Retractable Battery Pack Handle Assembly for Ergonomic Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery pack handles lack ergonomic design and functionality, making them difficult to use and maneuver, especially in extended positions.
Innovation Solution
A battery pack handle assembly that includes a first and second handle catch, an elongate flexible member, and a grip layer, which allows the handle to move from a retracted to an extended position, providing improved ergonomics and user accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed rigid handle is used in battery packs, then structural simplicity is maintained, but user comfort and accessibility are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between retracted and extended positions. The elongate flexible member enables the handle to dynamically adjust its configuration, improving user comfort and accessibility while maintaining structural simplicity through controlled movement mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is divided into multiple components including the elongate flexible member, first handle catch, second handle catch, and grip layer. This segmentation allows each component to perform specific functions while collectively providing ergonomic benefits, resolving the contradiction between complexity and usability.
2Ease of operation
If an extended handle position is provided for better ergonomics, then user accessibility improves, but device compactness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly transitions between retracted and extended positions based on user needs. When not in use, it remains retracted to maintain compactness; during operation, it extends to provide ergonomic benefits, thus resolving the contradiction between compactness and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly can be nested or retracted into the battery pack housing when not in use, similar to a nested doll structure. This allows the handle to occupy minimal space during storage while providing full ergonomic functionality when extended, addressing both compactness and usability requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a movable handle assembly is implemented, then ergonomics improve, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate flexible member serves as the core mechanism enabling handle movement. This flexible component allows the handle to change position and configuration without requiring complex mechanical joints or actuators, thus improving ergonomics while minimizing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly utilizes the flexibility and elastic properties of the elongate flexible member to automatically return to its retracted position after being extended. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional springs, motors, or control systems, maintaining structural simplicity while providing movable ergonomic benefits.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The handle assembly enhances user comfort and accessibility by allowing the handle to extend and provide a more secure grip, while also being easily retractable for compact storage.
Implementation Method 1
The elongate flexible member has a first end and a second end. The elongate flexible member is coupled to the first handle catch... The handle assembly moves from a retracted position to an extended position. The extended position includes the elongate flexible member disposed farther from the housing than in the retracted position.
Data Source
AI summary
A battery pack includes a housing, at least one battery cell, and a handle assembly. The battery cell is disposed within the housing. The handle assembly is coupled to the housing. The handle assembly includes a first handle catch, an elongate flexible member, a second handle catch, and a grip layer. The elongate flexible member has a first end and a second end. The elongate flexible member is coupled to the first handle catch. The first handle catch is disposed nearer to the first end than to the second end. The second handle catch is coupled to the elongate flexible member nearer to the second end than to the first end. The grip layer is disposed on at least a portion of each of the first handle catch, the elongate flexible member, and the second handle catch.