Battery Module Exterior Member for Cell Swelling and Cooling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery modules face issues with decreased battery density due to the need for separate fixing members, complex manufacturing processes, and insufficient absorption of battery cell deformation during charging and discharging, leading to swelling and reduced cooling performance.
Innovation Solution
A battery module design featuring an exterior member made of an elastic material that surrounds the battery cell stack, with sensing blocks and compressive pads to absorb deformation, and a pack frame with thermally conductive resin layers for improved cooling and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If separate fixing members are used to secure the battery cell stack, then the battery module structure is stable, but the battery density decreases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The module frame is designed to integrate both the fixing function and the pressing function into a single structural component. The module frame directly presses the battery cell stack against the lower frame while simultaneously securing it in position, eliminating the need for separate fixing members and compressive pads, thereby increasing battery density and simplifying manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The module frame serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, secures the battery cell stack in position, and applies pressing force to maintain contact between the battery cell stack and the lower frame. This multi-functional design replaces multiple separate components with a single universal structure
2Stability of the object's composition
If compressive pads are used to press the battery cell stack, then the battery cells are secured, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and requires separate pressing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing function is integrated into the module frame structure itself, which directly contacts and presses the battery cell stack against the lower frame. This eliminates the need for separate compressive pads and independent pressing operations, simplifying both the device structure and the manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The module frame automatically provides the pressing force needed to secure the battery cell stack during assembly. The structural design of the module frame inherently provides the necessary compression, eliminating the need for separate pressing mechanisms or operations
3Reliability
If traditional module frames are used, then the battery cell stack is protected, but cooling performance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The lower frame is designed with enhanced thermal conductivity properties specifically at the contact interface with the battery cell stack. This localized thermal management capability allows efficient heat dissipation from the battery cells while maintaining the protective function of the module frame structure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design enhances cooling performance, prevents battery cell swelling, simplifies manufacturing, and increases battery density by eliminating the need for separate fixing members and separate pressing processes.
Implementation Method 1
a pack frame with thermally conductive resin layers for improved cooling and stability
Implementation Method 2
an exterior member made of an elastic material that surrounds the battery cell stack, with sensing blocks and compressive pads to absorb deformation
Data Source
AI summary
A battery module includes a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells stacked in a first direction; an exterior member configured to surround front and rear sides and two opposite lateral sides of the battery cell stack; and sensing blocks positioned at front and rear sides of the battery cell stack, in which the sensing blocks are positioned between the exterior member and the front and rear sides of the battery cell stack, and in which upper and lower sides of the battery cell stack are exposed.