Modular Plug-In Battery Pack for Fast Swapping and Range Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The battery pack replacing efficiency is low, and there is a contradiction between driving range and load weight in both short-distance and long-distance driving scenarios for electric vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A power freely-configurable plug-in battery pack with cell channels, cell quick-replacement connectors, and a controller, along with a dragging mechanism, allows for quick and adaptable replacement of cell modules, and an optional whole battery pack replacement method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If battery capacity is increased to extend driving range, then driving range is improved, but battery pack size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is divided into multiple battery modules, each containing several battery cells. This segmentation allows the system to achieve extended driving range by adding modules without creating a single large bulky pack, and enables flexible configuration to optimize space utilization in the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery pack design allows dynamic configuration where battery modules can be selectively added or removed based on driving range requirements. The system transitions from fixed capacity to adaptable capacity, allowing the same physical platform to serve different driving range needs.
2Duration of action of moving object
If battery capacity is increased to extend driving range, then driving range is improved, but battery pack weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the battery pack into modular units, the system allows incremental weight addition based on actual driving needs rather than providing maximum capacity upfront. This reduces unnecessary weight for users with lower range requirements while maintaining the option for extended range when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes in battery capacity by selectively configuring which modules are installed or activated. This allows optimization of the weight-range tradeoff by adjusting the total battery capacity to match actual usage patterns rather than being fixed at maximum capacity.
3Device complexity
If battery module configuration is fixed to simplify design, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is segmented into standardized modules with uniform interfaces and mounting mechanisms. This segmentation maintains design simplicity through standardization while enabling adaptability by allowing different numbers and arrangements of identical modules to meet various capacity requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each battery module is designed as a universal unit that can serve multiple configuration roles. The same module type can be used in different quantities and arrangements to achieve various capacity levels, eliminating the need for multiple specialized module designs and maintaining simplicity while providing versatility.
4Volume of moving object
If battery pack design is optimized for small size to improve vehicle space utilization, then space efficiency is improved, but power output capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system allows dynamic adjustment of power capacity by selectively engaging different modules or cell groups. This enables the system to provide high power output when needed (such as during acceleration or charging) while maintaining a compact physical footprint by not permanently configuring all modules for maximum capacity operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can change operational parameters by reconfiguring which battery cells or modules are actively connected to the power circuit. This allows optimization between power density and physical volume by adjusting the electrical configuration rather than being constrained by fixed physical arrangement.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a power freely-configurable plug-in battery pack, a vehicle, and a battery replacement method. The battery pack includes an installation box provided with a plurality of cell channels; a cell module pluggably installed in the cell channel, where a cell quick-replacement connector is provided between the cell module and the cell channel; and a controller, where the controller is electrically connected to the cell module through the cell quick-replacement connector and controls an operation of the cell module. The present application provides the cell channel in the battery pack and provides the cell quick-replacement connector, so that the cell module can be quickly plugged and unplugged relative to the cell channel, realizing the quick replacement of the cell module and improving the replacing efficiency of the battery pack.