Battery Pack Case Rib Reinforcement for Coupling Strength
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery pack designs face challenges in maintaining a strong coupling force between case members while preventing exterior defects and sink marks, which can lead to separation under external forces.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a reinforcement part with a bar shape on the inner surface of the first rib, which protrudes from the first sidewall and is adjacent to the coupling hook, to enhance the coupling force between the first and second case members, and a protective circuit module is placed between the bare cells and the case to prevent overcharging/overdischarging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If coupling hooks are used to join case members, then assembly is simplified and coupling force is improved, but exterior defects and sink marks occur leading to separation under external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement structure is divided into multiple coupling hooks distributed along the case members, with each hook providing localized reinforcement. This segmentation allows the coupling force to be distributed across multiple points rather than concentrated at single locations, preventing sink marks and exterior defects while maintaining overall coupling strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling hooks are strategically positioned at specific locations where reinforcement is most needed, rather than uniformly distributing material throughout the entire case structure. This local quality approach strengthens the coupling force at critical joints while avoiding excessive material usage that could cause sink marks and exterior defects in non-critical areas.
2Reliability
If reinforcement is added to prevent separation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling hooks serve dual functions: they provide the primary coupling force to join case members together while simultaneously acting as reinforcement elements to prevent separation under external forces. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate reinforcement structures, maintaining reliability without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling hooks are designed to perform multiple roles within the case structure: mechanical coupling, structural reinforcement, and prevention of sink marks. This multi-functionality allows a single structural element to address multiple problems, improving reliability while avoiding the complexity that would result from adding dedicated reinforcement components.
Data Source
AI summary
A case for a battery pack includes a first case member including a first sidewall, a first rib extending from the first sidewall, and a coupling hook disposed on the first rib and a second case member including a second sidewall, a second rib spaced from and parallel to the second sidewall, a coupling hole defined in the second rib and coupled to the coupling hook. The first rib includes a reinforcement part disposed on an inner surface thereof facing the second rib.