Embedded Connector Power Storage Module for Compact Cell Linking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power storage modules are oversized due to the external connection of terminals via bus bars, which increases their size and inefficiency.

Innovation Solution

A power storage module design featuring a case with embedded connection conductive members that orthogonally connect adjacent electrode assemblies, reducing the module's size by integrating the connections within the case body and using partition portions for electrical insulation and compartmentalization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the connecting member is disposed outside the case, then the electrical connection between electrode assemblies is achieved, but the size of the power storage module is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidmodule size
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connection conductive member is embedded within the case body, nesting the electrical connection function inside the housing structure rather than placing it externally. This allows the connecting member to be contained within the existing case volume, reducing the overall module size while maintaining electrical connectivity between adjacent electrode assemblies

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection conductive member extends in the second direction (orthogonal to the arrangement direction of electrode assemblies) rather than requiring external connections along the first direction. This dimensional reorientation allows connections to pass through the case body widthwise, eliminating the need for external bus bars and reducing module footprint

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Strength

If the case body provides both housing and electrical insulation, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the complexity of the case design increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidcase design
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The case body is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical housing for the electrode assemblies, electrical insulation between adjacent compartments, and structural support for the embedded connection conductive member. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate insulating components, reducing overall design complexity while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The insulating partition portions are integrated into the case body structure, merging the housing and insulation functions into a single unified component. The case body includes recesses that directly form the insulating barriers between compartments, eliminating the need for separate insulating parts and simplifying the overall design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 design effectively reduces the size of the power storage module while maintaining electrical connectivity and enhancing safety through pressure release valves, and improves moisture resistance with a resin composition-based case.

Implementation Method 1

The case body has electrical insulation property and surrounds the plurality of electrode assemblies

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical insulation: Dielectric

Implementation Method 2

The connection conductive member... electrically connects together the electrode assemblies adjacent to each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 3

The partition portion has electrical insulation property, and is located between the electrode assemblies adjacent to each other to partition an accommodation space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical insulation: Dielectric

Data Source

PatentUS20240429563A1Power storage module
Publication Date: 2024.12.26 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US20240429563A1 patent drawing
  • US20240429563A1 patent drawing
  • US20240429563A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In an accommodation space of a case body of a power storage module, a partition portion forms a first and second compartments adjacent to the first compartment with the partition portion interposed between the first and second compartments. A connection conductive member has a first end portion located at one side in the first direction and embedded in the case body. A second end portion of the connection conductive member is located at the other side in the first direction and embedded in the case body. A first inner surface portion thereof is exposed to the first compartment and electrically connected to a first electrode assembly contained in the first compartment, among a plurality of electrode assemblies. A second inner surface portion thereof is exposed to the second compartment and electrically connected to a second electrode assembly contained in the second compartment, among the plurality of electrode assemblies.