Modular Battery Assembly With Integrated Coolant Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery assemblies for hybrid and electric vehicles require complex and costly disassembly for replacement, have fixed shapes that do not adapt to mounting spaces, and require additional heat dissipation systems, leading to inefficiencies in modularity and cooling.
Innovation Solution
A modular battery assembly with detachable and rotatable units, integrated coolant flow channels, and a flexible housing system that allows for adjustable shape and easy replacement, enabling efficient heat dissipation and adaptable mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple low-voltage batteries are connected in series and parallel within a fixed housing, then a high-voltage battery assembly is formed, but the housing shape is fixed which restricts adaptation to mounting spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The battery assembly is divided into multiple detachable battery units, each housing one or more batteries. These modular units can be connected in series and parallel configurations while maintaining flexibility in overall assembly shape to adapt to different mounting spaces in vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery units are designed with detachable connections that allow the overall shape and configuration of the battery assembly to be dynamically adjusted. The units can be arranged in different spatial configurations and easily reconfigured to fit various mounting requirements without requiring a completely fixed housing structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed housing is used to accommodate multiple connected batteries, then the battery assembly structure is simplified, but the housing shape cannot be adjusted to fit limited mounting spaces
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a single complex adjustable housing, the system uses multiple standardized modular battery units with simpler individual housings. Each unit maintains a simple structure, but the segmented design allows flexible combination to achieve complex adaptive configurations when needed.
3Temperature
If additional heat dissipation systems are provided for the battery assembly, then heat dissipation requirements are met, but the system occupies additional space
Solution Approach 1:
The heat dissipation function is merged with the battery unit housing structure itself. Coolant flow channels are integrated into the housing and base components, eliminating the need for separate external heat dissipation systems and reducing overall space occupation while maintaining effective thermal management.
4Ease of repair
If wires are used to connect batteries in series and parallel within a housing, then electrical connections are established, but replacement becomes complex requiring disassembly of the external housing
Solution Approach 1:
The battery assembly is segmented into modular battery units with integrated electrical connections. Each unit can be independently replaced by simply detaching it from adjacent units, eliminating the need to disassemble external housing or rewire electrical connections during battery replacement.
5Adaptability or versatility
If a single housing accommodates all batteries, then the structure is compact, but the fixed shape cannot adapt to various mounting space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The battery assembly transitions from a fixed single-housing structure to a dynamic modular configuration. Multiple battery units with detachable connections enable the assembly to be reconfigured into different shapes and arrangements, adapting to various mounting space requirements in different vehicle applications.
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
The modular design simplifies battery replacement, reduces volume by integrating cooling, and allows for shape adjustment to fit various mounting spaces, enhancing modularity and heat dissipation while reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
Coolant flow channels for a coolant to pass therethrough are formed in the battery units, and the coolant flow channels of the plurality of battery units are in communication with one another
Data Source
AI summary
A battery assembly, comprising a plurality of battery units, wherein each of the battery units includes one or more batteries; adjacent battery units are detachably and electrically connected; coolant flow channels for a coolant to pass therethrough are formed in the battery units; and the coolant flow channels of the plurality of battery units are in communication with each other.