Modular Accumulator Module with Tool-Free Connection Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy storage devices lack a compact and modular design that allows for simple mechanical and electrical combination of modules without the need for tools, limiting their flexibility and efficiency in applications such as industrial power supplies and vehicle systems.
Innovation Solution
A cuboid accumulator module with specific connection and pitch surfaces enables tool-free mechanical and electrical combination with other modules, forming a geometric unit that can be expanded into a modular energy storage system, using symmetrical terminals for flexible contactability and a stack profile for additional stability and fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional energy storage devices are used, then they can store electrical energy, but they lack modular design and require tools for assembly/disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is divided into multiple identical modular units, each containing battery cells, connection profiles, and mounting surfaces. These modules can be independently assembled and disassembled without tools by engaging connection profiles on mounting surfaces, enabling flexible configuration and simplifying assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection profiles are designed with complementary geometries (protrusions and recessions) that automatically align and engage with each other when modules are brought together on their mounting surfaces. This self-aligning mechanism eliminates the need for external tools or complex alignment procedures during assembly and disassembly.
2Volume of moving object
If energy storage devices are made compact, then they save space, but they lose flexibility for expansion
Solution Approach 1:
Each modular unit is designed with universal mounting surfaces and identical connection profiles that can interface with any other module of the same type. This universality allows a single compact module design to be scaled from one unit to multiple units in various configurations (series, parallel, or combinations), providing both compactness and expandability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables expansion not only in one direction but in multiple dimensions by arranging modules in series along connection profiles or stacking them on mounting surfaces. This allows the system to grow from a single compact module to an extended array while maintaining the compactness of individual units.
3Ease of operation
If modules are designed for tool-free assembly, then ease of operation improves, but connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection profile integrates multiple functions into a single structural element: mechanical interlocking through complementary geometries, electrical connection through integrated contact surfaces, and structural alignment through geometric constraints. This merging ensures that tool-free engagement achieves both ease of operation and strong, reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection profiles feature asymmetric protrusions and recessions that provide directional guidance and prevent incorrect assembly. This asymmetric design ensures proper alignment during tool-free assembly while creating a mechanically strong interlocked connection that resists separation forces.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to an accumulator module (10) having a rectangular external contour having six surfaces, of which two surfaces located opposite one another function as front and rear connecting and/or aligning surfaces (12, 14), two further surfaces located opposite one another function as base surface and top surface (20), and the remaining surfaces function as side surfaces (22, 24), wherein an accumulator module (10) can be combined via one of the connecting and/or aligning surfaces (12, 14) in each case to another accumulator module (10) and to one of the connecting and/or aligning surfaces (12, 14) thereof.