Electric Storage Device Asymmetrical End Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric storage devices face challenges in efficiently assembling and connecting storage modules without incorrect terminal assembly, leading to increased costs and potential grounding issues due to differences in end plate shapes and sizes.
Innovation Solution
The electric storage device employs a design with interchangeable intermediate and end storage cell holders made of synthetic resin and metal end plates with different shapes, combined with L-shaped restraining bands and insulators, to ensure correct high-potential and low-potential connections, while using deformable fastening portions to absorb dimensional differences and reduce stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different shapes and sizes of end plates are used to ensure correct terminal assembly, then assembly reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing end plates with different shapes and sizes (first end plate versus second end plate) that correspond to different terminal configurations. This asymmetric design ensures that terminals can only be assembled in the correct orientation, preventing incorrect assembly while maintaining reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If deformable fastening portions are used to absorb dimensional differences, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by incorporating deformable fastening portions that can change their physical state (deform) to accommodate dimensional variations in storage modules. This allows the fastening mechanism to adapt to manufacturing tolerances and dimensional differences without requiring high-precision manufacturing across all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable fastening portions introduce dynamic characteristics to the otherwise static fastening system. These portions can elastically deform during assembly and operation, allowing the structure to absorb dimensional variations and stress while maintaining proper fastening, thereby reducing the need for extremely precise manufacturing.
3Reliability
If L-shaped restraining bands with insulators are used to prevent grounding, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses insulators as intermediary elements placed between the L-shaped restraining bands and the storage modules. These insulators prevent direct electrical contact that could cause grounding, thereby enhancing safety. The insulator acts as a mediator that maintains the electrical isolation while allowing the restraining band to perform its mechanical function.
4Ease of manufacture
If interchangeable storage cell holders are used to reduce costs, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but assembly precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing interchangeable storage cell holders that can be used in multiple positions and configurations within the battery assembly. These holders are designed with standardized features that allow them to be interchanged while maintaining proper alignment and assembly precision through features like positioning ribs and standardized mounting interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric storage device includes a first connection plate, a second connection plate, a fastening member, and a plurality of storage modules. The plurality of storage modules are provided between the first connection plate and the second connection plate in a stacking direction. Each of the plurality of storage modules includes a plurality of rectangular storage cells stacked in the stacking direction to provide a stack of storage cells. The plurality of storage modules are arranged next to each other in a direction that crosses the stacking direction. The plurality of storage modules are clamped between the first connection plate and the second connection plate and fastened together by the fastening member. At least one of the first connection plate and the second connection plate is fastened to the plurality of storage modules in the stacking direction by the fastening member.