Battery Frame Pin-and-Recess Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-voltage battery systems in vehicles require compact battery modules to manage cell bulge expansion due to state of charge, temperature, and aging, which affects performance and service life, and existing frame devices are cumbersome and require tools for assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A frame device with pin-and-recess connections and bolt-like securing elements allows for easy assembly and disassembly without tools, using plastic elements for reduced weight, and features L-shaped connecting elements and compressible intermediate elements to clamp and stabilize prismatic battery cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional screw connections are used to mechanically connect end elements, then the structural strength is sufficient, but the assembly requires tools and multiple screws increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is segmented into distinct functional elements: pins for positioning, recesses for engagement, and bolt-like securing elements for fixation. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function efficiently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin-and-recess connection system is designed to be self-aligning and self-latching. The pins automatically engage with the recesses during assembly, and the bolt-like securing elements automatically lock the connection without requiring external tools or complex adjustment procedures.
2Weight of moving object
If metal frame elements are used, then the structural strength and durability are high, but the weight of the frame device is significant
Solution Approach 1:
The frame device employs composite construction by combining plastic material for the frame elements with metal-only securing elements where structurally necessary. This composite approach significantly reduces the overall weight compared to traditional all-metal frames while maintaining sufficient structural strength through the strategic use of metal fastening components.
3Volume of moving object
If battery cells are allowed to expand freely, then the cell bulge is accommodated, but the installation space increases and performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The frame device applies preliminary counteracting force through its rigid structure and connection system to prevent excessive cell expansion before it can occur. The connecting elements and securing elements create a pre-loaded constraint system that actively resists the bulging tendency of battery cells during charge-discharge cycles, thereby maintaining compact volume and preserving cell performance.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a frame device (18) for accommodating storage cells (12) of an energy storage module (10), in particular a battery module, comprising – two plate-like closure elements (20) which form two ends (22, 24) of the frame device (18) that are opposite one another along an axis (14), – connection elements (30) which are arranged on mutually opposite sides (26, 28) of the frame device (18) and which extend from one end (22) to the other end (24) of the frame device (18) and mechanically connect the two closure elements (20) over a distance. For connection to the two closure elements (20), provision is made for each of the connection elements (30) to be provided at each of the ends thereof with a pin (42) which is oriented transversely to the axis (14) and which respectively engages in a cutout (40) in one of the closure elements (20) and is releasably fixed there by means of a respective latch-type securing element (32). The invention further relates to a corresponding energy storage module (10).