Flat Cell Storage Using Intermediary Middle Plates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery cell storage methods risk damaging the ends of flat cells due to their external packaging, which is not as hard as substrates, when fitted into grooves in holding members.
Innovation Solution
A battery cell storage apparatus featuring sheet-form middle plates and holding members that align to support cells from their flat faces, reducing load on the ends and using a fixing member to sandwich the cells between the plates for secure storage and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cells are fitted into grooves in holding members, then the cells can be stored in the rack, but the ends of the cells may be damaged due to the soft external packaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces middle plates as intermediary elements between the holding members and the cells. These middle plates have grooves that receive the ends of the cells, acting as a protective mediator that prevents direct contact between the holding members and the soft cell ends, thereby preventing damage while enabling secure storage
2Strength
If the ends of cells are supported, then the cells can be stored securely, but the soft external packaging makes the ends vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
Middle plates serve as protective intermediaries with grooves designed to receive and support the ends of cells. This intermediary structure provides the necessary support strength while protecting the vulnerable soft external packaging from direct contact with rigid holding members
3Object-affected harmful factors
If cells are stored between middle plates, then the flat faces are supported and end damage is prevented, but additional components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The middle plates perform multiple functions: they support the flat faces of the cells, protect the vulnerable ends through their grooves, and work in conjunction with holding members to secure the cells in the rack. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(A)~2(F)
Figure 3
AI summary
[Problem] To provide a battery cell storage apparatus whereby cells can be stored without damaging the ends thereof. [Solution] A battery cell storage apparatus, comprising a plurality of sheet-form middle plates 26 that are aligned so as to allow storage of flat cells 10 therebetween; a plurality of guides 33 that are aligned along the direction of alignment of the middle plates 26 and hold each of the middle plates 26 in a direction that is perpendicular to the alignment direction; and a fixing member 24 that allows the cells 10 that have been stored between the middle plates 26 to be fixed by being sandwiched together with the middle plates