Non-uniform Battery Cell Spacing for Uniform Air Cooling

The patent applies local quality by varying the gap width between battery cells based on their position in the array. Cells closer to the air inlet have narrower gaps while cells farther away have wider gaps. This non-uniform gap configuration compensates for the natural pressure drop along the air flow path, ensuring that air velocity remains relatively uniform across all cell positions, thereby optimizing cooling efficiency throughout the entire battery array.

The patent uses local quality to apply different gap widths at different locations. Narrower gaps are positioned only where needed (near the inlet) to maintain adequate air velocity, while wider gaps are used in downstream regions where pressure has naturally dropped. This localized approach achieves the necessary air flow velocity for effective cooling without creating excessive overall pressure drop, thereby reducing the power requirements of cooling fans.

The patent applies local quality by strategically placing wider gaps in downstream regions where air pressure has naturally decreased, allowing these cells to achieve adequate air flow velocity despite the lower driving pressure. Upstream cells near the inlet maintain narrower gaps to ensure sufficient air velocity where pressure is highest. This position-dependent gap configuration optimizes the balance between pressure drop and air flow velocity across the entire array.

The patent implements local quality through a systematic non-uniform gap configuration where the gap width varies predictably based on cell position. This creates a controlled complexity that can be managed through standardized manufacturing processes, such as using progressive spacers or position-dependent fixtures during assembly. The benefit of uniform cooling across all cells outweighs the moderate increase in manufacturing complexity, as the gap pattern follows a logical gradient rather than requiring arbitrary variations.