EV Battery Cross-Member Layout for Compact Shock Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery designs suffer from reduced energy density due to the space above electrochemical cells created by electrical connections straddling cross-members, which also compromise resistance to lateral shocks.
Innovation Solution
A battery design incorporating cross-members and corner members that integrate electrochemical cell assemblies, with corner members transmitting transverse forces and allowing electrical connectors to be positioned alongside the cells, reducing the need for space above the cells and enhancing resistance to lateral shocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If electrical connections are positioned above the electrochemical cells, then the battery structure is simplified, but the energy density is reduced due to wasted space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions electrical connectors from the vertical dimension (above cells) to the lateral dimension (alongside cells in transverse direction), enabling space utilization optimization without increasing structural complexity
2Stability of the object's composition
If cross-members are positioned to support electrical connections, then structural stability is improved, but resistance to lateral shocks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the structural support function into two independent systems: cross-members for structural stability and corner members for lateral shock resistance, allowing each to be optimized for its specific function without compromise
Solution Approach 2:
Corner members act as intermediary elements that transmit lateral forces from the casing to the cross-members, protecting the battery assembly from lateral shocks while maintaining structural integrity
3Ease of manufacture
If space above cells is used for electrical connections, then assembly is simplified, but compactness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates electrical connectors to the transverse dimension alongside the cells, utilizing previously wasted lateral space and achieving both compactness and assembly simplicity through this dimensional reconfiguration
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a battery for an electric or hybrid vehicle, comprising:a casing defining a housing that extends in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, the housing having a first lateral edge,a plurality of transverse cross-members,a plurality of assemblies comprising electrochemical cells, the cross-members and the assemblies being arranged successively in the longitudinal direction in the housing,a plurality of corner members for transmitting transverse forces between the cross-members and the housing, at least some of the corner members having a first portion that extends perpendicular to the transverse direction and is attached to a transverse end of at least some of the cross-members, and a second portion that extends transversely from the first portion and is attached to the first lateral edge; the assemblies, the first portion, and the first lateral edge at least partially define a longitudinally extending housing.