Battery Module Matrix Design for Mechanical Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medium- or large-sized battery packs face challenges in achieving high mechanical strength and efficient assembly due to the need for numerous connecting members and structural limitations of cylindrical batteries, while plate-shaped batteries offer reduced connecting members but low mechanical strength when arranged in a thin structure.
Innovation Solution
A battery module comprising plate-shaped unit cells arranged in a 2x2 or higher matrix within a module case, enhancing mechanical strength by increasing thickness and reducing the number of connecting members through series and parallel electrical connections, utilizing bus bars or printed circuit boards for electrical coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If plate-shaped batteries are arranged only in the horizontal direction to constitute a battery module, then the assembly process is simplified and the number of connecting members is reduced, but the mechanical strength of the battery module becomes low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from arranging batteries in a single horizontal dimension to a two-dimensional matrix arrangement (multiple rows and columns). This dimensional expansion allows the battery module to achieve sufficient mechanical strength through vertical stacking while maintaining simplified assembly processes through the systematic matrix layout, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and mechanical strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cylindrical batteries are used and connected in horizontal and vertical directions, then the battery pack can be constructed, but a large number of connecting members are required and the assembly process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the battery arrangement into a structured matrix with defined rows and columns, where each position in the matrix has specific connection requirements. This segmentation allows for standardized assembly procedures and reduces the overall complexity by breaking down the complex three-dimensional cylindrical arrangement into manageable two-dimensional units with consistent connection patterns.
3Quantity of substance
If plate-shaped batteries are arranged in a thin plate-shaped structure, then the number of connecting members is reduced, but the mechanical strength becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds the vertical dimension to the battery module structure by arranging batteries in multiple rows, transforming the thin plate-shaped configuration into a thicker, more robust matrix structure. This dimensional enhancement increases mechanical strength while maintaining the reduced connecting member count achieved through the systematic matrix arrangement.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed herein is a battery module for medium- or large-sized battery packs, including a plurality of unit cells, wherein the unit cells are generally plate-shaped unit cells, and the unit cells are electrically connected with each other while the unit cells are arranged in a module case so as to constitute at least two rows and at least two columns. According to the present invention, integration of the battery module is highly improved. Especially, the vertical-direction mechanical strength of the battery module is further increased, and the number of connecting members necessary for the electrical connection between the unit cells is reduced.