Description:TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of battery packs and more particularly to an energy storage module holder for holding one or more energy storage modules.

BACKGROUND

[002] Generally, a battery pack is a collection of individual batteries, energy storage modules, or cells assembled in a housing along with necessary components such as electrical contacts, protection circuitry, and sometimes a housing for protection. In other words, a battery pack is a structure in which individual battery cells are secured and organized, and the design of the cell holders varies depending on a cell structure, manufacturers, and application areas. The primary purpose of the battery pack is to store electrical energy and deliver the stored electrical energy when needed for powering electrical and electronic devices, power tools, electric vehicles, etc.

[003] Typically, during the assembly and operation of the battery pack, the vibration and shock experienced by the cells lead to the breakage of cell interconnects. Further, this may lead to a safety hazard because of sparks and potential fire inside the battery pack. To mitigate such a risk and to ensure that the vibration and shock experienced by the cells do not affect the cell interconnects, it is crucial to rigidly secure the cells using a cell holder or the casing of the battery pack. Achieving this rigid connection involves the use of an adhesive applied between the cells and the cell holder or the casing.

[004] In the conventional method of adhesive application, the adhesive is first dispensed on one substrate, and then the other substrate is joined, allowing the combination to cure. In the context of the battery pack, the multiple cells are attached to the single cell holder or the casing, and adhesives are applied on the cell holder or the casing before placing the cells poses certain challenges. For example, when the adhesive is dispensed onto the cell holder or the casing and then the cells are disposed, there is a risk of skin formation or premature gelling of the adhesive before the last cell is added. If cells are introduced after the adhesive has already started curing, the bonding strength is compromised. Moreover, the adhesive curing process before cell placement may result in cells being slightly shifted from their ideal positions. This limitation hinders the use of fast-curing or instant adhesives in cell-to-cell holders or casing joining applications. Consequently, use of conventional adhesives in the manufacturing of a battery pack contributes to increased production time.

[005] To secure the cells with the cell holder, a few cell holders employ crush ribs. However, this design does not allow tolerance variations in cell diameters. While some battery packs utilize Ultraviolet (UV) stimulated adhesives for cell-to-cell holder adhesion, these adhesives are often expensive and impose design constraints. Specifically, they limit the use of non-UV-transparent materials for the cell holder. Hence the conventional cell holders often fail to hold the cells firmly. For example, battery packs used in electric vehicles are often exposed to mechanical loads and vibrations, and the existing cell holders often fail to sustain such loads and vibrations.

[006] Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned problems, it is desirable to provide a cell holder that eliminates one or more of the above-mentioned problems associated with the existing art.

SUMMARY

[007] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simple manner that is further described in the detailed description of the disclosure. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the subject matter nor is it intended for determining the scope of the disclosure.

[008] To overcome or mitigate at least one of the problems mentioned above, an energy storage module holder for holding one or more energy storage modules is disclosed herein. The energy storage module holder comprises a plurality of holes, each configured for holding an energy storage module, and one or more fluid dispensing cavities. Each of the fluid dispensing cavities comprise a bottom surface of a predefined profile, a peripheral wall, and an opening formed on the peripheral wall, wherein the opening is connected to a hole of the plurality of holes. Further, the bottom surface and the opening formed on the peripheral wall are configured to receive and direct a fluid to the hole of the plurality of holes. When a fluid such as an adhesive is dispensed in a fluid dispensing cavity, the adhesive flows to the hole through the opening formed on the peripheral wall and substantially fills a gap between a peripheral wall of the energy storage module and a peripheral wall of the hole and fills a gap between an end surface of the energy storage module and a face of the hole, and rigidly secures the energy storage module with the energy storage module holder.

[009] To further clarify advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0010] The disclosed method and system will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:
[0011] Figure 1A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder with energy storage modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0012] Figure 1B illustrates a top view of the exemplary energy storage module holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0013] Figure 1C illustrates an exploded view of the exemplary energy storage module holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0014] Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the energy storage module holder showing a fluid dispensing cavity, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0015] Figure 3A to Figure 3E illustrate sectional views depicting various stages of a process for securing energy storage modules to the energy storage module holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0016] Figure 3F illustrates a bottom view of the energy storage module holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0017] Figure 4A illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary energy storage module holder with energy storage modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0018] Figure 4B illustrates a top view of the exemplary energy storage module holder in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0019] Figure 5A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder having three holes for holding three energy storage modules;
[0020] Figure 5B illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder having five holes for holding five energy storage modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0021] Figure 5C illustrates an exemplary energy storage module holder having twelve holes for holding twelve energy storage modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0022] Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary energy storage module holder with multiple fluid dispensing cavities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0023] Figure 7A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder with flow channels, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0024] Figure 7B illustrates a top view of an exemplary energy storage module holder for holding pouch type or prismatic type energy storage modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0025] Figure 8A depicts a possible misalignment during the manufacturing process, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0026] Figure 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fluid dispensing cavity with a combination of a concave and a convex bottom surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0027] Figures 8C, 8D and 8E illustrate fluid dispensing cavities having a bottom surface with a hollow dome profile, a conical profile, and a trapezoidal profile, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0028] Figures 9A and 9B illustrate cross-sectional views of a fluid dispensing cavity with a top end having a funnel profile for receiving and directing the fluid, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Further, persons skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the energy storage module holder and one or more components of the energy storage module holder may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the various embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the present disclosure as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the present disclosure relates.

[0031] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the present disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0032] Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, it may still be referred to as “one or more features” or “one or more elements” or “at least one feature” or “at least one element.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “one or more” or “at least one” feature or element do not preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language including, but not limited to, “there needs to be one or more…” or “one or more elements is required.”

[0033] Reference is made herein to some “embodiments.” It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and/or elements of the present disclosure. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of explaining one or more of the potential ways in which the specific features and/or elements of the proposed disclosure fulfill the requirements of uniqueness, utility, and non-obviousness.

[0034] Use of the phrases and/or terms including, but not limited to, “a first embodiment,” “a further embodiment,” “an alternative embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “further embodiment”, “furthermore embodiment”, “additional embodiment” or other variants thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, one or more particular features and/or elements described in connection with one or more embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may be found in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although one or more features and/or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, or in the context of more than one embodiment, or in the context of all embodiments, the features and/or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and/or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.

[0035] Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should not necessarily be taken as limiting factors to the proposed disclosure.

[0036] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by “comprises... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0037] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Disclosed is an energy storage module holder for holding one or more energy storage modules. The term energy storage module holder as described herein refers to a cell holder or a casing or any structural component or device that holds one or more energy storage modules, that is one or more cells. Hence the term energy storage module holder is applicable to various systems and industries where energy storage modules are utilized, including electric vehicles, stationary energy storage systems, and renewable energy applications. The configuration and functionality may vary based on the specific requirements and constraints of the intended use. However, for the purpose of explanation and comprehension, an electric vehicle’s energy storage module holder is considered in this present disclosure.

[0039] For the sake of clarity, the first digit of a reference numeral of each component of the present disclosure is indicative of the Figure number, in which the corresponding component is shown. For example, reference numerals starting with digit “1” are shown at least in Figure 1. Similarly, reference numerals starting with digit “2” are shown at least in Figure 2.

[0040] Figure 1A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder with energy storage modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1B illustrates a top view of the exemplary energy storage module holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1C illustrates an exploded view of the exemplary energy storage module holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figures 1A, 1B and 1C, the energy storage module holder 100 comprises a plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4 (hereinafter referred to as a plurality of holes 105 and may include any number of holes) and one or more fluid dispensing cavities 110 (only one fluid dispensing cavity is shown). Each of the plurality of holes 105 is configured for holding an energy storage module. Referring to Figure 1C, the hole 105-1 is configured for holding an energy storage module 115-1. Similarly, the holes 105-2, 105-3 and 105-4 are configured for holding the energy storage modules 115-2, 115-3 and 115-4, respectively.

[0041] The energy storage module holder 100 may be made of plastic or any other material which provides structural support to hold the plurality of energy storage modules. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of holes 105 is one of a through hole or a blind hole, and the energy storage module 115 is partially held inside the hole as shown in Figure 1A. The energy storage module 115 may encompass a range of rechargeable cell compositions and configurations including, but not limited to, lithium-ion (e.g., lithium iron phosphate, lithium cobalt oxide, other lithium metal oxides, etc.), lithium-ion polymer, nickel metal hydride, nickel cadmium, nickel hydrogen, nickel-zinc, silver zinc, or other battery types or configurations. The energy storage module holder 100 is configured to hold a plurality of energy storage modules 115 within a single structure and the individual energy storage module 115 may be electrically interconnected to achieve a desired voltage and current capacity for a desired application. Further, the energy storage module 115 may be of any shape and size. For example, the energy storage modules 115 may be cylindrical energy storage modules, prismatic energy storage modules, pouch energy storage modules, etc. Based on the shape and size of the energy storage modules 115, the holes 105 are formed on the energy storage module holder 100.

[0042] As described herein, the energy storage module holder 100 comprises the plurality of holes 105, each configured for holding an energy storage module 115, and one or more fluid dispensing cavities 110. It is noteworthy that the illustrated energy storage module holder 100 shown in Figures 1A, 1B and 1C features a single fluid dispensing cavity 110. However, it is essential to recognize that the energy storage module holder 100 may incorporate multiple fluid dispensing cavities, depending on specific requirements. One or more additional possibilities and configurations are elaborated upon in the subsequent sections of this disclosure.

[0043] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the fluid dispensing cavities 110 comprises a bottom surface of a predefined profile, a peripheral wall, and an opening formed on the peripheral wall. In one embodiment, the opening is connected to a hole (105-1) of the plurality of holes (105-1 to 105-4), wherein the bottom surface and the opening formed on the peripheral wall are configured to receive and direct a fluid to the hole (105-1) of the plurality of holes (105-1 to 105-4).

[0044] Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the energy storage module holder 100 showing the fluid dispensing cavity 110, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the fluid dispensing cavity 110 comprises a bottom surface 205 of a predefined profile, a peripheral wall 210 and an opening 215-1 formed on the peripheral wall 210, wherein the opening 215-1 is connected to a hole 105-1 of the plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4. In one embodiment, the bottom surface 205 and the opening 215-1 formed on the peripheral wall 210 are configured to receive and direct a fluid to the hole 105-1 of the plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4. It is noteworthy that the illustrated fluid dispensing cavity 110 in Figure 2 features four openings 215-1, 215-2, 215-3, and 215-4, wherein the opening 215-1 is connected to a hole 105-1, the opening 215-2 is connected to a hole 105-2, the opening 215-3 is connected to a hole 105-3, and the opening 215-4 is connected to a hole 105-4. Hence, the fluid dispensing cavity 110 may include one or more openings, each connecting to one hole among the plurality of holes. That is, one opening among the one or more openings 215-1 to 215-4 connects to only one hole among the plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4.

[0045] As described, the energy storage module holder comprises a plurality of holes, each configured for holding an energy storage module, and one or more fluid dispensing cavities. Further, each of the fluid dispensing cavities comprises a bottom surface of a predefined profile, a peripheral wall, and an opening formed on the peripheral wall. The opening is connected to a hole of the plurality of holes, wherein the bottom surface and the opening formed on the peripheral wall are configured to receive and direct the fluid to the hole of the plurality of holes.

[0046] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the fluid is one of a thermally conductive phase changing fluid and an adhesive for holding the energy storage module within the hole. That is, the thermally conductive phase changing fluid, that has the ability to conduct heat and undergo a phase change, may be used for dissipating the heat from the energy storage modules, and such a fluid is dispensed in the one or more fluid dispensing cavities to achieve improved heat dissipation.

[0047] Further, the adhesive may be used for securely and rigidly holding the energy storage modules. In this scenario, the adhesive is dispensed or poured in the one or more fluid dispensing cavities. The adhesive then flows to the hole through the opening formed on the peripheral wall, substantially filling a gap between a peripheral wall of the energy storage module and a peripheral wall of the hole. Furthermore, the adhesive fills a gap between an end surface of the energy storage module and a face of the hole for securely and rigidly holding the energy storage modules. The manner in which the energy storage module holder 100 is used for securely and rigidly holding the energy storage modules is described below in further detail.

[0048] Figure 3A to Figure 3E illustrate sectional views depicting various stages of a process for securing energy storage modules to the energy storage module holder 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In Figure 3A, a cross-sectional view of the exemplary energy storage module holder 100 is presented for explanatory purposes. It is important to note that, for clarity, only two holes 105-1 and 105-3 of the exemplary energy storage module holder 100, and two energy storage modules 115-1 and 115-3 are shown in the sectional view illustrated in Figure 3A. Initially, the energy storage modules 115-1 and 115-3 are aligned with the holes 105-1 and 105-3 as depicted in Figure 3A. Subsequently, the energy storage modules 115-1 and 115-3 are securely placed inside their respective holes 105-1 and 105-3 respectively as depicted in Figure 3B. Notably, this alignment and insertion process for energy storage modules 115-1 and 115-3 is performed manually or with the aid of a dedicated setup.

[0049] Further, referring to Figure 3C, an adhesive is dispensed or poured in the fluid dispensing cavity 110 using a fluid dispensing nozzle 305. It is to be noted that the fluid dispensing nozzle 305 is held substantially at the center of the fluid dispensing cavity 110 and then the adhesive is poured. Notably, this alignment and dispensing process is performed manually or with the aid of an automated system. For example, in the case of an energy storage module holder having multiple fluid dispensing cavities and capable of holding multiple energy storage modules, the above-said processes may be automated, and more than one fluid dispensing nozzle may be used for dispensing the adhesive simultaneously. It is to be noted that different types of adhesives may be used depending on the material of the energy storage module holder, environmental conditions, application requirements, and depending on viscosity, or the thickness of the adhesive. Hence, adhesives such as but not limited to epoxy adhesives, polyurethane adhesives, cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesives, acrylic adhesives, silicone adhesives, ultraviolet (UV) cured adhesives, and thermally conductive adhesives may be used for rigidly holding the energy storage modules with the energy storage module holder.

[0050] Once the adhesive is poured into the fluid dispensing cavity 110, the adhesive flows to the holes 105-1 and 105-3 through the openings 215-1 and 215-3 formed on the peripheral wall 210 of the fluid dispensing cavity 110. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the adhesive flowing through the openings substantially fills a gap between a peripheral wall of the energy storage module and a peripheral wall of the hole and further fills a gap between an end surface of the energy storage module and a face of the hole. That is, once the adhesive is poured into the fluid dispensing cavity 110, the adhesive initially forms a pool 310 in the dispensing region on the bottom surface 205 of the fluid dispensing cavity 110 as depicted in Figure 3D. Then the adhesive flows to the hole 105-1 (the hole 105-1 is shown with the energy storage module 115-1) through the opening 215-1 and seeps into a gap 315 between a peripheral wall 320 of the energy storage module 115-1 and a peripheral wall 325 of the hole 105-1 as depicted in Figure 3E. When the adhesive solidifies, the adhesive substantially fills the gap 315 between the peripheral wall 320 of the energy storage module 115-1 and the peripheral wall 325 of the hole 105-1 to rigidly hold the energy storage module 115-1 with the energy storage module holder 100. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the adhesive fills a gap 330 between an end surface 335 of the energy storage module 115-1 and a face 340 of the hole 105-1 as depicted in Figure 3E. When the adhesive solidifies, the adhesive substantially fills the gap 330 between the end surface 335 of the energy storage module 115-1 and the face 340 of the hole 105-1.

[0051] Similarly, the adhesive flows to the hole 105-3 through the opening 115-3, through capillary action, and seeps into a gap 345 between a peripheral wall 350 of the energy storage module 115-3 and a peripheral wall 355 of the hole 105-3 as depicted in Figure 3E. When the adhesive solidifies, the adhesive substantially fills the gap 345 between the peripheral wall 350 of the energy storage module 115-3 and the peripheral wall 355 of the hole 105-3 to rigidly hold the energy storage module 115-3 to the energy storage module holder 100. Further, the adhesive fills a gap 360 between an end surface 365 of the energy storage module 115-3 and a face 370 of the hole 105-3 as depicted in Figure 3E. When the adhesive solidifies, the adhesive substantially fills the gap 360 between the end surface 365 of the energy storage module 115-3 and the face 370 of the hole 105-3.

[0052] Figure 3F illustrates a bottom view of the energy storage module holder 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The gap 345 between the peripheral wall 350 of the energy storage module 115-3 and the peripheral wall 355 of the hole 105-3 can be seen in Figure 3F. When the adhesive seeps into the gap 345 and solidifies, it substantially fills the gap 345 and rigidly holds the energy storage module 115-3 within the energy storage module holder 100.

[0053] As described, when the adhesive is poured into the fluid dispensing cavity 110, the adhesive flows to the holes 105-1 and 105-3 through the respective openings 215-1 and 215-3 formed on the peripheral wall 210. When the adhesive solidifies, the adhesive substantially fills the gaps 315 and 345 for firmly holding the energy storage modules 115-1 and 115-3 within the energy storage module holder 100. Further, the adhesive fills the gaps 330 and 360 for firmly holding the energy storage modules 115-1 and 115-3 within the energy storage module holder 100.

[0054] Further, as described, energy storage module holder 100 comprises one or more fluid dispensing cavities, wherein each of the fluid dispensing cavities may include a plurality of openings on the peripheral walls to feed the adhesive to the holes of the energy storage module holder 100. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one opening among the plurality of openings has a different dimension compared to the dimensions of other openings of the plurality of openings.

[0055] Figure 4A illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary energy storage module holder with energy storage modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4B illustrates a top view of the exemplary energy storage module holder, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the energy storage module holder 400 comprises three holes 405-1 to 405-3 for holding three energy storage modules, and a fluid dispensing cavity 410. The dispensing cavity 410 comprises three openings 415-1 to 415-3, formed on the peripheral wall, connecting to the three holes 405-1 to 405-3 respectively. As shown, the opening 415-3 connecting the hole 405-3 is relatively larger compared to the other holes 415-1 and 415-2, and hence more adhesive flows through the opening 415-3. Hence, one or more holes having different dimensions may be formed depending on the required quantity or flow of adhesive.

[0056] As described, the configuration and functionality of the energy storage module holder 100 may vary based on the specific requirements and constraints of the intended use. For example, the energy storage module holder 400 depicted in Figures 4A & 4B comprises three energy storage modules with unequal spacing. Figure 5A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder having three holes for holding three energy storage modules. As shown, the three holes 505-1 to 505-3, spaced at equal distance, hold the three energy storage modules. Figure 5B illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder having five holes for holding five energy storage modules.

[0057] Figure 5C illustrates an exemplary energy storage module holder having twelve holes for holding twelve energy storage modules in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the energy storage module holder comprises three groups 502, 504 and 506 of energy storage modules, wherein each group comprises four holes and one fluid dispensing cavity for feeding the adhesive to the four holes. As shown in Figures 5A, 5B and 5C the energy storage module holder may be a substantially triangular energy storage module holder, a substantially pentagonal energy storage module holder, and a substantially rectangular energy storage module holder.

[0058] As described and shown in Figures 1A to 5C, one dispensing cavity is used to direct the fluid to multiple holes to hold multiple energy storage modules. However, depending on the required bonding strength, a plurality of adhesive dispensing cavities may be used to cater to a single energy storage module. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a plurality of fluid dispensing cavities is configured for directing the fluid to a single hole of the plurality of holes for firmly holding a single energy storage module. Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary energy storage module holder with multiple fluid dispensing cavities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the energy storage module holder 600 comprises three holes and seven fluid dispensing cavities 610-1 to 610-7, wherein each fluid dispensing cavities 610-1, 610-3 and 610-5 comprises a single opening and directs the adhesive to the holes 605-1, 605-2 and 605-3 respectively. Further, each fluid dispensing cavities 610-2, 610-4 and 610-6 comprises two openings, wherein the fluid dispensing cavity 610-2 directs the adhesive to the holes 605-1 and 605-2, the fluid dispensing cavity 610-4 directs the adhesive to the holes 605-2 and 605-3, and the fluid dispensing cavity 610-6 directs the adhesive to the holes 605-3 and 605-1. Furthermore, the dispensing cavity 610-7 comprises three openings and directs the adhesive to the holes 605-1, 605-2 and 605-3. Hence, for example, the plurality of cavities 610-1, 610-2, 610-6 and 610-7 is configured to direct the fluid to the hole 605-1 of the plurality of holes 605-1 to 605-3.

[0059] As described, the energy storage module holder comprises a plurality of fluid dispensing cavities to cater to one or more holes to hold one or more energy storage modules. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the energy storage module holder comprises one or more flow channels connected to the one or more fluid dispensing cavities, wherein the one or more flow channels are configured to guide the fluid to the one or more fluid dispensing cavities. Figure 7A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary energy storage module holder with flow channels, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the exemplary energy storage module holder 700 comprises three fluid dispensing cavities 710-1, 710-2 and 710-3, wherein the fluid dispensing cavities 710-1 and 710-2 are connected through a flow channel 712, and the fluid dispensing cavities 710-2 and 710-3 are connected through a flow channel 714. In such configuration, the fluid is dispensed in one of the cavities, such as the cavity 710-2, and the fluid flows to the other cavities 710-1 and 710-3 through the flow channels 712 and 714 respectively. In another embodiment, a fluid dispensing point 716 may additionally be provided for dispensing and circulating the fluid to the one or more fluid dispensing cavities. Since the flow channels guide the fluid dispensed at one location to multiple fluid dispensing cavities, it reduces the production time.

[0060] As described, the energy storage modules may be of any shape and size. For example, the energy storage modules may be cylindrical energy storage modules, prismatic energy storage modules, pouch energy storage modules, etc. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of holes of the energy storage module is configured for holding cylindrical energy storage modules, prismatic energy storage modules, pouch energy storage modules or a combination thereof. Figure 7B illustrates a top view of an exemplary energy storage module holder for holding pouch type or prismatic type energy storage modules in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the holes are formed to accommodate the pouch type or prismatic type energy storage modules 718-1 to 718-4 and one or more cavities are used for firmly holding the pouch type energy storage modules, as described in the present disclosure.

[0061] As described, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the fluid dispensing cavities comprises the bottom surface of a predefined profile, the peripheral wall, and one or more openings formed on the peripheral wall, and during manufacturing, the adhesive is dispensed in substantially at the center the dispensing cavity as shown in Figure 3C. However, if the profile of the bottom surface is a dome profile and the center of the dispensing cavity and the fluid dispensing nozzle are misaligned, then there is a possibility of more adhesive flowing into the gap of the nearest energy storage module and less adhesive to the other energy storage modules. Figure 8A depicts a possible misalignment during the manufacturing process. As shown, in case of misalignment between the center of the fluid dispensing cavity 810 and the fluid dispensing nozzle 805, there is a possibility of more adhesive flowing into the gap of the nearest energy storage module 815-1. To equally distribute the adhesive to each of the energy storage modules, the profile of the bottom surface of the fluid dispensing may be modified.

[0062] Figure 8B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a fluid dispensing cavity with a combination of a concave and a convex bottom surface, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, a combination of a concave and convex profile 812 of the bottom surface enables equal distribution of the adhesive even if the fluid dispensing nozzle 805 is misaligned with the center of the fluid dispensing cavity 810 during the manufacturing process. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the predefined profile of the bottom surface is one of a dome profile, a hollow dome profile, a conical profile, a trapezoidal profile, and the combination of convex and concave profiles. Figures 8C, 8D and 8E illustrate fluid dispensing cavities having bottom surface with a hollow dome profile, a conical profile, and a trapezoidal profile, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, to overcome problems associated with the said potential misalignment, the fluid dispensing cavity comprises a top end having a funnel profile for receiving and directing the fluid substantially to a center of the bottom surface of the fluid dispensing cavity. Figures 9A and 9B illustrate cross-sectional views of a fluid dispensing cavity with a top end having a funnel profile for receiving and directing the fluid, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the fluid dispensing cavity 110 comprises a top end having a funnel profile 908, wherein the funnel profile 908 directs fluid to the center of the fluid dispensing cavity 110 as depicted in Figure 9B.

[0064] As described, the energy storage module holder 100 described in the present disclosure comprises a plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4, each configured for holding an energy storage module 115-1 to 115-4, and one or more fluid dispensing cavities 110, wherein each of the fluid dispensing cavity 100 comprises a bottom surface 205 of a predefined profile, a peripheral wall 210, and one or more openings 215 formed on the peripheral wall 210. Each opening connects to one hole 105-1 among the plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4, wherein the bottom surface 205 and the opening 215 formed on the peripheral wall 210 are configured to receive and direct a fluid to the hole 105-1 of the plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4, for firmly holding the energy storage module 100. When the fluid, such as an adhesive, is dispensed in the fluid dispensing cavity 110, the adhesive flows to the hole 105-1, through the opening 215 formed on the peripheral wall 210 and substantially fills a gap 315 between a peripheral wall 320 of the energy storage module 115-1 and a peripheral wall 325 of the hole 105-1 and fills a gap 330 between an end surface 335 of the energy storage module 115-1 and a face 340 of the hole 105-1 for firmly holding the energy storage module 100. Hence the energy storage module holder 100 and the method disclosed in the present disclosure eliminates the risk of skin formation or premature gelling of the adhesive during manufacturing. Further, fast-curing or instant adhesives may be used for firmly holding the energy storage modules 115-1 to 115-4 within the energy storage module holder 100.

[0065] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0066] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.

List of reference numerals:
Components Reference numerals
Energy storage module holder 100
A plurality of holes 105-1 to 105-4
One or more fluid dispensing cavities 110
Energy storage modules 115
A bottom surface of the fluid dispensing cavity 205
A peripheral wall of the fluid dispensing cavity 210
Openings 215
A fluid dispensing nozzle 305
Adhesive pool 310
A gap 315
A peripheral wall of the energy storage module 320
A peripheral wall of the hole 325
A gap 330
An end surface of the energy storage module 335
A face of the hole 340
A gap 345
A peripheral wall of the energy storage module 350
A peripheral wall of the hole 355
A gap 360
An end surface of the energy storage module 365
A face of the hole 370
An energy storage module holder 400
Holes 405
A fluid dispensing cavity 410
A plurality of openings 415
Holes 505
Three groups of energy storage modules 502, 504 and 506
An energy storage module holder 600
Holes 605
Fluid dispensing cavities 610
An exemplary energy storage module holder 700
One or more fluid dispensing cavities 710
One or more flow channels 712 and 714
Pouch type or prismatic type energy storage modules 718
Fluid dispensing nozzle 805
Fluid dispensing cavity 810
Concave profile of the bottom surface of the fluid dispensing cavity 812
Energy storage module 815
Funnel profile 908
, Claims:1. An energy storage module holder (100) comprising:
a plurality of holes (105-1 to 105-4), each hole configured for holding an energy storage module (115-1 to 115-4); and
one or more fluid dispensing cavities (110), wherein each of the fluid dispensing cavities (110) comprises:
a bottom surface (205) of a predefined profile;
a peripheral wall (210); and
an opening (215-1) formed on the peripheral wall (210), wherein the opening (215-1) is connected to a hole (105-1) of the plurality of holes (105-1 to 105-4), wherein the bottom surface (205) and the opening (215-1) formed on the peripheral wall (210) are configured to receive and direct a fluid to the hole (105-1) of the plurality of holes (105-1 to 105-4).

2. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of holes (105-1 to 105-4) is one of a through hole or a blind hole.

3. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined profile of the bottom surface (205) is one of a dome profile, a hollow dome profile, a conical profile, a trapezoidal profile, and a combination of convex and concave profiles.

4. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fluid is one of a thermally conductive phase changing fluid and an adhesive for holding the energy storage module (115-1) in the hole (105-1).

5. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the fluid flows, to the hole (105-1), through the opening (215-1) formed on the peripheral wall (210) and substantially fills a gap (315) between a peripheral wall (320) of the energy storage module (115-1) and a peripheral wall (325) of the hole (105-1) and fills a gap (330) between an end surface (335) of the energy storage module (115-1) and a face (340) of the hole (105-1).

6. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the fluid dispensing cavity (110) comprises a plurality of openings (415-1 to 415-3), wherein at least one opening (415-3) among the plurality of openings (415-1 to 415-3) has a different dimension compared to dimensions of other openings (415-1 and 415-2) of the plurality of openings (415-1 to 415-3).

7. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein each opening (415-1, 415-2 and 415-3) of the plurality of openings (415-1 to 415-3) is connected to a respective hole (405-1, 405-2 and 405-3) of the plurality of holes (415-1 to 415-3).

8. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1 comprises one or more flow channels (712 and 714) connected to the one or more fluid dispensing cavities (110), wherein the one or more flow channels (712 and 714) are configured to guide the fluid to the one or more fluid dispensing cavities (710-1 to 710-3).

9. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the one or more fluid dispensing cavities (110) comprises a top end having a funnel profile (908) for receiving and directing the fluid substantially to a center of the bottom surface (205).

10. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1 is one of a substantially triangular energy storage module holder, a substantially pentagonal energy storage module holder, and a substantially rectangular energy storage module holder.

11. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy storage module (115) is one of a cylindrical energy storage module, a prismatic energy storage module, and a pouch energy storage module.

12. The energy storage module holder (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of cavities (610-1, 610-2, 610-6 and 610-7) is configured to direct the fluid to the hole (605-1) of the plurality of holes (605-1 to 605-3).