Battery Module Fixing Structure Using Internal Cell Space
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing configuration of battery packs, which involve fastening structures on the outer side surface of battery modules, increases the size of the battery pack, lowers energy density, and results in higher manufacturing costs due to the need for specialized designs for each variation.
Innovation Solution
A fixing structure where a screw receiving member is disposed in place of a battery cell in at least one cell housing hole, allowing the screw to pass through a through hole via a bracket fixed to the battery pack, thereby fixing the battery module without increasing the size of the main body housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fastening structure is provided on the outer side surface of the main body housing, then the battery module can be fixed to the battery pack, but the size of the main body housing increases and energy density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention moves the fastening function from the outer side surface (2D external attachment) to the internal cell housing hole region (3D internal space utilization). By placing the screw receiving member inside the housing cavity rather than on the external surface, the fastening capability is achieved without increasing the external dimensions of the main body housing, thus maintaining energy density while ensuring reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw receiving member is nested within the cell housing hole structure, utilizing the existing internal space of the main body housing. This nested configuration allows the fastening mechanism to be embedded within the housing volume rather than adding external protrusions, thereby fixing the battery module securely without increasing the overall housing size.
2Reliability
If a fastening structure is provided on the outer side surface of the main body housing, then the battery module can be fixed to the battery pack, but the manufacturing cost increases due to specialized designs for each variation
Solution Approach 1:
The screw receiving member serves multiple functions: it acts as both a structural support element and a fastening interface. This multi-functional design allows the same component to be used across different battery pack variations, eliminating the need for specialized fastening structures for each configuration and thereby reducing mold costs while maintaining reliable fixing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing external fastening structures that vary with each battery pack configuration, the invention inverts the approach by using internal screw receiving members that remain consistent across variations. The fixing adaptability is achieved through the screw member configuration rather than through variations in the housing structure, simplifying manufacturing.
3Strength
If the size of the main body housing is increased to accommodate a fastening structure, then the battery module can be fixed securely, but the energy density is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing strength is achieved by utilizing the internal volume of the cell housing hole rather than increasing external housing dimensions. The screw receiving member engages with the housing internally, providing secure fixation without adding to the external footprint, thereby preserving energy density while maintaining adequate fixing strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of fastening location from external surface to internal cavity. By relocating the fastening interface to the internal cell housing hole region, the same fixing strength can be achieved with reduced housing volume, as the fastening action occurs within the existing structural volume rather than requiring additional external space.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing structure capable of fixing a battery module to a battery pack in a more preferred mode is provided. Main body housing 10 of battery module 1 according to the present disclosure includes a plurality of cell housing holes 10a each for housing battery cell 11. In at least one of the plurality of cell housing holes 10a, battery cell 11 is not disposed and screw receiving member 12 is disposed in place of battery cell 11. Screw member Ba is disposed so as to be inserted through a through hole 10b formed in the side wall of main body housing 10 via bracket Pb fixed to battery pack P, and main body housing 10 is fixed to battery pack P by fastening with screw hole 12a of screw receiving member 12.