Modular Battery Stack With Universal Connectors

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing energy storage systems for remote locations lack modular and flexible solutions that can efficiently charge and discharge power, especially in environments where traditional generators produce emissions and are not suitable for indoor use.

Innovation Solution

A modular energy storage system comprising stackable battery modules with universal connectors that can be mounted in various orientations, connected to a control module with internal charge-and-discharge components, allowing for flexible power management and integration with solar power sources, and featuring a fanless inverter for cooling and emission-free operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional fuel generators are used to provide power at remote locations, then power supply is achieved, but emissions are produced making them unsuitable for indoor use

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveemissionsVSAvoidindoor suitability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the power supply function into separate modular battery units that can be stacked or configured independently, allowing the power system to be separated from emission-generating components and adapted for indoor use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical combustion-based generator system with an electrochemical battery system, eliminating emissions while providing equivalent power supply functionality for indoor environments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed non-modular energy storage systems are used, then power storage is achieved, but flexibility and expandability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodular flexibilityVSAvoidsystem configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The energy storage system is divided into discrete modular battery units with standardized interfaces, allowing flexible configuration and easy expansion by simply adding or removing modules without complex reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular battery modules are designed with universal connectors and standardized dimensions that allow them to function in multiple configurations and be used across different applications, simplifying system design while maximizing flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If battery modules with specific mounting orientations are used, then connection stability is achieved, but installation flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The battery modules incorporate asymmetric connector designs with keyed interfaces that guide proper orientation during installation, ensuring stable electrical and mechanical connections while maintaining ease of installation through intuitive alignment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The modular units feature self-aligning connectors and integrated mounting mechanisms that automatically ensure correct orientation and stable connection during installation, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment while maintaining connection reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10523018B2Modular energy storage systems and related methods
Publication Date: 2019.12.31 STACEY CONSTANCE
  • US10523018B2 patent drawing
  • US10523018B2 patent drawing
  • US10523018B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular energy storage system has: a battery module with a battery and internal circuitry; a control module with a power outlet, internal charge-and-discharge electrical components, and a power inlet for connection to a power source in use; the battery module defining a top seat that has an associated electrical connector; and the battery module being mounted to the control module below the control module by the top seat, whose respective associated electrical connector connects to the internal charge-and-discharge electrical components to permit the control module to: charge the battery module with power from the power source; and discharge the battery module by transferring power from the battery module to the power outlet.