Deformable Buffer for Power Source Terminal Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing terminal fixing structures for power source devices, particularly in vehicles, face damage due to insufficient torque control during screwing, which can lead to connection failures and damage to components like plates and temporary locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A power source device configuration that includes a buffer portion made of a deformable material between the connection terminal and the wall portion, preventing direct contact and reducing the load applied during screwing, thereby protecting components from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screwing structure is used to fix the output line to the terminal fixing part, then the connection reliability is improved, but the temporary locking mechanism or housing may be damaged when torque control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a buffer portion made of elastic material positioned between the terminal fixing part and the housing. This buffer portion absorbs excess torque and rotational displacement before it reaches the housing, preventing damage to the temporary locking mechanism and housing while maintaining reliable electrical connection
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer portion acts as an intermediary element between the screwing structure and the housing. It mediates the force transmission, allowing the screwing structure to provide secure connection while the buffer portion protects the housing from damage by absorbing excessive forces
2Reliability
If torque control is strictly enforced during screwing, then the temporary locking mechanism is protected, but the ease of operation for general maintenance workers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer portion provides automatic protection without requiring operator skill or attention. When excessive torque is applied during installation by maintenance workers, the buffer portion automatically deforms to absorb the excess force, eliminating the need for torque control knowledge or specialized tools
3Strength
If the buffer portion is made more deformable to absorb more rotational displacement, then the protection against damage is improved, but the precision of the connection position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer portion is designed with specific local properties: it is positioned only where rotational displacement occurs, has controlled thickness and material composition to provide appropriate deformability, and is located between specific components to protect only the critical housing and temporary locking mechanism while maintaining connection precision
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 buffer portion effectively absorbs rotational displacement and reduces the load on components, preventing damage and ensuring reliable connection and maintenance of the output line without requiring precise torque control.
Implementation Method 1
The buffer portion is formed so as to be deformable, and provided between the connection terminal and the wall portion
Data Source
AI summary
Power source device includes a battery block, a plate, terminal fixing part, and buffer portion. The battery block includes a battery cell having electrode terminals. The battery block has a terminal surface on which electrode terminals are positioned. The plate is disposed on the terminal surface. The plate includes output terminal portion provided with general terminal bus-bar connected to one of electrode terminals. Output terminal portion has wall portion standing along general terminal bus-bar. Terminal fixing part connects the output line (OL) having a connection terminal (CT) at a tip thereof to general terminal bus-bar. Terminal fixing part fixes the connection terminal (CT) and the general terminal bus-bar to each other by a screwing structure. Buffer portion is formed so as to be deformable between the connection terminal (CT) and wall portion.