Battery Module Side Plate Stepped Portion Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable battery modules face challenges in maximizing output while minimizing space due to structural limitations, such as the thickness of the side plate and the distance between the side plate and unit cells, which restricts efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a rechargeable battery module with a bus bar connecting unit cells, end plates for support, and side plates with stepped portions that reduce weight and maintain rigidity, allowing for efficient packing and maximum output in a compact space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the side plate thickness and distance between side plate and unit cells are reduced to minimize space, then the volume of the battery module is reduced, but the rigidity and structural stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The side plate is divided into multiple rib structures that extend from the first end plate to the second end plate. These ribs segment the side plate into multiple sections, providing structural support and rigidity while reducing the overall material usage and volume of the side plate. The ribs are positioned to optimize both structural integrity and space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The side plate incorporates ribs that extend in the longitudinal direction (from first end plate to second end plate), adding a dimensional element to the side plate structure. This rib configuration provides structural reinforcement along the length of the battery module, improving rigidity without significantly increasing the cross-sectional area or overall volume.
2Volume of moving object
If the side plate thickness is reduced to minimize space, then the volume of the battery module is reduced, but the weight reduction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The side plate is segmented into multiple ribs that provide structural support. This segmentation allows the use of thinner plate material while maintaining overall structural integrity, thereby reducing the weight of the side plate without compromising strength. The ribs are strategically positioned to provide maximum support with minimum material.
Solution Approach 2:
The side plate structure incorporates a ribbed configuration that creates a form of structural porosity or hollow spaces within the plate. This ribbed design reduces the amount of material required while maintaining structural rigidity, effectively reducing the weight of the side plate without sacrificing strength.
3Volume of moving object
If the distance between side plate and unit cells is reduced to maximize space utilization, then the volume of the battery module is reduced, but the ease of assembly and manufacturing precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The side plate includes ribs that are pre-formed during manufacturing, which serve as alignment guides and positioning features for the unit cells. These pre-formed ribs facilitate the assembly process by providing predetermined positions where unit cells can be easily installed, reducing the need for complex adjustment procedures and improving manufacturing precision even when the distance between the side plate and unit cells is minimized.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A rechargeable battery module includes unit cells that are arranged in a first direction, a bus bar that electrically connects the unit cells, a pair of end plates that are spaced apart from each other along the first direction at opposite ends of the unit cells to support the unit cells, and at least one side plate between the pair of end plates and connected to the pair of end plates, the at least one side plate extending along the unit cells and spaced apart from the unit cells a predetermined distance, wherein the side plate includes a stepped portion facing the unit cells, the predetermined distance being measured between the stepped portion and the unit cells.