Rechargeable Battery Power System Passive Thermal Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery designs lack universal applicability and efficiency, particularly in powering heavy machinery like bulldozers and light towers, requiring improved power sources that are both clean and quiet, and capable of withstanding harsh environments without active cooling.
Innovation Solution
A rechargeable battery power system featuring a self-contained battery assembly with multiple module banks, a battery management system, and a sequential shutdown system, which includes a reserve power system to prevent equipment from becoming stranded, and is integrated into machinery during manufacturing or retrofitting, using lithium-ion batteries and a foam and plastic composite housing for durability and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a battery is designed for heavy machinery applications, then power output and duration are improved, but the battery requires active cooling and complex thermal management systems
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system performs its own thermal management through passive heat dissipation via the aluminum housing and optimized cell arrangement, eliminating the need for external active cooling systems. The cells are arranged with thermal pathways that conduct heat to the housing which acts as a heat sink.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the thermal management approach from active cooling (requiring fans, pumps, or liquid circulation) to passive heat dissipation by modifying the physical parameters of the housing material and cell arrangement, allowing the battery to manage its own temperature without external systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a battery system is designed for universal applicability across different machines, then adaptability is improved, but the battery design becomes more complex to accommodate various power requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is designed with standardized housing dimensions, modular cell arrangements, and universal mounting interfaces that allow it to be adapted to different machine applications without requiring fundamental design changes. The system can serve multiple functions from light towers to bulldozers through configuration rather than redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery is divided into modular cell groups arranged in series/parallel configurations that can be selectively activated or reconfigured to match different power and voltage requirements of various applications, simplifying the overall design while maintaining versatility.
3Reliability
If the battery housing provides enhanced protection and sealing, then reliability in harsh environments is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing uses a composite structure combining aluminum material properties for corrosion resistance and thermal management, with integrated sealing features and protective coatings that provide enhanced environmental protection while maintaining manufacturability through standardized fabrication processes.
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 system provides a reliable, clean, and quiet power source for various applications, including heavy machinery, with extended run times and reduced risk of damage, allowing machinery to operate until it can be recharged, and enabling conversion from fossil fuel to electric power without the need for active cooling.
Implementation Method 1
The first sidewall includes a metal layer and first and second foam layers and a plastic sheet such that the first foam layer abuts against and is joined with the metal layer, and the first foam layer abuts against and is joined with the second foam layer. The second foam layer abuts against and is joined with the plastic sheet.
Implementation Method 2
The battery is a multiple use battery because it may be used in a plurality of different applications ranging from a stand-alone power source to a power source for powering equipment, lights and virtually any other machine that has a need for electrical power
Implementation Method 3
The first sidewall includes a metal layer and first and second foam layers and a plastic sheet such that the first foam layer abuts against and is joined with the metal layer
Data Source
AI summary
Conventional internal combustion engine technology has been around for decades and historically has been the primary power source for virtually all industrial equipment. It relies on carbon-based fuels, is loud, polluting, and the machines it powers are expensive to operate and maintain. A self-contained, rechargeable battery system is provided that possesses improved power than comparable diesel and gas engines and it generates zero emissions, is virtually maintenance free, is quiet, and recharges overnight via a standard electrical outlet. The rechargeable battery power system can be installed in new and used construction equipment and may be used wherever a source of power is required including smart grid application. It can be safely used indoors, in neighborhoods and other locations sensitive to the side effects of internal combustion engines. There is a battery management system that controls sequential shutdown system and a power reserve system to control operation of the battery.