Battery Fastener With Reduced Diameter Section for Easy Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor vehicles with electrified systems face challenges in easily releasing the connection between the battery and the vehicle frame, particularly when heavier batteries are used, which can lead to contact between the battery and frame during certain conditions, such as when a force is applied along the vehicle's centerline.
Innovation Solution
A fastener with a section of reduced diameter between the head and threaded shank, optionally featuring a notch and a sliding joint, is designed to facilitate the release of the battery from the frame by allowing for independent movement and preventing contact, utilizing a dovetail joint and a sleeve for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fastener with reduced diameter section is used, then the ease of releasing the connection is improved, but the strength of the fastener is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is segmented into distinct functional zones: a head portion for securing, a reduced diameter section for controlled failure, and a threaded shank for engagement. This segmentation allows the fastener to provide both strong connection during normal operation and easy release when the reduced section fails under specific conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener geometry is changed by introducing a reduced diameter section with specific dimensional parameters (smaller cross-section) compared to the head and shank. This parameter change creates a controlled weak point that facilitates release while maintaining overall fastener strength through the other sections.
2Ease of operation
If a notch is added to the fastener section, then the ease of releasing the connection is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notch is pre-formed during fastener manufacturing as an integral feature of the reduced diameter section. This preliminary action prepares the fastener for its intended function by creating a stress concentration point that will initiate controlled failure, eliminating the need for post-manufacturing modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The notch introduces a localized geometric feature at a specific position on the fastener surface. This local quality change creates a controlled weak point without affecting the overall structural integrity of the fastener, allowing selective failure only at the notched location.
3Ease of operation
If a sliding joint is used to connect fastener parts, then the ease of releasing the connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding joint transforms the fastener from a static, rigid connection into a dynamic system where the head and shank can move relative to each other. This dynamic capability allows the fastener to transition between a locked state (during normal operation) and a released state (when the reduced section fails), providing ease of release without permanent assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding joint allows one portion of the fastener (the head) to be nested within or alongside another portion (the shank) in a compact arrangement. The dovetail geometry enables the head to slide along the shank axis, creating an integrated yet separable connection that reduces overall structural complexity compared to fully rigid fastening mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a motor vehicle including a bolt configured to increase the ease of releasing a connection between a battery and a vehicle frame, and a corresponding method. An example vehicle includes a frame, a battery mounted to the frame, and a fastener forming a connection of the battery to the frame. A section of the fastener is configured to increase the ease of releasing the connection.