Battery Array with Closed-Curve Terminal Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery arrays require additional connection members to reduce the distance between output terminals, which is economically and spatially inefficient, especially when multiple batteries are connected in series or parallel to achieve higher voltage or current capacity.
Innovation Solution
A battery array configuration where batteries are arranged into 2N+1 bundles, with each bundle containing M+1 batteries in parallel, and connection tabs are used to electrically couple the bundles in series, minimizing the distance between output terminals by alternating polarities and arranging bundles in a closed curve, eliminating the need for additional coupling members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple batteries are connected in series or parallel to increase output, then voltage or current capacity is improved, but the distance between output terminals increases and additional connection members are required
Solution Approach 1:
The battery array is segmented into multiple bundles, where each bundle contains a specific number of batteries connected in parallel. These bundles are then connected in series to achieve the desired output capacity. This segmentation allows the system to maintain compact dimensions while providing high power output through the organized modular structure of 2N+1 bundles with alternating polarities.
Solution Approach 2:
The bundles are arranged in a closed curve configuration rather than a linear arrangement. This curved/circular layout allows the first and last bundles to be positioned adjacent to each other, minimizing the distance between output terminals while maintaining the series connection topology required for high voltage output.
2Power
If multiple batteries are connected in series or parallel to increase output, then voltage or current capacity is improved, but additional connection members are required which increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple batteries within each bundle are merged by connecting them in parallel, sharing common connection tabs. This reduces the number of individual connection members needed compared to connecting each battery separately in series. The parallel configuration within bundles allows current to be distributed across multiple paths while using fewer connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection tabs serve multiple functions: they connect batteries in parallel within a bundle, provide series connection points between bundles, and act as output terminals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate connection members for each function, reducing overall complexity and cost.
3Power
If batteries are arranged in traditional configurations, then output capacity is achieved, but spatial efficiency is reduced and voltage drop increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closed curve arrangement of bundles minimizes the path length for current flow between the output terminals. By positioning the first and last bundles adjacent to each other in a circular configuration, the voltage drop is reduced compared to linear arrangements where terminals would be at opposite ends of a long chain of batteries.
Solution Approach 2:
Within each bundle, batteries are connected in parallel to locally increase current capacity and reduce resistance. This local parallel configuration reduces voltage drop at the bundle level, and when combined with the compact closed-curve arrangement of bundles, minimizes overall voltage drop while maintaining high power output capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces the distance between output terminals, enhances spatial efficiency, and minimizes voltage drop, while maintaining the ability to supply higher voltage and current capacity without additional costly or space-consuming connection members.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of connection tabs arranged at a first end of the battery array and at a second end of the battery array, each of the connection tabs being coupled to a corresponding pair of the bundles to electrically couple a first bundle through a 2N+1th bundle of the bundles in series
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of batteries arranged into 2N+1 bundles, each of the bundles including M+1 batteries of the batteries arranged in parallel
Data Source
AI summary
A battery array includes: a plurality of batteries arranged into 2N+1 bundles, each of the bundles including M+1 batteries of the batteries arranged in parallel (where N and M are natural numbers); a plurality of connection tabs arranged at a first end of the battery array and at a second end of the battery array, each of the connection tabs being coupled to a corresponding pair of the bundles to electrically couple a first bundle through a 2N+1th bundle of the bundles in series; a first output terminal having a first polarity, and electrically coupled to the first bundle; and a second output terminal having a second polarity, and electrically coupled to the 2N+1th bundle, the second output terminal being adjacent to the first bundle.