Battery Array Interlink Connections for Compact EV Packaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

The electrification of vehicles presents packaging difficulties due to the inclusion of a second energy system, such as batteries, which complicates the organization and connection of battery arrays.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a first array and a second array connected via an interlinking connection, with integrated circuits and contact patches, and optionally including a battery management system, to simplify the installation and reduce complexity by using flexible printed circuits and jumper wires that do not require additional fastening devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional connection methods with multiple fastening devices are used to connect battery arrays, then the connection stability is improved, but the device complexity and packaging difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidpackaging difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated connection structure. The connection structure includes conductive elements that simultaneously provide electrical connection and mechanical fastening, eliminating the need for separate fastening devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical conductivity between battery arrays, mechanical support through integrated fastening, and structural alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall packaging arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple separate connections are used to connect battery arrays, then the connection reliability is improved, but the organization and installation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate connection operations into a single integrated connection structure that establishes both electrical and mechanical connections simultaneously. This reduces the number of installation steps and simplifies the organization process while maintaining reliable connections through the integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Stability of the object's composition

If additional fastening devices and mounts are used to secure battery arrays, then the structural stability is improved, but the packaging space and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidpackaging space
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates fastening functions directly into the connection structure itself, eliminating the need for separate mounts and clips. The connection structure includes built-in fastening elements that provide structural stability while occupying minimal additional space, as the fastening capability is incorporated into the existing connection volume rather than adding separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20250343335A1Systems for a battery system
Publication Date: 2025.11.06 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US20250343335A1 patent drawing
  • US20250343335A1 patent drawing
  • US20250343335A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems are provided for a coupling device for an electric system. In one example, a system includes a plurality of arrays interconnected via a plurality of connections. Each of the plurality of connections is coupled to neighboring arrays of the plurality of arrays. The plurality of arrays is spaced apart from one another and do not touch.