A vehicle, a frame for a battery assembly of a vehicle, and a battery assembly

Abstract

A vehicle includes a chassis and a battery assembly coupled to the chassis. The battery assembly includes a first battery set comprising a first battery positioned on a first chassis side of the chassis and a second battery positioned on a second chassis side of the chassis, opposite the first chassis side. The battery assembly includes a first hanging bracket coupled to a first battery side of the first battery. The battery assembly includes a first mount positioned at a first battery end of the first battery and coupled to the first hanging bracket. The battery assembly includes a plate coupled to the first mount and extending from the first battery to the second battery above the chassis. The plate is coupled to the chassis.

Description

Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685A VEHICLE, A FRAME FOR A BATTERY ASSEMBLY OF A VEHICLE,AND A BATTERY ASSEMBLYCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS10001} This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S Provisional Application No. 63 / 763,604, filed February 26, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present application generally relates to a battery assembly for a vehicle powertrain.BACKGROUND

[0003] A vehicle system including a battery electric powertrain, such as an electric vehicle system or a hybrid vehicle system, includes one or more energy storage devices, such as batteries. The energy storage devices receive, store, and provide electrical energy. For example, the energy storage devices can provide electrical energy to an electric machine of the vehicle system to propel the vehicle system.SUMMARY

[0004] One embodiment relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes a chassis and a battery assembly coupled to the chassis. The battery assembly includes a first battery set having a first battery positioned on a first chassis side of the chassis and a second battery positioned on a second chassis side of the chassis, opposite the first chassis side. The battery assembly includes a first hanging bracket coupled to a first battery side of the first battery. The battery assembly includes a first mount positioned at a first battery end of the first battery and coupled to the first hanging bracket. The battery assembly includes a plate coupled to the first mount and extending from the first battery to the second battery above the chassis. The plate is coupled to the chassis.[QO(I5| Another embodiment relates to a frame for a battery assembly of a vehicle. The frame includes a first hanging bracket. The frame includes a second hanging bracket spaced away from -1- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685the first hanging bracket in a longitudinal direction. The frame includes a first mount extending from a first hanging bracket first end of the first hanging bracket to a second hanging bracket first end of the second hanging bracket in the longitudinal direction. The first mount is coupled to the first hanging bracket and the second hanging bracket. The frame includes a third hanging bracket spaced away from the first hanging bracket in a lateral direction. The frame includes a fourth hanging bracket spaced away from the third hanging bracket in the longitudinal direction. The frame includes a second mount extending from a third hanging bracket first end of the third hanging bracket to a fourth hanging bracket first end of the fourth hanging bracket in the longitudinal direction. The second mount is coupled to the third hanging bracket and the fourth hanging bracket. The frame includes a plate extending from the first mount to the second mount in the lateral direction. The plate is coupled to the first mount and the second mount.[0006! Yet another embodiment relates to a battery assembly. The battery assembly includes a first battery set having a first battery and a second battery spaced away from the first battery. The battery assembly also includes a first frame set comprising a first frame set first hanging bracket coupled to a first battery first side of the first battery. The first frame set includes a first frame set second hanging bracket coupled to a first battery second side of the first battery. The first frame set includes a first frame set first mount coupled to the first frame set first hanging bracket and the first frame set second hanging bracket. The first frame set first mount includes a first damper. The first frame set includes a first frame set third hanging bracket coupled to a second battery first side of the second battery. The first frame set includes a first frame set fourth hanging bracket coupled to a second battery second side of the second battery. The first frame set includes a first frame set second mount coupled to the first frame set third hanging bracket and the first frame set fourth hanging bracket. The first frame set includes a plate extending from the first battery to the second battery and coupled to the first damper.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS[0007J FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a side view of a vehicle, according to an example embodiment.-2- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0008| FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a bottom view of the vehicle of FIG. 1.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a battery assembly usable in the vehicle of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment.[0010J FIG. 4 is a front view of the battery assembly of FIG. 3.[00111 FIG. 5 is a side view of the battery assembly of FIG. 3.[00121 FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a frame usable with in the battery assembly of FIG. 3.[00131 FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first connector usable in the battery assembly of FIG. 3.[0014| FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second connector usable in the battery assembly of FIG.3.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a third connector usable in the battery assembly of FIG. 3.DETAILED DESCRIPTION[0016| In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and made part of this disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a block diagram showing a side view and a bottom view, respectively, of a vehicle 100, according to an example embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the vehicle 100 includes a battery assembly 120.-3- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0018| FIGS. 1 and 2 show additional components (in dashed lines) which can be included with the vehicle 100. For example, the vehicle 100 can include an engine 102, such as an internal combustion engine. In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 can also include one or more of a chassis 104, one or more tractive assemblies, shown as a first tractive assembly 106 and a second tractive assembly 108, and / or a shaft 110 (e.g., a driveshaft, a crankshaft, an output shaft, etc.). It should be understood that the vehicle 100 can include more or fewer components than as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0019] In some embodiments, the engine 102 can be, include, or embody a portion of a hybrid engine system having an internal combustion engine and an electric machine (e.g., an electric motor, a motor-generator, an eAxle, or other suitable electric machine). The hybrid engine system can be configured as a mild-hybrid powertrain, a parallel hybrid powertrain, a series hybrid powertrain, and / or a series-parallel hybrid powertrain. In any of these arrangements, the engine 102 is configured to provide power (e.g., mechanical power) for propelling the vehicle 100. For example, the engine 102 may combust fuel to generate mechanical power for propelling the vehicle 100. In another example, when the engine 102 is or includes an electric machine (e g., in a hybrid powertrain arrangement), the electric machine can consume electrical energy to generate mechanical power for propelling the vehicle 100.[0O2O| In some embodiments, the chassis 104 is coupled to the other components / systems of the vehicle 100. For example, one or more of the engine 102, the first tractive assembly 106, the second tractive assembly 108, and / or the shaft 110 can be coupled to the chassis (e.g., directly, or indirectly via one or more intermediate components). In some embodiments, the battery assembly 120 is coupled to the chassis.[00211 In some embodiments, the first tractive assembly 106 and / or the second tractive assembly 108 are or include wheels, tires, axles, differentials, etc. In an example embodiment, the first tractive assembly 106 and / or the second tractive assembly 108 are configured to receive mechanical power from the engine 102, such that the first tractive assembly 106 and / or the second tractive assembly 108 are rotated, which, in turn, propels the vehicle 100.-4- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[00221 In some embodiments, the first tractive assembly 106 and / or the second tractive assembly 108 can be or include an eAxle. In these embodiments, the eAxle is configured to consume electrical energy to generate mechanical power for propelling the vehicle 100.

[0023] In some embodiments, the shaft 110 can be or include a drive shaft, an output shaft, etc. In some embodiments, the shaft 110 can also include a transmission device (e.g., a gearbox, a continuous variable transmission, etc.). The shaft 110 is configured to operatively couple the engine 102 to the first tractive assembly 106 and / or the second tractive assembly 108. More specifically, the shaft 110 is configured to provide power (e.g., mechanical power) to drive the first tractive assembly 106 and / or the second tractive assembly 108.

[0024] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the shaft 110 is positioned at least partially below (e.g., vertically below with respect to the direction of gravity) the chassis 104. As shown in FIG. 2 the chassis 104 is positioned at least partially below (e.g., vertically below with respect to the direction of gravity) the battery assembly 120. The battery assembly 120 is positioned away from a space defined vertically below the shaft 110. In this way, the shaft 110 is accessible from below the vehicle 100, without having to move or remove the battery assembly 120.

[0025] FIGS. 3-5 show various views of the battery assembly 120 of the vehicle 100. In an example embodiment, the vehicle 100 includes the chassis 104 and the battery assembly 120. The battery assembly 120 is coupled to the chassis 104. The battery assembly 120 includes a first battery set 130. The first battery set 130 includes a first battery 132 positioned on a first chassis side of the chassis 104 and a second battery 136 positioned on a second chassis side of the chassis 104, opposite the first chassis side. The battery assembly 120 includes a first hanging bracket 210 coupled to a first battery side of the first battery 132. The battery assembly 120 includes a first mount 230 positioned at a first battery end of the first battery 132 and coupled to the first hanging bracket 210. The battery assembly 120 includes a plate 290 coupled to the first mount 230 and extending from the first battery 132 to the second battery 136 above the chassis 104. The plate 290 is coupled to the chassis 104.-5- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0026| In some embodiments, the first battery 132 defines a first battery axis 133 extending through the first mount 230. The first hanging bracket 210 aligns with the first battery axis 133 in a lateral direction.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first mount 230 includes a bracket portion 232 coupled to the first hanging bracket 210 and a first damper 234 coupled to the bracket portion 232 and the plate 290. The damper is positioned between the bracket portion 232 and the plate 290.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first mount 230 includes the first damper 234 coupled to the plate 290. The first damper 234 is positioned between the first hanging bracket 210 and the plate 290.

[0029] In some embodiments, the chassis 104 includes a chassis cross member 116. The plate 290 is coupled to the chassis cross member 116.

[0030] In some embodiments, battery assembly 120 includes a lower bracket 250 (e g., a first lower bracket 250) coupled to the first battery side of the first battery 132 and a beam 298 coupled to the lower bracket 250. The beam 298 extends from the first battery 132 to the second battery 136 below the plate 290. The beam is spaced away from the chassis 104.[00311 In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 includes a drive shaft (e.g., the shaft 110). The drive shaft is vertically spaced away from the chassis 104. The beam 298 is positioned between the chassis 104 and the drive shaft.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first battery 132 includes a first battery first portion 134 positioned proximate a first chassis end of the chassis 104 and spaced vertically away from the first chassis end. The first battery 132 includes a first battery second portion 135 positioned proximate the first chassis side and spaced laterally away from the first chassis side. The second battery 136 includes a second battery first portion 138 positioned proximate the first chassis end and spaced vertically away from the first chassis end. The second battery 136 includes a second battery second portion 139 positioned proximate the second chassis side and spaced laterally away from the second chassis side. The second battery first portion 138 is spaced away from the -6- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685first battery first portion 134, such that a gap is formed therebetween. The chassis 104 is positioned between the first battery second portion 135 and the second battery second portion 139.

[0033] In some embodiments, the battery assembly 120 includes a second battery set 140. The second battery set 140 includes a third battery 142 positioned on the first chassis side of the chassis 104 and coupled to the first battery 132. The second battery set 140 includes a fourth battery 146 positioned on the second chassis side of the chassis 104, opposite the first chassis side, and coupled to the second battery 136.[0034J As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the chassis 104 includes a chassis first side member 112, a chassis second side member 114, and one or more chassis cross members 116. As shown in FIG.3, the chassis 104 includes three chassis cross members 116. It should be understood that the chassis 104 may include more or fewer chassis cross members 116 (e.g., at least one chassis cross member 116).[0035| The chassis first side member 112 is positioned at the first chassis side of the chassis 104. For example, the chassis first side member 112 may be positioned proximate the first battery 132 of the first battery set 130. The chassis first side member 112 extends in a longitudinal direction (e g., along a length of the vehicle 100).

[0036] The chassis second side member 114 is positioned at the second chassis side of the chassis 104, spaced away from the chassis first side member 112. For example, the chassis second side member 114 may be positioned proximate the second battery 136 of the first battery set 130. The chassis second side member 114 extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0037] The chassis cross members 116 extend from the chassis first side member 112 to the chassis second side member 114. The chassis cross members 116 extend in a lateral direction, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the chassis cross members 116 are coupled to the chassis first side member 112 and the chassis second side member 114.-7- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[G038| As shown in FIGS. 3-5 the battery assembly 120 includes the first battery set 130. The first battery set 130 includes the first battery 132 and the second battery 136 spaced away from the first battery 132. The battery assembly 120 includes the first hanging bracket 210 coupled to a first battery first side of the first battery 132. The battery assembly 120 includes a second hanging bracket 220 coupled to a first battery second side of the first battery 132. The battery assembly 120 includes the first mount 230 coupled to the first hanging bracket 210 and the second hanging bracket 220. The first mount includes the first damper 234. The battery assembly 120 includes a third hanging bracket 222 coupled to a second battery first side of the second battery 136. The battery assembly 120 includes a fourth hanging bracket 224 coupled to a second battery second side of the second battery 136. The battery assembly 120 includes a second mount 240 coupled to the third hanging bracket 222 and the fourth hanging bracket 224. The battery assembly 120 includes the plate 290 extending from the first battery 132 to the second battery 136 and coupled to the first damper 234.|0039] In some embodiments, the second mount 240 includes a second damper 244. The plate 290 is coupled to the second damper 244.

[0040] In some embodiments, the battery assembly 120 includes one or more battery sets. For example, and as shown in FIGS. 3-5, the battery assembly 120 includes the first battery set 130, a second battery set 140, and a third battery set 150. In some embodiments, the battery assembly 120 can include more or fewer battery sets than as shown in FIGS. 3-5. For example, the second battery set 140 and / or the third battery set 150 are optional and can be excluded from the battery assembly 120. In another example, the battery assembly 120 can include additional battery sets (e.g., a fourth battery set, a fifth battery set, etc.).[00411 The first battery set 130 includes the first battery 132 and the second battery 136. The first battery 132 includes the first battery first portion 134 positioned proximate the first chassis end of the chassis 104 and spaced vertically away from the first chassis end. The first battery first portion 134 is positioned vertically below the chassis first side member 112. The first battery 132-8- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685includes the first battery second portion 135 positioned proximate the first chassis side and spaced laterally away from the first chassis side.[00421 The first battery first portion 134 extends from a bottom surface of the first battery 132 to a first height. The first battery second portion 135 extends from the bottom surface of the first battery 132 to a second height, greater than the first height. The first battery first portion 134 is positioned at a first lateral side of the first battery 132, proximate the second battery 136. The first battery second portion 135 is positioned at a second lateral side of the first battery 132, such that the first battery first portion 134 is between the first battery second portion 135 and the second battery 136.[0043} The first battery 132 defines a first battery axis 133. The first battery axis 133 extends through the first battery 132 in a vertical direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the direction of gravity). In an example embodiment, the first battery axis 133 extends through a center of gravity of the first battery 132.[0044| The second battery 136 includes the second battery first portion 138 positioned proximate the first chassis end of the chassis 104 and spaced vertically away from the first chassis end. The second battery first portion 138 is positioned vertically below the chassis second side member 114. The second battery 136 includes the second battery second portion 139 positioned proximate the second chassis side and spaced laterally away from the second chassis side.[0045| The second battery first portion 138 extends from a bottom surface of the second battery 136 to the first height, such that the top surface of the second battery first portion 138 is vertically aligned (or substantially aligned) with the top surface of the first battery first portion 134. The second battery second portion 139 extends from the bottom surface of the second battery 136 to the second height, greater than the first height, such that a top surface of the second battery second portion 139 is vertically aligned (or substantially aligned) with a top surface of the first battery second portion 135. The second battery first portion 138 is positioned at a second lateral side of the first battery 132, proximate the first battery 132. The second battery second portion 139 is positioned at a second lateral side of the second battery 136, such -9- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685that the second battery first portion 138 is between the second battery second portion 139 and the first battery 132.[0046| The second battery 136 defines a second battery axis 137. The second battery axis 137 extends through the second battery 136 in a vertical direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the direction of gravity). In an example embodiment, the second battery axis 137 extends through a center of gravity of the second battery 136.

[0047] The second battery set 140 includes a third battery 142 and a fourth battery 146. The third battery 142 is positioned proximate the first battery second side of the first battery 132. The third battery 142 is spaced away from the first battery 132 in the longitudinal direction. The third battery 142 is laterally and vertically aligned with the first battery 132. The third battery 142 is positioned at the first chassis side of the chassis 104. The structure of the third battery 142 is substantially similar to or the same as the structure of the first battery 132.

[0048] The third battery 142 defines a third battery axis 143. The third battery axis 143 extends through the third battery 142 in a vertical direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the direction of gravity). In an example embodiment, the third battery axis 143 extends through a center of gravity of the third battery 142.

[0049] The fourth battery 146 is positioned proximate the second battery second side of the second battery 136. The fourth battery 146 is spaced away from the second battery 136 in the longitudinal direction. The fourth battery 146 is spaced away from the third battery 142 in the lateral direction. The fourth battery 146 is laterally and vertically aligned with the second battery 136. The fourth battery 146 is positioned at the second chassis side of the chassis 104, opposite the first chassis side. The structure of the fourth battery 146 is substantially similar to or the same as the structure of the second battery 136.

[0050] The fourth battery 146 defines a fourth battery axis 147. The fourth battery axis 147 extends through the fourth battery 146 in a vertical direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the-10- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685direction of gravity). In an example embodiment, the fourth battery axis 147 extends through a center of gravity of the fourth battery 146.[00511 The third battery set 150 includes a fifth battery 152 and a sixth battery 156. The fifth battery 152 is positioned proximate a third battery second side of the third battery 142. The fifth battery 152 is spaced away from the first battery 132 and away from the third battery 142 in the longitudinal direction. The fifth battery 152 is laterally and vertically aligned with the first battery 132 and the third battery 142. The fifth battery 152 is positioned at the first chassis side of the chassis 104. The structure of the fifth battery 152 is substantially similar to or the same as the structure of the first battery 132 and / or the third battery 142.[0052} The fifth battery 152 defines a fifth battery axis 153. The fifth battery axis 153 extends through the fifth battery 152 in a vertical direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the direction of gravity). In an example embodiment, the fifth battery axis 153 extends through a center of gravity of the fifth battery 152.[0053| The sixth battery 156 is positioned proximate a fourth battery second side of the fourth battery 146. The sixth battery 156 is spaced away from the second battery 136 and away from the fourth battery 146 in the longitudinal direction. The sixth battery 156 is spaced away from the fifth battery 152 in the lateral direction. The sixth battery 156 is laterally and vertically aligned with the second battery 136 and the fourth battery 146. The sixth battery 156 is positioned at the second chassis side of the chassis 104, opposite the first chassis side. The structure of the sixth battery 156 is substantially similar to or the same as the structure of the second battery 136 and / or the fourth battery 146.[0054J The sixth battery 156 defines a sixth battery axis 157. The sixth battery axis 157 extends through the sixth battery 156 in a vertical direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the direction of gravity). In an example embodiment, the sixth battery axis 157 extends through a center of gravity of the sixth battery 156.-11- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0055| In some embodiments, the battery assembly 120 includes a frame 122. The frame 122 is shown without the other components of the battery assembly 120 in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 3-6, the frame 122 can include one or more components of the battery assembly 120.

[0056] In an example embodiment, the frame 122 for the battery assembly 120 of the vehicle 100 includes the first hanging bracket 210. The frame 122 includes the second hanging bracket 220 spaced away from the first hanging bracket 210 in the longitudinal direction. The frame 122 includes the first mount 230 extending from a first hanging bracket first end of the first hanging bracket 210 to a second hanging bracket first end of the second hanging bracket 220 in the longitudinal direction. The first mount 230 is coupled to the first hanging bracket 210 and the second hanging bracket 220. The frame 122 includes the third hanging bracket 222 spaced away from the first hanging bracket 210 in the lateral direction. The frame 122 includes the fourth hanging bracket 224 spaced away from the third hanging bracket 222 in the longitudinal direction. The frame 122 includes the second mount 240 extending from a third hanging bracket first end of the third hanging bracket 222 to a fourth hanging bracket first end of the fourth hanging bracket 224 in the longitudinal direction. The second mount 240 is coupled to the third hanging bracket 222 and the fourth hanging bracket 224. The frame 122 includes the plate 290. The plate 290 extends from the first mount 230 to the second mount 240 in the lateral direction. The plate 290 is coupled to the first mount 230 and the second mount 240.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first hanging bracket 210 is spaced away from the second hanging bracket 220 so as to define a first battery receiving region 221 therebetween.

[0058] In some embodiments, the third hanging bracket 222 is spaced away from the fourth hanging bracket 224 so as to define a second battery receiving region 225 therebetween.[0059| In some embodiments, the first hanging bracket 210 is spaced away from the third hanging bracket 222 so as to define a chassis receiving region 226 therebetween.-12- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0060| The first hanging bracket 210 includes a hanging bracket main body 212, a first hanging bracket arm 215, and a second hanging backet arm 216. The hanging bracket main body 212 is positioned on the first battery first side of the first battery 132. The hanging bracket main body 212 is aligned with the first battery axis 133 in the lateral direction.

[0061] As shown, the hanging bracket main body 212 is substantially rectangular in shape. For example, a short end of the rectangular shape of the hanging bracket main body 212 extends in a lateral direction, and the long end of the rectangular shape of the hanging bracket main body 212 extends in the vertical direction.

[0062] The hanging bracket main body 212 defines one or more openings 213 extending longitudinally therethrough. The one or more openings 213 are each sized to receive a corresponding fastener (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a pin, etc.) therethrough. The fasteners are each configured to couple the hanging bracket main body 212 to the first battery 132.

[0063] The hanging bracket main body 212 includes a receiver portion 214 that is configured to receive a coupling member. Various examples of coupling members are described herein below. The receiver portion 214 is spaced away from the bottom surface of the first battery 132.

[0064] The first hanging bracket arm 215 extends from the hanging bracket main body 212 towards the first mount 230. The first mount 230 is spaced away from the hanging bracket main body 212 in a vertical direction (e.g., vertically above) and a longitudinal direction (e.g., a direction extending from the first battery first side to the first battery second side). Accordingly, a first portion of the first hanging bracket arm 215 extends in the vertical direction and a second portion of the first hanging bracket arm 215 extends in the longitudinal direction, spaced away from the first end of the first battery 132 (e.g., the top surface of the first battery second portion 135). The first hanging bracket arm 215 is coupled to the first mount 230. The first hanging bracket arm 215 is coupled to the bracket portion 232 of the first mount 230. The second portion of the first hanging bracket arm 215 is coupled to the bracket portion 232 of the first mount 230.-13- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685

[0065] The second hanging backet arm 216 is substantially similar to or the same as the first hanging bracket arm 215. For example, the second hanging backet arm 216 can have the first portion extending in the vertical direction and the second portion extending in the longitudinal direction. The second hanging backet arm 216 is coupled to the first mount 230. The second hanging backet arm 216 is coupled to the bracket portion 232 of the first mount 230. The second portion of the second hanging backet arm 216 is coupled to the bracket portion 232 of the first mount 230.

[0066] The second hanging backet arm 216 is spaced away from the first hanging bracket arm 215 in the lateral direction, so as to form a gap therebetween. The gap between the first hanging bracket arm 215 and the second hanging backet arm 216 aligns with the first battery axis 133 in the lateral direction. In some embodiments, the first hanging bracket arm 215 and the second hanging backet arm 216 are equidistant from the first battery axis 133 in the lateral direction.[0067| Each of the second hanging bracket 220, third hanging bracket 222, and the fourth hanging bracket 224 are substantially similar to or the same as the first hanging bracket 210. For example, the second hanging bracket 220, third hanging bracket 222, and the fourth hanging bracket 224 each include a hanging bracket main body and one or more hanging bracket arms that are similar to or the same as the hanging bracket main body 212 and the first hanging bracket arm 215, respectively.[0068 J The second hanging bracket 220 is spaced away from the first hanging bracket 210 in the longitudinal direction. The first hanging bracket 210 is spaced away from the second hanging bracket 220 so as to define the first battery receiving region 221 therebetween. The first battery receiving region 221 is sized to receive the first battery 132 therein. The first battery 132 is positioned in the first battery receiving region 221. The second hanging bracket 220 is coupled to a first battery second side of the first battery 132 when the first battery 132 is positioned in the first battery receiving region 221.

[0069] The third hanging bracket 222 is spaced away from the first hanging bracket 210 in the lateral direction. The first hanging bracket 210 is spaced away from the third hanging bracket -14- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685222 so as to define the chassis receiving region 226 therebetween. The chassis receiving region 226 is sized to receive the chassis 104 therein. The chassis 104 is positioned in the chassis receiving region 226. The third hanging bracket 222 is coupled to the second battery first side of the second battery 136.

[0070] The fourth hanging bracket 224 is spaced away from the third hanging bracket 222 in the lateral direction. The third hanging bracket 222 is spaced away from the fourth hanging bracket 224 so as to define the second battery receiving region 225 therebetween. The second battery receiving region 225 is sized to receive the second battery 136 therein. The second battery 136 is positioned in the second battery receiving region 225. The fourth hanging bracket 224 is coupled to the second battery second side of the second battery 136 when the second battery 136 is positioned in the second battery receiving region 225.

[0071] The first mount 230 is positioned at the first battery end of the first battery 132. The first mount 230 is coupled to the first hanging bracket 210 and the second hanging bracket 220. The plate 290 is coupled to the first mount 230. The first battery axis 133 extends through the first mount 230. That is, the first mount 230 is aligned with the first battery axis 133 in the lateral direction and the longitudinal direction.

[0072] The first mount 230 extends from the first hanging bracket first end of the first hanging bracket 210 to a second hanging bracket first end of the second hanging bracket 220 in the longitudinal direction. The first mount 230 is coupled to the first hanging bracket 210 and the second hanging bracket 220.

[0073] The first mount 230 includes the bracket portion 232. The bracket portion 232 extends from the first hanging bracket 210 to the second hanging bracket 220. The bracket portion 232 is coupled to the first hanging bracket 210 and the second hanging bracket 220.

[0074] At least a portion of the first hanging bracket 210 is positioned vertically above the bracket portion 232. For example, the second portion of the first hanging bracket arm 215 is positioned vertically above the bracket portion 232. In this way, the first hanging bracket 210-15- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685“hangs” from the bracket portion 232. The second hanging bracket 220 similarly hangs from the bracket portion 232.[0075| The first mount 230 includes the first damper 234 (also referred to herein as the “damper portion”). The first damper 234 is coupled to the bracket portion 232 and the plate 290. The first damper 234 is positioned between the bracket portion 232 and the plate 290. For example, the first damper 234 is positioned vertically below the bracket portion 232 and vertically above the plate 290. In some embodiments, the first damper 234 is coupled to the plate 290, and the first damper 234 is positioned between the first hanging bracket 210 and the plate 290.[0076J The first damper 234 is configured to mitigate (e.g., reduce) or “dampen” vibrations from transferring from the chassis 104 to the first battery 132. For example, during operation of the vehicle 100, the chassis 104 may experience mechanical vibrations, which can be caused by the operation of the engine 102 (e.g., combustion of fuel) or a road condition on which the vehicle is traveling (e.g., uneven roads, etc.). Because the plate 290 is coupled to the chassis 104, the vibrations may be transferred to the plate 290. Beneficially, the first damper 234 is positioned between the plate 290 and the first hanging bracket 210 to mitigate the transfer of the mechanical vibrations to the first hanging bracket 210 and, in turn, the first battery 132. The first damper 234 can be made of a plastic material, a rubber material, or other suitable material that is capable of damping vibrations.[0077J The second mount 240 extends from the third hanging bracket first end of the third hanging bracket 222 to the fourth hanging bracket first end of the fourth hanging bracket 224 in the longitudinal direction. The second mount 240 is coupled to the third hanging bracket 222 and the fourth hanging bracket 224.[0078| The second mount 240 is substantially similar to or the same as the first mount 230. For example, the second mount 240 includes a second bracket portion 242 and a second damper 244. The third hanging bracket 222 and the fourth hanging bracket 224 are coupled to the second bracket portion 242. The second damper 244 is positioned between the second bracket portion-16- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685242 and the plate 290, such that the second damper 244 mitigates or dampens mechanical vibrations transferred from the plate 290 to the second battery 136.[0079| The first lower bracket 250 is coupled to the first battery side of the first battery 132. The first lower bracket 250 defines one or more openings 251 extending longitudinally therethrough. The one or more openings 251 are each sized to receive a corresponding fastener (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a pin, etc.) therethrough. The fasteners are each configured to couple the first lower bracket 250 to the first battery 132. The first lower bracket 250 includes a lower bracket first portion 252 and a lower bracket second portion 254.

[0080] The lower bracket first portion 252 is positioned on the first battery first side of the first battery 132. The lower bracket first portion 252 has a first width in the lateral direction. A first end of the lower bracket first portion 252 is spaced away from a bottom surface of the first battery first portion 134. The lower bracket first portion 252 includes a receiver portion 253 that is configured to receive a coupling member. Various examples of coupling members are described herein below. The receiver portion 253 is spaced away from the bottom surface of the first battery first portion 134.

[0081] The lower bracket second portion 254 is positioned on the first battery first side of the first battery 132, vertically above the lower bracket first portion 252. The lower bracket second portion 254 has a second width in the lateral direction, larger than the first width of the lower bracket first portion 252. The lower bracket second portion 254 includes is positioned proximate the top surface of the first battery first portion 134.

[0082] The battery assembly 120 includes a second lower bracket 260, a third lower bracket 262, and a fourth lower bracket 264. The frame 122 includes the second lower bracket 260, the third lower bracket 262, and the fourth lower bracket 264. Each of the second lower bracket 260, the third lower bracket 262, and the fourth lower bracket 264 are substantially similar to or the same as the first lower bracket 250. For example, the second lower bracket 260, the third lower bracket 262, and the fourth lower bracket 264 each include a lower bracket first portion and a lower-17- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685bracket second portion that are similar to or the same as the lower bracket first portion 252 and the lower bracket second portion 254, respectively.[00831 The second lower bracket 260 is spaced away from the first lower bracket 250 in the longitudinal direction. The first lower bracket 250 is spaced away from the second lower bracket 260 so as to define the first battery receiving region 221 therebetween. The second lower bracket 260 is coupled to the first battery second side of the first battery 132 when the first battery 132 is positioned in the first battery receiving region 221.[0084 | The third lower bracket 262 is spaced away from the first lower bracket 250 in the lateral direction. The first lower bracket 250 is spaced away from the third lower bracket 262 so as to define a shaft receiving region 258 therebetween. The shaft receiving region 258 is wider than a diameter of the shaft 110. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the shaft 110 extends into the shaft receiving region 258. In other embodiments, the shaft 110 is positioned vertically below the shaft receiving region 258. The third lower bracket 262 is coupled to the second battery first side of the second battery 136.[00851 The fourth lower bracket 264 is spaced away from the third lower bracket 262 in the lateral direction. The third lower bracket 262 is spaced away from the fourth lower bracket 264 so as to define the second battery receiving region 225 therebetween. The fourth lower bracket 264 is coupled to the second battery second side of the second battery 136 when the second battery 136 is positioned in the second battery receiving region 225.[0086| The battery assembly 120 includes a first rail 266. The frame 122 includes the first rail 266. The first rail 266 is positioned on a top surface of the first battery first portion 134. The first rail 266 extends in the longitudinal direction from the first lower bracket 250 to the second lower bracket 260. The first rail 266 is coupled to the first lower bracket 250 and the second lower bracket 260. The first rail 266 is coupled to the lower bracket second portion 254 of the first lower bracket 250 and to the lower bracket second portion of the second lower bracket 260.-18- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0087| The battery assembly 120 includes a second rail 268. The frame 122 includes the second rail 268. The second rail 268 is positioned on a top surface of the second battery first portion 138. The second rail 268 extends in the longitudinal direction from the third lower bracket 262 to the fourth lower bracket 264. The second rail 268 is coupled to the third lower bracket 262 and the fourth lower bracket 264.

[0088] The battery assembly 120 includes a first side bracket 270. The frame 122 includes the first side bracket 270. The first side bracket 270 is coupled to the first battery side of the first battery 132. The first side bracket 270 defines one or more openings 272 extending longitudinally therethrough. The one or more openings 272 are each sized to receive a corresponding fastener (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a pin, etc.) therethrough. The fasteners are each configured to couple the first side bracket 270 to the first battery 132.

[0089] A first end of the first side bracket 270 is positioned proximate a top surface of the first battery second portion 135 (e g., proximate the first end of the first battery 132). A second end of the first side bracket 270, opposite the first end, is spaced away from a bottom surface of the first battery second portion 135 (e.g., spaced away from a second end of the first battery 132, opposite the first end). The first side bracket 270 includes a first receiver portion 274 positioned at the first end of the first side bracket 270 and a second receiver portion 276 positioned at the second end of the first side bracket 270. The first receiver portion 274 and the second receiver portion 276 are each configured to receive a coupling member. Various examples of coupling members are described herein below.

[0090] The battery assembly 120 includes a second side bracket 280, a third side bracket 282, and a fourth side bracket 284. The frame 122 includes the second side bracket 280, the third side bracket 282, and the fourth side bracket 284. Each of the second side bracket 280, the third side bracket 282, and the fourth side bracket 284 are substantially similar to or the same as the first side bracket 270. For example, the second side bracket 280, the third side bracket 282, and the fourth side bracket 284 each include a first receiver portion and a second receiver portion that are-19- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685similar to or the same as the first receiver portion 274 and the second receiver portion 276, respectively.[00911 The second side bracket 280 is spaced away from the first side bracket 270 in the longitudinal direction. The first side bracket 270 is spaced away from the second side bracket 280 so as to define the first battery receiving region 221 therebetween. The second side bracket 280 is coupled to the first battery second side of the first battery 132 when the first battery 132 is positioned in the first battery receiving region 221.[0092| The third side bracket 282 is spaced away from the first side bracket 270 in the lateral direction. The first side bracket 270 is spaced away from the third side bracket 282 so as to define the chassis receiving region 226 and / or the shaft receiving region 258 therebetween. The third side bracket 282 is coupled to the second battery first side of the second battery 136.

[0093] The fourth side bracket 284 is spaced away from the third side bracket 282 in the lateral direction. The third side bracket 282 is spaced away from the fourth side bracket 284 so as to define the second battery receiving region 225 therebetween. The fourth side bracket 284 is coupled to the second battery second side of the second battery 136 when the second battery 136 is positioned in the second battery receiving region 225.

[0994] The battery assembly 120 includes the plate 290. The frame 122 includes the plate 290. The plate 290 extends from the first mount 230 to the second mount 240 in the lateral direction. The plate 290 is coupled to the first mount 230 and the second mount 240. The plate 290 is coupled to the first damper 234 and the second damper 244.[0095| The plate 290 includes a first plate portion 292, a second plate portion 294, and a third plate portion 296. The first plate portion 292, the second plate portion 294, and the third plate portion 296 are monolithically formed as a single component. The first plate portion 292 and the third plate portion 296 are substantially horizontal. A top surface of the first plate portion 292 and a top surface of the third plate portion 296 are vertically aligned or substantially vertically aligned. At least a portion of the second plate portion 294 is substantially horizontal. A top-20- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685surface of the second plate portion 294 is vertically offset from the top surface of the first plate portion 292 and the top surface of the third plate portion 296. Accordingly, at least a portion of the second plate portion 294 extends in the vertical direction, at least partially, to connect to the first plate portion 292 and the third plate portion 296.

[0096] The first plate portion 292 is positioned at a first side of the plate 290, proximate the first mount 230. The first plate portion 292 is positioned vertically above the first battery 132 and vertically below the first damper 234. The first plate portion 292 is spaced away from the top surface of the first battery 132. The first plate portion 292 is coupled to the first mount 230. The first plate portion 292 is coupled to the first damper 234. In this way, mechanical vibrations cannot be directly transferred from the plate 290 to the first battery 132. Instead, mechanical vibrations are beneficially transferred from the plate 290 to the first battery 132 via the first damper 234, which dampens the mechanical vibrations.[0097| The second plate portion 294 is positioned between the first plate portion 292 and the third plate portion 296. The second plate portion 294 is positioned proximate the chassis 104. The second plate portion 294 is positioned vertically above the chassis cross members 116. The second plate portion 294 is coupled to the chassis 104. The second plate portion 294 is coupled to the chassis cross members 116.[0098| The third plate portion 296 is positioned at a second side of the plate 290, opposite the first side, and proximate the second mount 240. The third plate portion 296 is positioned vertically above the second battery 136 and vertically below the second damper 244. The third plate portion 296 is spaced away from the top surface of the second battery 136. The third plate portion 296 is coupled to the second mount 240. The third plate portion 296 is coupled to the second damper 244. In this way, mechanical vibrations cannot be directly transferred from the plate 290 to the second battery 136. Instead, mechanical vibrations are beneficially transferred from the plate 290 to the second battery 136 via the second damper 244, which dampens the mechanical vibrations.-21- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[G099| The battery assembly 120 includes one or more beams 298. The frame 122 includes one or more beams 298. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends from the first battery 132 to the second battery 136 below the plate 290. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends from the first battery first portion 134 to the second battery first portion 138. For example, the beam 298 extends from a top surface of the first battery first portion 134 to the top surface of the second battery first portion 138. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends is spaced away from the chassis 104. For example, at least a portion of each of the one or more beams 298 extends is positioned vertically below the chassis cross members 116 of the chassis 104. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends is positioned between the chassis first side member 112 and the chassis second side member 114.

[0100] In the embodiment shown, each of the one or more beams 298 extends has an arch shape extend from the first battery 132 to the second battery 136. In other embodiments, each of the one or more beams 298 extends can have a different shape (e.g., straight, angled, etc.).

[0101] Each of the one or more beams 298 extends is coupled to the first rail 266 and the second rail 268. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends is coupled to the lower bracket 250 via the first rail 266. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends is coupled to the second lower bracket 260 via the first rail 266. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends is coupled to the third lower bracket 262 via the second rail 268. Each of the one or more beams 298 extends is coupled to the fourth lower bracket 264 via the second rail 268.

[0102] In the embodiment shown, the battery assembly 120 and / or the frame 122 includes two beams 298. A first beam of the one or more beams 298 is positioned proximate the first battery first side and the second battery first side. A second beam of the one or more beams 298 is positioned proximate the first battery second side and the second battery second side. It should be understood that the battery assembly 120 and / or the frame 122 may include more or fewer beams 298 (e.g., at least one beam 298).10103] The frame 122 can include one or more frame sets, shown as a first frame set 200, a second frame set 300, and a third frame set 400. The frame 122 can include more or fewer frame -22- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685sets (e.g., at least the first frame set 200). The first frame set 200 is coupled to the first battery set 130 and, if the second frame set 300 is present, the second frame set 300. The second frame set 300 is coupled to the second battery set 140 and, if the third frame set 400 is present, the third frame set 400. The third frame set 400 is coupled to the third battery set 150. Each of the frame sets may be substantially identical to each other in overall structure (e.g., including dampers and the like), or there could be differences between individual frame sets.0104| In an example embodiment, the first frame set 200 includes the first hanging bracket 210, the second hanging bracket 220, the third hanging bracket 222, the fourth hanging bracket 224, the first mount 230, the second mount 240, the first lower bracket 250, the second lower bracket 260, the third lower bracket 262, the fourth lower bracket 264, the first rail 266, the second rail 268, the first side bracket 270, the second side bracket 280, the third side bracket 282, the fourth side bracket 284, the plate 290, and / or the one or more beams 298. In another example embodiment, the first frame set 200 includes a first frame set first hanging bracket 210, a first frame set second hanging bracket 220, a first frame set third hanging bracket 222, a first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224, a first frame set first mount 230, a first frame set second mount 240, a first frame set first lower bracket 250, a first frame set second lower bracket 260, a first frame set third lower bracket 262, a first frame set fourth lower bracket 264, a first frame set first rail 266, a first frame set second rail 268, a first frame set first side bracket 270, a first frame set second side bracket 280, a first frame set third side bracket 282, a first frame set fourth side bracket 284, a first frame set plate 290, and / or one or more first frame set beams 298.

[0105] In an example embodiment, the second frame set 300 includes a second frame set first hanging bracket 310, a second frame set second hanging bracket 320, a second frame set third hanging bracket 322, a second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324, a second frame set first mount 330, a second frame set second mount 340, a second frame set first lower bracket 350, a second frame set second lower bracket 360, a second frame set third lower bracket 362, a second frame set fourth lower bracket 364, a second frame set first rail 366, a second frame set second rail 368, a second frame set first side bracket 370, a second frame set second side bracket 380, a second frame set third side bracket 382, a second frame set fourth side bracket 384, a second -23- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685frame set plate 390, and / or one or more second frame set beams 398. The second frame set first hanging bracket 310, the second frame set second hanging bracket 320, the second frame set third hanging bracket 322, the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324, the second frame set first mount 330, the second frame set second mount 340, the second frame set first lower bracket 350, the second frame set second lower bracket 360, the second frame set third lower bracket 362, the second frame set fourth lower bracket 364, the second frame set first rail 366, the second frame set second rail 368, the second frame set first side bracket 370, the second frame set second side bracket 380, the second frame set third side bracket 382, the second frame set fourth side bracket 384, the second frame set plate 390, and / or one or more second frame set beams 398 are substantially similar to or the same as the first frame set first hanging bracket 210, the first frame set second hanging bracket 220, the first frame set third hanging bracket 222, the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224, the first frame set first mount 230, the first frame set second mount 240, the first frame set first lower bracket 250, the first frame set second lower bracket 260, the first frame set third lower bracket 262, the first frame set fourth lower bracket 264, the first frame set first rail 266, the first frame set second rail 268, the first frame set first side bracket 270, the first frame set second side bracket 280, the first frame set third side bracket 282, the first frame set fourth side bracket 284, the first frame set plate 290, and / or the first frame set one or more beams 298, respectively.J0106] In an example embodiment, the third frame set 400 includes a third frame set first hanging bracket 410, a third frame set second hanging bracket 420, a third frame set third hanging bracket 422, a third frame set fourth hanging bracket 424, a third frame set first mount 430, a third frame set second mount 440, a third frame set first lower bracket 450, a third frame set second lower bracket 460, a third frame set third lower bracket 462, a third frame set fourth lower bracket 464, a third frame set first rail 466, a third frame set second rail 468, a third frame set first side bracket 470, a third frame set second side bracket 480, a third frame set third side bracket 482, a third frame set fourth side bracket 484, a third frame set plate 490, and / or a third frame set one or more beams 498. The third frame set first hanging bracket 410, the third frame set second hanging bracket 420, the third frame set third hanging bracket 422, the third frame set-24- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685fourth hanging bracket 424, the third frame set first mount 430, the third frame set second mount 440, the third frame set first lower bracket 450, the third frame set second lower bracket 460, the third frame set third lower bracket 462, the third frame set fourth lower bracket 464, the third frame set first rail 466, the third frame set second rail 468, the third frame set first side bracket 470, the third frame set second side bracket 480, the third frame set third side bracket 482, the third frame set fourth side bracket 484, the third frame set plate 490, and / or the third frame set one or more beams 498 are substantially similar to or the same as the first frame set first hanging bracket 210, the first frame set second hanging bracket 220, the first frame set third hanging bracket 222, the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224, the first frame set first mount 230, the first frame set second mount 240, the first frame set first lower bracket 250, the first frame set second lower bracket 260, the first frame set third lower bracket 262, the first frame set fourth lower bracket 264, the first frame set first rail 266, the first frame set second rail 268, the first frame set first side bracket 270, the first frame set second side bracket 280, the first frame set third side bracket 282, the first frame set fourth side bracket 284, the first frame set plate 290, and / or the first frame set one or more beams 298, respectively.[0107J In some embodiments, the battery assembly 120 includes one or more types of coupling members, shown as a top coupling member 500, an end coupling member 520, and a bottom coupling member 580. The top coupling member 500, the end coupling member 520, and the bottom coupling member 580 are each configured to couple adjacent frame sets to each other. For example, the top coupling member 500, the end coupling member 520, and the bottom coupling member 580 can couple the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300. In another example, the top coupling member 500, the end coupling member 520, and the bottom coupling member 580 can couple the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400.|0108J As shown in FIG. 7, the top coupling member 500 has a top coupling member body 502. In the embodiment shown, the top coupling member body 502 has a cross or “X” shape. It should be understood that, in other embodiments, the top coupling member body 502 can have a different shape, such as a rectangular shape or other suitable shape.-25- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685

[0109] As shown in FIG. 3, the battery assembly 120 includes four top coupling members 500, shown as a first top coupling member 510, a second top coupling member 512, a third top coupling member 514, and a fourth top coupling member 516. It should be understood that the battery assembly 120 can include more or fewer top coupling members 500. For example, the battery assembly 120 can include two top coupling members 500 for each adjacent pair of frame sets.[0110| The first top coupling member 510 is positioned proximate a first end of the first frame set second hanging bracket 220 and a first end of the second frame set first hanging bracket 310. For example, the first top coupling member 510 is positioned vertically above the first frame set second hanging bracket 220 and the second frame set first hanging bracket 310. The first top coupling member 510 is coupled to the first frame set second hanging bracket 220 and the second frame set first hanging bracket 310. For example, the first top coupling member 510 is coupled to the first arm and the second arm of the first frame set second hanging bracket 220 and the first arm and the second arm of the second frame set first hanging bracket 310. In this way, the first top coupling member 510 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300.

[0111] The second top coupling member 512 is positioned proximate a first end of the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224 and a first end of the second frame set third hanging bracket 322. For example, the second top coupling member 512 is positioned vertically above the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224 and the second frame set third hanging bracket 322. The second top coupling member 512 is coupled to the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224 and the second frame set third hanging bracket 322. For example, the second top coupling member 512 is coupled to the first arm and the second arm of the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224 and the first arm and the second arm of the second frame set third hanging bracket 322. In this way, the second top coupling member 512 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300.

[0112] The third top coupling member 514 is positioned proximate a first end of the second frame set second hanging bracket 320 and a first end of the third frame set first hanging bracket-26- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685410. For example, the third top coupling member 514 is positioned vertically above the second frame set second hanging bracket 320 and the third frame set first hanging bracket 410. The third top coupling member 514 is coupled to the second frame set second hanging bracket 320 and the third frame set first hanging bracket 410. For example, the third top coupling member 514 is coupled to the first arm and the second arm of the second frame set second hanging bracket 320 and the first arm and the second arm of the third frame set first hanging bracket 410. In this way, the third top coupling member 514 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400.

[0113] The fourth top coupling member 516 is positioned proximate a first end of the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324 and a first end of the third frame set third hanging bracket 422. For example, the fourth top coupling member 516 is positioned vertically above the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324 and the third frame set third hanging bracket 422. The fourth top coupling member 516 is coupled to the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324 and the third frame set third hanging bracket 422. For example, the fourth top coupling member 516 is coupled to the first arm and the second arm of the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 424 and the first arm and the second arm of the third frame set third hanging bracket 422. In this way, the fourth top coupling member 516 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 8, the end coupling member 520 has an end coupling member body 522. In the embodiment shown, the end coupling member body 522 has a “T” shape. It should be understood that, in other embodiments, the end coupling member body 522 can have a different shape, such as a cuboid shape, a flat, rectangular shape, or other suitable shape.[0115J As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, the battery assembly 120 includes twelve end coupling members 520, shown as a first end coupling member 530, a second end coupling member 531, a third end coupling member 532, a fourth end coupling member 533, a fifth end coupling member 534, a sixth end coupling member 535, a seventh end coupling member 540, an eighth end coupling member 541, a ninth end coupling member 542, a tenth end coupling member 543, an eleventh end coupling member 544, and a twelfth end coupling member 545. It should be-27- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685understood that the battery assembly 120 can include more or fewer end coupling member 520. For example, the battery assembly 120 can include six end coupling member 520 for each adjacent pair of frame sets.

[0116] The first end coupling member 530 is coupled to a first receiver portion of the first frame set second side bracket 280 and a first receiver portion of the second frame set first side bracket 370. In this way, the first end coupling member 530 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300.[0117| The second end coupling member 531 is coupled to a second receiver portion of the first frame set second side bracket 280 and a second receiver portion of the second frame set first side bracket 370. In this way, the second end coupling member 531 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300. Because the second receiver portion of the first frame set second side bracket 280 and the receiver portion of the second frame set first side bracket 370 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the first battery 132 and the third battery 142, respectively, at least a portion of the second end coupling member 531 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the first battery 132 and the third battery 142.[011.8] The third end coupling member 532 is coupled to a receiver portion of the first frame set second lower bracket 260 and a receiver portion of the second frame set first lower bracket 350. In this way, the third end coupling member 532 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300. Because the receiver portion of the first frame set second lower bracket 260 and the receiver portion of the second frame set first lower bracket 350 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the first battery 132 and the third battery 142, respectively, at least a portion of the third end coupling member 532 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the first battery 132 and the third battery 142.[0119| The fourth end coupling member 533 is coupled to a first receiver portion of the first frame set fourth side bracket 284 and a first receiver portion of the second frame set third side bracket 382. In this way, the fourth end coupling member 533 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300.-28- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0120| The fifth end coupling member 534 is coupled to a second receiver portion of the first frame set fourth side bracket 284 and a second receiver portion of the second frame set third side bracket 382. In this way, the fifth end coupling member 534 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300. Because the receiver portion of the second receiver portion of the first frame set fourth side bracket 284 and the second receiver portion of the second frame set third side bracket 382 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the second battery 136 and the fourth battery 146, respectively, at least a portion of the fifth end coupling member 534 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the second battery 136 and the fourth battery 146.

[0121] The sixth end coupling member 535 is coupled to a receiver portion of the first frame set fourth lower bracket 264 and a receiver portion of the second frame set third lower bracket 362. In this way, the sixth end coupling member 535 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300. Because the receiver portion of the first frame set fourth lower bracket 264 and the receiver portion of the second frame set third lower bracket 362 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the second battery 136 and the fourth battery 146, respectively, at least a portion of the sixth end coupling member 535 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the second battery 136 and the fourth battery 146.

[0122] The seventh end coupling member 540 is coupled to a first receiver portion of the second frame set second side bracket 380 and a first receiver portion of the third frame set first side bracket 470. In this way, the seventh end coupling member 540 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400.

[0123] The eighth end coupling member 541 is coupled to a second receiver portion of the second frame set second side bracket 380 and a second receiver portion of the third frame set first side bracket 470. In this way, the eighth end coupling member 541 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400. Because the second receiver portion of the second frame set second side bracket 380 and the second receiver portion of the third frame set first side bracket 470 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the third battery 142 and the fifth battery 152,-29- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685respectively, at least a portion of the eighth end coupling member 541 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the third battery 142 and the fifth battery 152.[0124| The ninth end coupling member 542 is coupled to a receiver portion of the second frame set second lower bracket 360 and a receiver portion of the third frame set first lower bracket 450. In this way, the ninth end coupling member 542 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400. Because the receiver portion of the second frame set second lower bracket 360 and the receiver portion of the third frame set first lower bracket 450 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the third battery 142 and the fifth battery 152, respectively, at least a portion of the ninth end coupling member 542 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the third battery 142 and the fifth battery 152.

[0125] The tenth end coupling member 543 is coupled to a first receiver portion of the second frame set fourth side bracket 384 and a first receiver portion of the third frame set third side bracket 482. In this way, the tenth end coupling member 543 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400.

[0126] The eleventh end coupling member 544 is coupled to a second receiver portion of the second frame set fourth side bracket 384 and a second receiver portion of the third frame set third side bracket 482. In this way, the eleventh end coupling member 544 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400. Because the second receiver portion of the second frame set fourth side bracket 384 and the second receiver portion of the third frame set third side bracket 482 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the fourth battery 146 and the sixth battery 156, respectively, at least a portion of the eleventh end coupling member 544 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the fourth battery 146 and the sixth battery 156.

[0127] The twelfth end coupling member 545 is coupled to a receiver portion of the second frame set fourth lower bracket 364 and a receiver portion of the third frame set third lower bracket 462. In this way, the twelfth end coupling member 545 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400. Because the receiver portion of the second frame set fourth lower bracket 364 and the receiver portion of the third frame set third lower bracket 462 are spaced -30- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685away from the bottom surfaces of the fourth battery 146 and the sixth battery 156, respectively, at least a portion of the twelfth end coupling member 545 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the fourth battery 146 and the sixth battery 156.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 9, the bottom coupling member 580 has a bottom coupling member body 582. In the embodiment shown, the bottom coupling member body 582 has a substantially rectangular shape. It should be understood that, in other embodiments, the bottom coupling member body 582 can have a different shape, such as a cross shape, a square shape, or other suitable shape.

[0129] As shown in FIG. 6, the battery assembly 120 includes four bottom coupling members 580, shown as a first bottom coupling member 590, a second bottom coupling member 592, a third bottom coupling member 594, and a fourth bottom coupling member 596. It should be understood that the battery assembly 120 can include more or fewer bottom coupling members 580. For example, the battery assembly 120 can include two bottom coupling members 580 for each adjacent pair of frame sets.

[0130] The first bottom coupling member 590 is positioned proximate a second end of the first frame set second hanging bracket 220, opposite the first end, and a second end of the second frame set first hanging bracket 310, opposite the first end. For example, the first bottom coupling member 590 is positioned vertically below the first frame set second hanging bracket 220 and the second frame set first hanging bracket 310. The first bottom coupling member 590 is coupled to a receiver portion of the first frame set second hanging bracket 220 and a receiver portion of the second frame set first hanging bracket 310. In this way, the first bottom coupling member 590 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300. Because the receiver portion of the first frame set second hanging bracket 220 and the receiver portion of the second frame set first hanging bracket 310 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the first battery 132 and the third battery 142, respectively, at least a portion of the first bottom coupling member 590 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the first battery 132 and the third battery 142.-31- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[01311 The second botom coupling member 592 is positioned proximate a second end of the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224, opposite the first end, and a second end of the second frame set third hanging bracket 322, opposite the first end. For example, the second bottom coupling member 592 is positioned vertically below the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224 and the second frame set third hanging bracket 322. The second bottom coupling member 592 is coupled to a receiver portion of the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224 and a receiver portion of the second frame set third hanging bracket 322. In this way, the second bottom coupling member 592 couples the first frame set 200 to the second frame set 300.Because the receiver portion of the first frame set fourth hanging bracket 224 and the receiver portion of the second frame set third hanging bracket 322 are spaced away from the botom surfaces of the second battery 136 and the fourth battery 146, respectively, at least a portion of the second bottom coupling member 592 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the second battery 136 and the fourth battery 146.|0132J The third bottom coupling member 594 is positioned proximate a second end of the second frame set second hanging bracket 320, opposite the first end and a second end of the third frame set first hanging bracket 410, opposite the first end. For example, the third bottom coupling member 594 is positioned vertically below the second frame set second hanging bracket 320 and the third frame set first hanging bracket 410. The third bottom coupling member 594 is coupled to a receiver portion of the second frame set second hanging bracket 320 and a receiver portion of the third frame set first hanging bracket 410. In this way, the third top coupling member 514 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400. Because the receiver portion of the second frame set second hanging bracket 320 and the receiver portion of the third frame set first hanging bracket 410 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the third battery 142 and the fifth batery 152, respectively, at least a portion of the third bottom coupling member 594 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the third battery 142 and the fifth battery 152.[01331 The fourth bottom coupling member 596 is positioned proximate a second end of the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324, opposite the first end, and a second end of the third -32- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685frame set third hanging bracket 422, opposite the first end. For example, the fourth bottom coupling member 596 is positioned vertically above the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324 and the third frame set third hanging bracket 422. The fourth bottom coupling member 596 is coupled to a receiver portion of the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324 and a receiver portion of the third frame set third hanging bracket 422. In this way, the fourth bottom coupling member 596 couples the second frame set 300 to the third frame set 400. Because the receiver portion of the second frame set fourth hanging bracket 324 and the receiver portion of the third frame set third hanging bracket 422 are spaced away from the bottom surfaces of the fourth battery 146 and the sixth battery 156, respectively, at least a portion of the fourth bottom coupling member 596 is positioned axially above the bottom surfaces of the fourth battery 146 and the sixth battery 156.[0134! Each of the batteries (e.g., the first battery 132, the second battery 136, the third battery 142, the fourth battery 146, the fifth battery 152, and / or the sixth battery 156) is coupled to the chassis 104 via a corresponding mount (e.g., the first frame set first mount 230, the first frame set second mount 240, the second frame set first mount 330, the second frame set second mount 340, the third frame set first mount 430, and the third frame set second mount 440, respectively). The mounts (and the dampers thereof) are aligned with the corresponding battery axis of the batteries. In some embodiments, the battery axis of each battery extends through a center of gravity of the battery. Beneficially, the mounts are each aligned with a center of gravity of the corresponding battery, movement of the batteries relative to the chassis 104 is mitigated.

[0135] In some embodiments, the battery assembly 120 can include more or fewer battery sets than as shown in FIGS. 3-5. Beneficially, this arrangement allows for scalable battery capacity on the vehicle 100 by installing a number of battery sets onto the vehicle 100 to achieve a desired energy storage amount. By way of example, including one battery set (e.g., the first battery set 130) can provide 225 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy storage. By way of another example, including two battery sets (e.g., the first battery set 130 and the second battery set 140) can provide 450 kWh of energy storage. By way of yet another example, including three battery sets-33- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685(e g., the first battery set 130, the second battery set 140, and the third battery set 150) can provide 675 kWh of energy storage.[0136| While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.[0137| As utilized herein, the terms “substantially,” “generally,” “approximately,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the appended claims.

[0138] The term “coupled” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two components or the two components and any additional intermediate components being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another, with the two components, or with the two components and any additional intermediate components being attached to one another.-34- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685[0139| It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various systems shown in the various example implementations is illustrative only and not restrictive in character. All changes and modifications that come within the spirit and / or scope of the described implementations are desired to be protected. It should be understood that some features may not be necessary, and implementations lacking the various features may be contemplated as within the scope of the disclosure, the scope being defined by the claims that follow. When the language “a portion” is used, the item can include a portion and / or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.|0140] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “left,” “right”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other example embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.[01411 Also, the term “or” is used, in the context of a list of elements, in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, Z, X and Y, X and Z, Y and Z, or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present, unless otherwise indicated.-35- 4912-0289-0362

Claims

Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A vehicle comprising:a chassis; anda battery assembly coupled to the chassis, the battery assembly comprising:a first battery set comprising a first battery positioned on a first chassis side of the chassis and a second battery positioned on a second chassis side of the chassis, opposite the first chassis side;a first hanging bracket coupled to a first battery side of the first battery;a first mount positioned at a first battery end of the first battery and coupled to the first hanging bracket; anda plate coupled to the first mount and extending from the first battery to the second battery above the chassis, the plate coupled to the chassis.

2. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein:the first battery defines a first battery axis extending through the first mount; and the first hanging bracket aligns with the first battery axis in a lateral direction.

3. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first mount comprises:a bracket portion coupled to the first hanging bracket; anda damper portion coupled to the bracket portion and the plate, the damper portion positioned between the bracket portion and the plate.

4. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first mount comprises a damper coupled to the plate and positioned between the first hanging bracket and the plate.

5. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein:the chassis comprises a chassis cross member; andthe plate is coupled to the chassis cross member.-36- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-96856. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the battery assembly further comprises:a lower bracket coupled to the first battery side of the first battery; anda beam coupled to the lower bracket and extending from the first battery to the second battery below the plate, the beam spaced away from the chassis.

7. The vehicle of claim 6, further comprising a drive shaft vertically spaced away from the chassis, the beam positioned between the chassis and the drive shaft.

8. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein:the first battery comprises:a first battery first portion positioned proximate a first chassis end of the chassis and spaced vertically away from the first chassis end, anda first battery second portion positioned proximate the first chassis side and spaced laterally away from the first chassis side;the second battery comprises:a second battery first portion positioned proximate the first chassis end and spaced vertically away from the first chassis end, anda second battery second portion positioned proximate the second chassis side and spaced laterally away from the second chassis side;the second battery first portion is spaced away from the first battery first portion, such that a gap is formed therebetween; andthe chassis is positioned between the first battery second portion and the second battery second portion.

9. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the battery assembly further comprises second battery set comprising:a third battery positioned on the first chassis side of the chassis and coupled to the first battery; and-37- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685a fourth battery positioned on the second chassis side of the chassis, opposite the first chassis side, and coupled to the second battery.

10. A frame for a battery assembly of a vehicle, the frame comprising:a first hanging bracket;a second hanging bracket spaced away from the first hanging bracket in a longitudinal direction;a first mount extending from a first hanging bracket first end of the first hanging bracket to a second hanging bracket first end of the second hanging bracket in the longitudinal direction, the first mount coupled to the first hanging bracket and the second hanging bracket;a third hanging bracket spaced away from the first hanging bracket in a lateral direction; a fourth hanging bracket spaced away from the third hanging bracket in the longitudinal direction;a second mount extending from a third hanging bracket first end of the third hanging bracket to a fourth hanging bracket first end of the fourth hanging bracket in the longitudinal direction, the second mount coupled to the third hanging bracket and the fourth hanging bracket; anda plate extending from the first mount to the second mount in the lateral direction, the plate coupled to the first mount and the second mount.

11. The frame of claim 10, wherein the first hanging bracket is spaced away from the second hanging bracket so as to define a first battery receiving region therebetween.

12. The frame of claim 11, wherein the third hanging bracket is spaced away from the fourth hanging bracket so as to define a second battery receiving region therebetween.

13. The frame of claim 10, wherein the first hanging bracket is spaced away from the third hanging bracket so as to define a chassis receiving region therebetween.-38- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-968514. A battery assembly comprising:a first battery set comprising a first battery and a second battery spaced away from the first battery; anda first frame set comprising:a first frame set first hanging bracket coupled to a first battery first side of the first battery;a first frame set second hanging bracket coupled to a first battery second side of the first battery;a first frame set first mount coupled to the first frame set first hanging bracket and the first frame set second hanging bracket, the first frame set first mount comprising a first damper;a first frame set third hanging bracket coupled to a second battery first side of the second battery;a first frame set fourth hanging bracket coupled to a second battery second side of the second battery;a first frame set second mount coupled to the first frame set third hanging bracket and the first frame set fourth hanging bracket; anda first frame set plate extending from the first battery to the second battery and coupled to the first damper.

15. The battery assembly of claim 14, wherein the first frame set second mount comprises a second damper, and wherein the first frame set plate is coupled to the second damper.

16. The battery assembly of claim 14, further comprising:a second battery set comprising a third battery and a fourth battery spaced away from the third battery; anda second frame set coupled to the third battery, the fourth battery, and the first frame set.

17. The battery assembly of claim 16, wherein the second frame set comprises:-39- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-9685a second frame set first hanging bracket coupled to the first battery first side of the first battery;a second frame set second hanging bracket coupled to the first battery second side of the first battery;a second frame set first mount coupled to the second frame set first hanging bracket and the second frame set second hanging bracket;a second frame set third hanging bracket coupled to a second battery first side of the second battery;a second frame set fourth hanging bracket coupled to a second battery second side of the second battery;a second frame set second mount coupled to the second frame set third hanging bracket and the second frame set fourth hanging bracket; anda second frame set plate extending from the first battery to the second battery.

18. The battery assembly of claim 17, further comprising:a first top coupling member coupled to the first frame set second hanging bracket and the second frame set first hanging bracket; anda second top coupling member coupled to the first frame set fourth hanging bracket and the second frame set third hanging bracket.

19. The battery assembly of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the first frame set comprises: a first frame set first side bracket coupled to a first battery first side of the first battery; anda first frame set second side bracket coupled to a first battery second side of the first battery; anda first frame set third side bracket coupled to the second battery first side of the second battery; anda first frame set fourth side bracket coupled to the second battery second side of the second battery.-40- 4912-0289-0362Atty. Dkt. No.: 106389-968520. The battery assembly of any of claims 16-18, further comprising:a third battery set comprising a fifth battery and a sixth battery spaced away from the fifth battery; anda third frame set coupled to the fifth battery, the sixth battery, and the second frame set.4912-0289-0362

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