Modular EV Battery Layout Using Lateral Space Between Seats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery pack layouts in electric vehicles compromise passenger space, vehicle height, and range due to volumetric constraints, leading to increased frontal area and drag, which affects aerodynamic performance and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A lateral module is configured to extend perpendicularly between adjacent seats, optimizing the void space between rows and integrating the pack within a compartment that extends vertically, forming a structural cage or torsion box, which is connected to the vehicle's chassis for enhanced stability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the battery pack volume is increased to improve energy storage capacity and vehicle range, then the vehicle range is improved, but the passenger space and vehicle height are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the battery pack laterally between adjacent passenger seats in the horizontal dimension, rather than placing it longitudinally or vertically. This lateral placement utilizes the width of the vehicle interior, allowing the battery pack to extend between seats while maintaining adequate vehicle height and passenger space. The battery pack is configured to fit within the lateral void space created by the seating arrangement, effectively using previously underutilized dimensional space.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the battery pack volume is increased to improve energy storage capacity, then the vehicle range is improved, but the vehicle height increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing vehicle height to accommodate a larger battery pack, the patent redistributes the battery pack volume laterally between passenger seats. This dimensional shift allows the battery pack to achieve increased energy storage capacity without compromising vehicle height, as the lateral space between seats is utilized rather than vertical space.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the battery pack is positioned to maximize energy storage volume, then the range is improved, but the frontal area increases leading to increased drag
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the battery pack laterally between passenger seats rather than extending it to the front or rear of the vehicle. This lateral configuration minimizes the battery pack's contribution to the vehicle's frontal area, thereby reducing aerodynamic drag while still achieving increased energy storage capacity through efficient use of lateral interior space.
4Volume of moving object
If the battery pack is positioned laterally between seats to optimize space, then passenger space is maintained, but the pack exposure to crash forces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the battery pack with the vehicle's structural cage or torsion box, merging the battery housing with the vehicle's safety structure. This integration provides inherent crash protection by surrounding the battery pack with the vehicle's structural framework, which is designed to absorb and distribute crash forces. The battery pack becomes part of the structural assembly rather than a separate component, enhancing safety while maintaining the lateral space-optimized configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention generally relates to an electric vehicle having an electric motor and a pack for storing energy, said vehicle configured having: at least two passenger seats, including a first seat, and a second seat, positioned behind the front seat and configured to face rearward; and the pack having: a lateral module configured to extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle between the first seat and the second seat.