Switching Spring Cooling Element for Battery Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
In battery cooling systems, especially those with limited access for installation, the existing spring-based pressing mechanisms face challenges where the total spring force can damage the cooler during installation, as it is applied unevenly across cells or modules that have not been installed yet, leading to potential damage and inadequate thermal contact.
Innovation Solution
A switching spring system is designed where the spring force is activated by the installation of battery cells or modules, ensuring a consistent and controlled pressing force on the cooling element, preventing damage and ensuring uniform thermal contact across all cells or modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional spring-based pressing mechanisms are used, then thermal contact between cooler and battery cells is achieved, but the total spring force can damage the cooler during installation when cells are not yet installed
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning device is designed to extend beyond the cooler in its relaxed state, allowing it to engage with the battery module before the spring is fully tensioned. This preliminary positioning ensures that the spring force is only applied to the cooler after the battery module is in place, preventing installation damage while maintaining thermal contact
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning device transforms the static spring pressing mechanism into a dynamic system where the spring force is progressively applied as the battery module is installed. The extension and retraction of the tensioning device during installation creates a controlled, staged application of force that adapts to the installation process
2Ease of operation
If springs are positioned to be accessible after installation, then pressing force can be applied, but the cooler is stressed by spring forces in areas where cells have not been installed
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning device creates localized engagement points where spring force is applied only to specific regions of the cooler that correspond to installed battery modules. This localized force application prevents uneven stress distribution across the entire cooler surface
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning device acts as an intermediary between the spring and the cooler, controlling and modulating the transmission of spring force. It ensures that force is applied only where needed and only when the battery module is properly installed, preventing stress concentration on unsupported cooler areas
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
The switching spring system ensures a lasting and uniform pressing force on the cooling element, preventing damage during installation and maintaining optimal thermal contact, thus extending the lifespan and performance of battery modules by managing thermal stress effectively.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring element, which is disposed on the second side of the cooling element, in order to exert a pressing force on the second side of the cooling element in a tensioned state
Data Source
AI summary
A cooling device for a battery module and a battery device comprising said cooling device for a battery module are provided that includes a cooling element having at least one through hole extending from a first side of the cooling element facing the battery module to an opposite second side of the cooling element, at least one spring element disposed on the second side of the cooling element, in order to exert a contact force on the second side of the cooling element in a tensioned condition, and at least one clamping device coupled to the spring element and extending through the through hole, wherein a contact region of the clamping device extends beyond the second side of the cooling element when the spring element is in a relaxed condition.