Spring-Clamp Battery Terminal Securing for Fast Vehicle Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of replacing vehicle batteries is difficult, cumbersome, and time-consuming due to the need for tools, rusted nuts and bolts, and the unwieldy nature of batteries, especially in confined spaces, which complicates secure fastening and electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
A device with spring-biased clamps and a substrate that securely engages battery terminals, allowing easy installation and electrical connection, and a battery management system that automates power distribution among multiple batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard battery hold down mechanism with nuts and locknuts is used, then battery is securely fastened, but battery replacement requires tools and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The battery securing device is divided into separate functional components: a hold-down bar for mechanical securing, and electrical connectors for electrical connection. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function and simplifies the replacement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connectors incorporate spring-biased clamps that automatically adjust to terminal positions and maintain constant electrical pressure. This dynamic mechanism eliminates the need for precise manual adjustment and ensures reliable electrical connection without requiring tools for tightening.
2Reliability
If rusted nuts and bolts are used in hold down mechanism, then battery is securely fastened, but disengagement becomes very difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional threaded fastening system (nuts and bolts) is replaced with a spring-biased clamp mechanism. The spring force provides continuous securing pressure without threaded connections, eliminating rust-related seizing and enabling tool-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism transitions from static threaded fasteners to a dynamic spring-based system where the securing force is determined by spring characteristics rather than thread engagement. This parameter change allows easy disengagement by simply overcoming the spring force without dealing with rusted threads.
3Reliability
If battery terminals are engaged with cable connectors, then electrical connection is established, but precise alignment is required making connection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-biased electrical connectors are designed to self-align and self-adjust to the battery terminals. The spring mechanism automatically compensates for misalignment and maintains optimal contact pressure without requiring precise manual positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system changes from rigid fixed-position connectors to spring-biased adjustable connectors. This allows the connection points to adapt to varying terminal positions and orientations, eliminating the need for precise alignment while maintaining reliable electrical contact.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple batteries are used in vehicle, then power management capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is designed with universal mounting and electrical connection components that can accommodate multiple battery configurations. The same spring-biased clamp and connector design works for single or multiple batteries, simplifying the overall system architecture despite the increased number of components.
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
Facilitates quick and secure battery replacement and efficient power management, reducing the need for tools and infrastructure for electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring-biased clamp mounted on the second side of the substrate, the first clamp including a first electrically conductive portion
Data Source
AI summary
A device for securing a replaceable vehicle battery having a protruding positive terminal and a protruding negative terminal, including a substrate defining a first side and a second side, a first receiving port extending through the substrate, a second receiving port extending through the substrate, and first and second clamps mounted on the second side of the substrate, wherein the first receiving port and second receiving port are positioned and dimensioned to receive the positive and negative terminals through the first side of the substrate, whereby the first and second clamps respectively engage the positive and negative terminals on the second side of the substrate.