An energy storage unit and an overcurrent protection unit

Abstract

The present subject matter relates generally to an energy storage unit (200) and an overcurrent protection unit (203). The energy storage unit (200) comprises a plurality of energy storage cells (201), at least one interconnector (202), and the overcurrent protection unit (203). Each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) comprising a plurality of terminals. The at least one interconnector (202) is configured to connect each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The overcurrent protection unit (203) forms an interface to connect the at least one interconnector (202) with each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises a cross-sectional area that is directly proportional to a surface area of at least one of the plurality of terminals of one of the plurality of energy storage cells (201).

Description

TITLE OF INVENTION:AN ENERGY STORAGE UNIT AND AN OVERCURRENT PROTECTION UNITTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an energy storage unit and an overcurrent protection unit thereof. More particularly but not exclusively, the present subject matter relates to the overcurrent protection unit for each storage cell of a plurality of energy storage cells of the energy storage unit within the vehicle.BACKGROUND

[0002] In the context of the existing vehicles, the energy storage unit, such as a battery or a pack of batteries, is provided with an overcurrent protection unit which is connected to multiple energy storage cells for disconnecting the energy storage cells in case of a current surge. In such case, typically, the energy storage cells may be arranged in series and parallel configurations to protect the energy storage cells. Within the energy storage unit, the multiple energy storage cells are connected with the overcurrent protection unit via interconnectors. Typically, the interconnectors utilize metal wires to establish a conductive pathway that connects the individual energy storage cells to the energy storage unit. The overcurrent protection unit is generally positioned in series with the energy storage cells and is configured into the circuit in order to monitor and safeguard the energy storage cells from overcurrent and thermal runaway.

[0003] The excessive current flowing through the interconnector overheats the interconnector, leading to damage to the interconnector and potentially leading to thermal runaway in the energy storage cells and eventually in the energy storage unit. Further, this overheating adversely affects the energy storage cell’s performance and longevity, potentially causing it to swell, leak, or even catch fire. The overheating of the interconnector also leads to an increase in electrical resistance, leading to more power losses and inefficiencies in the energy storageunit. Furthermore, the increased resistance reduces the overall efficiency of the energy storage unit, affecting the performance of the vehicle.

[0004] A few overcurrent protection units connected to the multiple energy storage cells by the interconnectors also lead to an increased resistance within the energy storage unit. Therefore, the performance and safety of the energy storage unit also decrease. Furthermore, in the energy storage unit with multiple energy storage cells connected in a series or parallel arrangement, using a single overcurrent protection unit is not sufficient to protect multiple energy storage cells, especially if there are variations in the current distribution. Therefore, the presently available energy storage units lack any effective provision to disconnect that specific cell that is affected in case of electrical abuse.

[0005] Another problem associated with these overcurrent protection unit is the size of the fusing region, which is very thin and delicate. Their fragility makes them difficult to handle and prone to breakage during transportation. Further, the process of manufacturing becomes cumbersome and challenging because the spot welding process requires a huge amount of current to pass through for welding causing burn marks on the overcurrent protection unit and the introduction of unwanted stress points in the interconnector. In order to overcome this problem, conventional approaches prefer to increase the cross-section of the fusing region. However, an increase in the cross-sectional area of the fusing region leads to a decreased resistance in the overcurrent protection unit which can prevent the overcurrent protection unit from blowing off at the time of circulation of excess current in the circuit.

[0006] Therefore, there lies a challenge in finding a holistic technical solution that can address the above-mentioned limitations, safety concerns, and technical hurdles associated with existing approaches as it is crucial for enhancing the portability, efficiency, safety, and life span of the energy storage unit while reducing the complexity, cost and manufacturing and assembly time.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present subject matter relates to an energy storage unit for supplying electrical energy. The energy storage unit comprises a plurality of energy storage cells, at least one interconnector, and an overcurrent protection unit. Each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells comprises a plurality of terminals. The at least one interconnector is configured to connect each of the plurality of energy storage cells. The overcurrent protection unit is disposed on each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells. The overcurrent protection unit comprises a cross-sectional area. The cross-sectional area is directly proportional to a surface area of at least one of the plurality of terminals of one of the plurality of energy storage cells.

[0008] The present subject matter also relates to an overcurrent protection unit for at least one of a plurality of the energy storage cells of an energy storage unit. The overcurrent protection unit comprises a first connecting portion and a neck member. The first connecting portion is configured to be connected to at least one of a plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells. The first connecting portion has a cross-sectional area. The cross-sectional area is directly proportional to a surface area of the at least one of the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells. The overcurrent protection unit also comprises a neck member configured to disconnect a corresponding energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells from at least one interconnector upon a value of an electrical current exceeding a predefined current value. The neck member also comprises a first bend at a predefined angle with respect to a lateral axis.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The proposed invention is described with reference to an embodiment of an energy storage unit and an overcurrent protection unit. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to similar features and components.

[0010] Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the energy storage unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0011] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the interconnector with the overcurrent protection unit, the side view showing the surface that interfaces with a plurality of energy storage cells of the energy storage unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0012] Figure 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the overcurrent protection unit, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] In order to overcome one or more of the above-mentioned challenges, the disclosed invention entails an energy storage unit comprising an overcurrent protection unit having a robust connection with the plurality of energy storage cells without compromising the efficiency of the overcurrent protection unit. The disclosed overcurrent protection unit successfully enhances the safety of the energy storage unit even during variations in the current circulating in the circuit.

[0014] As per one embodiment of the invention, an energy storage unit is disclosed. The energy storage unit is configured to supply electrical energy. The energy storage unit comprises a plurality of energy storage cells, at least one interconnector, and an overcurrent protection unit. Each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells comprises a plurality of terminals. The at least one interconnector is configured to connect each of the plurality of energy storage cells. Further, the overcurrent protection unit is disposed on each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells. The overcurrent protection unit comprises a cross-sectional area. The cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit is directly proportional to a surface area of at least one of the plurality of terminals of one of the plurality of energy storage cells.

[0015] As per one embodiment of the invention, the overcurrent protection unit is integrally attached to the at least one interconnector. The overcurrent protection unit comprises a neck member. The neck member is configured to disconnect the corresponding energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells from the at least one interconnector upon a value of an electrical current exceeding a predefined current value. The neck member also comprises a first bend at a predefined angle with respect to a lateral axis.

[0016] As per one embodiment of the invention, the overcurrent protection unit comprises a first connecting portion. The first connecting portion is connected to a terminal of the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells and the neck member. The first connecting portion comprises a predefined profile. The predefined profile is at least one of a circular profile, a triangular profile, and a polygonal profile.

[0017] As per another embodiment of the invention, the neck member extends away from a plane of the overcurrent protection unit from the first bend.

[0018] As per one embodiment of the invention, the at least one interconnector comprises a second connecting portion. The second connecting portion is connected with the overcurrent protection unit.

[0019] As per another embodiment of the invention, the first connecting portion is attached to each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy cells by spot welding.

[0020] As per another embodiment of the invention, the at least one interconnector is configured to connect the plurality of energy storage cells in a parallel configuration. Further, as per another aspect of the embodiment, the at least one interconnector is connected to each terminal of the plurality of terminals through a welding. The welding includes at least one of a single sided welding and a double sided welding.

[0021] As per one embodiment of the invention, the at least one interconnector comprises one or more locators. The one or more locators are configured to guide placement of the at least one interconnector with respect to the plurality of energy storage cells.

[0022] As per another embodiment of the invention, an overcurrent protection unit is disclosed herein. The overcurrent protection unit is for at least one of a plurality of energy storage cells of an energy storage unit. The overcurrent protection unit comprises a first connecting portion and a neck member. The first connecting portion is configured to be connected to at least one of a plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells. The first connecting portion has a cross-sectional area. The cross-sectional area is directly proportional to asurface area of the at least one of the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells. The neck member is configured to disconnect a corresponding energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells from at least one interconnector upon a value of an electrical current exceeding a predefined current value. The neck member comprises a first bend at a predefined angle with respect to a lateral axis.

[0023] As per another embodiment of the invention, the at least one interconnector is configured to connect each of the plurality of energy storage cells in a parallel configuration through the overcurrent protection unit.

[0024] As per another embodiment of the invention, the at least one interconnector comprises a second connecting portion. The second connecting portion is connected with the overcurrent protection unit.

[0025] The embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments of an energy storage unit (200) and an overcurrent protection unit (203), along with the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosed invention is not limited to the present embodiments. The embodiments shown in Figure 1 are taken for discussion. Figure 1 illustrates an exploded view of the energy storage unit (200).

[0026] An energy storage unit (200) stores and supplies the electrical energy for various purposes including but not restricted to the propulsion of the vehicle (not shown). The vehicle can be a hybrid vehicle, an electric vehicle, or a conventional fuel vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. The vehicle can be any one of a two-wheeled, three- wheeled, four-wheeled, or other multi-axled vehicle. The vehicle can also be a passenger variant as well as a goods carrier / cargo vehicle. The vehicle comprises one or more electronic parts including but not limited to a traction motor and an energy storage unit (200). The energy storage unit (200) is a rechargeable battery like a lithium-ion battery. Notwithstanding, the present invention can also be worked with other types of batteries such as alkaline batteries, lead-acid batteries, solid-state batteries, flow batteries, nickel- metal hydride batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium polymer batteries, zinc-carbon batteries, silver-oxide batteries, and ultracapacitors.

[0027] The energy storage unit (200) comprises a plurality of energy storage cells (201), at least one interconnector (202), and an overcurrent protection unit (203, shown in Figure 2). According to an embodiment, the plurality of energy storage cells (201) includes but are not restricted to cylindrical cells, solid-state cells, lead-acid cells, flow cells, prismatic cells, and pouch cells depending upon the energy requirement of the vehicle. Further, according to an embodiment, the at least one interconnector (202) is a metal bar made of a material including but not limited to copper, aluminium, or brass with insulating coatings and is plated with silver or gold to ensure reliable connections and prevent oxidation. Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the overcurrent protection unit (203) includes but is not limited to polymeric positive temperature coefficient (PTC) fuse, chip fuse, thin film fuse, circular fuses, blade fuses, glass tube fuses, ceramic tube fuses, resettable fuses, and high-voltage fuses as per the configuration of the plurality of energy storage cells (201).

[0028] Each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) comprises a plurality of terminals (not shown). The plurality of energy storage cells (201) can be placed laterally, longitudinally, or at a predefined angle with respect to the orientation of the energy storage unit (200). The at least one interconnector (202) connects each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The plurality of energy storage cells (201) is connected to the at least one interconnector (202) by using the metal fabrication processes including but not limited to such as spot welding, wire bonding, and laser welding.

[0029] The overcurrent protection unit (203) forms an interface to connect the at least one interconnector (202) with each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). In one embodiment, the overcurrent protection unit (203) can be integrally attached to the at least one interconnector (202). During a short circuit, one or more energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) may malfunction. The corresponding overcurrent protection unit (203) blows off providing localized protection, preventing other energy storage cells of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) from damage. By isolating the problematic or malfunctioning energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells(201), the propagation of fire in the energy storage unit (200) or any other safety hazard can be prevented.

[0030] The overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises a cross-sectional area. The cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit (203) is directly proportional to a surface area of at least one of the plurality of terminals of one of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit (203) ensures that the overcurrent protection unit (203) is appropriately rated for the current capacity of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). Further, an adequately sized overcurrent protection unit (203) better facilitates the maximum current of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) that are configured to propagate current across the circuit. By commensuration of the cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit (203) with respect to the surface area of the plurality of terminals of the energy storage cells (201), it is ensured that the overcurrent protection unit (203) can handle the current without blowing off prematurely or failing to protect the plurality of energy storage cells (201). This tailored protection minimizes the risk of damage to the plurality of energy storage cells (201) and prevents potential safety hazards, overheating, and potential thermal runaways such as fires or explosions, enhancing overall safety, providing design flexibility, and reducing maintenance costs of the energy storage unit (200).

[0031] According to another alternative embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit (203) is directly proportional to a surface area of a top surface of at least one of the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The present configuration increases the performance and safety of the energy storage unit (200) since the overcurrent protection unit (203) is provided for each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The overcurrent protection unit (203) of the present invention serves to meet performance and safety standards. Further, by adjusting the cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit (203) with respect to the surface area of the top surface of at least one of the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201), the process of manufacturing is simplified. Furthermore, the connection between theovercurrent protection unit (203) and the plurality of energy storage cells (201) is strengthened thereby preventing any breakage or mechanical failure of the overcurrent protection unit (203) during transportation or replacement.

[0032] The embodiments shown in Figure 2 are taken for discussion. Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the at least one interconnector (202) with the overcurrent protection unit (203) and the side view showing the surface that interfaces with a plurality of energy storage cells (201) of the energy storage unit (200). The at least one interconnector (202) connects the plurality of energy storage cells (201) in a parallel configuration. Therefore, connecting the plurality of energy storage cells (201) in a parallel configuration provides increased capacity, reduced internal resistance by distributing the current across the plurality of energy storage cells (201), reduces stress on each of the plurality of energy storage cells(201), allows the energy storage unit (200) to handle higher currents without overheating thereby enhancing current handling, fault tolerance, balanced load distribution, stable voltage output and scalable configuration with modular design, easier balancing, and lowering the maintenance costs.

[0033] The at least one interconnector (202) comprises one or more locators (207). The one or more locators (207) guide a placement of the at least one interconnector (202) with respect to the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The one or more locators (207) have positioning or alignment characteristics to facilitate an accurate and secure arrangement of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) with its respective the at least one interconnector (202). According to an embodiment, the one or more locators (207) include but are but not restricted to pins, slots, and tabs fabricated to ensure proper alignment and positioning of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) and the at least one interconnector(202). Therefore, the one or more locators (207) prevent any misalignment, enhance mechanical stability, and simplify the assembly process with respect to the energy storage unit (200). This also increases thermal management and facilitates easier replacement and maintenance of the plurality of energy storage cells (201).

[0034] The embodiments shown in Figure 3 are taken for discussion. Figure 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the overcurrent protection unit (203). The overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises a neck member (204). The neck member (204) is important in preventing damage and ensuring that the circuit is safely interrupted. The neck member (204) further allows the overcurrent protection unit (203) to manage high fault currents more efficiently by restricting the duration of the fault condition and decreasing the potential damage to the circuit. The neck member (204) disconnects a corresponding energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) from the at least one interconnector (202) upon a value of an electrical current exceeding a predefined current value.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, the overcurrent protection unit (203) has a predefined current value of ten amperes (10A) as a predefined current value. The plurality of energy storage cells (201) connected in parallel carries an electrical current of up to eight amperes (8A). In case of any electrical mishap where one of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) is not functioning normally and the current is being dumped on that particular energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). Upon a value of the electrical current exceeding the predefined current value, the neck member (204) starts melting due to heat and the overcurrent protection unit (203) blows off. As a result, that particular energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) is isolated from the rest of the circuit without affecting the adjacent cells of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) and reduces the risk of fire hazard in the energy storage unit (200) and keep the vehicle safe from any casualty. A first bend (206A) increases the cross- sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit (203) thereby enabling the overcurrent protection unit (203) to manage higher currents without overheating and this is vital for the energy storage unit (200) which often experiences high current loads during charge and discharge cycles. The risk of the overcurrent protection unit (203) getting blown off is reduced because the overcurrent protection unit (203) is now enabled to carry more current without reaching its melting point, thus providing better protection against overcurrent conditions. Further, increasing the cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit(203) directly reduces its electrical resistance, this is due to the relationship between resistance and cross-sectional area. Lower resistance results in a smaller voltage drop across the overcurrent protection unit (203), which helps in maintaining the efficiency and performance of the energy storage unit (200). This means that less of the voltage from the energy storage unit (200) is lost across the overcurrent protection unit (203), leading to better energy utilization.

[0036] The neck member (204) of the overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises the first bend (206A) at a predefined angle with respect to a lateral axis (x-x’). In one embodiment, the first bend (206 A) is an L-shaped bend at a predefined angle of 90° with respect to a lateral axis (x-x’).

[0037] The overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises a first connecting portion (205A) on its surface. The first connecting portion (205A) is connected to the neck member (204) on one end and to the plurality of terminals on another end. Thus, the first connecting portion (205A) provides a point of contact to connect and weld the overcurrent protection unit (203) with the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The first connecting portion (205 A) comprises a predefined profile. The predefined profile is at least one of a circular profile, a triangular profile, and a polygonal profile. The predefined profile can also include profiles depending on the configuration of the at least one interconnector (102) or the energy storage unit (200).

[0038] The overcurrent protection unit (203) is made of a predefined material wherein the predefined material is a conductive element. The predefined material has a melting point within a predefined temperature range. The predefined material of the overcurrent protection unit (203) includes but is not limited to nickel, copper, silver, aluminium, and alloys. In a preferred embodiment, the predefined material of the overcurrent protection unit (203) is Nickel 201 having a melting point in the predefined temperature range of 1200-1300° C. In one embodiment, the first connecting portion (205 A) of the overcurrent protection unit (203) is attached to each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy cells (201) by a metal fabrication process like spot welding.

[0039] The at least one interconnector (202) comprises a second connecting portion (202B). The second connecting portion (202B) is connected with the overcurrent protection unit (203). In one embodiment, the second connecting portion (202B) helps to isolate the affected energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) from the rest of the energy storage unit (200). The second connecting portion (202B) further provides structural support, ensuring that the connections to the overcurrent protection unit (203) are secure and stable. Thus, in one aspect of the invention, the first connection portion (205 A) and the neck member (204) form an integral piece with the respective predefined configurations, thereby forming the interface between the at least one interconnector (202) and the plurality of energy storage cells (201).

[0040] Further, the configuration of the at least one interconnector (202) with the one or more locators (207) facilitates an accurate alignment by positioning and consistently placing the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The one or more locators (207) further enable secure fixing, ease of assembly of the plurality of energy storage cells (201), maintain consistent and reliable electrical conductivity across the energy storage unit (200), thermal management of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) of the energy storage unit (200).

[0041] During the conditions of overloading of current, the temperature of one or more of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) goes beyond threshold temperature, thereby blowing off the overcurrent protection unit (203), and the battery management system receives a signal. The signal may be further transmitted to the manufacturers or customers. The overcurrent protection unit (203) with a proportional cross-sectional area minimizes resistance and power loss in the overcurrent protection unit (203) itself. This allows for more efficient current flow, which helps to maintain the performance and efficiency of the energy storage unit (200). With a cross-sectional area tailored to one of the terminals plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201), the overcurrent protection unit (203) introduces minimal resistance, thereby reducing voltage drops across the overcurrent protection unit (203). This ensures that the plurality of energy storage cells (201) operate at optimal voltage levels.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, the neck member (204) extends away from a plane of the overcurrent protection unit (203) from the first bend 206 A) towards the corresponding terminal of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) to form a connection with the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) as per their orientation in the x-y plane. In another exemplary embodiment, the neck member (204) extends in a downward direction from the first bend (206A) in order to form a connection with the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) as per their orientation in the x-y plane. Thus, the neck member (204) lies extended between the plane (not shown) of the overcurrent protection unit (203) and the terminal of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). It is noteworthy that the plane of the overcurrent protection unit (203) is more or less parallel or attached to the plane of the at least one interconnector (202).

[0043] The at least one interconnector (202) is arranged to connect with the at least one of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) in a parallel configuration through the overcurrent protection unit (203). According to an embodiment, the individual overcurrent protection unit (203) helps to manage and mitigate the effects of the imbalances in the plurality of energy storage cells (201). If one energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) fails or exhibits a different performance characteristic, then its respective overcurrent protection unit (203) blows off and isolates it, preventing the imbalance from affecting the entire energy storage unit (200).

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more busbars (208 as shown in Figure 1) are provided within the energy storage unit (200). The one or more busbars (208) are conductive strips or bars used in the energy storage unit (200) in order to distribute electrical power and manage connections between the plurality of energy storage cells (201). The one or more busbars (208) serve as the main conduits for carrying electrical current between the plurality of energy storage cells (201), modules, and the external circuits. The one or more busbars (208) provide a robust and reliable pathway for power distribution within the energy storage unit (200). The one or more busbars (208) ensure uniformelectrical connectivity and simplify wiring layout by consolidating multiple connections into a single, centralized component, reducing the complexity of the electrical design. The one or more busbars (208) further facilitate enhanced electrical conductivity, simplified design and assembly, improved reliability, effective heat management, increased durability and robustness, and reduced maintenance needs of the energy storage unit (200).

[0045] In an additional embodiment, the overcurrent protection unit (203) applies to single- sided or double- sided welding. In an exemplary embodiment, in single-side welding, both the terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) are disposed on the same side of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) and that side is welded to the at least one interconnector (202). Further, according to an embodiment, of double-sided welding, the terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) are disposed on different sides of the plurality of energy storage cells (201). These sides are welded with separate interconnectors disposed on different sides of the plurality of energy storage cells (201).

[0046] The disclosed invention and its embodiments have several advantages. The present disclosed subject matter enables lower resistance and contributes to stable electrical performance. By limiting the multiple neck fusing regions with the first connecting portion (205 A) provides the overcurrent protection unit (203) with robust construction making it less prone to breakage during transportation. The process of manufacturing becomes effortless because during the spot welding it does not leave any bum marks on the overcurrent protection unit (203) and any stress points in the at least one interconnector (202). The energy storage unit (200) and the overcurrent protection unit (203) of the present invention serve to meet performance and safety standards. By reducing resistance and thus minimizing energy loss, the increase in size of the overcurrent protection unit (203) helps to improve the overall efficiency of the energy storage unit (200). This leads to better performance and longer operational times. A larger cross- sectional area allows for better heat dissipation due to a larger surface area available for heat transfer. This is particularly important in the energy storage unit (200) where heat management is critical for maintaining performance andsafety. Improved heat dissipation helps to reduce the thermal stress on the overcurrent protection unit (203) and surrounding components, which can extend the life of the overcurrent protection unit (203) and the energy storage unit (200). Therefore, the present invention becomes advantageous for Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of vehicles including but not limited to Electric Vehicles and Hybrid Vehicles.

[0047] The present disclosed invention relates to an energy storage unit (200) and an overcurrent protection unit (203) thereof. Embodiments illustrated in the present invention can be worked with any energy storage unit (200) comprising the overcurrent protection unit (203). Further, the disclosed invention is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments. For example, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “they” can include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Further, when introducing elements / components / etc. of the assembly / system described and / or illustrated herein, the articles “a”, “an”, “the”, and “said” are intended to mean that there is one or more of the element (s) / component(s) / etc. The terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional element(s) / component(s) / etc. other than the listed element(s) / component(s) / etc.

[0048] This written description uses examples to provide details on the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems. The scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

[0049] It is to be understood that the aspects of the embodiments are not necessarily limited to the features described herein. Many modifications andvariations of the present subject matter are possible in light of the above disclosure.LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALSEnergy storage unit 1 Plurality of energy storage cells Interconnector B Second connecting portion Overcurrent protection unit Neck member A First connecting portionA First bendLocatorsBusbars

Claims

We Claim:

1. An energy storage unit (200) for supplying electrical energy, the energy storage unit (200) comprising: a plurality of energy storage cells (201), each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) comprising a plurality of terminals; at least one interconnector (202), the at least one interconnector (202) being configured to connect each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201); and an overcurrent protection unit (203) on each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201), the overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises a cross-sectional area, and the cross-sectional area of the overcurrent protection unit (203) being directly proportional to a surface area of at least one of the plurality of terminals of one of the plurality of energy storage cells (201).

2. The energy storage unit (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the overcurrent protection unit (203) being integrally attached to the at least one interconnector (202) and the overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises a neck member (204), the neck member (204) being configured to disconnect the corresponding energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) from the at least one interconnector (202) upon a value of an electrical current exceeding a predefined current value, and the neck member (204) comprises a first bend (206A) at a predefined angle with respect to a lateral axis (x-x’).

3. The energy storage unit (200) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the overcurrent protection unit (203) comprises a first connecting portion (205A), the first connecting portion (205 A) being connected to a terminal of the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201), and the neck member (204), wherein the first connecting portion (205 A) comprises a predefined profile, the predefined profile being at least one of a circular profile, a triangular profile, and a polygonal profile.

4. The energy storage unit (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the neck member (204) extends away from a plane of the overcurrent protection unit (203) from the first bend (206 A).

5. The energy storage unit (200) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the at least one interconnector (202) comprising a second connecting portion (202B), the second connecting portion (202B) being connected with the overcurrent protection unit (203).

6. The energy storage unit (200) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first connecting portion (205 A) being attached to each energy storage cell of the plurality of energy cells (201) by spot welding.

7. The energy storage unit (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one interconnector (202) being configured to connect the plurality of energy storage cells (201) in a parallel configuration and the at least one interconnector (202) being connected to each terminal of the plurality of terminals through a welding, the welding including at least one of a single sided welding and a double sided welding.

8. The energy storage unit (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one interconnector (202) comprises one or more locators (207), the one or more locators (207) being configured to guide placement of the at least one interconnector (202) with respect to the plurality of energy storage cells (201).

9. An overcurrent protection unit (203) for at least one of a plurality of energy storage cells (201) of an energy storage unit (200), the overcurrent protection unit (203) comprising: a first connecting portion (205 A), the first connecting portion (205 A) being configured to be connected to at least one of a plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201), the first connecting portion (205A) having a cross- sectional area, the cross-sectional area being directly proportionate to a surface area of the at least one of the plurality of terminals of the plurality of energy storage cells (201); and a neck member (204), the neck member (204) being configured to disconnect a corresponding energy storage cell of the plurality of energy storagecells (201) from at least one interconnector (202) upon a value of an electrical current exceeding a predefined current value, and the neck member (204) comprises a first bend (206 A) at a predefined angle with respect to a lateral axis (x-x’).

10. The overcurrent protection unit (203) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the at least one interconnector (202) being configured to connect each of the plurality of energy storage cells (201) in a parallel configuration through the overcurrent protection unit (203).

11. The overcurrent protection unit (203) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the at least one interconnector (202) comprising a second connecting portion (202B), the second connecting portion (202B) being connected with the overcurrent protection unit (203).

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