Battery Module Load Path Structure for Reduced Crash Stroke
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power storage devices in vehicles face challenges in reducing crash stroke without increasing vehicle size, as they require enhanced strength of cross members to absorb impact loads effectively.
Innovation Solution
A power storage device design featuring a power storage stack with end plates, a frame, a cross member orthogonal to the stack direction, and a connecting member that transfers impact loads to the cross member and end plates, reducing crash stroke by distributing the load across the module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the strength of the cross member is increased to reduce crash stroke, then the impact load absorption capability is improved, but the vehicle size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member is divided into multiple branches (first branch, second branch, third branch) that distribute the impact load to different structural components (frame and end plate) rather than relying on a single robust cross member. This segmentation allows load distribution across the existing structure, reducing the need for oversized cross members while maintaining crash protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting member integrates multiple functions: it connects the power storage module to both the frame and the end plate, and simultaneously serves as an impact load distribution pathway. By merging these functions into a single multi-branch structure, the design avoids adding separate reinforcement components that would increase vehicle size.
2Quantity of substance
If more power storage cells are mounted to increase energy capacity, then the energy storage capability is improved, but the crash stroke increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member is pre-configured with multiple load transmission pathways (branches) that are ready to distribute impact loads before any crash occurs. This preliminary structural arrangement ensures that when additional power storage cells are mounted, the crash stroke remains controlled because the load distribution mechanism is already in place, eliminating the need for increased cross member strength.
3Strength
If the cross member is made more robust to reduce crash stroke, then the impact resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural connection between the power storage module, frame, and end plate, and acts as a multi-pathway impact load distribution system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate reinforcement structures, maintaining simplicity while achieving robust impact resistance.
Data Source
AI summary
A power storage device includes: at least one power storage module including a power storage stack including a plurality of power storage cells arranged in a row along one direction, and a pair of end plates; a frame arranged on opposite sides of the power storage module in the one direction; a cross member arranged adjacent to the power storage module in an orthogonal direction and having a shape to extend along the one direction; and a connecting member connecting the frame to the cross member and connecting the frame to the end plate.