Mica Fireproof Component Frame to Prevent Bolt-Induced Cracking

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery packs face safety issues due to the risk of thermal runaway and associated fires or explosions, exacerbated by the crushing and cracking of fireproof components when bolted into place.

Innovation Solution

A fireproof component comprising a main body and frame, where the frame is screw-connected to the battery module without fixing the main body, utilizing a mica board for high-temperature resistance and a modular frame design for easy replacement and efficient production, preventing damage and enhancing safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the fireproof component is fastened into the battery pack by bolts, then the fireproof component is fixed in place, but the joint between the fireproof component and the battery pack is prone to crushing and cracking under the locking effect of the bolts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing reliabilityVSAvoidstructural integrity of fireproof component
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a frame as an intermediary component between the fireproof component and the battery pack. The frame is fastened to the battery pack by bolts, while the fireproof component is retained by the frame structure without direct bolting. This mediator approach allows the fireproof component to be securely fixed without exposing it to the crushing and cracking caused by direct bolt locking, thus resolving the contradiction between fixing reliability and structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If the fireproof component is made as a single integrated piece, then the structure is simple, but it is difficult to mold and produce efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidmoldability and production efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the fireproof component into two separate parts: the fireproof component itself and the frame. This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured independently using optimal molding techniques, improving production efficiency and ease of manufacture. The frame can be produced with complex geometries for secure retention, while the fireproof component can be made as a simple flat plate, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and manufacturability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If the main body is fixed directly to the battery module, then the connection is strong, but the main body is prone to crushing and cracking during the connecting process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidsafety of fireproof component
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame serves as an intermediary that provides the strong connection to the battery module while protecting the main body (fireproof component) from direct mechanical stress during connection. The frame absorbs the locking forces from bolts, maintaining connection strength without transmitting crushing forces to the fireproof component, thus preserving both connection strength and component reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This solution improves the safety and reliability of battery packs by preventing crushing and cracking of the fireproof component, ensuring effective thermal management and reducing production costs while maintaining structural strength.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing a mica board for high-temperature resistance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHigh-temperature resistance: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentUS20240429517A1Fireproof component, battery pack, and device using battery as power supply
Publication Date: 2024.12.26 CONTEMPORARY AMPEREX TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
  • US20240429517A1 patent drawing
  • US20240429517A1 patent drawing
  • US20240429517A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A fireproof component for use in a battery pack includes a main body and a frame. The frame includes a body portion, an extension portion, and an opening defined by an inner peripheral face of the body portion. The extension portion is located outside the body portion along a circumferential direction of the body portion and connected to an outer peripheral face of the body portion. The extension portion extends along a third direction and protrudes beyond the body portion. The main body covers the opening of the frame and is connected to the body portion. The main body is a mica board including a plurality of mica sheets and an adhesive disposed between every two adjacent mica sheets.