Battery Module Groove-Projection Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery modules face challenges in productivity due to complex processes required to fix multiple battery cells, which increases time and decreases efficiency, especially when the cells have smooth surfaces and require precise alignment.

Innovation Solution

The battery module employs a system with first and second end plates and support plates that utilize coupling portions, extending portions, and bending portions to securely fix battery cells without external forces, eliminating the need for separate coupling members and enhancing coupling performance through groove-projection connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If complex processes are used to fix multiple battery cells with smooth surfaces, then the cells can be securely fixed, but productivity decreases due to increased time and reduced efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fixation of battery cellsVSAvoidassembly efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The end plate and support plate are merged into a single integrated component with built-in coupling portions. The coupling portions are directly formed on the plates themselves rather than being separate elements, combining the functions of structural support and cell fixation into one component, thereby simplifying the assembly process and improving productivity while maintaining secure fixation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling portions utilize self-aligning features where the extending portions of one plate fit into corresponding portions of the other plate without requiring external alignment tools or complex positioning mechanisms. The structure itself provides the alignment and fixation function, eliminating the need for additional external forces or complex assembly procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If separate coupling members are used to fix battery cells, then the cells can be securely attached, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling function is merged directly into the end plate and support plate structures. The coupling portions are integral features of these plates rather than separate coupling members, reducing the total component count and simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining secure attachment capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The end plate and support plate serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural support for the battery cells, act as mounting surfaces, and incorporate the coupling portions for secure attachment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated separate coupling members, reducing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2631965B1Battery module
Publication Date: 2016.09.07 SAMSUNG SDI CO LTD
  • EP2631965B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2631965B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2631965B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A battery module includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in one direction; first and second end plates respectively disposed at outsides of the battery cells; and one or more support plates coupled to the first and second end plates. In the battery module, one and the other ends of the support plate are respectively coupled to the first and second end plates, and at least one of the support plates is coupled to at least one of the first and second end plates by a groove-projection connection.