Energy Storage Case Layout for Easier Unit Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy storage apparatuses face difficulties in assembly due to the challenges of inserting energy storage units through the opening portion of the outer case, which can be influenced by the position, shape, and size of the opening, leading to complex and inefficient assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
The energy storage apparatus features an outer case with a first opening portion and a second opening portion, allowing the energy storage unit to be inserted through the second opening, which is positioned to facilitate easier access, and includes a method where the energy storage unit is accommodated by passing through the second opening portion, even when the first opening is closed, improving assemblability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the energy storage unit is inserted through the first opening portion of the outer case body, then the assembly can be completed, but the insertion may be difficult depending on the position, shape and size of the opening portion
Solution Approach 1:
The outer case body is segmented with multiple opening portions (first opening portion and second opening portion) instead of a single opening. This segmentation allows the energy storage unit to be inserted through the more accessible second opening portion, improving ease of assembly while distributing the functional requirements across multiple structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second opening portion is positioned at a location facing the side wall of the outer case body, representing a dimensional change from the conventional single opening configuration. This spatial repositioning provides alternative access pathways for inserting the energy storage unit, making assembly easier without increasing overall device complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single opening portion is used in the outer case body, then the structure is simple, but the energy storage unit may not be easily inserted depending on opening position, shape and size
Solution Approach 1:
The outer case body is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both a first opening portion and a second opening portion. The second opening portion specifically serves as an alternative insertion path for the energy storage unit, providing universal accessibility that improves ease of manufacture and assembly while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
3Reliability
If the first opening portion is closed to improve security, then protection is enhanced, but the energy storage unit cannot be inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The opening functionality is segmented into two separate opening portions. The first opening portion can be closed for security and protection, while the second opening portion remains open to allow insertion of the energy storage unit. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by distributing the functional requirements of security and accessibility to different structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The second opening portion acts as an intermediary access path that enables insertion of the energy storage unit even when the first opening portion is closed for security purposes. This intermediary structure maintains both security (through the closed first opening) and operational accessibility (through the second opening).
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage apparatus includes an energy storage unit including a plurality of energy storage devices each having a flat shape, and an outer case that accommodates the energy storage unit. The outer case includes an outer case body in which a first opening portion opened in a predetermined direction is formed, the outer case body includes a bottom wall facing the first opening portion in the predetermined direction, and a side wall integrated with the bottom wall, and a second opening portion through which the energy storage unit can pass is formed at a position facing the side wall of the outer case body.