Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery pack system in a vehicle. In particular, the present disclosure provides an energy storage module holder apparatus.

BACKGROUND
[0002] A battery pack is made up of a combination of smaller units or cells where the battery cells are arranged in a specific series and parallel configuration in a battery box. The arrangement of the battery packs define a certain voltage and current produced by the battery pack. There are mechanical systems inside the pack which holds or positions the cells together. The mechanical systems provide mechanical connection to the cells by keeping them in place either through intricately designed features or through an adhesive based joining method.
[0003] Typically, in a battery pack, the cells are supposed to have electrical isolation from each other and from the battery box. The cells are also supposed to self-orient themselves plus maintain the pre-defined positions even in the worst case scenarios. In a battery pack involving cells to be placed in a particular configuration, it is important to achieve and maintain the position of the cells. This allows the further assembly process of connecting the cells in the required configuration to run smoothly and avoid mishaps.
[0004] Conventionally, a cell holder is usually made of plastic material and has inbuilt features to hold the cells as depicted in FIG. 1. However these designs do allow the cells to come in contact with the battery box, which in turn adds additional insulation to the battery box. In addition, when the cells are assembled in a pack, the cells may get inclined and shifted thus getting disoriented during the placement of cells in the pack. This can lead to cells coming in contact with each while a change in the position of the cell may affect the assembly of other components.
[0005] Further, the existing design does not allow the cells to self-orient/position themselves if they are deviating from their original positions, in any way.
[0006] There is, therefore, a need for a cell holder module that overcomes the deficiencies in the prior art(s).

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0007] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage module apparatus that allows energy storage modules/cells to self-position and self-orient in a battery box in a required configuration and at predefined locations.
[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage that includes projections (pins) surrounding the cells that possess calculated slope/dome structures which allows the cells to slide and self-orient thus, avoiding cells in an inclined position.
[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage module apparatus that allows the cells to slide and self-align while maintaining cell to cell and cell to battery box gaps, without actually holding the cells.
[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage module apparatus that allows cells to self-orient and sit vertically using the projections with sloped/dome shaped profiles.
[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage module apparatus that maintains a required cell to cell gap ensuring no cells in a series configuration get electrically shorted and a dielectric resistance between the cells doesn’t breakdown.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage module apparatus that maintains a minimum cell to battery box gap to prevent events of thermal runaways at high temperatures from damaging the battery box.
SUMMARY
[0013] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a battery pack system in a vehicle. In particular, the present disclosure provides an energy storage module holder apparatus.
[0014] In an aspect, the present disclosure describes an energy storage module holder for holding an energy storage module. The energy storage module holder includes a base plate and a plurality of geometric projections projecting from the base plate. The plurality of geometric projections defines a plurality of spaces on the base plate for receiving a plurality of energy storage modules. At least one geometric projection of the plurality of geometric projections is formed in a preconfigured shape for slidably holding at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules in the energy storage module holder.
[0015] In some embodiments, the preconfigured shape of the at least one geometric projection may include at least one of a pyramid profile, a sloped profile, a dome profile, a splined profile, or a combination thereof.
[0016] In some embodiments, the plurality of geometric projections may include at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections, a standalone geometric projection, and a trimmed geometric projection at a predefined ratio, or a combination thereof.
[0017] In some embodiments, the at least one geometric projection may include a top portion being configured with the preconfigured shape for slidably holding the at least one energy storage module. The at least one geometric projection may include a bottom portion being configured with a flat portion for holding the at least one energy storage module.
[0018] In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules may be held between at least five geometric projections.
[0019] In some embodiments, the plurality of spaces defined between the plurality of geometric projections may be arranged in a rack configuration in the energy storage module holder.
[0020] In some embodiments, at least one rack of the rack configuration may include at least five geometric projections for holding the at least one energy storage module.
[0021] In some embodiments, the at least one geometric projection configured along at least one edge of the base plate may be trimmed in a predefined ratio.
[0022] In some embodiments, the plurality of spaces in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration may be defined by the plurality of geometric projections. The plurality of geometric projections may include at least one of the at least two trimmed geometric projections at a predefined ratio. The plurality of geometric projections may include the at least two standalone geometric projections. The plurality of geometric projections may include the one geometric projection of the pair of geometric projections.
[0023] In some embodiments, the plurality of spaces in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration may be defined by the plurality of geometric projections. The plurality of geometric projections may include at least one of the pair of geometric projections. The plurality of geometric projections may include the one geometric projection of each of the two pair of geometric projections. The plurality of geometric projections may include the at least two trimmed geometric projections at a predefined ratio.
[0024] In some embodiments, the plurality of spaces in at least one rack other than at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration may be defined by the plurality of geometric projections. The plurality of geometric projections may include first two pairs of the geometric projections. The first two pairs may be placed diametrically opposite to each other. The one geometric projection of each of a second two pairs of the geometric projections may be placed diametrically opposite to each other.
[0025] In some embodiments, at least one corner of the base plate may include at least two trimmed geometric projections and at least one standalone geometric projection.
[0026] In some embodiments, at least two adjacent geometric projections of the plurality of geometric projections may be formed of an angle not more than 180o.
[0027] In some embodiments, the plurality of geometric projections may be configured to maintain a predefined gap between at least two energy storage modules of the plurality of energy storage modules.
[0028] In some embodiments, the plurality of geometric projections may be configured to maintain a predefined gap between at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules and at least one side of an energy storage module housing.
[0029] In some embodiments, the energy storage module holder may be made of an electrically insulated material.
[0030] In some embodiments, the energy storage module holder may be placed in at least one of an upper portion and a bottom portion of the plurality of energy storage modules.
[0031] In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module may be cylindrical in nature. The cylindrical energy storage module may be held using at least three geometric projections, wherein each of the three geometric projections provides a point contact with the at least one energy storage module.
[0032] In some embodiment, the at least one energy storage module is cylindrical in nature. The cylindrical energy storage module is held using at least two geometric projections. At least one of the two geometric projection has a bean shaped profile, wherein the bean shaped profile provides at least two point contacts with the energy storage module. The third point contact is provided a single geometric projection of pyramid profile.
[0033] In some embodiments, the at least one energy storage module may be prismatic in nature. The prismatic energy storage module may be held using at least four geometric projections, wherein each of the four geometric projections provides a point contact with the at least one energy storage module.
[0034] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a conventional battery pack of an Electric Vehicle (EV).
[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of a proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of proposed projections on an energy storage module, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of various cells positioned on the energy storage module holder using the geometric projections, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0041] FIGs. 6A-6B illustrate exemplary schematic representations of material optimization of projection, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0042] FIGs. 7A-7D illustrate exemplary schematic representations of various combinations of projections positioned around each energy storage module, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0043] FIGs. 8A-8C illustrate exemplary schematic representations of multiple projection positioning strategies of the energy storage module holder, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0044] FIGs. 9A-9E illustrate exemplary schematic representations of multiple projection positioning strategies of the energy storage module at corners and edges of the energy storage module holder, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0045] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of various types of projections for the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0046] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of various profiles of the proposed projections used for the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0047] FIGs. 12A-12D illustrate exemplary schematic representations of multiple projection positions for various types of energy storage modules, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0048] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of a proposed energy storage module holder positioned at the top and the bottom of the energy storage modules, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0049] FIGs. 14A-14B illustrate schematic representations of an alternate profile of the proposed geometric projection used for the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0050] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.
[0051] The present disclosure describes cells that include any form factor having a positive and negative terminal. Further, the present disclosure describes a battery box which encloses all the other components of a battery pack. Further, the present disclosure discloses a cell holder used to fulfil all the requirements of maintaining cell to cell gaps, a cell to battery box gap, and allows the cells to slide self-align and hold. The cell holder may be made of any material which provides electrical insulation and thermal conductivity for the cells and other components.
[0052] The present disclosure allows the cell to self-position and self-orient in the battery box in a required configuration and predefined locations. These features are also positioned along the internal boundary of the battery box which allows maintaining sufficient gaps between the battery box and cells. The design features include projections (pins) surrounding the cell. The projections may be strategically positioned in variety of ways to avoid the breach of requirements associated with the positioning of the cells. These projections include a calculated slope/dome structure which allows the cell to slide and self-orient thus, avoiding cells in an inclined position.
[0053] Embodiments explained herein relate to a battery pack system in a vehicle. In particular, the present disclosure provides an energy storage module holder apparatus.
[0054] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an energy storage module holder for holding an energy storage module. The energy storage module holder may include a base plate and a plurality of geometric projections projecting from the base plate. The plurality of geometric projections may define a plurality of spaces on the base plate for receiving a plurality of energy storage modules. The plurality of spaces defined between the plurality of geometric projections may be arranged in a rack configuration in the energy storage module holder. At least one rack of the rack configuration may include at least five geometric projections for holding the at least one energy storage module. The at least one geometric projection configured along at least one edge of the base plate may be trimmed in a predefined ratio.
[0055] In an embodiment, the plurality of geometric projections may include at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections, a standalone geometric projection and a trimmed geometric projection at a predefined ratio, or a combination thereof. At least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules may be held between at least five geometric projections. Further, the at least one geometric projection may include a top portion being configured with the preconfigured shape for slidably holding the at least one energy storage module. The at least one geometric projection may include a bottom portion being configured with a flat portion for holding the at least one energy storage module.
[0056] In an embodiment, at least one geometric projection of the plurality of geometric projections may be formed in a preconfigured shape for slidably holding at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules in the energy storage module holder. The preconfigured shape of the at least one geometric projection may include at least one of a pyramid profile, a sloped profile, a dome profile, a splined profile, or a combination thereof.
[0057] In an embodiment, the plurality of spaces in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration may be defined by the plurality of geometric projections, where the plurality of geometric projections may include at least one of the at least two trimmed geometric projection at a predefined ratio, the at least two standalone geometric projection, and the one geometric projection of the pair of geometric projections.
[0058] In an embodiment, the plurality of spaces in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration may be defined by the plurality of geometric projections, The plurality of geometric projections may include at least one of the pair of geometric projections, the one geometric projection of each of the two pair of geometric projections, and the at least two trimmed geometric projection at a predefined ratio.
[0059] In an embodiment, the plurality of spaces in at least one rack other than at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration may be defined by the plurality of geometric projections. The plurality of geometric projections may include first two pairs of the geometric projections, where the first two pairs may be placed diametrically opposite to each other. Further, the one geometric projection of each of a second two pairs of the geometric projections may be placed diametrically opposite to each other.
[0060] In an embodiment, at least one corner of the base plate may include at least two trimmed geometric projection and at least one standalone geometric projection. Further, at least two adjacent geometric projections of the plurality of geometric projections may be formed of an angle not more than 180o. The plurality of geometric projections may be configured to maintain a predefined gap between at least two energy storage modules of the plurality of energy storage modules. The plurality of geometric projections may be configured to maintain a predefined gap between at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules and at least one side of an energy storage module housing.
[0061] In an embodiment, the energy storage module holder may be made of an electrically insulated material. Further, the energy storage module holder may be placed in at least one of an upper portion and a bottom portion of the plurality of energy storage modules. The at least one energy storage module may be cylindrical in nature, where the cylindrical energy storage module may be held using the at least three geometric projections.
[0062] In an embodiment, the at least one energy storage module may be prismatic in nature, where the prismatic energy storage module may be held using the at least four geometric projections.
[0063] In an embodiment, the cells may be required to have certain minimum gap between them. This is to ensure that no cells in series get short and dielectric resistance between the cells doesn’t breakdown. Maintaining a cell to cell gap also aids with the heat dissipation to thermal interface materials which provide thermal conductivity for pack thermals.
[0064] Further, in an embodiment, cells may be required to have certain minimum gap with the battery box. This is because, in cases of battery box made of metals, the cell touching the box may lead to leakage current which is harmful. Cells coming in contact directly with the battery box of any other material increase the chances of battery box damage in an unfortunate event of thermal runaway due to the high temperatures.
[0065] In an embodiment, when the cells are being assembled in the pack, there are chances that they may get inclined and shifted leading to disorientation during the placement of cells in the pack. This may lead to cells coming in contact with each other. In addition, change in the position of the cell may affect the assembly of other components. The cells may also get assembled in an inclined position. Hence, the cells may be aligned and positioned perfectly within tolerances.
[0066] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained in detail with respect to FIGs. 2-14.
[0067] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of a proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, the energy storage module apparatus may include the energy storage holder (200), a plurality of energy storage modules (208) and an energy storage module casing or a battery casing (210), wherein the energy storage module casing (210) is configured to house the energy storage holder (200) and the plurality of energy storage modules (208). In an embodiment, the energy storage holder (200) may include a base plate (202) and a plurality of geometric projections (204) projecting from the base plate (202). At least one geometric projection (204) configured along at least one edge of the base plate (202) may be trimmed in a predefined ratio. The plurality of geometric projections (204) may define a plurality of spaces (206) on the base plate (202) for receiving the plurality of energy storage modules (208). The spaces (206) defined between the geometric projections (204) may be arranged in a rack configuration in the energy storage holder (200). At least one rack (not illustrated here) of the rack configuration may include at least five geometric projections (204) for holding the at least one energy storage module (208). Further, the geometric projections (204) may be configured to maintain a predefined gap between at least two energy storage modules of the plurality of energy storage modules (208).
[0069] In an embodiment, the at least one geometric projection (204) of the geometric projections (204) may be formed in a preconfigured shape for slidably holding at least one energy storage module (208) of the energy storage modules (208) in the energy storage holder (200). The geometric projections (204) may include at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections, a standalone geometric projection, and a trimmed geometric projection at a predefined ratio, or a combination thereof. Further, at least one corner of the base plate (202) may include at least two trimmed geometric projections (204) and at least one standalone geometric projection (204). At least two adjacent geometric projections (204) of the plurality of geometric projections (204) may be formed of an angle not more than 180o.
[0070] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 3, in an embodiment, the energy storage holder (300) may include a base plate and a plurality of geometric projections (302) projecting from the base plate as described in FIG. 2. The geometric projections (302) may define a plurality of spaces on the base plate for receiving a plurality of energy storage modules (not illustrated here). The geometric projections (302) may be formed in the preconfigured shape for slidably holding at least one energy storage module of the energy storage modules in the energy storage module holder (300). The geometric projections (302) may allow the energy storage modules to self-orient themselves without actually holding the energy storage modules. This may help the energy storage modules to maintain the predefined gap between them to prevent energy storage modules placed in series in the energy storage module holder (300) from getting electrically shorted. Also, this ensures that a dielectric resistance between the energy storage modules does not breakdown. Maintaining the predefined gap also aids with the heat dissipation to thermal interface materials or to the components which provide thermal conductivity for pack thermals.
[0072] In an embodiment, the energy storage module holder (300) may include a length-wise rack (304) and a width-wise rack (306). The length-wise rack (304) may include the spaces in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration defined by the geometric projections (302). Further, the geometric projections (302) may include at least two trimmed geometric projections (302) at a predefined ratio, at least two standalone geometric projection (302), and one geometric projection (302) of the pair of geometric projections (302). This is also illustrated in FIG. 8C.
[0073] In an embodiment, the width-wise rack (306) may include the spaces in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration defined by the geometric projections (302). The geometric projections (302) may include at least one of the pair of geometric projections (302), the one geometric projection of each of the two pair of geometric projections (302), and the at least two trimmed geometric projection (302) at a predefined ratio. This is also shown in FIG. 9A.
[0074] In an embodiment, the spaces in at least one rack other than at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration may be defined by the geometric projections (302). The geometric projections (302) may include first two pairs of the geometric projections and one geometric projection of each of a second two pairs of the geometric projections. The first two pairs of the geometric projections may be placed diametrically opposite to each other and the second two pairs of the geometric projections may be placed diametrically opposite to each other such that the angle between each pair of geometric projections is 90 degrees. This is also illustrated in FIG. 8A.
[0075] In an embodiment, the geometric projections (302) may be configured to maintain a predefined gap between at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules (not illustrated here) and at least one side of an energy storage module housing (not illustrated here).
[0076] In one embodiment, the geometric projections (302) may be made of a base and a top. The base may be flat and may be configured to hold the energy storage modules in place and the top may be slanted to allow the slidability of the geometric projections (302).
[0077] Further, in an embodiment, when the energy storage modules are being assembled in the energy storage module holder (300), there are chances that they may get inclined and disoriented during the placement. This may lead the energy storage modules to come in contact with each other. Also, a change in the position of the energy storage modules may affect the assembly of other components. The geometric projections (302) may allow the energy storage modules to self-orient themselves and prevent such problems.
[0078] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of proposed projections on an energy storage module, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 4, in an embodiment, an energy storage module (402) may be placed between two projections of a plurality of geometric projections (404) on a base plate (406). The geometric projections (404) may include a top portion (408) for being configured with the preconfigured shape for slidably holding at least one energy storage module (412). Further, the geometric projections (404) may include a bottom portion (410) being configured with a flat portion of the base plate (406) for holding at least one energy storage module (402). The geometric projections (404) may allow the energy storage module (402) to self-orient itself without actually holding the energy storage module (402).
[0080] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of various cells positioned on the energy storage module holder using the geometric projections, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 5, in an embodiment, the energy storage module holder (500) may include a plurality of geometric projections (502) projecting from a base plate (504) configured on the energy storage module holder (500). The geometric projections (502) may define a plurality of spaces (506) on the base plate (504) for receiving a plurality of energy storage modules (508). Once the energy storage modules (508) are aligned and sitting on the energy storage module holder (500), the geometric projections (502) may provide minimum gaps (510) among the energy storage modules (508) and between the energy storage module and an energy storage module box (not illustrated here). The geometric projections (502) may be designed such that even in the worst case tolerances, a minimum gap (510) is achieved to self-align the energy storage modules (508).
[0082] FIGs. 6A-6B illustrate exemplary schematic representations of material optimization of projection, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0083] Referring to FIGs. 6A and 6B, a typical cell holder or energy storage module holder (similar to the energy storage module holder of FIG. 5) may include walls (602) or projections completely surrounding a cell/energy storage module (600) which may electrically insulate the energy storage module (600) from other energy storage modules. These walls (602) may aid in securing the energy storage modules on a base plate (similar to the at base plate (504) of FIG. 5). These walls (602) consume a lot of space on the base plate and also increase the cost of production due to material consumption and manufacturing complexities. As shown in FIG. 6B, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the walls (602) may be replaced by the geometric projections (similar to the geometric projections (502) of FIG. 5) just enough to maintain the predefined gap between the energy storage modules. These projections, that are minimal in nature, reduce the overall cost.
[0084] FIGs. 7A-7D illustrate exemplary schematic representations of various combinations of projections positioned around each energy storage module, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0085] Referring to FIGs. 7A-7D, in an embodiment, at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules may be held between at least five geometric projections (702). A plurality of geometric projections (702) may be strategically positioned such that even in a case of worst case inclination during the assembly, the energy storage modules may self-orient and self-align themselves on the energy storage module holder (500) (of FIG. 5). Further, at least two adjacent geometric projections of the geometric projections (702) may be formed of an angle not more than 180o. The geometric projections (702) may be designed based on space constraints and tolerances of the energy storage module casing or the battery pack (210 of FIG. 2).
[0086] In an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7A, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (700-1) defined by at least six geometric projections (702). As illustrated in FIG. 7B, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (700-2) defined by five geometric projections (702). Further, as illustrated in FIG. 7C, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (700-3) defined by four geometric projections (702) and two trimmed geometric projections (702), wherein the two trimmed geometric projections (702) have different trim ratios. As illustrated in FIG. 7D, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (700-4) defined by three trimmed geometric projections (702), wherein the three trimmed geometric projections (702) have different trim ratios, and two geometric projections (702).
[0087] FIGs. 8A-8C illustrate exemplary schematic representations of multiple projection positioning strategies of the energy storage module holder, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 8A, in an embodiment, a plurality of geometric projections may include at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (802), and a standalone geometric projection (804). As depicted in FIGs. 8A and 8B, the energy storage module may be positioned between at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (802) and the standalone geometric projection (804). Further, as illustrated in FIG. 8C, the energy storage module may be positioned between at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (802), the standalone geometric projection (804), and a trimmed geometric projection (806), wherein the trimmed geometric projection (806) is trimmed at a predefined ratio such that the curved surface of the trimmed geometric projection (806) is in contact with the energy storage module when the energy storage module is being placed in energy storage module holder. The predefined ratio of trimming of the trimmed geometric projection (806) may be defined by the shape of the energy storage module casing or the battery pack within which the energy storage module is disposed and/or the closeness of the energy storage module to the inner walls of the energy storage module casing.
[0089] As illustrated in FIG. 8A, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (800-1) defined by two pairs of geometric projections (802), and at least one geometric projection of two pairs of geometric projections (802).
[0090] As illustrated in FIG. 8B, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (800-2) defined by two pairs of geometric projections (802), one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (802), and a standalone geometric projection (804). As illustrated in FIG. 8C, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (800-3) defined by two standalone geometric projections (804), two trimmed geometric projections (806), and one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (802).
[0091] FIGs. 9A-9E illustrate exemplary schematic representations of multiple projection positioning strategies of the energy storage module at corners and edges of the energy storage module holder, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0092] Referring to FIGs. 9A-9E, in an embodiment, the geometric projections may include at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (902), a standalone geometric projection (904), and a trimmed geometric projection (906) at a predefined ratio, or a combination thereof.
[0093] Referring to FIG. 9A, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (908) defined by the standalone geometric projection (904), three trimmed geometric projections associated with the trimmed geometric projection (906), and at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (902).
[0094] Referring to FIG. 9B, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (910) defined by between two trimmed geometric projections associated with the trimmed geometric projection (906), at least one geometric projection of two pairs of geometric projections (902), and a pair of geometric projections associated with the pair of geometric projections (902).
[0095] Referring to FIG. 9C, the energy storage module may be two positioned in a space (912) defined by trimmed geometric projections associated with the trimmed geometric projection (906), the standalone geometric projection (904), at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (902), and a pair of geometric projections associated with the pair of geometric projections (902).
[0096] Referring to FIG. 9D, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (914) defined by one trimmed geometric projection associated with the trimmed geometric projection (906), three standalone geometric projections associated with the standalone geometric projection (904), and at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (902).
[0097] Referring to FIG. 9E, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (916) defined by three trimmed geometric projections associated with the trimmed geometric projection (906), at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (902), and a pair of geometric projections associated with the pair of geometric projections (902). Further, the energy storage module may be positioned in a space (918) defined by three trimmed geometric projections associated with the trimmed geometric projection (906) and two standalone geometric projections associated with the standalone geometric projection (904).
[0098] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of various types of projections for the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0099] Referring to FIG. 10, in an embodiment, the preconfigured shape (1002) of a plurality of geometric projections (1004) may be splined, sloped or domed. Further, the geometric projections (1004) may be shaped evenly or unevenly. The geometric projections (1004) may be cut into halves or in any other ratio for slidably holding the energy storage modules and the space required for positioning the energy storage modules may be optimized.
[00100] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of various profiles of the proposed projections used for the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00101] Referring to FIG. 11, in an embodiment, the preconfigured shape of at least one geometric projection among a plurality of geometric projections (1102) may include, but not limited to, a sloped profile (1106), a dome profile (1108), a splined profile (1110), a pyramid profile, or any combination profile (1104). The geometric projections (1102) may be chopped into any ratios as far as the profile is facing towards the energy storage modules to deal with space constraints. The pins may be of any shape or size, which may be profiled in any way, as depicted, to fulfil the requirements. These pins may be chopped into any ratios as far as the profile is facing towards the cell to deal with space constraints.
[00102] FIGs. 12A-12D illustrate exemplary schematic representations of multiple projection positions for various types of energy storage modules, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00103] Referring to FIGs. 12A-12D, in an embodiment, multiple projection positions may be configured for different types of energy storage modules. As illustrated in FIG. 12A and 12B, a cylindrical energy storage module (1202) may be positioned using at least three geometric projections, where at least two adjacent geometric projections of the geometric projections may be formed of an angle not more than 180o.
[00104] As illustrated in FIG. 12C and 12D, in an embodiment, a prismatic energy storage module (1204) may be held using the at least four geometric projections. Further, any type of projection may be used in any type of configuration/combination with the energy storage modules.
[00105] In an embodiment, each of the geometric projection provides a point contact (1206) to the energy storage module. Thus, as shown in Figure 12A, a minimum of three point contacts (1206) are essential to hold the energy storage module (1202) in place.
[00106] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary schematic representation of a proposed energy storage module holder positioned at the top and the bottom of the energy storage modules, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00107] As illustrated in FIG. 13, in an embodiment, one or more energy storage module holders (1302) may be placed inside a battery box (not illustrated here). Further, the energy storage module holders (1302) may be made of an electrically insulated material. The energy storage module holders (1302) may be placed in at least one of an upper portion (1304) and a bottom portion (1306) of the plurality of energy storage modules (1308). A plurality of geometric projections (1310) projecting from the energy storage module holders (1302) may be slidably holding at least one energy storage module of the energy storage modules (1308). The one or more energy storage module holders (1302) perform various functionalities of the energy storage module holder as described in FIG. 2.
[00108] FIGs. 14A-14B illustrate schematic representations of an alternate profile of the proposed geometric projection used for the proposed energy storage module apparatus, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.
[00109] As illustrated in FIG. 14A, in an embodiment, the preconfigured shape of at least one geometric projection may include a bean shape profile (1402), wherein the bean shape geometric projection (1402) provides two point contacts (1404, 1406) with the energy storage module. The third point contact (1410) may be provided by a pyramid profiled geometric projection (1408). Thus, even with just two geometric projections, the energy storage module may be held in place. However, the two geometric projections must provide a minimum of three point contacts (1404, 1406, 1410) with the energy storage module as shown in FIG. 14A.
[00110] Referring to FIG. 14A, an isometric view of the bean shape geometric projection (1402) is provided. The bean shape geometric projection (1402) comprises two slope surfaces (1412, 1414) configured to slide the energy storage module in place.
[00111] It may be appreciated that the geometric projections shown in all the figures, except for the figures depicting the various profile shape of the geometric projections, are the same and that they have been differently numbered for illustration purposes. Similarly, the space defined by the geometric projections in the base plate shown in all the figures is the same and has been differently numbered for illustration purposes.
[00112] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the present disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[00113] The present disclosure provides an energy storage module apparatus that allows energy storage modules/cells to self-position and self-orient in a battery box in a required configuration and at predefined locations.
[00114] The present disclosure provides an energy storage module apparatus that includes projections (pins) surrounding the cells that possess calculated slope/dome structures which allows the cells to slide and self-orient thus, avoiding cells in an inclined position.
[00115] The present disclosure provides an energy storage module apparatus that allows the cells to slide and self-align while maintaining cell to cell and cell to battery box gaps, without actually holding the cells.
[00116] The present disclosure provides an energy storage module apparatus that allows cells to self-orient and sit vertically using the projections with sloped/dome shaped profiles.
[00117] The present disclosure provides an energy storage module apparatus that maintains a required cell to cell gap ensuring no cells in a series configuration get electrically shorted and a dielectric resistance between the cells doesn’t breakdown.
[00118] The present disclosure provides an energy storage module apparatus that maintains a minimum cell to battery box gap to prevent events of thermal runaways at high temperatures from damaging the battery box.
, Claims:1. An energy storage module holder (200) for holding an energy storage module, the energy storage module holder (200) comprising:
a base plate (202); and
a plurality of geometric projections (204) projecting from the base plate (202), wherein the plurality of geometric projections (204) defines a plurality of spaces (206) on the base plate (202) for receiving a plurality of energy storage modules (208),
wherein at least one geometric projection of the plurality of geometric projections (204) is formed in a preconfigured shape for slidably holding at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules (208) in the energy storage module holder (200).
2. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the preconfigured shape of the at least one geometric projection is at least one of a pyramid profile, a sloped profile (1106), a dome profile (1108), a splined profile (1110), or a combination thereof (1104).
3. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of geometric projections (204) comprises at least one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (802), a standalone geometric projection (804), and a trimmed geometric projection (806) at a predefined ratio, or a combination thereof.
4. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one geometric projection comprises:
a top portion (408) being configured with the preconfigured shape for slidably holding the at least one energy storage module; and
a bottom portion (410) being configured with a flat portion (406) for holding the at least one energy storage module.
5. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules (208) is held between at least five geometric projections.
6. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of spaces (206) defined between the plurality of geometric projections (204) is arranged in a rack configuration in the energy storage module holder (200).
7. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein at least one rack of the rack configuration comprises at least five geometric projections (702) for holding the at least one energy storage module.
8. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the at least one geometric projection configured along at least one edge of the base plate (202) is trimmed in a predefined ratio.
9. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the plurality of spaces (206) in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration is defined by the plurality of geometric projections (204), wherein the plurality of geometric projections (204) comprises at least one of:
at least two trimmed geometric projection (806) at a predefined ratio;
at least two standalone geometric projection (804); and
one geometric projection of a pair of geometric projections (802).
10. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the plurality of spaces (206) in at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration is defined by the plurality of geometric projections (204), wherein the plurality of geometric projections (204) comprises at least one of:
a pair of geometric projections (902);
one geometric projection of each of two pairs of geometric projections (902); and
at least two trimmed geometric projections (906) at a predefined ratio.
11. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the plurality of spaces (800-1) in at least one rack other than at least one edge side rack of the rack configuration is defined by the plurality of geometric projections (802), wherein the plurality of geometric projections (802) comprises:
first two pairs of the geometric projections (802), wherein the first two pairs are placed diametrically opposite to each other; and
one geometric projection of each of a second two pairs of the geometric projections (802) placed diametrically opposite to each other.
12. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein at least one corner of the base plate (202) comprises at least two trimmed geometric projections and at least one standalone geometric projection.
13. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least two adjacent geometric projections of the plurality of geometric projections (204) is formed of an angle not more than 180o.
14. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of geometric projections (204) is configured to maintain a predefined gap (510) between at least two energy storage modules of the plurality of energy storage modules (208).
15. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of geometric projections (204) is configured to maintain a predefined gap between at least one energy storage module of the plurality of energy storage modules (208) and at least one side of an energy storage module housing.
16. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy storage module holder (200) is made of an electrically insulated material.
17. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy storage module holder (200) is placed in at least one of: an upper portion (1304) and a bottom portion (1306) of the plurality of energy storage modules (208).
18. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage module is cylindrical in nature, wherein the cylindrical energy storage module (1202) is held using at least three geometric projections, wherein each of the at least three geometric projections provides a point contact (1206) with the at least one energy storage module.
19. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage module is cylindrical in nature, wherein the cylindrical energy storage module is held using at least two geometric projections, wherein at least one of the two geometric projections has a bean shaped profile (1402), wherein the bean shaped profile (1402) provides at least two point contacts (1404, 1406) with the at least one energy storage module.
20. The energy storage module holder (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one energy storage module is prismatic in nature, wherein the prismatic energy storage module (1204) is held using at least four geometric projections, wherein each of the four geometric projections provides a point contact with the at least one energy storage module.