in an electrolyte solution. It is used as a basic unit in batteries, fuel cells, and various electrochemical processes.

[0075] The technique of the present invention may be considered a "universal" technique in that it can be readily adapted to test a variety of different electrochemical cells. This includes, for example, liquid and solid state electrochemistry, which may be implemented in a variety of battery applications, such as those used in automotive, aviation, marine, aerospace or similar industries.

[0076] An overview of various aspects of the present invention's technology is given below, after which specific embodiments will be described in more detail. This overview is intended to help the reader understand the technical concept more quickly, but is not meant to identify its most important or essential features, nor is it meant to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined solely by the claims. In describing specific embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are provided only to aid in understanding the described embodiments.

[0077] One aspect of the present invention relates to a battery fixture assembly for applying and maintaining compressive pressure on one or more electrochemical cells; wherein the battery fixture assembly includes at least one battery fixture and a base station;

[0078] Wherein, the battery fixing device comprises:

[0079] - at least one fixed base plate;

[0080] - at least two movable plates arranged parallel to the base plate; wherein the movable plates have oppositely arranged surfaces for contacting the electrochemical cells mounted between the movable plates; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plate comprise a plurality of holes which are at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates;

[0081] a pressure sensor device disposed between the base plate and at least one of the movable plates, the pressure sensor device comprising a sensor member arranged to support the movable plate and configured for measuring a pressure applied to the electrochemical cell;

[0082] - a plurality of rotatable rods insertable into the plurality of vertical channels, the plurality of rotatable rods being configured to be rotatably coupled to at least one of the movable plates; wherein rotation of the plurality of rotatable rods causes one movable plate to move relative to another movable plate, thereby clamping or releasing an electrochemical cell mounted between the movable plates; and,

[0083] - a plurality of coupling members connected to the plurality of rotatable rods;

[0084] The base station includes:

[0085] - a plurality of actuators configured for releasably coupling with a plurality of coupling members of the battery holding device and for causing rotation of the rotatable rod, and

[0086] - At least one electric motor configured to drive the actuator.

[0087] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a battery fixture for use with or when used in conjunction with a base station, the battery fixture being configured to apply and maintain a uniform pressure distribution to one or more electrochemical cells, the battery fixture comprising:

[0088] - at least one fixed base plate;

[0089] - at least two movable plates arranged in parallel relation to the base plate; wherein the movable plates have oppositely arranged surfaces configured to clamp a battery mounted therebetween; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plate include a plurality of holes at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates; wherein the hole of at least one of the movable plates is threaded; - a plurality of rotatable rods having threaded portions complementary to the threaded holes of the movable plates; wherein the plurality of rods are insertable into the plurality of vertical channels in such a manner that their threaded portions couple with the threaded holes of the movable plates;

[0090] - a plurality of coupling members configured for releasably coupling the plurality of rotatable poles with the base station;

[0091] - a pressure sensor device mountable between the base plate and the at least one movable plate and configured to measure a pressure applied to the battery;

[0092] Another aspect of the invention relates to a base station for use with or when used in conjunction with one or more battery fixtures for applying and maintaining a uniform pressure distribution to one or more electrochemical cells, the base station comprising:

[0093] a plurality of actuators configured to releasably couple with a plurality of coupling members of a battery fixture; and at least one motor configured to drive the actuators to rotate a plurality of rods of the battery fixture such that their rotation causes at least one movable plate to move relative to another movable plate, thereby clamping a battery mounted therebetween.

[0094] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for applying and maintaining uniform pressure distribution to an electrochemical cell by using a fixture assembly according to the invention; the method comprising the steps of: - mounting a battery fixture to a base station by releasably coupling a plurality of coupling members of the battery fixture to a plurality of actuators of the base station;

[0095] - mounting at least one electrochemical cell on a movable plate of the cell holding device;

[0096] - driving an actuator of the base station to rotate the plurality of rods of the battery fixture so that at least one movable plate moves toward another movable plate, thereby applying a clamping force to the battery mounted therebetween;

[0097] - releasing the battery fixture from the base station without changing the pressure distribution applied to the battery; wherein the battery fixture is preferably released without applying any fasteners such as nuts or the like.

[0098] First refer to Figure 1 Discussing the component 1 of the present invention, Figure 1 An embodiment of the battery fixture 1 in a released state is shown decoupled from the base station 9. Specifically, the battery fixture 1 can be mounted on the base station 9 - indicated by the dashed arrow - so that it can be freely switched between the coupled state and the released state without changing the compression pressure applied to the mounted battery 4.

[0099] In the coupled state, the base station 9 is configured to interact with the battery fixture 1 to controllably adjust the pressure applied to the battery 4 installed in the battery fixture 1. In the released state, the battery fixture 1 is configured to maintain the pressure applied by means of the base station 9 until the battery 4 is released, advantageously by coupling with the base station 9 again. Advantageously, the base station 9 can be used to couple with a plurality of different battery fixtures 1, so that it can be universally used in various test settings. For example, a first battery fixture of a certain size can be coupled to the base station to apply a certain pressure, which can then be released from the base station (while the applied pressure is maintained by the fixture), so that another, for example a second battery fixture can be coupled to the (now free) base station in order to perform the same operation. It will be understood that another, for example a second battery fixture can have the same or different number of batteries and / or the same or different sizes, depending on the implementation of the base station, as explained later.

[0100] The connection between the battery fixture 1 and the base station 9 can be achieved by one or more connection members 3. In the embodiment shown, a plurality of connection members 3 are arranged on the lower side of the battery fixture 1, which allows for easier installation on the base station 9. The connection members 3 are configured for releasable connection without the need for additional fasteners such as screws, nuts, caps, etc., which are commonly used in devices of the prior art.

[0101] Reference Figure 2 Discussing embodiments of the battery holder in more detail, Figure 2A fixture 1 is shown, comprising three horizontal plates arranged in parallel relation to each other. The lower plate 11 is a fixed plate serving as a base for the fixture 1 and will be referred to hereinafter as the "base plate". The middle plate 12 and the upper plate 13 are two movable plates; their positions are not fixed but can be changed relative to the base plate 11.

[0102] The base plate can be secured using techniques known in the art. Preferably, the base plate is secured without fasteners so that the base plate does not come loose when the movable plate is moved. For example, the base plate can be a threaded plate secured in place by one or more components of the battery securing device, such as a coupling member.

[0103] Figure 2 It is further shown that the electrochemical cell 4 can be mounted on the upper surface of the middle plate 12 when the electrochemical cell 4 is spaced apart from the upper plate 13. The opposing surfaces of the plates 12 to 13 are correspondingly configured to clamp the cell 4 mounted therebetween. Specifically, the position of the upper plate 13 can be adjusted downward and upward so that compressive pressure is applied to the cell 4 when in contact.

[0104] In some embodiments, multiple electrochemical cells can be mounted in a battery fixture, such as two cells or three cells, which are advantageously stacked on top of each other between opposing surfaces of a movable plate. This arrangement allows testing of compressive pressure on a stack of cells. Alternatively or in combination, the cells can be arranged adjacent to each other as long as the plate is large enough to cover the size of the cells. The cells can be electrically connected in parallel or in series, or individually for independent measurements.

[0105] For example, Figure 3 As shown, three plates 11 to 13 can be fixed to four vertical rods 2 arranged at the corners of the plates through a plurality of holes 15. Specifically, each plate can have four holes 15 arranged at each corner thereof, and the three plates 11 to 13 are arranged so that their corresponding holes are aligned, thereby forming four vertical channels perpendicular to the horizontal plates, and the rods 2 can be inserted into these vertical channels. The rods 2 are long enough to extend completely through the vertical channels and still allow the plates 11 to 13 to be sufficiently spaced apart so that other components such as the battery 4 and the pressure sensing device 6 can be installed between them.

[0106] The clamping of the battery is achieved by implementing different connections between the movable plate and the rod. Specifically, the rod is rotatably fixed to the plate so that the rod can rotate within the vertical channel formed by the hole. The position of the base plate is fixed and does not change when the rod rotates. The middle plate and the upper plate are movably arranged so that their positions can change relative to the base plate when the rod rotates. Specifically, the support plate is loosely movable and supported by the components of the pressure sensing device. Therefore, this plate is referred to as the "support plate" hereinafter. However, the supported movable plate is not connected to the rod, and therefore its position does not change when the rod rotates. Finally, the upper plate is controllably movable and connected to the rod so that its position can be adjusted up or down by rotating the rod. Therefore, this plate is referred to as the "coupling plate" hereinafter.

[0107] like Figure 3 As further shown in , the support plate 12 can be arranged on the pressure sensor 6, which is mounted on the substrate 11. The pressure sensor 6 includes a sensor member that is configured to measure the downward compressive force applied to its sensor surface. Preferably, the pressure sensor is a load sensor, which is a force sensor that is configured to return a signal proportional to the mechanical force applied to the system when connected to appropriate electronic devices. Since the support plate is loosely arranged, it can move freely along the length of the rod. Therefore, when the pressure sensor 6 is mounted between the substrate 11 and the support plate 12, the sensor member 61 points upward to the lower side of the support plate 12, so that the plate 12 can be supported by the sensor member 61.

[0108] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are different configurations to achieve a loose arrangement of the movable plate. In some embodiments, the loosely movable plate may include a hole of sufficiently large diameter to avoid contact with the rod. In another embodiment, the movable plate may include a bearing that provides a barrier between the plate and the rod, such as a bushing with a brass friction cylinder. Additional linings or coatings may be added to reduce the friction between the movable plate and the rod. Alternatively or in combination, the rod may include a non-threaded portion with an advantageous smooth surface or other friction reducing device so that when the rod rotates, it does not interact with the loosely movable plate. Advantageously, the non-threaded portion is limited to the portion of the fixture 2e that considers the movement of the loosely movable plate.

[0109] like Figure 3As further shown in the figure, the coupling plate 13 can be coupled to the rod 2 so that the coupling plate 13 remains in place. This coupling is achieved by providing a threaded hole in the plate 13, which is coupled to a threaded portion of the rod 2, which is complementary to the threaded hole of the movable plate. Thus, rotating the rod will cause the plate 13 to move up or down, depending on the direction of rotation and the threads. For example, clockwise rotation may cause the plate 13 to move downward toward the other movable plate 12, while counterclockwise rotation will cause the plate 13 to move upward back away from the plate 12, or vice versa, depending on the threads.

[0110] Since the support plate 12 rests on the pressure member 61 and the battery 4 is mounted on the support plate 12, the force measured by the pressure sensor 6 represents the pressure applied by the movable plates 12 to 13 to the surface of the battery 4, specifically, the pressure applied by the connecting plate 13 to the surface of the battery 4 when the connecting plate 13 is pressed downwardly against the support plate 12 and the battery 4 is sandwiched therebetween. In addition, by adjusting the position of the movable plate 13 relative to the plate 12, a range of pressures can be applied to the clamped battery 4, depending on the resistance of the pressure sensor 6. Unless the plate 13 is moved up or down by rotating the rod 4 again, the applied pressure will not change. Therefore, in order to release the electrochemical battery, the battery fixture 1 may need to be connected back to the base station 9 to release the applied pressure by rotating the rod 4. Alternatively or in combination, an emergency release device can be provided on the battery fixture, which can release the fixed battery without using the base station.

[0111] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are different configurations to achieve the threaded connection of the movable plate. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the rod may be threaded, corresponding to the distance the threaded movable plate is to move. Limiting the length of the threaded portion may provide a simple method to prevent the plate from moving beyond a certain cutoff point. Alternatively, one or more stop members may be provided to prevent movement of the threaded movable plate. In another embodiment, the entire length of the rod may be threaded.

[0112] In some embodiments, at least one of the plates may have a flat surface, preferably the entire plate is planar. This facilitates achieving uniform pressure distribution. Alternatively or in combination, the surface of at least one of the plates may be adapted to mount a battery thereon. For example, the plate may have a groove adapted to the battery geometry so that the battery or part thereof may be mounted therein and lateral movement may be prevented.

[0113] In some embodiments, at least one plate may be rectangular in shape, preferably with a square surface. This geometry facilitates uniform pressure distribution. Advantageously, at least two, preferably all plates have the same shape to reduce design complexity. The skilled person understands that other shapes that are advantageously symmetrical may still be envisioned. For example, a hexagonal shape, an octagonal shape, a circular shape, etc.

[0114] In some embodiments, at least one plate may be a metal plate or include a metal material or alloy, such as steel, aluminum or other material. Metal plates are preferred because they have a higher resistance to plastic deformation under tension when a compressive force is applied. The skilled person will appreciate that other rigid materials may be envisioned as long as they are able to adequately resist deformation under pressure.

[0115] Reference Figure 4 Discuss the implementation of the fixing device, Figure 4 It is shown that the fixing device 1 may include electrode connector means 7 for electrical connection with the electrodes of the battery 4. The battery may generally include a negative electrode and a positive electrode, the output of which may be measured for the electrical characteristics of the clamped battery 4. However, once the clamping plate is fixed in place, access to the electrodes and / or the battery tabs may be obstructed, making it more difficult to establish an electrical connection. On the other hand, pre-installing the connector is less convenient because the connector may be displaced or damaged when compressive pressure is applied to the battery 4.

[0116] Figure 4 It is further shown that the electrode connector device 7 can be pre-installed on at least one movable plate, preferably on the connecting plate 13, so that an electrical connection is established by clamping the battery 4 between the plates 12 and 13. Specifically, the electrode connector device 7 may include: a pair of contact pins 71 arranged on one side of the movable plate for electrically contacting the electrodes and / or tabs of the clamped battery 4, and a pair of connectors 72 arranged on the opposite side of the movable plate and electrically connected to the contact pins. When the movable plate 13 moves towards the battery 4, the electrode connector device 7 will move with the movable plate 13. Advantageously, the contact pins include or are made of a conductive material, such as a gold-plated pin.

[0117] In some embodiments, the pair of contact pins have a contact distance between them that is adjustable to match the size of the electrode and / or battery tab. For example, the pair of contact pins can be adjustable in a direction defined along the length of a movable plate on which the electrode connector device is arranged, so that the inter-electrode distance between the contact pins can be adjusted to match the distance between the electrodes and / or tabs of the clamped battery. In another example, the contact surface of the pair of contact pins can be adjustable in a direction defined relative to the movable plate on which the electrochemical cell can be mounted, so that the distance from the contact pins to the electrodes and / or tabs of the clamped battery can be adjusted to establish a connection. Although the following embodiments are described separately, it should be understood that they can also be combined.

[0118] In some embodiments, the contact pins may be biased away from the movable plate by a biasing member, such as a spring. Advantageously, the contact pins may be oriented downward, extending vertically from the threaded movable plate 13 toward the battery 4 mounted on the support plate 12. This embodiment allows an electrical connection to be easily established and maintained even when the pressure is adjusted by moving the movable plate 13.

[0119] In some embodiments, the connector may include a banana jack connector and / or advantageously a universal plug. This allows the connection to be freely connected to a variety of electrical connectors during electrical characterization. The skilled person understands that any type of connector may be implemented, as the connection portion of the electrode connector device 7 may be easily customized. The connector may be connected to the connector pin via an electrical connection extending along the surface of the board or a hole provided in the board.

[0120] like Figure 4 As shown, the movable plates 12 to 13 may include electrically insulating coating covers 5 arranged on the surfaces facing the mounted batteries 4. Specifically, the upper surface of the middle plate 12 and the lower surface of the upper plate 13. This pair of opposing covers 5 allows the batteries 4 to be electrically insulated from the plates, so that interference or other fault conditions, such as short circuits, can be prevented.

[0121] In some embodiments, at least one of the plates may be covered with an electrically insulating coating or include an electrically insulating material mounted on the plate, such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK). This is particularly advantageous if the steel plate includes metal to avoid any electrical interaction. Various electrically insulating materials are contemplated as long as they are able to sufficiently resist deformation under pressure.

[0122] Refer to the following Figure 5 Discuss another embodiment of the battery fixing device, Figure 5It is shown that the battery fixture may include an expansion sensor device configured to measure the expansion of the battery. Measurement of battery expansion under compressive pressure can be used for battery characterization. However, once the clamping plate is fixed in place, measurement of the battery thickness may be difficult because the battery 4 is advantageously mounted centrally on the plate and therefore measurement of the battery thickness is hindered.

[0123] Figure 5 It is shown that the battery fixture 1 may include a second fixture plate 14, which is arranged in parallel relationship with the base plate 11. The second fixture plate 14 is configured for fixing an expansion sensor device, which is mounted in a hole 16 provided in the center of the plate 14. Preferably, the fixture plate 14 is arranged at opposite ends of the plurality of rods 2, so that the movable plates 12 to 13 are arranged between the base plate 11 and the fixture plate 14. This allows the pressure sensor and the expansion sensor to be mounted on opposite sides of the battery.

[0124] The fixing plate 14 may be fixed using techniques known in the art. Figure 5 It is shown that the plate 14 can be biased away from the movable plate by means of four biasing members 22, such as springs, arranged around each rod 2. Preferably, the biasing members are arranged so that they are blocked by the holes 15 and do not pass through the vertical channel when the rod 2 is inserted therein. Preferably, the plate is fixed without fasteners so that the plate does not loosen when the movable plate is moved. Advantageously, the fixing means may include friction reducing means arranged between the fixing plate and the rod so that friction is reduced when the rod is rotated. For example, the friction reducing means may include rolling bearings arranged at the holes of the plate.

[0125] like Figure 6 As shown, the expansion sensor may include an elongated displacement sensor configured to measure the displacement of the surface of the mounted battery 4 relative to the fixed plate 14. The displacement sensor may measure the distance between the plates (e.g., in mm or μm). Since the position of the plate 14 is fixed, it may form a reference point for the displacement sensor to measure the relative displacement for the battery thickness measurement. Therefore, by measuring multiple distances, including a first measurement corresponding to the battery thickness when initially clamped and a second measurement corresponding to the battery thickness at a set time after clamping, the expansion of the battery may be determined based on the displacement difference based on the measurements. Therefore, by adding more measurements, the rate of battery expansion may be tracked over time. Additionally, different test conditions may be applied to the battery while still tracking its expansion rate.

[0126] As previously described, the battery fixture can be used in conjunction with a base station that is configured to couple with the battery fixture when the battery fixture is mounted thereon and to rotate the rod so that it causes at least one movable plate to move relative to another movable plate, thereby applying a clamping force to the battery mounted therebetween.

[0127] Reference Figure 8 Discussing the implementation of the base station 9, Figure 8 The base station 9 is shown to include four actuators 91 arranged in parallel relation to each other. The actuators 91 extend from the base station 9 so that they can be coupled with four coupling members 4 arranged on the underside of the battery fixture 1, such as Figure 4 As shown, the coupling member may include a socket into which at least a portion of the actuator may be inserted. However, the skilled person understands that the coupling between the coupling member and the actuator may be reversed by extending the coupling member from the fixture and the actuator including the socket. Nevertheless, the former embodiment allows for easier use and installation.

[0128] In some embodiments, the coupling member may include a tapered socket having a fitting that matches the outer diameter of the actuator so that a reliable coupling is achieved. For example, the actuator may include one or more shapes (such as vertical grooves and / or protrusions) disposed along the exterior that match corresponding shapes disposed along the interior of the coupling member. Advantageously, the tapered socket is configured so that it guides the insertion member along the fitting to allow or facilitate coupling.

[0129] In some embodiments, the coupling member may be incorporated into the rotatable rod or form part of the rotatable rod. This allows for a more reliable coupling. Preferably, the coupling member and the rod are part of a single component. For example, the rod may comprise a screw, whereby the coupling member forms the screw head, or the rod may comprise a bolt, whereby the coupling member forms the bolt head, and so on.

[0130] Once coupled, the actuator may be rotated by one or more motors. Fig. 9 An exemplary motor 92 is shown having an actuator 91 oriented upward so that it can fit snugly into the Figure 8 In the base station 9. Such an embodiment will allow the rod to be actuated by a direct connection between the motor and the coupling member. Specifically, four such motors can be arranged in a parallel relationship to each other, corresponding to the positioning of the coupling member of the fixing device.

[0131] In another embodiment, the base station may include at least one motor configured to actuate one or more actuators simultaneously or independently. The motor may be connected to the actuator via one or more intermediate components such as gears so that the rod can be actuated with a single motor. The motor may be a linear motor or a rotary motor. Such an embodiment will provide simultaneous rotation of the rod. Advantageously, the actuators are operably connected so that their rotation is synchronized to ensure a more uniform pressure distribution.

[0132] In another embodiment, the base station may include at least one motor per actuator or group of actuators configured to actuate the actuators simultaneously or independently. Such an embodiment is advantageous because it allows individual actuators to be independently controlled to adjust local pressure differences, such as correcting pressure differences in a particular corner where some adjustment specific to one side is required. In addition, the force generated by an actuator driven by a dedicated motor can generally exceed the force generated by multiple actuators driven by a shared motor, which can allow greater force to be applied to the battery or improve control of the applied force. Advantageously, the motors are operably connected so that their rotation is synchronized to achieve a more uniform pressure distribution.

[0133] In some embodiments, the base station may include a stepper motor configured to rotate at least one rod in a plurality of predetermined steps, specifically by dividing the entire rod rotation into a plurality of equal steps. Preferably, the stepper motor is configured to divide the entire rod rotation into steps of 5 nm or less linear displacement per step, thereby allowing precise regulation and automatic control of the mechanical force. The advantages of stepper motors are low cost, high reliability, high torque at low speeds, and a simple, robust structure that operates in almost any environment. This embodiment allows the compressive pressure applied to the battery to be controlled in steps of rotation.

[0134] In an embodiment, the station may include a high resolution servo drive for force regulation. This allows high positioning speeds with a minimum step width of 5 nm or less, which improves accuracy when compared to prior art hydraulic systems. Additionally, the mechanical force may be automatically regulated by a closed-loop control system using a microcontroller to apply a uniform pressure distribution on the surface of the test cell, as further described below.

[0135] Reference Fig.10 Discussing another implementation of the base station, Fig.10It is shown that the actuators 91 and / or motors 92 can be movably arranged so that their positions can be adjusted along at least one axis of movement (indicated by a double-headed arrow). As shown, the actuators 91 can be moved diagonally inwardly or outwardly along the top surface of the base station 9 simultaneously or independently, so that when mounted thereon, the position of the actuators 91 can be aligned with the corresponding coupling member 4. Advantageously, a plurality of actuators 91 and / or motors 92 are movably coupled so that they move simultaneously along the surface of the base station, preferably in opposite directions, for example diagonally inwardly or outwardly. This embodiment allows the compression pressure applied to the battery to be controlled in rotational steps. Figure 1 Another example is shown in , in which the position of the actuator 9 is adapted to the size of the battery holding device 1 .

[0136] Embodiments in which the actuator and / or the motor are movably arranged allow the installation dimensions of the station to be set based on the dimensions of the battery fixture. This therefore provides the possibility of using battery fixtures of different sizes without having to change the base station. For example, when using battery fixtures with smaller dimensions, the actuator and / or the motor can be moved inwards, while when using batteries with larger dimensions, the actuator and / or the motor can be moved outwards. This further reduces assembly costs and allows combining a single base station with an unlimited number of fixtures.

[0137] In this way, the battery fixture can be adjusted according to the application, for example, based on the size and number of electrochemical cells to be mounted on the battery fixture. For example, the size of the battery fixture can be adapted to match the size of the battery, but also to match the size of the electrode connector device, in particular, to match the position of the electrodes and / or lugs, the occupied space for mounting the battery, etc. Therefore, the adaptability of the base station can be understood in that the same base station can be shared by various different battery fixtures with the same or different configurations. Therefore, the configuration of the battery fixture can be easily adjusted at any stage during the test, for example, to match different types of electrochemical cells. Therefore, this makes the assembly particularly flexible for testing different types of electrochemical cells in various applications and test conditions, for example in a research and development environment.

[0138] In some embodiments, the base station may be configured for automatic or semi-automatic adjustment of the mounting dimensions. Exemplary semi-automatic embodiments may include an actuator configured to adjust the position of the actuator and / or motor, for example linearly, when a user presses a button or enters the fixture dimensions via a user input panel. Exemplary semi-automatic automatic embodiments may include a sensor configured to detect the fixture dimensions and automatically adjust the position of the actuator and / or motor to the corresponding values. The fixture may, for example, be provided with a scannable code provided on the underside containing the corresponding dimensions.

[0139] like Fig.10 As further shown in the figure, the base station may include means for user interaction. For example, it may provide one or more user input units, such as a manual input 94' or an emergency stop button 94 for receiving a selected pressure value, and one or more display units 95 configured to display various parameters such as the measured / to-be-applied compression pressure. The stop button 94 may, for example, stop the operation of the motor 92. Alternatively or in combination, any pressure applied to the coupled fixture 1 may be released. The skilled person understands that the base station may be further customized using means known in the art (such as a plug-in unit or other component for reading out various values) to improve user interactivity.

[0140] In some embodiments, the base station may include a control unit configured to receive pressure sensing data from a pressure sensor device of the battery holder. The sensing data may be transmitted via a wired or wireless connection. For example, Figure 3 As shown, the pressure sensing device 6 may include a sensor connector socket 62 configured to be connected to a plug to read out the sensed data therefrom. Thus, the base station 9 may include a cable or another form of connection device that can be plugged into the sensor connector socket 62. The data from the pressure sensing device 6 may then be transmitted to the base station 9 for further processing (e.g., as input). For example, the measured pressure data may be displayed on Figure 8 On the display unit 95 of the base station 9 shown.

[0141] In some embodiments, the base station may include a control unit configured to control actuation of an actuator based on sensed data from the pressure sensing device to apply pressure to the installed battery. Advantageously, the base station receives near real-time data from the pressure sensor so that it can make accurate adjustments when necessary. This allows automating the pressure setting by implementing a feedback loop, whereby the base station increases the pressure applied to the installed battery until a set value is reached and optionally reduces the pressure if the set value is exceeded. Alternatively, the station may be configured to gradually increase the pressure based on direct user control, so that a (minor) manual adjustment of the pressure is still possible.

[0142] In some embodiments, the base station may include a control unit configured to receive pressure sensing data from a pressure sensor device of the battery holder. The sensing data may be transmitted via a wired or wireless connection. Other computing devices may also be coupled to the control unit, such as a personal device that (automatically) tracks all implemented parameters on the battery, such as a laboratory log.

[0143] In some embodiments, the base station may include a protective shield to protect the user of the assembly during operation. For example, when (excessive) pressure is applied to the fixed battery, there is a risk of accidental explosion, for example, due to the excessive pressure built up on the battery that may cause partial discharge of the battery itself or the fixed device. There are different types of shields that can be implemented into the assembly.

[0144] For example, Figure 8 , an embodiment of a base station 9 is shown, comprising a transparent cover 96 arranged above the base station 9, the transparent cover 96 having at least one movable wall, such as a door, allowing access to the interior space. The cover may be, for example, a plastic material such as Perspex. Advantageously, the station may be configured to detect the locking state of the door and, if the door is unlocked, to prevent any operation of the base station, for example by preventing the rotation of any actuator. For example, the door locking mechanism may comprise a sensor that detects whether the door is locked and optionally sends the locking state to the base station.

[0145] Throughout the specification, references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" appearing in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

[0146] As used herein, the terms "comprising," "comprises," and "comprised of" are synonymous with "including," "includes," or "containing," "contains" as used herein, and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited components, elements, or method steps. When referring to the components, elements, or method steps, the terms "comprising," "comprises," and "comprised of" also include the embodiment of "consisting of the components, elements, or method steps." The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0147] As used herein, relative terms such as "left", "right", "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc. are used for descriptive purposes and are not necessarily used to describe permanent relative positions. It is understood that these terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that embodiments as described herein are capable of operation in other orientations than those shown or described herein unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0148] Objects described herein as being "adjacent" to each other reflect the spatial relationship between the objects being described, i.e., the term indicates that the objects being described must be arranged in a manner to perform the specified function, which includes direct (i.e., physical) or indirect (i.e., near or proximate) physical contact, as applicable to the context in which the phrase is used.

[0149] Objects described herein as "connected" or "coupled" reflect a functional relationship between the objects described, i.e., the terms indicate that the objects described must be connected in a manner to perform the specified function, which may include direct or indirect connection in either an electrical or non-electrical (i.e., physical) manner, as applicable to the context in which the term is used.

[0150] As used herein, the term "substantially" refers to the complete or almost complete extent or degree of an action, feature, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, an object that is "substantially" enclosed will mean that the object is completely enclosed or almost completely enclosed. In some cases, the exact degree of allowance for deviation from absolute completeness may depend on the specific context. However, generally speaking, near completion will have the same overall result as obtaining absolute and total completion. When used in a negative sense, the use of "substantially" is equally applicable to refer to the complete or almost complete lack of a certain action, feature, property, state, structure, item, or result.

[0151] As used herein, the term "about" is used to provide flexibility to a numerical value or range endpoint by providing that a given value may be "slightly above" or "slightly below" the stated value or endpoint, depending on the particular context. Unless otherwise indicated, the use of the term "about" in reference to a particular number or numerical range should also be understood to provide support for such numerical terms or ranges without the term "about". For example, the expression "about 30" should be interpreted as providing support not only for values ​​slightly above and slightly below 30, but also for the actual numerical value of 30.

[0152] Numerical ranges recorded by endpoints include all numbers and fractions contained in the corresponding ranges, as well as the recorded endpoints. In addition, unless otherwise specified, the terms first, second, third, etc. in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements, and are not necessarily used to describe a sequential order or a chronological order. It should be understood that the terms used in this way are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of the invention described herein can be operated in other sequences different from the sequence described or shown herein.

[0153] Throughout this specification, reference may be made to devices, structures, systems, or methods that provide "improved" performance (e.g., increased or decreased results, depending on the context). It should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, such "improvement" is a measure of benefit obtained based on a comparison with a device, structure, system, or method in the prior art. Furthermore, it should be understood that the degree of improved performance may vary between the disclosed embodiments, and no equality or consistency in the amount, degree, or realization of improved performance is considered to be generally applicable.

[0154] Example

[0155] Hereinafter, examples of implementations of the technology according to the present invention are given. The examples are provided to help readers understand the technical concept more easily, but are not intended to identify the most important or essential features thereof, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0156] Example 1

[0157] Since the purpose of the present battery fixture is to study electrochemical characterization as a function of pressure, it may be necessary to apply a range of different pressures. However, the accuracy of a pressure sensing device (such as a load cell) generally depends on a percentage of the total measurement range. Therefore, using a large load cell (e.g., 80 kN) to apply a small force is generally not very accurate.

[0158] Therefore, different embodiments of the battery fixture can be considered based on the configuration of the pressure sensing device and the fixture size (e.g., width, length, thickness, etc. of the plate and rod). For example, a smaller fixture can be used to apply a small force (e.g., in the range from 0.001 kN to 1 kN), and a larger fixture can be used to apply a large force (e.g., up to 80 kN). This concept can ensure the highest accuracy during measurement, even when applying different ranges of pressure.

[0159] In addition to the above, Table 1 provides several exemplary battery fixtures and their respective force and corresponding pressure ranges suitable for batteries mounted thereon. These reported values ​​are determined by calibration using two load sensors, specifically strain gauge Wheatstone bridges (model: 8524), capable of measuring forces in the range of 0 to 1 kN and 0 to 80 kN with an accuracy of 0.1%. The measurements were performed in the operating temperature range of -30°C to +120°C.

[0160] In this example, the base station for applying force is equipped with four stepper motors that convert electrical signals into mechanical shaft rotation. As the digital pulse frequency increases, the step movement turns into continuous rotation, and the rotation speed is proportional to the pulse frequency. Each revolution of the motor is divided into 512,000 steps, where the microcontroller sends a pulse for each step. This design enables high-speed and precise positioning, with a minimum step size of 3.42nm.

[0161] Table 1 provides an overview of exemplary battery fixture embodiments and the test ranges of forces and pressures applicable to the batteries mounted thereon. It can generally be observed that smaller sized battery fixtures tend to be able to be tested at higher maximum force and pressure levels. Conversely, larger sized battery fixtures generally allow for testing at lower minimum force and pressure levels. Therefore, the selection of an appropriate battery fixture size depends on factors such as the size and number of batteries installed (e.g., a stacked configuration) and the specific forces and pressures applied to one or more batteries. It is important to note that the reported values ​​are illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings and applications presented in the present disclosure.

[0162] Table 1: Exemplary embodiments of battery holders

[0163]

[0164] Table 1 shows that the adaptability of the battery fixture is extended to test a wider range of minimum and maximum force and pressure levels. This adaptability can be achieved by modifying the pressure sensor or adjusting the size of the battery fixture. For example, it is feasible to manufacture a larger battery fixture capable of applying higher pressure.

[0165] In summary, these exemplary embodiments demonstrate improved accuracy and an expanded range of testable force and pressure levels compared to conventional practice.Notably, the minimum applicable force of 0.001 N highlights the significant precision provided by the techniques of the present disclosure compared to conventional methods.

[0166] Example 2

[0167] In a continuation of Example 1, the stability of the applied pressure over time within the exemplary battery fixture was tested over three different pressure ranges. Maintaining a stable pressure is critical to evaluating the effects of various test conditions on the clamped battery or batteries. To conduct this test, a reference electrochemical cell was secured to a 18×18 cm 2 The battery holder is mounted on a battery holder. Three different pressure levels are applied using the base station, specifically 50.0N, 1000N and 30000N. Once these specified pressures are reached, the battery holder is released from the base station and the change in pressure is continuously monitored for a predetermined duration (where the sensor is connected to a readout unit). FIG. 12A to FIG. 12C Discuss these results.

[0168] Fig. 12A Results are presented for a low pressure setting of ±50 N. The graph shows that the applied pressure initially peaks at 50.0 N and that after the fixture is released, it gradually decreases to approximately 49.8 N. It then remains stable within an error range of ±0.2 N (less than 0.1% measurement error) throughout the 45,000 second measurement period.

[0169] Fig. 12B Results are presented for a medium pressure setting of ±1000 N. The graph shows that the applied pressure initially peaks at 1010 N and that after the fixture is released, it gradually decreases to about 1006 N. It then remains stable within an error range of ±0.5 N (less than 0.1% measurement error) throughout the 155-second measurement time.

[0170] Fig. 12C Results are presented for a high pressure setting of ±30 000 N. The graph shows that the applied pressure initially peaked at 30 150 N and then decreased after the fixture was released, stabilizing at approximately 30 000 N. It remained within an error range of ±50 N (approximately 0.2% error) throughout the measurement time of 155 seconds.

[0171] In summary, the above experiments demonstrate that the battery fixture maintains a highly stable pressure profile over an extended period of time after being released from the base station, even under different levels of applied pressure.

Claims

1. A battery fixture assembly (100) for applying and maintaining compressive pressure to one or more electrochemical cells (4), in, The battery fixing device assembly (100) comprises at least one battery fixing device (1) and a base station (9); Wherein, the battery fixing device (1) comprises: - at least one fixed base plate (11); - at least two movable plates (12, 13) arranged parallel to the base plate (11); wherein the movable plates (12, 13) have oppositely arranged surfaces for contacting an electrochemical cell (4) mounted between the movable plates; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plates (11-13) comprise a plurality of holes (15) which are at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates (11-13); a pressure sensor device (6) arranged between the base plate (11) and at least one of the movable plates (12), the pressure sensor device (6) comprising a sensor member (61) arranged to support the movable plate (12) and configured to measure a pressure applied to the electrochemical cell (4); - a plurality of rotatable rods (2) which are insertable into the plurality of vertical channels, the plurality of rotatable rods (2) being configured to be rotatably coupled to at least one of the movable plates (13); wherein rotation of the plurality of rotatable rods (2) causes one movable plate (13) to move relative to another movable plate (12), thereby applying or releasing compressive pressure to an electrochemical cell (4) mounted between the movable plates; and - a plurality of coupling members (3) connected to the plurality of rotatable rods (2); Wherein, the base station (9) comprises: - a plurality of actuators (91) configured to releasably couple with a plurality of coupling members (3) of the battery holding device (1) and to cause a rotation of the rotatable rod (2), and - at least one electric motor (92) configured to drive said actuator (91).

2. The battery fixture assembly (100) according to claim 1, in, The hole (15) of at least one movable plate (13) is threaded, and the plurality of rotatable rods (2) have threaded portions, the threads of which are complementary to the threaded hole (15) of the movable plate (13).

3. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The coupling member (3) comprises a socket having a fitting that matches the actuator (91) of the base station (9), so that at least a portion of the actuator (91) can be inserted into the coupling member (3).

4. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The coupling member (3) is arranged on the end of the rotatable rod (2) extending from the base plate (11).

5. The battery fixture assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an electrode connector device (7), wherein the electrode connector device (7) include: a pair of electrical contacts (71) disposed on one side of the movable plate and configured to electrically contact electrodes (2) of one or more batteries; and a pair of electrical connectors (72) disposed on opposite sides of the movable plate and electrically connected to the electrical contacts (71).

6. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an expansion sensor device configured to measure expansion of the one or more batteries in at least one direction; Preferably, in, The expansion sensor arrangement comprises a displacement sensor configured to measure a distance between at least one movable plate and at least one fixed plate.

7. The battery fixture assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: include: a second fixing plate (14) arranged parallel to the base plate (11) at opposite ends of the plurality of rods (2); and a biasing member configured to bias the second fixed plate (14) away from at least one of the movable plates so that the second fixed plate (14) is maintained in a fixed position relative to at least one of the movable plates; and an expansion sensor device (8) configured to measure the distance between the second fixed plate (14) and the movable plate.

8. The battery fixture assembly (100) according to claim 7, in, The expansion sensor device (8) comprises a displacement sensor arranged between the second fixed plate (14) and the movable plate; preferably mounted in a hole (16) provided in the second fixed plate (14).

9. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The battery fixing device (1) can be mounted on the base station (9) so that the battery fixing device (1) can be freely switched between a connected state and a released state without changing the compression pressure applied to the one or more batteries (4).

10. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The base station (9) includes a plurality of motors (92) configured to independently drive one or more of the actuators (91).

11. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The motor (92) comprises a stepper motor configured to rotate at least one rotatable rod (2) in a set number of predetermined steps; Preferably, the 360 ​​degree rotation of the rotatable rod (2) is divided into steps of 5 nm or less, such as 4 nm, 3 nm, 2 nm or 1 nm.

12. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The multiple actuators (91) and / or motors (92) are movably arranged in the base station (9), so that the positions of the multiple actuators (91) and / or motors (92) can be adjusted along at least one movable axis to match the position of the corresponding connecting member (3) of the battery fixing device (1).

13. The battery fixture assembly (100) according to claim 12, in, The positions of the plurality of actuators (91) and / or motors (92) within the base station (9) can be adjusted to match the size of the battery fixture (1).

14. The battery fixture assembly (100) according to any one of claims 12 or 13, in, The plurality of actuators (91) and / or motors (92) are movably coupled so that the positions of the plurality of actuators (91) and / or motors (92) within the base station (9) can be adjusted simultaneously; Preferably, the adjustment is achieved by moving the plurality of actuators (91) and / or motors (92) in opposite directions within the base station (9).

15. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The base station (9) further comprises a control unit, the control unit being communicatively connected to the pressure sensor device (6) to receive pressure sensing data from the pressure sensor device (6); wherein the control unit is operably connected to the motor (92) and is configured to control actuation of at least one actuator (91) based on the pressure sensing data; Preferably, pressure is applied or released to the one or more batteries (4) until it matches the user input.

16. The battery holder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, A plurality of electrochemical cells are stacked on top of each other between opposing surfaces of the movable plate.

17. A battery fixture (1) for use in combination with a base station (9) of a battery fixture assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The battery fixing device (1) comprises: - at least one fixed base plate (11); - at least two movable plates (12, 13) arranged parallel to the base plate (11); wherein the movable plates (12, 13) have oppositely arranged surfaces for contacting an electrochemical cell (4) mounted between the movable plates; wherein the fixed plate and the movable plates (11-13) comprise a plurality of holes (15) which are at least partially aligned to form a plurality of vertical channels extending through the plates (11-13); a pressure sensor device (6) arranged between the base plate (11) and at least one of the movable plates (12), the pressure sensor device (6) comprising a sensor member (61) arranged to support the movable plate (12) and configured to measure a pressure applied to the electrochemical cell (4); - a plurality of rotatable rods (2) which are insertable into the plurality of vertical channels, the plurality of rotatable rods (2) being configured to be rotatably coupled to at least one of the movable plates (13); wherein rotation of the plurality of rotatable rods (2) causes one movable plate (13) to move relative to another movable plate (12), thereby applying or releasing compressive pressure to an electrochemical cell (4) mounted between the movable plates; and - a plurality of coupling members (3) connected to the plurality of rotatable rods (2), the plurality of coupling members (3) being configured for releasable coupling with the plurality of rotatable rods (2) of the base station (9).

18. A base station (9) for use in combination with one or more battery fixtures (1) of a battery fixture assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The base station (9) comprises: - a plurality of actuators (91) configured to releasably couple with a plurality of coupling members (3) of the battery holding device (1) and to cause a rotation of the rotatable rod (2), and - at least one electric motor (92) configured to drive said actuator (91).

19. A method for applying and maintaining compressive pressure to one or more electrochemical cells (4) using a fixture assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, The method The following steps are involved: - mounting the battery fixture (1) on the base station (9) by releasably coupling a plurality of coupling members (3) of the battery fixture (1) to a plurality of actuators (91) of the base station (9); - mounting the electrochemical cell (4) on a movable plate of the cell fixture (1); - driving the actuator (91) of the base station (9) to cause the rotation of the plurality of rods (2) of the battery fixture (1), so that at least one movable plate moves toward another movable plate, thereby applying or releasing compressive pressure on one or more batteries (4) mounted between the movable plates; - releasing the battery holding device (1) from the base station (9) without changing the compression pressure applied to the electrochemical cell (4).

20. The method according to claim 19, in, A plurality of electrochemical cells are stacked on top of each other on a movable plate of the battery fixture (1).

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