Energy Storage Cable Connector Layout to Prevent Misconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of relay connectors for connecting multiple energy storage apparatuses leads to increased work burden, cost, and the risk of erroneous connections, particularly when the number of apparatuses is large.
Innovation Solution
An energy storage apparatus design that allows direct connection of power cables with connectors, where one cable is fixed in a posture that inhibits connection with another, using a base member to secure the cables and prevent erroneous connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If relay connectors are used for connecting energy storage apparatuses, then electrical connection between devices is achieved, but the number of relay connectors increases leading to increased burden of transportation, storage, and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of relay connectors into the power cables themselves. The connectors are integrated directly onto the power cables, eliminating the need for separate relay connectors. This allows two energy storage apparatuses to be connected directly through their power cables, reducing the total number of connectors required while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
2Device complexity
If relay connectors are eliminated for direct connection, then transportation and storage burden is reduced, but the risk of erroneous connection between positive and negative electrodes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry to the connector design where the first connector and second connector have different structures that prevent erroneous connection. The connectors are designed with non-matching geometries or polarity indicators that ensure the first connector can only connect to the second connector, preventing reverse or incorrect connections between positive and negative electrodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by designing the connector structures in advance to prevent erroneous connection before it can occur. The asymmetric design and polarity identification features are built into the connectors themselves, creating inherent protection against incorrect connection attempts before the connection is made.
3Reliability
If numerous relay connectors are used, then electrical connection is ensured, but workload and cost regarding transportation and storage become large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the relay connector function from the connection system and integrates it directly into the power cables. By taking out the intermediate relay connector component and incorporating its functionality into the existing power cable connectors, the system eliminates the need for separate relay connectors, thereby reducing transportation and storage workload while ensuring reliable electrical connection.
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage apparatus includes an energy storage unit including a plurality of energy storage devices, a first power cable connected to one of a positive electrode connection terminal of the energy storage unit and a negative electrode connection terminal of the energy storage unit and extending from an end portion of the energy storage unit to an outside of the energy storage unit, and a second power cable connected to the other of the positive electrode connection terminal and the negative electrode connection terminal and extending from the end portion of the energy storage unit to the outside of the energy storage unit. The first power cable includes a first connector. The second power cable includes a second connector including a structure which allows direct connection to the first connector. The first power cable is placed in a posture which inhibits connection between the first connector and the second connector.