Battery Cell Frame Assembly With Snap-Fit Cooling Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery cell assemblies face challenges in securely holding frame members together while allowing for efficient cooling and airflow, which affects the performance and reliability of battery modules.
Innovation Solution
The use of frame members with tabs and slots or apertures that engage in a snap-fit mechanism to securely hold each other together, along with a cooling manifold and compressible spacers to facilitate airflow and heat extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If frame members are held together using traditional fastening methods, then the assembly is secure, but the device complexity and manufacturing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame members are divided into modular sections with standardized tabs and slots, allowing individual segments to be easily connected without complex fastening mechanisms. Each frame member contains multiple tabs extending from different sides, enabling segmented assembly of the battery module.
Solution Approach 2:
The tabs and slots are designed to self-align and self-secure when brought together, eliminating the need for external fastening tools or complex assembly procedures. The complementary geometries of tabs and slots create automatic engagement that holds frame members securely in place.
2Temperature
If traditional cooling methods are used, then heat management is achieved, but airflow efficiency and cooling performance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling system is segmented into multiple airflow channels defined by the tab and slot geometry, allowing distributed cooling across the battery module. Each slot creates a dedicated airflow path that directs cooling air to specific battery cell regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The tab and slot configuration creates localized airflow patterns optimized for specific thermal zones within the battery module. Different regions of the frame members have tabs and slots positioned to address local heat generation patterns of adjacent battery cells.
3Stability of the object's composition
If frame members are tightly secured together, then structural stability is improved, but heat dissipation and airflow pathways are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The frame member connection system uses discrete tabs and slots rather than continuous contact, creating natural airflow pathways while maintaining structural integrity. The segmented connection points provide stability without forming a solid barrier to heat dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tab and slot interface acts as an intermediary structure that simultaneously provides mechanical connection and thermal management functions. The geometry of the tab-slot interface allows it to serve as both a structural connector and an airflow channel.
Data Source
AI summary
A battery cell assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment is provided. The assembly includes a first frame member having a first plurality of tabs extending away from a first peripheral edge of the first frame member. Each tab of the first plurality of tabs has a first coupling feature at a distal end of the respective tab. The assembly further includes a second frame member having a plurality of slots extending into a second peripheral edge of the second frame member. The assembly further includes a battery cell disposed between the first and second frame members, and each first coupling feature of each tab of the first plurality of tabs is configured to engage a respective slot of the plurality of slots of the second frame member to fixedly hold the first and second frame members together.