Reconfigurable Battery Module Wiring for Series-Parallel Switching

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery modules lack the ability to dynamically change the electrical connection pattern of battery cells from series, parallel, or combined connections, limiting flexibility in voltage and capacity adjustments during use.

Innovation Solution

A battery module structure featuring a base plate with conductive pads, sockets, and a connecting bar with flange portions and an insert portion, allowing users to freely change the connection pattern by inserting the connecting bar between supports to connect battery cells in series, parallel, or combined configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If battery cells are connected in series to increase output voltage, then voltage is improved, but capacity increases less efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoutput voltageVSAvoidtotal capacity

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic connection system where the connection pattern between battery cells can be changed during operation. The switching mechanism allows transitions between series connection (for higher voltage) and parallel connection (for higher capacity), enabling the system to adapt its electrical configuration based on real-time operational requirements rather than being fixed during manufacturing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical connection parameters (series/parallel configuration) dynamically during operation. By using switching elements, the system can alter the effective voltage and capacity parameters of the battery module according to different usage scenarios, transforming a static parameter system into a dynamic one that optimizes performance for different operational demands

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Quantity of substance

If battery cells are connected in parallel to increase total capacity, then capacity is improved, but output voltage decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetotal capacityVSAvoidoutput voltage

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic connection system where the connection pattern between battery cells can be changed during operation. The switching mechanism allows transitions between series connection (for higher voltage) and parallel connection (for higher capacity), enabling the system to adapt its electrical configuration based on real-time operational requirements rather than being fixed during manufacturing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical connection parameters (series/parallel configuration) dynamically during operation. By using switching elements, the system can alter the effective voltage and capacity parameters of the battery module according to different usage scenarios, transforming a static parameter system into a dynamic one that optimizes performance for different operational demands

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If connection pattern is determined during manufacturing, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability during use deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidconnection pattern flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the battery module into independent, modular units with standardized connection interfaces. Each battery cell or small group of cells is designed as a separate module that can be independently connected to others through standardized terminals and switching elements. This segmentation enables flexible reconfiguration during operation while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized assembly procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universal connection interfaces and standardized switching mechanisms that can accommodate different connection patterns (series, parallel, or combinations). The same basic module design and connection hardware can serve multiple functions and configurations, allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring specialized manufacturing for each configuration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3595041B1Battery module

Publication Date: 2023.09.06 LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD

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AI summary

Disclosed is a battery module, which includes a base plate; a plurality of battery cells disposed on the base plate; a plurality of sockets electrically connected to electrode leads of the battery cells; and a plurality of connecting bars inserted into a part of the plurality of sockets so that the plurality of battery cells are connected in a combined serial and parallel pattern.