Traction Battery Securing Assembly Impact Load Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing securing assemblies for traction batteries in electrified vehicles fail to effectively manage impact loads, leading to peak loads on the battery pack and potential disconnection from the vehicle structure during impact events.
Innovation Solution
A securing assembly that includes a rail and groove system, damper, slider bracket and pin, and elongating brackets that move the battery pack relative to the vehicle structure in response to impact loads, maintaining connection and distributing the load to reduce peak forces on the battery pack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid securing assembly is used to firmly secure the battery pack, then the connection strength is improved, but the peak load on the battery pack during impact events increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing assembly transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system that adapts during impact events. The bracket elongates and the connector moves along the rail, allowing the assembly to dynamically respond to impact loads by extending the duration of force application and reducing peak forces on the battery pack.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing assembly is designed with pre-planned deformation and movement capabilities. The bracket is configured to elongate and the connector to move along the rail before the full impact force is transmitted to the battery pack, effectively cushioning the peak load through controlled energy absorption.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid securing assembly is used to firmly secure the battery pack, then the structural stability is improved, but the battery pack may disconnect during impact events
Solution Approach 1:
The securing assembly uses dynamic movement along the rail to maintain connection during impact. The connector's ability to move within the rail allows the system to maintain structural stability while adapting to impact forces, preventing disconnection by distributing loads over time and space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its geometric parameters during impact - the bracket elongates and the connector moves along the rail. This parameter change allows the assembly to maintain connection reliability by adapting its configuration to accommodate impact forces without breaking the connection.
3Force
If a movable securing assembly is used to reduce peak loads, then the impact force management is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing assembly is divided into functional segments: the bracket, the connector, and the rail. Each component has a specific function - the bracket provides mounting, the connector enables movement, and the rail guides the motion. This segmentation allows complex impact force management through coordinated action of simpler individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The rail acts as an intermediary element between the bracket and the battery pack connection point. It mediates the interaction by providing a guided path for the connector, enabling controlled movement while maintaining structural connection. This intermediary simplifies the overall system by providing a straightforward mechanical guidance mechanism.
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 solution effectively secures the traction battery to the vehicle structure during impact events, reducing peak loads and ensuring the battery pack remains connected, thereby enhancing safety and durability.
Implementation Method 1
a damper that damps movement of the groove relative to the rail
Implementation Method 2
a wedge configured to move the battery pack vertically away from a surface of the vehicle in response to an impact load applied to a rear of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary traction battery assembly includes, among other things, a battery pack and a securing assembly. The securing assembly secures the battery pack to a structure of the vehicle. The securing assembly is disposed along a horizontally facing side of the battery pack and is configured to move from a first position to a second position in response to a load to permit movement of the battery pack relative to the vehicle structure.