DESC:TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present disclosure, in general, relates to the field of electrical engineering. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to handles for battery packs. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a handle for a battery cell module.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[002] Battery cells (also simply referred to as ‘cell(s)’) are basic electrochemical units configured to provide electrical energy by conversion of chemical energy. A plurality of battery cells may be assembled to form a battery module. The battery module may be configured to accommodate a fixed number of battery cells. The battery cell module may resemble final shape or configuration of a battery system that is constructed for specific applications. The battery cell module may also include various systems such as, but not limited to, connection systems, control systems, protection systems and cooling systems, for efficient management and operation of the battery cell module.

[003] To further overcome the drawbacks associated with the conventional pivoting type and the detachable type of battery handles, flexible materials such as a rope or a strap may be tied to module, to be used as makeshift battery handles. However, such makeshift arrangements cause instability during transportation of the module, giving rise to vibrations, swaying, and/or rocking of the module.

[004] Battery handles are connected to the module by means of coupling elements such as, but not limited to, attachment brackets and fasteners. Usually, such attachment brackets and fasteners often project outwardly from the external walls/surface of the module, whereby consuming additional space and necessitating a larger storage compartment for accommodation of the battery packs. Damage caused to any one of the coupling elements, during transportation and/or storage of the module, may cause the handle to break off from the module. Further, outwardly projection of the coupling elements often hinders/interferes with installation and removal of the module as desired by the user and as required for efficient operation of the module. Such outward projection of the coupling elements often negatively affects the alignment and positioning of the module, whereby causing unwanted vibrations, and affecting efficient operation of the module.

[005] Further, some modules may require precise alignment and positioning in battery boxes, for formation of electrical connections therein. Modules that are intended to be accommodated in compact storage spaces may require precise alignment and relative positioning therein, for easy, quick installation and removal of the module and for optimal operational performance of the module. Misalignment and improper positioning of the module, caused by the handle, may impede operation of the module, by hindering formation of proper electrical connections. Assembly time required for installation and removal of the module may be increased due to such misalignment and improper positioning between the module and the module.

[006] The present disclosure is directed to overcome one or more limitations stated above or any other limitations associated with conventional handles of the battery packs.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[007] One or more shortcomings of the prior art are overcome by a handle for a battery cell module, as claimed and additional advantages are provided through a battery pack including the battery cell module with the handle as claimed in the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

[008] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a handle for a battery cell module is disclosed. The handle includes a body configured to be mounted to the battery cell module. The body is defined with a gripping segment and a plurality of arms. In the embodiment, the plurality of arms is configured to face at least one of, at least a portion of one or more faces of the battery cell module, and at least a portion of one or more edges of the battery cell module. Such configuration of the plurality of arms guide and self-center the battery cell module within a housing of the battery cell module.

[009] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the plurality of arms extends away and downwardly from the gripping segment. The configuration of the plurality of arms extending away and downwardly from the gripping segment, define a space between the plurality of arms. The space defined between the plurality of arms facilitate insertion of a tool or user’s hand therein, such that, the gripping segment may be held by the tool/user’s hand, followed by lifting of the handle for carrying the module.

[010] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one of the plurality of arms is defined with an aperture configured to accommodate a fastener. The fastener is configured to secure the handle to the battery cell module. The fasteners securing the handle to the battery cell module reduce vibration, swaying, and rocking of the module, during carrying and storage of the module.

[011] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gripping segment is defined with an opening configured to accommodate a fastener to secure the handle to the battery cell module. The fasteners securing the handle to the battery cell module reduce vibration, swaying, and rocking of the module, during carrying and storage of the module

[012] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of arms is defined by a first portion extending from the gripping segment and a second portion extending from a terminal end of the first portion. The first portion is inclined with respect to the gripping segment and the second portion extends substantially vertically such that the gripping segment is elevated from a top cover of the battery cell module. Elevation of the gripping segment relative to the top cover defines a space between the plurality of arms. The space defined between the plurality of arms facilitate insertion of a tool or user’s hand therein, such that, the gripping segment may be held by the tool/user’s hand, followed by lifting of the handle for carrying the module.

[013] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first portion includes a dome with a substantially flat surface. The aperture is defined in the substantially flat surface of the dome. The aperture defined in the substantially flat surface of the dome facilitates stable connection between the fastener accommodated in the aperture and the handle connected to the module.

[014] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second portion is defined with flaps configured to cover corners of at least one face of the battery cell module. The second portion defined with flaps is configured to cover corners and/or edges of at least one face of the module.

[015] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second portion is defined with at least one nib protruding from a terminal end of the second portion. The at least one nib is configured to define allowance between the second portion of the plurality of arms and the battery cell module. The at least one nib protrudes inwardly from an inner surface of the second portion. Configuration of the at least one nib protects at least a portion of one or more faces and at least a portion of one or more edges of the module, that is covered by the second portion.

[016] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gripping segment is defined with a plurality of ribs configured to strengthen the gripping segment. The plurality of ribs are defined on an inner surface of the gripping segment. The plurality of ribs enhance load-carrying ability or stiffness of the gripping segment, whereby increasing stiffness of the handle. The plurality of ribs are configured to provide convenient handling during carrying of the module, while also having a smooth and aesthetic appearance.

[017] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a battery pack is disclosed. The battery pack includes a battery cell module comprising a casing accommodating a plurality battery cells and top cover enclosing an opening defined by the casing. The battery cell module is configured to be accommodated in a housing in a vehicle. The battery pack further includes a handle comprising a body configured to be mounted to the battery cell module. The body is defined with a gripping segment and a plurality arms. The plurality of arms are configured to face at least one of, at least a portion of one or more faces of the battery cell module, and at least a portion of one or more edges of the battery cell module. Such configuration of the plurality of arms guide and self-center the battery cell module within the housing of the battery cell module.

[018] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery pack comprises a connector electrically coupled to and supported by the battery cell module. The connector is configured to be electrically coupled to a coupler in the housing. The configuration of the battery pack including the connector and the coupler facilitates easy, quick installation and removal of the module from the housing and further aids in optimal operational performance of the module.

[019] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[020] The novel features and characteristics of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures wherein like reference numerals represent like elements and in which:

[021] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a handle for a battery cell module, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[022] Figure 2 illustrates another perspective view of the handle of Figure 1;

[023] Figures 3a and 3b illustrate a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of the battery cell module including the handle of Figure 1;

[024] Figure 4 illustrate a bottom perspective view of the handle of Figure 1;

[025] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of a battery pack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[026] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the handle for the battery cell module, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[027] Figures 7a and 7b illustrate a front perspective view and a rear perspective view of the battery cell module including the handle of Figure 6;

[028] The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the handle for the battery cell module illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[029] While the embodiments in the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by the way of example in the figures and will be described below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[030] Before describing detailed embodiments, it may be observed that the novelty and inventive step that are in accordance with the present disclosure resides in a handle for a battery cell module and a battery pack as described in the present disclosure. It is to be noted that a person skilled in the art can be motivated from the present disclosure and modify the various constructions of the handle for the battery cell module, and the battery pack including the handle for the battery cell module. However, such modification should be construed within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings are showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.

[031] In the present disclosure, the term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[032] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof used in the disclosure, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, such that an apparatus, device, assembly, mechanism, system, and method that comprises a list of components does not include only those components but may include other components not expressly listed or inherent to such apparatus, system, assembly, or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus or method.

[033] The terms like “at least one” and “one or more” may be used interchangeably or in combination throughout the description.

[034] The terms “front/forward”, “rear/rearward/back/backward”, “up/upper/top”, “down/lower/lower ward/downward, bottom”, “left/leftward”, “right/rightward” used therein represents the directions from which the handle/battery cell module/battery pack is viewed. Further, such viewing direction may be depicted by a pointer in some of the accompanying drawings.

[035] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following paragraphs with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. In FIGS. 1 to 7, the same element or elements which have same functions are indicated by the same reference signs.

[036] Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a handle (simply referred to as the ‘handle’ hereinafter) for a battery cell module (simply referred to as the ‘module’ or ‘cell module’ hereinafter). The handle includes a body configured to be mounted to the battery cell module. The body is defined with a gripping segment and a plurality of arms. In the embodiment, the plurality of arms is configured to face at least one of, at least a portion of one or more faces of the battery cell module, and at least a portion of one or more edges of the battery cell module. Such configuration of the plurality of arms guide and self-center the battery cell module within a housing of the battery cell module.

[037] In an embodiment, the term ‘battery cell(s)’ or ‘cell(s)’ as used herein refers to electrochemical units configured to provide electrical energy by conversion of chemical energy. The battery may include elements such as, but not limited to, an assembly of electrodes, one or more separator, an electrolyte positioned between the electrodes, a container, and terminals for electrical connection. Further, the term ‘battery cell module’ (also referred to as ‘battery module’ or ‘cell module’ or module) as used herein refers to an assembly of a plurality of battery cells that may be formed by employing at least one of a bracket, a frame, a substructure, and the like. The module including the at least one of the bracket, the frame, the substructure, and the like, may be configured to accommodate a fixed number of battery cells. Furthermore, the term ‘battery pack’ or ‘battery bank’ or ‘energy pack’ as used herein refers to an assembly or arrangement comprising a battery cell module, where such battery cell module includes a casing accommodating a plurality battery cells and a top cover enclosing an opening defined by the casing. The battery cell module may be configured to be accommodated in a housing in a vehicle. The battery pack may further comprise a handle including a body configured to be mounted to the battery cell module. The battery pack may also be configured to include various systems/elements such as, but not limited to, connection systems, control systems, protection systems and cooling systems, for efficient management and operation of the battery cell module including battery cells.

[038] In an embodiment, the term ‘cell(s)’ as used herein may include battery cell(s) such as, but not limited to, primary (non-rechargeable) and secondary (rechargeable) battery cells. Primary (non-rechargeable) may include alkaline cells, magnesium cells, mercury cells, Lithium/solid cathode cells, Lithium/soluble cathode cells, Lithium/Solid Electrolyte, Silver/Zinc cells, Zinc-Carbon cells, and the like. Secondary (rechargeable) battery cells may include lithium-ion battery cells, Nickel – Cadmium battery cells, Nickel – metal hydride Batteries, and the like.

[039] Although the handle of the present disclosure is described in the context of a battery cell module and a battery pack, such description is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, it is to be understood by a person skilled in the art that the handle of the present disclosure may be employed in any other type of applications, that has similar operational requirements and that which requires similar handle characteristics.

[040] The disclosure is described in the following paragraphs with reference to Figures 1 to 7. In the figures, the same element or elements which have same functions are indicated by the same reference signs. It is to be noted that, the entire set up of the battery cell module and the battery pack including various systems such as, but not limited to, connection systems, control systems, protection systems and cooling systems, that are required for efficient management and operation of the battery cell module/battery pack is not illustrated in the figures for the purpose of simplicity. One skilled in the art would appreciate that the handle as disclosed in the present disclosure may be used in multiple numbers in one or more battery cell modules and battery packs.

[041] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate perspective views of a handle (100) (also referred to as the ‘handle’ hereinafter) for a battery cell module (200) (also referred to as the ‘module’ hereinafter) (shown in Figures 3a and 3b), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. While, Figure 1 illustrates a top perspective view of the handle (100), Figure 2 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the handle (100). The handle (100) may include a body (1) configured to be mounted to the module (200). The body (1) may be defined with a gripping segment (2) and a plurality of arms (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) (collectively referred to by reference numeral ‘3’ hereinafter).

[042] Further, Figures 3a and 3b illustrate the handle (100) secured to the module (200), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The module (200) comprises a casing (23) configured to accommodate a plurality battery cells (not shown in Figures). The casing (23) further comprises a top cover (24) enclosing an opening (not visible in Figures) defined by the casing (23). The module (200) is configured to be accommodated in a housing (25) (shown in Figure 5), such as but not limited to, a storage compartment, a battery container, and a battery box of a vehicle. The plurality of arms (3) may be configured to face at least a portion of one or more faces (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) (shown in Figures 3a and 3b) (collectively referred to by reference numeral ‘4’ hereinafter) of the module (200). Further, the plurality of arms (3) may also be configured to face at least a portion of one or more edges (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) (shown in Figures 3a and 3b) (collectively referred to by reference numeral ‘5’ hereinafter) of the module (200).

[043] In an embodiment, the handle (100) may include four arms (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) as depicted in Figures 1 and 2. However, the handle (100) may include at least two arms. The handle (100) may also include three arms. Further, the handle (100) may also include more than four arms. The number of arms comprised in the handle (100) may depend on parameters such as, but not limited to, number of faces of the module (200), number of edges comprised in the module (200), type of connection required between the module (200) and the handle (100), operational requirements of the module (200) relating to vibration, swaying, rocking and storage of the module (200).

[044] In an embodiment, the plurality of arms (3) may extend away and downwardly from the gripping segment (2). The configuration of the plurality of arms (3) extending away and downwardly from the gripping segment (2), define a space (6) between the plurality of arms (3). The space (6) defined between the plurality of arms (3) facilitate insertion of a tool or user’s hand therein, such that, the gripping segment (2) may be held by the tool/user’s hand, followed by lifting of the handle (100) for carrying the module (200).

[045] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of arms (3) may be defined with a first portion (7) extending from the gripping segment (2) and a second portion (8) extending from a terminal end (9) of the first portion (7). The first portion (7) may be inclined with respect to the gripping segment (2). Angle of inclination between the first portion (7) and the gripping segment (2) may be in a range of 25 degrees to 75 degrees. Further, the angle of inclination between the first portion (7) and the gripping segment (2) may also be in the range of 35 degrees to 65 degrees, 45 degrees to 55 degrees and the like. In an embodiment, the first portion (7) may be inclined at substantially 45 degrees relative to the gripping segment (2). Angle of inclination between the first portion (7) and the second portion (8) affects volume of space (6) defined between the plurality of arms (3).

[046] In an embodiment, the first portion (7) may include a dome (12). The dome (12) may comprise a substantially flat surface (13). An aperture (15) may be defined in the substantially flat surface (13) of the dome (12). The aperture (15) may be configured to accommodate a fastener (31) (shown in Figure 3a). The fastener (31) may be configured to secure the handle (100) to the module (200). The fastener (31) may be fastened to the module (200) through the aperture (15) for securing the handle (100) to the module (200). Further, the fastener (31) may be unfastened through the aperture (15) for disconnecting the handle (100) from the module (200). The aperture (15) may be a threaded for facilitating fastening and unfastening of the fastener (31).

[047] In an embodiment, the gripping segment (2) of the at least one of the plurality of arms (3) may be defined with an opening (similar to the aperture (15)) configured to accommodate a fastener. The fastener may be configured to secure the handle (100) to the module (200). The opening (not shown in Figures) may be configured to accommodate a fastener. The fastener may be configured to secure the handle (100) to the module (200). The fastener may be fastened to the module (200) via the opening for securing the handle (100) to the module (200). Further, the fastener may be unfastened via the opening for disconnecting the handle (100) from the module (200). The opening may be a threaded for facilitating fastening and unfastening of the fastener.

[048] In an embodiment, the second portion (8) may extend substantially vertically (in a downward direction, relative to the gripping segment (2) and the first portion (7)). Such configuration of the second portion (8) ensures that the gripping segment (2) is elevated from a top cover (24) of the module (200) (shown in Figure 3b). The second portion (8) may be defined with flaps (16) configured to cover corners and/or edges (5a, 5b, 5c, and 5d) of at least one face of the module (200).

[049] In an embodiment, the flaps (16) of the second portion (8) may comprise two faces (10, 11) (shown in Figure 2) that are substantially perpendicular to each other. The two faces (10, 11) may be formed at substantially right angles to each other, similar to that of ‘L’ shape, with a fillet (14) defined along joining region/edge of the two faces (10, 11). Such configuration of the second portion (8) facilitates covering of at least a portion of one or more faces (4) and at least a portion of one or more edges (5) of the module (200) as shown in the Figures 3a and 3b. The configuration of the second portion (8) facilitates covering of at least a portion of one or more faces (4) and at least a portion of one or more edges (5) in the vicinity of the top cover (24) of the module (200).

[050] Figure 4 depicts another bottom perspective view of the handle (100) of the present disclosure. As illustrated in the figure 4, the second portion (8) may be defined with at least one nib (17, 18) protruding from a terminal end (19) of the second portion (8). In an embodiment, terminal end (19) of each of the two faces (10, 11) of the flaps (16) may be defined with a nib (17, 18). The at least one nib (17, 18) may be configured to define allowance (gap) between the second portion (8) of the plurality of arms (3) and the module (200). The at least one nib (17, 18) may protrude inwardly from an inner surface (20) of the second portion (8). Such configuration of the at least one nib (17, 18) protects at least a portion of one or more faces (4) and at least a portion of one or more edges (5) of the module (200), that is covered by the second portion (8).

[051] In an embodiment, the gripping segment (2) may be defined with a plurality of ribs (21) configured to strengthen the gripping segment (2). The plurality of ribs (21) may be defined on an inner surface (22) of the gripping segment (2). The plurality of ribs (21) may be configured to enhance load-carrying ability or stiffness of the gripping segment (2), whereby increasing stiffness of the handle (100). The plurality of ribs (21) may be defined substantially perpendicular to the inner surface (22) of the gripping segment (2). The plurality of ribs (21) may be configured to provide convenient handling during carrying of the module (200), while also having a smooth and aesthetic appearance.

[052] Figure 5 illustrates a battery pack (300) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The battery pack (300) includes the module (200) as described in above paragraphs. As described in description of Figures 3a and 3b, the module (200) includes the casing (23) configured to accommodate a plurality battery cells (not shown in Figures). The casing (23) further comprises the top cover (24) enclosing an opening (not visible in Figures) defined by the casing (23). The module (200) is configured to be accommodated in the housing (25) (shown in Figure 5). The housing (25) may include any accommodation space for the module (200), such as, but not limited to, a storage compartment, a battery container, and a battery box of a vehicle. The battery pack (300) may further include a connector (26) electrically coupled to and supported by the module (200). The connector (26) may be configured to be electrically coupled to a coupler (27) in the housing (25).

[053] Figure 6 illustrates another embodiment of the handle (100) of the present disclosure. Although, the handle (100) illustrated in Figure 6 has similar characteristics of the handle (100) depicted in Figures 1 to 5, the handle (100) of Figure 6 has an additional feature of a cut-out (28). As depicted in Figure 6, the cut-out (28) may be defined in the first portion (7) of the plurality of arms (3). The cut-out (28) may be defined with the dome (12). The dome (12) of the handle (100) in Figure 6 may have features similar to that of the dome (12) of the handle (100) illustrated in Figure 1 to 5 (as described in earlier paragraphs).

[054] Further, Figures 7a and 7b illustrate the handle (100) of Figure 6, secured to the module (200), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cut-out (28) feature of the handle (100) prevents the fasteners accommodated in the dome (12) from projecting outwardly from the external walls/surface of the module (200). Such configuration of the handle (100) prevents requirement of additional space or larger storage compartment for accommodation of the battery modules (200). Configuration of the handle (100) including the cut-out (28) eliminates possibility of damage to fasteners or coupling elements accommodated in the dome (12), that may be caused during transportation and/or storage of the module (200). By eliminating outwardly projection of the fasteners or coupling elements, hinderance or interference caused by such fasteners or coupling elements during assembly is eliminated, whereby reducing assembly time required for installation and removal of the module (200).

[055] In an embodiment, during insertion of the module (200) into the housing (25), the configuration of the plurality of arms (3) ensure that an external surface (30) (shown in Figure 6) of each of the plurality of arms (3) comes in contact with one or more corners (29a, 29b, 29c, 29d) (collectively referred by reference number ‘29’) of the housing (25). Such contact between the plurality of arms (3) and the corners (29) of the housing (25) guides and self-center’s the module (200), during insertion of the module (200) into the housing (25). Further, the configuration of the plurality of arms (3) and the one or more nibs (17, 18) ensure that a safety zone (i.e., the allowance created by the nibs (17, 18)) is created and maintained around the casing (23) of the module (100). Further, the aspect of self-centering the module (200) by the plurality of arms (3) protects the connector (26) during assembly of battery pack (300) and facilitates formation of proper electrical connections between the connector (26) and the coupler (27) in the housing (25).

[056] In an embodiment, configuration of the handle (100), the module (200) and the battery pack (300) facilitates precise alignment and positioning of the module (200) in battery boxes, for formation of electrical connections therein. The module (200) including the handle (100) of the present disclosure ensures that the module (200) is accommodated in compact storage spaces that require precise alignment and relative positioning therein. The configuration of the handle (100), the module (200) and the battery pack (300) facilitates easy, quick installation and removal of the module (200) from the housing (25) and further aids in optimal operational performance of the module (200). Further, assembly time required for installation and removal of the battery pack (300) is decreased due to prevention of misalignment and improper positioning between the module (200) and the housing (25). Furthermore, appropriate alignment and proper positioning of the module (200) eliminates unwanted vibrations and swaying/rocking of the module (200) during storage.

[057] The various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated embodiments; rather, these embodiments are intended to fully and completely disclose the subject matter of the disclosure to those skilled in this art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Thicknesses and dimensions of some components may be exaggerated for clarity.

[058] Herein, the terms “attached”, “connected”, “interconnected”, “contacting”, “mounted”, “coupled” and the like can mean either direct or indirect attachment or contact between elements, unless stated otherwise.

[059] Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity. As used herein the expression “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[060] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes” and/or “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[061] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the particular features of this disclosure, it will be appreciated that various modifications can be made, and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other modifications in the nature of the disclosure or the preferred embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

EQUIVALENTS

[062] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[063] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system (100) having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system (100) having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

[064] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

[065] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. ,CLAIMS:We claim:
1. A handle (100) for a battery cell module (200), the handle (100) comprising:
a body (1) configured to be mounted to the battery cell module (200), the body (1) defined with a gripping segment (2) and a plurality of arms (3);
wherein, the plurality of arms (3) configured to face at least one of:
at least a portion of one or more faces (4) of the battery cell module (200); and
at least a portion of one or more edges (5) of the battery cell module (200);
such that the plurality of arms (3) guide and self-center the battery cell module (200) within a housing (25) of the battery cell module (200).

2. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of arms (3) extend away and downwardly from the gripping segment (2).

3. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of arms (3) defined with an aperture (15) configured to accommodate a fastener to secure the handle (100) to the battery cell module (200).

4. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gripping segment (2) defined with an opening configured to accommodate a fastener to secure the handle (100) to the battery cell module (200).

5. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of arms (3) is defined by a first portion (7) extending from the gripping segment (2) and a second portion (8) extending from a terminal end (9) of the first portion (7), wherein the first portion (7) is inclined with respect to the gripping segment (2) and the second portion (8) extends substantially vertically such that the gripping segment (2) is elevated from a top cover (24) of the battery cell module (200).

6. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the first portion (7) includes a dome (12) with a substantially flat surface (13), and wherein the aperture (15) is defined in the substantially flat surface (13) of the dome (12).

7. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second portion (8) is defined with flaps (16) configured to cover corners of at least one face (4) of the battery cell module (200).

8. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the second portion (8) is defined with at least one nib (17, 18) protruding from a terminal end (19) of the second portion (8), the at least one nib (17, 18) configured to define allowance between the second portion (8) of the plurality of arms (3) and the battery cell module (200), and wherein the at least one nib (17, 18) protrudes inwardly from an inner surface (20) of the second portion (8).

9. The handle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gripping segment (2) is defined with a plurality of ribs (21) configured to strengthen the gripping segment (2), and wherein the plurality of ribs (21) are defined on an inner surface (22) of the gripping segment (2).

10. A battery pack (300), comprising:
a battery cell module (200) comprising a casing (23) accommodating a plurality battery cells and top cover (24) enclosing an opening defined by the casing (23), the battery cell module (200) configured to be accommodated in a housing (25) in a vehicle;
and
a handle (100) comprising:
a body (1) configured to be mounted to the battery cell module (200), the body (1) defined with a gripping segment (2) and a plurality arms (3);
wherein, the plurality of arms (3) configured to face at least one of:
at least a portion of one or more faces (4) of the battery cell module (200); and
at least a portion of one or more edges (5) of the battery cell module (200);
such that the plurality of arms (3) guide and self-center the battery cell module (200) within the housing (25) of the battery cell module (200).

11. The battery pack (300) as claimed in claim 10, comprises a connector (26) electrically coupled to and supported by the battery cell module (200), the connector (26) configured to be electrically coupled to a coupler (27) in the housing (25).