Battery Cell Biasing Structure for Precise Module Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power storage devices face challenges in precisely positioning multiple battery cells due to structural simplification, leading to positional deviations and terminal misalignment caused by cell deformation.
Innovation Solution
A power storage device design featuring a case with biasing means, such as elastic members or ribs, that securely positions stacked power storage cells by applying a biasing force to maintain precise alignment in multiple axes without increasing size or weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the restraining structure is simplified to reduce size and weight, then the device complexity is reduced, but the positioning precision of battery cells deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The battery cells themselves serve as the restraining structure through their outer jackets that engage with grooves in the case. The cells restrain each other and the case through their own structural features (protrusions and grooves) without requiring additional dedicated restraining components, thus achieving self-service positioning that reduces device complexity while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a new dimensional approach by using groove-protrusion interfaces between the case and battery cell outer jackets. This groove-based positioning system adds a new dimension of constraint that works alongside the simplified structure, enabling precise positioning in multiple axes without increasing overall device complexity
2Device complexity
If the restraining structure is simplified, then the device complexity is reduced, but the positioning stability of battery cells deteriorates due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The outer jackets of the battery cells perform dual functions: they protect the cells and simultaneously serve as the positioning and restraining mechanism. The grooves and protrusions on the outer jackets create self-aligning features that maintain stable positioning even when cells deform slightly, as the deformation itself can engage the groove-protrusion interfaces more firmly
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameters of the interface between the case and battery cells by introducing groove-protrusion geometries. These geometric parameters create mechanical interlocking that compensates for cell deformation, maintaining stable positioning through shape complementarity rather than rigid fixed-position structures
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
The solution ensures precise positioning of battery cells in the X, Y, and Z axes, reducing positional deviations and maintaining workability while allowing for size and weight reduction.
Implementation Method 1
biasing means for biasing the plurality of power storage cells toward the second inner side surface of the case, the biasing means being provided between the first inner side surface of the case and the plurality of power storage cells
Data Source
AI summary
Each of a plurality of power storage cells includes an top surface provided with an electrode terminal, a bottom surface opposite to the top surface, and a side surface contiguous to the top surface and the bottom surface. A case includes a main body provided with an opening on the side surface side of the plurality of power storage cells, and a cover provided over the opening. The case has a first inner side surface and a second inner side surface each facing the side surfaces of the plurality of power storage cells. A power storage device includes biasing means for biasing the plurality of power storage cells toward the second inner side surface of the case, the biasing means being provided between the first inner side surface of the case and the plurality of power storage cells.