Battery Module Interconnection Using Segmented Rods and Sleeve

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge of securely and efficiently interconnecting multiple energy storage modules in vehicles, particularly in heavy-duty vehicles, is addressed to enable a larger energy storage capacity without increasing weight and ensuring a long operational range.

Innovation Solution

A method involving two sets of energy storage modules connected by first and second rods, with a sleeve through holes in each set, allowing for secure and efficient connection using non-rotatable threads and guiding pins, and protected by end plates to absorb shear forces and secure auxiliary components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If a single long rod is used to connect multiple energy storage modules, then the connection spans the entire length, but the clamping length becomes too long which increases the risk of loosening bolts over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverod lengthVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides a single long rod into multiple shorter rod segments, each connecting adjacent pairs of energy storage modules. This segmentation reduces the clamping length of each individual rod, thereby decreasing the risk of bolt loosening while maintaining secure connections across the entire battery pack assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If multiple shorter rods are used instead of one long rod, then the connection stability improves, but the number of components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidnumber of rods
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the rod structure into multiple shorter rods that can be independently installed and secured. Each rod connects a specific pair of modules, allowing for simplified assembly and maintenance while improving overall connection reliability through reduced clamping length on each rod.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Quantity of substance

If energy storage modules are connected to achieve large energy storage capacity, then the operational range extends, but the assembly complexity and difficulty of interconnection increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy storage capacityVSAvoidassembly difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the energy storage system into modular sections connected by standardized rod assemblies. This modular approach allows for scalable energy storage capacity while maintaining consistent, simplified connection procedures across all modules, thereby reducing overall assembly complexity despite the increased number of components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rod connections are designed to be pre-assembled or pre-positioned, facilitating easier integration of multiple energy storage modules. This preliminary preparation of connection elements streamlines the assembly process for large-scale battery packs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250210787A1Interconnection of sets of energy storage modules
Publication Date: 2025.06.26 VOLVO TRUCK CORP
  • US20250210787A1 patent drawing
  • US20250210787A1 patent drawing
  • US20250210787A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An energy storage arrangement comprising a sleeve arranged in a first and a second through hole, the sleeve being arranged through a first end surface of a first set of energy storage modules and through a first end surface of a second set of energy storage modules and is connected to a first and a second rod.