Multi-Wall Cell Holders for Battery Pack Compression and Vent Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traction battery pack systems face challenges in efficiently managing compression and thermal management across a cell stack, while also containing vent byproducts during thermal events.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a plurality of cell holders with distinct walls, arranged along a cell stack axis, which house battery cell groups. These cell holders are made of polymer-based materials and include a tensioning member to manage compression. Additionally, the cell holders are designed to interface directly with a thermal exchange plate for efficient thermal management and to compartmentalize vent byproducts during thermal events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cell holders with multiple walls are used to compartmentalize vent byproducts, then safety during thermal events is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cell holder is divided into multiple compartments by axially facing walls that extend between battery cell groups. These walls create separate containment zones that can isolate vent byproducts from adjacent cell groups during thermal events, preventing cross-contamination while maintaining a integrated holder structure
Solution Approach 2:
The axially facing walls are integrated within the cell holder structure itself, with walls extending between cell groups to create nested containment zones. The walls form internal partitions within the overall holder geometry, embedding the compartmentalization function within the holder's structural framework
2Force
If tensioning members are used to apply compressive loads to battery cell groups, then compression management is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning members are configured to automatically apply and maintain compressive loads on the battery cell groups through their elastic deformation. The members self-regulate the compression force based on their material properties and geometric configuration, eliminating the need for external actuation systems or complex control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The compressive force is controlled by adjusting parameters of the tensioning members such as their initial length, cross-sectional area, and material modulus. By changing these geometric and material parameters, the desired compression level is achieved without adding complex control systems
3Temperature
If cell holders are designed for direct thermal exchange plate interface, then thermal management efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cell holders are designed with standardized interfaces that serve multiple functions: mechanical support for battery cell groups, structural integration with the thermal exchange plate, and thermal conduction pathway. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components and simplifies manufacturing requirements
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
This configuration effectively manages compressive loads and thermal energy across the cell stack, ensuring uniform compression and efficient heat transfer. It also helps to prevent thermal runaway by compartmentalizing vent byproducts, thereby enhancing the safety and performance of the traction battery pack.
Implementation Method 1
a tensioning member that holds the plurality of cell holders along the cell stack axis
Implementation Method 2
the plurality of cell holders and the plurality of battery cell groups disposed on the thermal exchange plate
Data Source
AI summary
A traction battery pack system includes cell holders each having a plurality of walls. The cell holders are disposed along a cell stack axis. Battery cell groups are disposed along the cell stack axis and are each housed in one of the cell holders. The plurality of walls including an axially facing wall disposed between two of the battery cell groups. A tensioning member holds the plurality of cell holders along the cell stack axis.