Round Cell Retaining Frame for Vehicle Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of round cells into energy storage devices for motor vehicles is complex due to their shape factor and high production costs, complexity, and inefficient use of installation space, which affects production time, sustainability, and component reliability.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple retaining frames to secure round cells, with cell connectors for electrical connection and a gas-tight storage housing that adapts to the vehicle's internal contour, optimizing layer arrangement and degassing openings to enhance production efficiency and space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If round cells are used for electrochemical storage, then production costs are reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the integration complexity increases due to shape factor and large number of cells required
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage device is divided into multiple layers, with each layer containing a specific number of round cells (e.g., 12 cells per layer). This segmentation allows the complex integration task to be broken down into manageable modular units, reducing overall integration complexity while maintaining the cost advantages of round cells
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-layer arrangement to a multi-layer vertical stacking configuration. By adding the vertical dimension (stacking layers in the height direction), the system accommodates a large number of round cells without increasing horizontal footprint, thus managing integration complexity through spatial optimization
2Volume of moving object
If multiple layers of round cells are arranged to optimize space utilization, then installation space efficiency improves, but the structural complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining frame is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it holds round cells in place, provides structural support between layers, and facilitates modular assembly. This multi-functional design reduces the need for additional specialized components, managing structural complexity while enabling efficient multi-layer space utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested layer structure where multiple layers of round cells are stacked vertically within the housing space. Each layer is contained within the vertical envelope of the device, with layers nested one above another. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization by efficiently packing cells in the vertical dimension
3Quantity of substance
If a large number of round cells are integrated to achieve required energy storage capacity, then energy storage capacity increases, but production time and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The large number of round cells is organized into segmented layers (e.g., multiple layers with 12 cells each). This segmentation allows for standardized production units that can be manufactured and assembled in modular fashion, reducing overall production time compared to handling individual cells separately
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining frames and layer structures are prepared in advance as pre-assembled units. By performing preliminary assembly of retaining frames and positioning structures before final cell installation, the patent reduces on-site assembly time and accelerates the overall production process
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 simplifies assembly, reduces production time and costs, improves space utilization, and enhances the reliability and sustainability of energy storage devices by allowing for a more efficient and compact integration of round cells within the vehicle.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of round cells for electrochemical storage of energy
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage device for a motor vehicle includes a plurality of round cells for electrochemical storage of energy and multiple retaining frames for retaining the round cells. The round cells are secured to opposing retaining frames by their ends. Cell connectors are provided on the retaining frames, which electrically contact the round cells arranged between the retaining frames from the outer sides.