Modular Battery System with Venting and Adaptive Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery systems require multiple sizes and types of batteries for different applications, leading to increased weight and space occupancy, particularly in vehicles, due to the need for specific battery sizes for specific functions, and there is a need for improved charging systems that can handle multiple battery cell modules efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular battery system with a housing that includes vents for gas escape, a support structure for multiple battery cell modules, and an integrated charging system that identifies and isolates malfunctioning modules while adjusting the charging voltage to maintain a target output level.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different sizes and types of batteries are stocked for different applications, then the system can meet specific power requirements for different functions, but the overall weight and space occupancy of the vehicle increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal battery system where a single housing can accommodate multiple battery cell modules of different capacities and configurations. The support structure allows flexible arrangement of modules to meet different power requirements, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated battery systems for different applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different sizes and types of batteries are stocked for different applications, then the system can meet specific power requirements for different functions, but the space occupancy in the vehicle increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested configuration where multiple battery cell modules are arranged within a single housing. The support structure allows modules to be positioned in different configurations, enabling efficient space utilization and reducing the overall volume required compared to separate battery systems.
3Power
If the charging system increases charging voltage to maintain target output level when malfunctioning modules are isolated, then the power delivery is maintained, but the risk of overheating and thermal damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the state of battery cell modules during charging. When malfunctioning modules are detected and isolated, the system adjusts the charging voltage dynamically based on real-time conditions of remaining modules, preventing overheating while maintaining power delivery capability.
4Reliability
If the charging system isolates malfunctioning cell modules, then the reliability of the battery system is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional identification and isolation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system incorporates self-diagnostic capabilities that automatically identify malfunctioning battery cell modules without requiring external intervention. The system autonomously isolates detected faulty modules and adjusts charging parameters, reducing the need for complex external monitoring and control mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
A battery system including a housing that defines an internal volume and a venting system that fluidly couples the internal volume with an atmosphere surrounding the housing and a support structure within the internal volume, the support structure being configured to support a number of battery cell modules in the internal volume.