Distribution box for energy storage system
By designing a multi-interface distribution box and diverting structure in the energy storage system, supporting capacity expansion of the battery module, and equipped with a circuit breaker and lightning protection structure, the problem of insufficient capacity expansion and safety in traditional design is solved, and the system is flexible expansion and high-reliability operation is achieved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202520809393.4
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-27
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-05
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-04-27
AI Technical Summary
The conversion module design of traditional energy storage systems cannot meet the capacity expansion requirements of battery modules, and the safety is insufficient, making it difficult to cope with complex operating conditions.
A distribution box is designed, including multiple interfaces and diverting structures, supports parallel connection of multiple battery modules, and is equipped with a circuit breaker, lightning protection structure and fuse to achieve flexible power transmission and multi-level safety protection.
It improves the expansion and security of the system, simplifies the installation and maintenance process, reduces the complex wiring requirements and troubleshooting difficulties, and improves the reliability and stability of the system.
Smart Images

Figure CN223194266U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of energy storage, in particular to a distribution box for an energy storage system. Background Art
[0002] As the global demand for renewable energy continues to grow, energy storage systems, as an important means of improving energy efficiency and stability, are increasingly being used. Energy storage systems are typically composed of battery modules, inverters, and other electrical components, which need to be connected and coordinated through efficient power distribution devices to ensure the normal operation and performance optimization of the system. In traditional designs, inverters are generally connected to battery modules through conversion modules. These conversion modules usually only have a single set of inverter interfaces and battery module interfaces, and their functions are relatively simple, mainly used to achieve basic power transmission and conversion tasks. However, with the continuous expansion of the scale of energy storage systems and the increase in users' demand for system flexibility, this traditional design has gradually exposed many shortcomings.
[0003] First, the single-interface design of traditional conversion modules cannot meet the needs of battery module expansion. In actual applications, users may need to increase the number of battery modules to increase energy storage capacity based on changes in power load. However, due to the limitations on the number and type of conversion module interfaces, expansion operations often become complicated and costly, and may even require system redesign or equipment replacement, increasing the user's usage burden. Secondly, traditional conversion modules also have shortcomings in terms of safety. During the operation of the energy storage system, abnormal conditions such as overload and short circuit may occur. The protection mechanisms of existing conversion modules are relatively simple and cannot cope with complex operating conditions. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of the above-mentioned deficiencies in the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a distribution box for an energy storage system that supports battery module expansion and has high safety.
[0005] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve the technical problem is a distribution box for an energy storage system, which is used to connect an inverter and a battery module, and the battery module includes a first battery module and a second battery module. The distribution box includes:
[0006] A box body, wherein the box body has a receiving groove;
[0007] A conversion interface, the conversion interface comprising a first interface, a second interface, and at least one third interface, respectively provided on the box, wherein the first interface is configured as an access port for the DC output terminal of the inverter, the second interface is configured as an access port for the first battery module, and the third interface is configured as an access port for the second battery module or other equipment;
[0008] A shunt structure is provided in the accommodating groove and is electrically connected to the first interface, the second interface and the third interface respectively, wherein the first interface, the shunt structure and the second interface together constitute a first current path, which can realize power transmission between the inverter and the first battery module; the first interface, the shunt structure and the third interface together constitute a second current path, which can realize power transmission between the inverter and the second battery module.
[0009] Furthermore, the shunt structure includes a first conductive member and a second conductive member, the first conductive member is electrically connected to the first interface and the second interface respectively to form the first current path, and the second conductive member is connected to the first conductive member and electrically connected to the third interface to form the second current path.
[0010] Furthermore, an axis of the second interface and an axis of the third interface form an angle of 90°, and the first conductive member and the second conductive member are arranged crosswise and detachably connected by a fastener.
[0011] Furthermore, a first circuit breaker is detachably provided in the accommodating groove, an input end of the first circuit breaker is electrically connected to the first conductive member, and an output end of the first circuit breaker is electrically connected to the second interface.
[0012] Furthermore, a second circuit breaker is detachably provided in the receiving groove, an input end of the second circuit breaker is electrically connected to the AC output end of the inverter, and an output end of the second circuit breaker is electrically connected to an external load.
[0013] Furthermore, a lightning protection structure is detachably provided in the receiving groove, an input end of the lightning protection structure is electrically connected to a power source, and an output end of the lightning protection structure is electrically connected to an input end of the inverter.
[0014] Furthermore, a fuse is detachably provided in the receiving groove, the input end of the fuse is electrically connected to the output end of the lightning protection structure, and the output end of the fuse is electrically connected to the input end of the inverter.
[0015] Furthermore, the box body includes a shell and a shell cover, the accommodating groove is provided on the shell, and the shell cover is provided on the shell in an openable and closable manner and can close the accommodating groove.
[0016] Furthermore, the shell cover is rotatably connected to one side of the shell, and a locking structure is provided on the shell. The locking structure has a rotatable limiting portion, and the limiting portion can abut or separate from the shell cover by rotation. When the limiting portion abuts against the shell cover, it can limit the rotation of the shell cover.
[0017] Furthermore, a first connection structure and a second connection structure are provided on the shell, and the shell can form a detachable connection with the inverter and the first battery module respectively through the first connection structure and the second connection structure.
[0018] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:
[0019] 1. In this utility model, by adding at least one third interface to the housing and disposing a shunt structure electrically connected to the first, second, and third interfaces within the accommodating slot, the first interface, the shunt structure, and the second interface together form a first current path, while the first interface, the shunt structure, and the third interface together form a second current path. This design supports the parallel connection of multiple battery modules, significantly improving system scalability.
[0020] 2. In this utility model, the shunt structure includes a first conductive member and a second conductive member. The first conductive member is electrically connected to the first and second interfaces, respectively, to form a first current path. The second conductive member is connected to the first conductive member and electrically connected to the third interface, forming a second current path. This design not only allows the inverter to independently supply power to two different battery modules, but also reduces the complex wiring requirements within the system, making installation easier and facilitating subsequent maintenance and troubleshooting.
[0021] 3. In this utility model, a second circuit breaker is installed in the receiving slot. The input of the second circuit breaker is electrically connected to the AC output of the inverter, and the output of the second circuit breaker is electrically connected to the external load. This design allows the power supply to directly supply AC power to the load through the inverter when the battery module is not operating. It also provides additional protection for the external load, effectively improving the safety and reliability of the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the distribution box of the utility model.
[0023] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure from another perspective.
[0024] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the distribution box of the utility model.
[0025] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the structure from another perspective.
[0026] Figure 5 It is a structural diagram of the diversion structure in the utility model.
[0027] In all the drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same technical features, specifically:
[0028] 100. Box body; 110. Shell; 111. Accommodating groove; 112. First connecting structure; 113. Second connecting structure; 120. Shell cover; 200. First interface; 210. Second interface; 220. Third interface; 230. Through hole; 300. Diverter structure; 310. First conductive member; 311. First connecting portion; 312. Second connecting portion; 313. Third connecting portion; 320. Second conductive member; 321. Fourth connecting portion; 322. Fifth connecting portion; 323. Sixth connecting portion; 400. First circuit breaker; 500. Second circuit breaker; 600. Lightning protection structure; 700. Fuse; 800. Locking structure; 810. Limiting portion; 820. Button; 900. Hinge structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] The following are specific embodiments of the present invention and the accompanying drawings to further describe the technical solution of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.
[0030] It should be noted that all directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of the present invention are only used to explain the relative position relationship, movement status, etc. between the various components under a certain specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.
[0031] In addition, terms such as "first," "second," and "an" in this utility model are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features indicated. Therefore, features specified as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In the description of this utility model, "plurality" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.
[0032] In this utility model, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "connection" and "fixation" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "fixation" can mean fixed connection, detachable connection, or integration; mechanical connection or electrical connection; direct connection or indirect connection through an intermediate medium; internal communication between two elements or interaction between two elements, unless otherwise specified. For those skilled in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in this utility model can be understood according to specific circumstances.
[0033] In addition, the technical solutions between the various embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the fact that ordinary technicians in this field can implement it. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be deemed that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection required by this utility model.
[0034] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in this embodiment, a distribution box for an energy storage system is used to connect an inverter (not shown in the figure) and a battery module (not shown in the figure), and the battery module includes a first battery module and a second battery module. The distribution box includes:
[0035] The box body 100 has a receiving groove 111;
[0036] The conversion interface includes a first interface 200, a second interface 210, and at least one third interface 220, respectively provided on the housing 100. The first interface 200 is configured as an access port for the DC output of the inverter, the second interface 210 is configured as an access port for the first battery module, and the third interface 220 is configured as an access port for the second battery module or other equipment.
[0037] The shunt structure 300, located within the accommodating slot 111, is electrically connected to the first interface 200, the second interface 210, and the third interface 220. The first interface 200, the shunt structure 300, and the second interface 210 together form a first current path, enabling power transmission between the inverter and the first battery module. The first interface 200, the shunt structure 300, and the third interface 220 together form a second current path, enabling power transmission between the inverter and the second battery module. This design supports the parallel connection of multiple battery modules, significantly improving system scalability.
[0038] Specifically, in this embodiment, the distribution box is primarily used in the energy storage system. It is removably located between the inverter and the battery module, enabling power transmission between the inverter and the battery module. To expand the amount of energy stored, the battery module includes a first battery module (not shown) and a second battery module (not shown), which are independent of each other. The first and second battery modules are arranged side by side, and the distribution box is located between the first battery module and the inverter.
[0039] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the distribution box includes a box body 100 and a conversion interface provided on the box body 100, a diversion structure 300, a first circuit breaker 400, a second circuit breaker 500, a lightning protection structure 600, a fuse 700, a first connection structure 112 and a second connection structure 113.
[0040] In this embodiment, the housing 100 is rectangular and includes a shell 110 and a cover 120. The shell 110 is provided with a rectangular accommodating slot 111, which houses and provides comprehensive physical protection for key components such as the diversion structure 300, the first circuit breaker 400, the second circuit breaker 500, the lightning protection structure 600, and the fuse 700. The cover 120 is retractably mounted on the shell 110 and seals the accommodating slot 111, facilitating routine inspections and emergency repairs while maintaining the system's containment and integrity.
[0041] In this embodiment, the housing cover 120 can be opened and closed by translation or rotation. When the housing cover 120 is opened and closed by translation, the housing cover 120 is connected to the housing 110 via the slider and rail assembly. When the housing cover 120 is opened and closed by rotation, the housing cover 120 is connected to the housing 110 via the hinge structure 900. Preferably, in this embodiment, the housing cover 120 is opened and closed by rotation, which effectively saves production costs.
[0042] In this embodiment, a hinge structure 900 is provided on one side of the housing 110, and a locking structure 800 is provided on the other side. The housing cover 120 is rotatably connected to the housing cover 110 via the hinge structure 900. The locking structure 800 includes a rotatable stopper 810 that can be rotated to engage or disengage with the housing cover 120. When the stopper 810 abuts the housing cover 120, the rotation of the housing cover 120 is restricted. This design allows the housing cover 120 to be easily opened and closed, facilitating user inspection, maintenance, and troubleshooting of internal components, greatly simplifying the operating process and improving work efficiency.
[0043] Preferably, in this embodiment, the locking structure 800 further includes a button 820 that is linked to the limiting portion 810. By pressing the button 820, the limiting portion 810 can be driven to rotate toward or away from the housing cover 120. With a simple press, the limiting portion 810 can be brought into contact with or separated from the housing cover 120, allowing the user to complete the locking and unlocking operations without complicated tools or steps, significantly improving the convenience and user-friendliness of use.
[0044] In this embodiment, two sets of hinge structures 900 and locking structures 800 are provided, arranged in an upper and lower structure on both sides of the housing 110, and corresponding to each other. This design further improves the connection strength, stability and sealing between the housing 110 and the cover 120.
[0045] In this embodiment, housing 110 is provided with a first connecting structure 112 and a second connecting structure 113, and housing 110 can be detachably connected to the inverter and the first battery module, respectively, via the first connecting structure 112 and the second connecting structure 113. This design achieves an efficient stacking connection between the distribution box, the inverter, and the battery module, facilitating installation and maintenance while also ensuring a secure mechanical connection between the inverter, distribution box, and battery module, preventing loosening or dislodging due to vibration or external forces.
[0046] In this embodiment, a plurality of first connecting structures 112 are detachably mounted on the top of the housing 110 and are L-shaped. One side of the first connecting structure 112 is detachably connected to the top of the housing 110 via screws, and the other side is detachably connected to the inverter housing via screws. A second connecting structure 113 is mounted on the bottom of the housing 110 and is a U-shaped connecting edge. The second connecting structure 113 is integrally formed with the housing 110 and extends away from the housing 110. The extended end of the second connecting structure 113 is provided with a connection hole that allows for detachable screw connection to the first battery module housing.
[0047] To enable power transmission between the inverter and multiple battery modules, in this embodiment, a conversion interface is provided on the housing 100. This conversion interface includes a first interface 200, a second interface 210, and at least one third interface 220, which are provided on the housing 110. The first interface 200 is provided on the top wall of the housing 110 and is configured as an access port for the DC output terminal of the inverter to receive the DC power converted by the inverter; the second interface 210 is provided on the bottom wall of the housing 110 and is configured as an access port for the first battery module to transmit DC power to the first battery module; and the third interface 220 is provided on the side wall of the housing 110 and is configured as an access port for the second battery module or other device to transmit DC power to the second battery module. This design enables flexible support for multiple battery modules, meets user expansion needs, and enhances the scalability of the energy storage system.
[0048] In this embodiment, a shunt structure 300 is provided in the accommodating groove 111 near the third interface 220. The shunt structure 300 is electrically connected to the first interface 200, the second interface 210 and the third interface 220 respectively, wherein the first interface 200, the shunt structure 300 and the second interface 210 together constitute a first current path, and the first interface 200, the shunt structure 300 and the third interface 220 together constitute a second current path. This design enables the first current path to be responsible for power transmission between the inverter and the first battery module, and the second current path to be responsible for power transmission between the inverter and the second battery module or other devices, thereby realizing efficient power transmission between a single inverter and multiple battery modules. This design not only improves the scalability, flexibility and reliability of the system, but also significantly improves installation convenience and user experience.
[0049] In this embodiment, the shunt structure 300 includes a first conductive member 310 and a second conductive member 320, wherein the first conductive member 310 is electrically connected to the first interface 200 and the second interface 210, respectively, to form a first current path, and the second conductive member 320 is connected to the first conductive member 310 and electrically connected to the third interface 220 to form a second current path. This design allows the inverter to independently supply power to two different battery modules or receive charging current from these two battery modules, greatly improving the flexibility of power distribution. By using the first conductive member 310 and the second conductive member 320 to construct the shunt structure 300, the complex wiring requirements within the system are reduced, making installation easier, reducing the risk of wiring errors, and improving the reliability and stability of the system.
[0050] In this embodiment, the axis of the second interface 210 and the axis of the third interface 220 form a 90° angle, and the first conductive member 310 and the second conductive member 320 are arranged crosswise and detachably connected via fasteners. This design fully utilizes the space within the housing 100, avoids interference between the interfaces, and makes the overall structure more compact, making it suitable for applications with limited space. Furthermore, the detachable connection design allows users to quickly remove or replace components as needed, simplifying installation and maintenance operations and reducing maintenance costs.
[0051] In this embodiment, the first conductive member 310 includes a first connecting portion 311, a second connecting portion 312, and a third connecting portion 313. The first connecting portion 311 and the third connecting portion 313 are parallel and have a height difference. The second connecting portion 312 is arranged vertically and connected to the first connecting portion 311 and the third connecting portion 313, respectively. The three are integrally formed. The first connecting portion 311, on one side away from the second connecting portion 312, is removably connected to the inner wall of the housing 110 via a fastener, allowing the first interface 200 to be connected thereto via an electrical wire. The other side is connected to the second conductive member 320 via a fastener. The third connecting portion 313, on the other side away from the second connecting portion 312, has an insertion end connected to the input terminal of the first circuit breaker 400 and electrically connected to the second interface 210 via the first circuit breaker 400.
[0052] In this embodiment, the second conductive member 320 includes a fourth connecting portion 321, a fifth connecting portion 322, and a sixth connecting portion 323. The fourth connecting portion 321 and the sixth connecting portion 323 are parallel and have a height difference. The fifth connecting portion 322 is arranged vertically or at an angle and is connected to the fourth connecting portion 321 and the sixth connecting portion 323, respectively. The three are integrally formed. The end of the fourth connecting portion 321 away from the fifth connecting portion 322 is detachably connected to the first connecting portion 311 via a fastener, and the end of the sixth connecting portion 323 away from the fifth connecting portion 322 is electrically connected to the third interface 220 via a screw.
[0053] In this embodiment, two sets of first conductive members 310 and second conductive members 320 are provided, and correspond one to one, so as to serve as positive and negative pole connections. Preferably, in this embodiment, the first conductive members 310 and the second conductive members 320 are copper busbars.
[0054] In this embodiment, a first circuit breaker 400 is removably disposed within the receiving slot 111. The first circuit breaker 400 is located between the second interface 210 and the first conductive member 310. The input end of the first circuit breaker 400 is electrically connected to the third connection portion 313 of the first conductive member 310, and the output end of the first circuit breaker 400 is electrically connected to the second interface 210 via a wire. This design, through the first circuit breaker 400, enables rapid detection and interruption of overload or short-circuit currents, preventing equipment damage or safety incidents caused by abnormal current flow, thereby ensuring safe operation of the system.
[0055] In this embodiment, a second circuit breaker 500 is detachably provided in the receiving groove 111, and the second circuit breaker 500 is on the same horizontal line as the first circuit breaker 400. The input end of the second circuit breaker 500 is electrically connected to the AC output end of the inverter via a wire, and the output end of the second circuit breaker 500 is electrically connected to the external load via a wire. On the one hand, this design allows the power supply to directly provide AC power to the load through the inverter when the battery module is not working; on the other hand, it also provides additional protection for the external load, effectively improving the safety and reliability of the system. It is worth noting that when the battery module is working, the battery module supplies power to the inverter through reverse output, and the inverter then provides AC power to the external load through the second circuit breaker 500.
[0056] In this embodiment, a lightning protection structure 600 is removably installed within the receiving slot 111. This structure is located on the side of the second circuit breaker 500 facing away from the first circuit breaker 400 and is aligned with the second circuit breaker 500. The input of the lightning protection structure 600 is electrically connected to the power supply via a wire, while the output of the structure 600 is electrically connected to the input of the inverter. This design effectively absorbs and releases high-energy pulses generated by lightning strikes, preventing them from entering the system and protecting the inverter and other key components from damage.
[0057] In this embodiment, a removable fuse 700 is also provided within the receiving groove 111. The fuse 700 is disposed between the lightning protection structure 600 and the second circuit breaker 500. The input end of the fuse 700 is electrically connected to the output end of the lightning protection structure 600 via a wire, and the output end of the fuse 700 is electrically connected to the input end of the inverter via a wire. This design can quickly fuse and cut off the circuit when the current exceeds the set value, preventing equipment damage or fire accidents caused by overcurrent and providing additional safety. In addition, the combination of the lightning protection structure 600, the second circuit breaker 500, and the first circuit breaker 400 forms a multi-level safety protection system, ensuring that the system can be effectively protected in various abnormal situations, effectively improving overall safety.
[0058] In this embodiment, a plurality of through holes 230 communicating with the accommodating groove 111 are further provided on a side of the housing 110 opposite to the third interface 220 for connecting the wires of the distribution box to the external load, power supply and AC output terminal of the inverter.
Claims
1. A distribution box for an energy storage system, used to connect an inverter and a battery module, wherein the battery module includes a first battery module and a second battery module, characterized in that: The distribution box includes: A box body (100), wherein the box body (100) has a receiving groove (111); A conversion interface, the conversion interface comprising a first interface (200), a second interface (210), and at least one third interface (220) respectively provided on the box (100), wherein the first interface (200) is configured as an access port for the DC output terminal of the inverter, the second interface (210) is configured as an access port for the first battery module, and the third interface (220) is configured as an access port for the second battery module or other equipment; A shunt structure (300) is provided in the accommodating groove (111) and is electrically connected to the first interface (200), the second interface (210), and the third interface (220), respectively; wherein the first interface (200), the shunt structure (300), and the second interface (210) together constitute a first current path, which can realize power transmission between the inverter and the first battery module; and the first interface (200), the shunt structure (300), and the third interface (220) together constitute a second current path, which can realize power transmission between the inverter and the second battery module.
2. A distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The shunt structure (300) comprises a first conductive member (310) and a second conductive member (320), wherein the first conductive member (310) is electrically connected to the first interface (200) and the second interface (210) respectively to form the first current path, and the second conductive member (320) is connected to the first conductive member (310) and electrically connected to the third interface (220) to form the second current path.
3. A distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 2, characterized in that: An included angle of 90° is formed between the axis of the second interface (210) and the axis of the third interface (220), and the first conductive member (310) and the second conductive member (320) are arranged crosswise and are detachably connected via fasteners.
4. A distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 2, characterized in that: A first circuit breaker (400) is detachably provided in the accommodating groove (111), an input end of the first circuit breaker (400) is electrically connected to the first conductive member (310), and an output end of the first circuit breaker (400) is electrically connected to the second interface (210).
5. The distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: A second circuit breaker (500) is detachably provided in the accommodating groove (111), the input end of the second circuit breaker (500) is electrically connected to the AC output end of the inverter, and the output end of the second circuit breaker (500) is electrically connected to an external load.
6. A distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: A lightning protection structure (600) is detachably provided in the accommodating groove (111), the input end of the lightning protection structure (600) is electrically connected to a power source, and the output end of the lightning protection structure (600) is electrically connected to the input end of the inverter.
7. A distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 6, characterized in that: A fuse (700) is also detachably provided in the accommodating groove (111), the input end of the fuse (700) being electrically connected to the output end of the lightning protection structure (600), and the output end of the fuse (700) being electrically connected to the input end of the inverter.
8. The distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The box body (100) comprises a shell (110) and a shell cover (120); the accommodating groove (111) is provided on the shell (110); and the shell cover (120) is provided on the shell (110) in an openable and closable manner and can close the accommodating groove (111).
9. A distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The shell cover (120) is rotatably connected to one side of the shell (110). The shell (110) is further provided with a locking structure (800). The locking structure (800) has a rotatable limiting portion (810), and the limiting portion (810) can abut against or separate from the shell cover (120) by rotating. When the limiting portion (810) abuts against the shell cover (120), the shell cover (120) can be restricted from rotating.
10. A distribution box for an energy storage system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The housing (110) is provided with a first connection structure (112) and a second connection structure (113), and the housing (110) can be detachably connected to the inverter and the first battery module respectively through the first connection structure (112) and the second connection structure (113).