Reconfigurable Battery Tray Layout for Flexible Vehicle Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicles lack a flexible and efficient energy storage system that can be reconfigured to accommodate various applications, limiting their versatility and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle chassis with a reconfigurable energy storage system comprising multiple battery modules that can be selectively positioned and removed to provide electrical energy to the drive motor, allowing for rapid adaptation to different vehicle configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed energy storage system is used in vehicles, then the vehicle structure is simple, but the vehicle lacks versatility for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system is divided into multiple independent battery modules that can be selectively installed and removed. Each module contains a array of batteries and can be independently positioned along the vehicle chassis, allowing the system to be segmented and reconfigured for different vehicle applications without requiring a complete system redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The battery modules are designed with universal mounting interfaces and standardized electrical connections that allow the same modules to be used across different vehicle types and configurations. This multi-functional design enables a single set of battery modules to serve multiple vehicle applications, from delivery vehicles to specialized equipment carriers
2Quantity of substance
If multiple battery modules are installed for high energy capacity, then the energy storage capacity increases, but the vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system is designed to be dynamically configurable, allowing battery modules to be added or removed based on specific operational requirements. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the vehicle to optimize its weight by carrying only the necessary energy storage capacity for each mission, rather than always carrying maximum capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the operational parameters by selectively activating different battery modules based on energy requirements. When high energy capacity is needed, multiple modules are engaged; when lower capacity suffices, fewer modules are activated or installed, thereby adjusting the effective energy storage parameter while managing vehicle weight
3Productivity
If battery modules can be quickly exchanged for different applications, then the reconfiguration speed increases, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is segmented into standardized modules with uniform mechanical and electrical interfaces. This segmentation allows modules to be independently handled and exchanged without affecting other parts of the system, enabling quick reconfiguration through simple module swapping rather than complex system-level changes
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized mounting brackets and electrical connectors serve as intermediary components that facilitate rapid module exchange. These intermediary elements provide a simple, repeatable interface between battery modules and the vehicle chassis, eliminating the need for complex custom installation procedures for each reconfiguration scenario
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
Enables vehicles to be quickly reconfigured for diverse applications by facilitating the exchange and positioning of battery modules, enhancing versatility and functionality across different use cases.
Implementation Method 1
The energy storage system includes a first battery module coupled to the chassis and extending between the first frame rail and the second frame rail. The first battery module includes a first array of batteries. The energy storage system includes a second battery module coupled to the chassis. The second battery module includes a second array of batteries.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a chassis including a first frame rail and a second frame rail, a tractive element coupled to the chassis, a drive motor configured to drive the tractive element to propel the vehicle, and a first energy storage assembly removably coupled to the chassis. The first energy storage assembly includes a battery tray and a plurality of battery packs arranged a longitudinal row within the battery tray, each battery pack including a housing and a plurality of battery cells, wherein the first energy storage assembly is configured to be decoupled from the chassis in part by sliding the battery tray along the first frame rail and the second frame rail.