Battery Module Cover Deformation Control via Segmented Extensions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Deformation of the degassing cover in battery modules due to temperature changes or vibrations can lead to gaps between the battery cell and the cover, causing gas leakage from the flow passage, which may affect peripheral electronic components.

Innovation Solution

A battery module design featuring a rechargeable battery with a release valve, a cover member, and extensions that define a flow passage, where engagement projections through holes in the cover member limit deformation and prevent gas leakage by ensuring secure engagement between the cover and the battery holder, thereby reducing the formation of gaps.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the degassing cover is adhered and fixed to the vent, then gas discharge function is achieved, but deformation under temperature changes or vibration causes gaps and gas leakage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegas discharge functionVSAvoidcover deformation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The cover member is divided into a body portion and two extension portions that are spaced apart. This segmentation allows the extensions to independently engage with the battery holder, providing stable support while maintaining the gas discharge function. The spaced arrangement prevents deformation-induced gaps while preserving the flow passage integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement projections are pre-formed on the battery holder at positions that correspond to the extensions. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the cover member is installed, the extensions automatically engage with these projections, securing the cover in a fixed position before any temperature changes or vibrations occur, thereby preventing deformation and gas leakage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Stability of the object's composition

If the cover member is securely engaged with the battery holder, then deformation is prevented, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecover deformation preventionVSAvoidengagement structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of complex fastening mechanisms across the entire cover, engagement projections are placed only at specific local positions where the extensions contact the battery holder. This localized engagement approach provides sufficient stability to prevent deformation while keeping the overall structure simple and avoiding unnecessary complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP3270440B1Battery module
Publication Date: 2019.12.18 TOYOTA INDUSTRIES CORP
  • EP3270440B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3270440B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B
  • EP3270440B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

This battery module comprises a secondary battery, a battery holder, a cover member and a pair of extended parts. The secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly, a case and an open valve. The cover member has a main body that faces the open valve. The pair of extended parts are provided between the case and the main body of the cover member. The open valve is positioned between the pair of extended parts. The case, the main body of the cover member and the pair of extended parts form a flow path for a gas that is discharged from the open valve. The battery holder has a lock projection that is locked to the main body of the cover member.