Battery Module Interface with Integrated Connectors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Middle- or large-sized battery modules require complex assembly processes for mechanical and electrical connections, leading to increased system size, which is undesirable for compact applications like vehicles, where a more compact, stable, and efficiently connected battery module assembly is necessary.

Innovation Solution

A battery module interface with a printed circuit board and sheathing plate for direct electrical and mechanical connection, along with a compact design that allows for easy mounting and flexible configuration, including power and communication connectors, to facilitate efficient electrical connection and communication between battery modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple separate members are used for mechanical coupling and electrical connection between battery cells, then reliable connection is achieved, but assembly process becomes complicated and system size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines mechanical coupling members and electrical connection members into a single integrated connector assembly. Each connector includes both mechanical coupling protrusions and electrical contact terminals, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing assembly steps while maintaining reliable mechanical and electrical connections between battery cells.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector design serves multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical coupling, electrical connection, and alignment guidance. The integrated structure performs mechanical support, electrical current transmission, and positioning functions in a single component, reducing system complexity while achieving reliable connections.

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

2Reliability

If multiple separate members are used for mechanical coupling and electrical connection, then stable connection is achieved, but total system size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidsystem size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging mechanical coupling and electrical connection functions into single integrated connectors, the patent reduces the total volume occupied by connection components. The combined structure eliminates gaps and redundant spaces between separate members, achieving compact integration while maintaining stable connections between battery cells.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If traditional connection methods with multiple members are used, then adequate electrical connection is achieved, but manufacturing and assembly become time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connection qualityVSAvoidassembly speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated connector design allows for single-step installation that simultaneously establishes both mechanical coupling and electrical connection. This eliminates multiple assembly operations required by traditional separate members, significantly improving assembly speed while ensuring reliable electrical connection quality through the unified structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Volume of stationary object

If compact battery module design is implemented, then spatial efficiency is improved, but connection and communication between modules becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery module sizeVSAvoidconnection ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector design integrates multiple functions including mechanical coupling, electrical connection, and communication interface in a single compact component. This multi-functional integration enables compact battery module design while maintaining ease of connection through a unified interface that handles all connection types simultaneously.

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

Data Source

PatentEP2064759B1Battery module interface
Publication Date: 2013.12.25 LG CHEM LTD
  • EP2064759B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2064759B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2064759B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

Disclosed herein are a battery module interface including a printed circuit board provided at the front and rear thereof with power connectors and communication connectors for connection with a battery module and an external circuit and a sheathing plate coupled to the printed circuit board such that the rear connectors are exposed to the outside, a battery module having the battery module interface mounted thereto, and a middle- or large-sized battery pack including a plurality of battery modules.