Battery Cell Prismatic Connectors for Space-Efficient Module Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery cell connection methods require separate bus bars or connector elements, which occupy space and are costly, and involve complex connection methods like screwing or welding.
Innovation Solution
The battery cell design features bent negative and positive contact segments forming prismatic connectors, allowing for electrical connection without additional bus bars or connector elements, using pressure contact and apertures to integrate circuit elements, thus eliminating the need for separate connectors and simplifying the connection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate bus bars or connector elements are used for battery cell connections, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the terminal and connector elements into a single integrated structure. The terminal comprises a body portion housed within the battery housing and a connector portion that extends outward, eliminating the need for separate bus bars or connector elements. This integration maintains reliable electrical connection while reducing device complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If separate bus bars or connector elements are used for battery cell connections, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal is designed as an integrated component combining the electrical connection function and connector function. This reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and managed, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connection to the electrode assembly, acts as a connector for inter-cell connections, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs.
3Reliability
If traditional connection methods are used, then electrical connection is established, but space is occupied by additional connectors
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal and connector are merged into a single component, eliminating the need for separate connector elements. The connector portion of the terminal extends from the housing and provides the connection interface, thereby establishing electrical connection without occupying additional space with separate connectors.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a battery cell (2) comprising a housing, a negative terminal protruding from the housing and a positive terminal protruding from the housing, negative contact segments joined to the negative terminal and positive contact segments joined to the positive terminal. Thereat, the negative contact segments are bent relatively to each other and relatively to the negative terminal as to form a negative cell connector (35) having a prismatic shape, and the positive contact segments are bent relatively to each other and relatively to the positive terminal as to form a positive cell connector (36) having a prismatic shape. The invention also relates to a battery module (5) that comprises at least two battery cells (2) according to the invention, whereat at least one cell connector (35, 36) of one battery cell (2) is connected non-positively to at least one cell connector (35, 36) of another battery cell (2).