Patent Grant
12114426
Aspects described herein generally relate to electrical power storage systems. More specifically, aspects of this disclosure relate to sealed housings for a matrix of battery cells, a flexible printed circuit boards providing conductive paths for a matrix of battery cells, impact absorbing members to absorb or reduce shock and vibration forces seen by the electronic members for a portable electrical power storage system, and to flexible printed circuit boards providing conductive paths for a matrix of battery cells.
Batteries may come in different shapes and sizes depending on their intended usage. Some batteries may be arranged as packages of battery cells that are assembled together to provide a predetermined power output. These battery packages may be arranged in a durable and sealed housing to protect the batteries from damage. In some instances, the battery packages may be desired to flex or bend to accommodate their intended usage.
In addition, portable battery systems may be utilized to provide mobile and/or remote location electrical power. Integrated communications equipment and/or weapons gear utilized, for example, by law enforcement and/or military personnel requires increasingly high levels of power storage carried proximate the user's body. Methods of increasing power storage capability in a device, such as a conformal wearable battery (CWB) is to include additional battery cells and/or use larger battery cells. However, these solutions may unacceptably increase the size and/or weight of the resulting systems, reducing mobility.
As such, a need has been recognized within the mobile electrical power storage industry for increasing power capacity while improving an overall user safety of these systems while simultaneously reducing their size and weight.
Aspects of the disclosure provide solutions that address and overcome technical problems associated with charging batteries encased in hermetically sealed packages.
Additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in a grid-like pattern, where the plurality of battery cells have a positive terminal and a negative terminal to provide electricity through a transfer of electrons between the positive terminal and negative terminal, a housing with an interior cavity that receives the plurality of battery cells, a conductive region coupled to one or more of the positive terminal and the negative terminal, where the electricity is provided from one or more of the plurality of battery cells to the conductive region, and a contact component having a front portion and a rear portion, where the contact component comprises an electrically conductive material. The front portion of the contact component may include an outward facing surface and a perimeter region surrounding the outward facing surface, where the outward facing surface may be accessible from outside of the interior cavity of the housing and the rear portion may have an inward facing surface. The contact component may be connected to the conductive region. The perimeter region of the outward facing surface of the contact component may be secured to the housing forming a sealed edge to prevent ingress of liquid into the interior cavity. The conformal wearable battery may also include a contact carrier that encases the rear portion of the contact component, where the contact carrier is also secured to the housing. The contact carrier may be secured to the housing between a rear surface of a sidewall of the housing and a rear flange that is spaced rearward of the rear surface. The housing may include a first plug that extends from the rear surface of the sidewall through an opening in the contact carrier to the rear flange of the housing. The electrically conductive material of the contact component may be formed from at least one material selected from brass, gold, copper, silver, aluminum, steel, or a combination thereof. The perimeter region may include a groove, and the rear portion may include a textured region and a threaded female element. The textured region may include a plurality of angled gear teeth. The contact component may also include an opening that receives a conductive element to create a connection between the conductive region and the contact component.
Still other aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that includes: (a) a plurality of battery cells comprising a positive terminal and a negative terminal to provide electricity through a transfer of electrons between the positive terminal and negative terminal; (b) a housing that includes a first shell and a second shell, where the first shell may connect to the second shell to form an interior cavity that receives the plurality of battery cells; (c) a conductive region coupled to one or more of the positive terminal and the negative terminal, where the electricity is provided from one or more of the plurality of battery cells to the conductive region; (d) a first contact carrier that secures a first electrically conductive contact component, where the first contact carrier is secured to the first shell; and (f) the first contact component having a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the first contact component may include an outward facing surface and a perimeter region surrounding the outward facing surface, where the outward facing surface is accessible from outside of the interior cavity of the housing. The first contact component is connected to the conductive region. The first contact carrier may be secured to the housing between a first rear surface of a first sidewall of the first shell and a first rear flange that is spaced rearward of the first rear surface. A first plug may extend from the first rear surface of the first sidewall through an opening in the first contact carrier to the first rear flange of the first shell, where the first plug, the first rear flange, and the first sidewall may be a single unitary member. A sidewall of the first shell may surround the perimeter region of the first contact component, and the first contact carrier may surround a textured region of the first contact component. The first rear flange may include an opening to allow access to an inward facing surface of the first contact component. A connector plate configured to receive a connector may be secured between a second rear surface of a second sidewall of the first shell and a second rear flange. In addition, a second plug may extend from the second rear surface through an opening in the connector plate to the second rear flange. The CWB may also include a second contact carrier, where the first contact carrier secures the first contact component and a second electrically conductive contact component. The second contact carrier may secure a third electrically conductive contact component and a fourth electrically conductive contact component.
Other aspects of this disclosure may relate to a system that includes: (a) an electronic component to provide an electrical signal, wherein the electronic component comprises a plurality of battery cells; (b) a housing that includes an interior cavity that receives the electronic component; (c) a conductive region coupled to the electronic component, where the electrical signal is provided from the electronic component to the conductive region; and (d) an electrically conductive contact component having a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the contact component may include an outward facing surface and a perimeter region surrounding the outward facing surface. The outward facing surface may be accessible from outside of the interior cavity of the housing, and the rear portion may have an inward facing surface. The contact component may be connected with the conductive region. The front portion may be partially encased by a first material that forms a sidewall of the housing, and the rear portion may be partially encased by a second material, where the first material may have a lower durometer than the second material. The electronic component may comprise a battery-charging controller and a computing processor. The perimeter region of the contact component may include a groove, and the rear portion of the contact component may include a textured region and a threaded female element. The contact component may include a threaded opening that receives a conductive element to create a direct connection between the conductive region and the contact component. The rear portion of the contact component may be secured to a contact carrier that is formed from the second material.
Yet still other aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that includes: (a) a plurality of battery cells arranged in a grid-like pattern, where the plurality of battery cells includes a positive terminal and a negative terminal to provide electricity through a transfer of electrons between the positive terminal and negative terminal; and (b) a housing that includes: (1) a first shell formed from a first member having a first plurality of rigid regions and a second member that has a first flexible region located between a first rigid region and a second rigid region of the first plurality of rigid regions, where the first shell includes a front wall with an outward facing surface formed from outward facing surfaces of the first plurality of rigid regions and an outward facing surface of the second member, and (2) a second shell attached to the first shell, wherein the second shell includes a third member having a second plurality of rigid regions and a fourth member that has a second flexible region located between a first rigid region and a second rigid region of the second plurality of rigid regions. The second shell may have an outward facing surface formed from outward facing surfaces of the second plurality of rigid regions and an outward facing surface of the second member, where the first shell may connect to the second shell to form an interior cavity that receives the plurality of battery cells. The first member may be formed from a first material, and the second member may be formed from a second material, where the first material has a hardness that is greater than a hardness of the second material. The third member may be formed from the first material, and the fourth member may be formed from the second material. The first material may be formed from a polycarbonate, and the second material may be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. The second member may be molded onto the first member to form the first shell. Additionally, the first rigid region of the first plurality of rigid regions may include a first outward facing surface, a first inward facing surface, and a first edge region along a majority of a perimeter of the first rigid region extending between the first outward facing surface and the first inward facing surface. The first edge region may include a first edge surface and a second edge surface, where the first edge surface and the second edge surface extend in different directions. The second member may have a second edge region that has a complementary structure to the first edge region such that the first member and the second member are substantially coplanar on adjacent surfaces of the first edge region.
Still additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a housing for a plurality of battery cells arranged in a grid-like pattern, where the housing includes: (a) a first shell having a first member having a plurality of rigid regions and a second member that has a flexible region located between a first rigid region and a second rigid region of the plurality of rigid regions, where a first wall of the first shell has an outward facing surface formed from outward facing surfaces of the plurality of rigid regions and an outward facing surface of the second member and (b) a second shell attached to the first shell forming an interior cavity between the first shell and the second shell. The first member may be formed as a unitary member, and the second member may be molded onto the first member. In addition, the first member may be formed from a first material, and the second member may be formed from a second material. The first material may have a first hardness, and the second material may have a second hardness, where the first hardness may be greater than the second hardness. The plurality of rigid regions may be arranged in an array with the plurality of rigid regions in both a horizontal direction and a vertical direction that correspond to the grid-like pattern of the plurality of battery cells. Each rigid region of the plurality of rigid regions may be spaced apart from an adjacent rigid region and is connected to the adjacent rigid region by a channel. The channel may act as a living hinge, and the channel may have a thickness that is less than a thickness of the first rigid region. The first rigid region of the plurality of rigid regions may include a first outward facing surface, a first inward facing surface, and a first edge region along a majority of a perimeter of the first rigid region extending between the first outward facing surface and the first inward facing surface. The first edge region may include a first edge surface that extends substantially perpendicular to the first outward facing surface and a second edge surface has a portion that extends substantially perpendicular to the first edge surface. The second edge surface may include a curved portion. A thickness of the first rigid region may be substantially the same as a thickness of the flexible region, where the thickness of the first rigid region may be measured at a center of the first rigid region and the thickness of the flexible region may be measured at a location adjacent a first edge region of the first rigid region. The second shell may include a third member having a second plurality of rigid regions and a fourth member that has a second flexible region located between a first rigid region and a second rigid region of the second plurality of rigid regions. A first wall of the second shell may have an outward facing surface formed from outward facing surfaces of the plurality of rigid regions and an outward facing surface of the second member. The second member may include a plurality of horizontal grooves and a plurality of vertical grooves.
Additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a housing for a plurality of battery cells arranged in a grid-like pattern, where the housing includes a first shell having a first member having a plurality of rigid regions and a second member that has a flexible region located between a first rigid region and a second rigid region of the plurality of rigid regions, and wherein a first wall of the first shell has an outward facing surface formed from outward facing surfaces of the plurality of rigid regions and an outward facing surface of the second member, where the plurality of rigid regions are arranged in an array with the plurality of rigid regions in both a horizontal direction and a vertical direction that correspond to the grid-like pattern of the plurality of battery cells and each rigid region of the plurality of rigid regions are spaced apart from an adjacent rigid region and is connected to the adjacent rigid region by a channel. The first member may be formed as a unitary member, and the second member may be molded onto the first member. The first member may be formed from a first material, and the second member may be formed from a second material. The first material may have a first hardness, and the second material may have a second hardness, where the first hardness is greater than the second hardness.
Aspects of the disclosure provide solutions that address and overcome technical problems associated with minimizing size of a portable battery system (e.g. a conformal wearable battery system).
A flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) for a conformal wearable battery (CBB) includes attachment sections for a plurality of battery cells that are arranged in a grid-like pattern on a same side of the flexible PCBA. The flexible PCBA is configured to fold along a bend axis so that the flexible PCBA is folded approximately in half. To reduce mechanical stresses placed on the flexible PCBA when folding the flexible PCBA along the bend axis, the flexible PCBA includes a plurality of cut-outs dispersed along the bend axis and parallel to adjacent battery cells. The CWB is configured to flex during use. The flexible PCBA includes a plurality of cut-outs disposed perpendicular to the bend axis, between adjacent rows of battery cells, and on the bend axis to relieve mechanical stresses applied to a bent portion of the flexible PCBA when the CWB is flexed during use.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may include a plurality of battery cells and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may include a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is physically affixed to the flexible PCBA at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections, a bend axis disposed between two parallel physical connection sections, wherein the bend axis facilitates folding of the flexible PCBA in half. Additionally, the flexible PCBA may include a plurality of first cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is disposed parallel to the bend axis and a plurality of second cut-outs disposed across the bend axis, wherein each second cut-out of the plurality of second cut-outs are disposed perpendicular to the bend axis.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may include a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may include a bend axis where the bend axis comprises a center portion of the grid like pattern of the physical connection sections.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may include the plurality of cut-outs where each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is rectangular-shaped, and where a longer edge of each first cut-out is disposed parallel to the bend axis. The conformal wearable battery may include a first cut-out where each corner of each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is rounded and/or where each second cut-out of the plurality of second cut-outs comprises a first semi-circular section, a second semi-circular section and a rectangular section. The flexible PCBA may include a first cut-out where the rectangular section is disposed between the first semi-circular section and the second semi-circular section and/or where the rectangular section is disposed laterally across the bend axis, wherein a mid-point of the rectangular section is located near the bend axis.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may have each of the plurality of battery cells physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA and/or where the plurality of battery cells is disposed on an outside surface of the flexible PCBA when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may further include a sealed flexible housing wherein the flexible PCBA is disposed within an interior cavity of the sealed flexible housing and wherein the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a system that may include a plurality of battery cell modules and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA includes a plurality of battery cell connection sections disposed in a grid-like pattern along a first surface of the flexible PCBA, a bend axis configured to divide the flexible PCBA in half when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration, and a plurality of cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein each of the plurality of cut-outs reduce a bending force placed on the flexible PCBA when a flexing force is applied to the flexible PCBA. The system may include the plurality of cut-outs comprises a plurality of first cut-outs having a first shape, and a second plurality of cut-outs having a second shape. In some cases, the first shape comprises a substantially rectangular shape having rounded corners and/or the second shape comprises at least one semi-circular section and a rectangular section. In some cases, the second shape comprises a rectangular section disposed across the bend axis and a first semi-circular section disposed at an end of the rectangular section on a first side of the bend axis and a second semi-circular section disposed at an opposite end of the rectangular section and on an opposite side of the bend axis. In some cases, a first plurality of cut-outs of the plurality of cut-outs are located near an approximate mid-point of a battery cell module and/or where a portion of the plurality of cut-outs is disposed on a bend line that is perpendicular to the bend axis and between two adjacent battery cell modules
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) that may include a plurality of battery modules physically affixed to the flexible PCBA, wherein the plurality of battery modules are arranged in a grid-like pattern, a bend axis near an approximate mid-point of the flexible PCBA, wherein bending the flexible PCBA along the bend axis folds the flexible PCBA in half, and a plurality of cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein the cutouts reduce a force exerted on the flexible PCBA along the bend axis when the flexible circuit board is flexed. In some cases, the plurality of cut-outs disposed along the bend axis comprise a plurality of first cut-outs having a first shape and a plurality of second cut-outs having a second shape and wherein the plurality of first cut-outs are disposed along a flexible portion of the flexible PCBA between adjacent rows of the grid-like pattern that are perpendicular to the bend axis and the plurality of second cut-outs are disposed between adjacent battery modules in columns of the grid-like pattern, wherein the columns are on opposite sides of the bend axis.
Some aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery (CWB) that includes: (a) a plurality of non-cylindrical shaped battery polymer cells; (b) a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) with a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, where each of the plurality of battery cells is physically affixed to the flexible PCB at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections and a bend axis that facilitates folding of the flexible PCB to form an upper portion of the flexible PCB and a lower portion of the flexible PCB; (c) a visco-elastic central shock-absorbing member positioned between the upper portion and the lower portion of the flexible PCB preventing the upper portion from contacting the lower portion, where the central shock-absorbing member electrically insulates the upper portion from the lower portion; and (d) a flexible housing that includes an internal cavity that receives the plurality of battery cells, the flexible PCB, and the central shock-absorbing member. The CWB may also include a plurality of visco-elastic battery cell shock-absorbing members, where each battery cell shock-absorbing member of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members being individually attached to an outward facing surface of each battery cell. Each battery cell shock-absorbing member may have an opening that is substantially aligned with a center of a pouch cell portion of each battery cell. The opening may have an area that is within a range of 30 percent and 70 percent of an area of a front surface of the battery cell shock-absorbing member, where the area of the front surface is defined as the area of the front surface that is free of the opening. At least one battery cell shock-absorbing member of the plurality of shock-absorbing members may contact an interior surface of the housing. A thickness of the central shock-absorbing member may be substantially the same as a thickness of one of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members. In some examples, a thickness of the central shock-absorbing member may be within a range of 1.2 and 1.4 times a thickness of one of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members. The central shock-absorbing member may be continuous and extend at least 90 percent of a width of the upper portion of the flexible PCB. A thickness of the central shock-absorbing member may be within a range of 2 percent and 5 percent of a thickness of the conformal wearable battery, where the thickness of the conformal wearable battery is defined as a distance from an outermost outward facing surface of an upper housing member to an outermost outward facing surface of a lower housing member. The central shock-absorbing member may be the same material as a battery cell shock-absorbing member of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members, and where the central shock-absorbing member comprises polyurethane.
Other aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that includes (a) a plurality of battery cells; (b) a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) that includes a plurality of physical connection sections, where each of the plurality of battery cells is physically affixed to the flexible PCB at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections and a bend axis that facilitates folding of the flexible PCB to form an upper portion of the flexible PCB and a lower portion of the flexible PCB; (c) a plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members, each battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members being individually attached to an outward facing surface of each battery cell, where each battery cell shock-attenuating member is a foam member and has an opening that extends through the battery cell shock-attenuating member; and (d) a housing that includes an upper housing member, a lower housing member, and an internal cavity, wherein the internal cavity that receives the plurality of battery cells, the flexible PCB, and the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members. A first battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members contacts an interior surface of the lower housing member and a second battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members contacts an interior surface of the upper housing member. When a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells increases in volume, one of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of shock-attenuating members is compressed. A thickness of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members may be within a range of 4 percent and 12 percent of a thickness of a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells. The opening of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members may have an oval shape. The CWB may also include a central shock-attenuating member, where the central shock-attenuating member may be positioned between the upper portion and the lower portion of the flexible PCB to prevent the upper portion from contacting the lower portion. The central shock-attenuating member may electrically insulate the upper portion from the lower portion. In addition, a thickness of the central shock-attenuating member may be substantially the same as a thickness of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members.
Still additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a system that includes: (a) a plurality of battery cells; (b) a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) that has a plurality of physical connection sections, where each of the plurality of battery cells may be physically affixed to the flexible PCB at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections and a bend axis that may facilitate folding of the flexible PCB to form an upper portion of the flexible PCB and a lower portion of the flexible PCB; (c) a central shock-attenuating member formed from a polymeric foam material, where the central shock-attenuating member may be positioned between the upper portion and the lower portion that prevents the upper portion of the flexible PCB from contacting the lower portion of the flexible PCB; (d) a plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members formed from a polymeric foam material, where each battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members may be individually attached to an outward facing surface of each battery cell of the plurality of battery cells; and (e) a housing that includes an internal cavity, where the internal cavity receives the plurality of battery cells, the flexible PCB, the central shock-attenuating member, and the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members. A battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members may contact an interior surface of the housing. When a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells increases in volume, one of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of shock-attenuating members or the central shock-attenuating member may be compressed. In addition, when a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells increases in volume, the battery cell that increases in volume may expand into a cavity formed by an opening in each battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell. A thickness of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members may be within a range of 4 percent and 12 percent of a thickness of a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells. The central shock-attenuating member may contact both inward facing surfaces of the upper portion and the lower portion of the flexible PCB.
Aspects of the disclosure provide solutions that address and overcome technical problems associated with minimizing size of a portable battery system (e.g. a conformal wearable battery system).
A need has been recognized within the mobile electrical power storage industry for increasing power capacity while improving an overall user safety of these systems while simultaneously reducing their size and weight.
A matrix of battery cell modules includes a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) for a conformal wearable battery (CWB) with a plurality of attachment sections for each of a plurality of battery cells that are arranged in a grid-like pattern on a same side of the flexible PCBA. Control and/or monitoring circuitry for the CWB may be provided in a circuitry module. The flexible PCBA is configured to fold along a bend axis so that the flexible PCBA is folded approximately in half. When affixed to the flexible PCBA, the plurality of battery cell modules and the circuitry module form a grid of physical components. When folded, the flexible PCBA forms a three-dimensional grid of physical components comprising at least the battery cell modules.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may include a plurality of battery cells and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may include a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is physically affixed to the flexible PCBA at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections, a bend axis disposed between two parallel physical connection sections, wherein the bend axis facilitates folding of the flexible PCBA in half. Additionally, the flexible PCBA may include a plurality of first cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is disposed parallel to the bend axis and a plurality of second cut-outs disposed across the bend axis, wherein each second cut-out of the plurality of second cut-outs are disposed perpendicular to the bend axis.
In some cases, the conformal wearable battery may include a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly. Further, the conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of battery cells, at least one circuitry module configured to control and monitor charging and discharging of the plurality of battery cells, and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may include a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells and the at least one circuitry module is physically affixed to the flexible PCBA at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may include a flexible PCBA that includes a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly. The conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of battery cells and at least one circuitry module that, when affixed to the flexible PCBA, forms a matrix of physical components. The matrix of physical components may be a matrix of at least two rows and at least two columns. The conformal wearable battery may further include at least one connector configured to provide an electrical power connection from internal circuitry of the conformal wearable battery to an external device to be powered. Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable that may include the plurality of battery cells, where the at least one connector, and the at least one circuitry module, when affixed to the flexible PCBA, comprises a matrix of physical components.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery that may comprise a bend axis that is a center of the grid like pattern of the physical connection sections when the flexible PCBA is unfolded. The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a flexible PCBA having each of the plurality of battery cells physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA. The conformal wearable battery may include the flexible PCBA having each of the plurality of battery cells physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA and each of the plurality of battery cells electrically connected to the flexible PCBA on a second side of the flexible PCBA that is opposite the first side. The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include the flexible PCBA having the plurality of battery cells disposed on an outside surface of the flexible PCBA, when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a plurality of battery cells that are arranged in a three-dimensional grid pattern. The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a sealed flexible housing wherein the flexible PCBA is disposed within an interior cavity of the sealed flexible housing and wherein the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a system that may include a plurality of battery cell modules and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may further include a plurality of battery cell connection sections disposed in a grid-like pattern along a first surface of the flexible PCBA where each of the plurality of battery cell modules is electrically attached to the flexible PCBA on a second surface of the flexible PCBA in a grid-like pattern, wherein the second surface is opposite the first surface. Aspects of this disclosure may relate to the system that may further include a housing, wherein the flexible PCBA, when in a folded configuration, is located within the housing. Aspects of this disclosure may relate to the illustrative system that may include a plurality of battery cell modules, where each of the plurality of battery cell modules includes a battery cell and an attenuating member made of a resilient material. Each battery cell may be a lithium-ion battery cell. The illustrative system may include a plurality of battery cells arranged in a three-dimensional grid pattern when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to an illustrative flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) may include a plurality of battery modules physically affixed to the flexible PCBA, where the plurality of battery modules is arranged in a grid-like pattern and a bend axis near an approximate mid-point of the flexible PCBA. When the flexible PCBA is bent along the bend axis, the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration and, when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration, the plurality of battery modules is disposed in a three-dimensional grid-like pattern.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a plurality of flexible sections of the flexible PCBA, were the flexible sections may allow for the flexible PCBA to flex between adjacent rows and adjacent columns of battery modules. The illustrative flexible PCBA may include at least one circuitry module that comprises a portion of the grid-like pattern.
Additional aspects of this disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery (CWB) including a plurality of battery cells, where each battery cell includes a pair of electrically conductive elements that correspond to either a cathode or an anode of each battery cell. The CWB may also include a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) that includes a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern on a first side of the flexible PCB, where each of the plurality of battery cells is disposed at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections. The flexible PCB may further include a plurality of electrical connection pads linearly disposed on a second side opposite the first side of the flexible PCB, the plurality of electrical connection pads comprising an electrically conductive surface coating. The pair of electrically conductive elements may extend substantially parallel to and along the second side of the flexible PCB, and each electrically conductive elements may be connected to a corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads on the second side of the flexible PCB forming an electrical connection.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to the plurality of battery cells comprising pouch cell packaged polymer lithium-ion battery cells where each battery cell of the plurality of battery cells is physically attached to the first side of the flexible PCB.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery where the flexible PCB includes a plurality of cutouts extending through the flexible PCB, where at least one cutout of the plurality of cutouts is located adjacent to an electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads. In some cases, each conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements may extend through a corresponding cutout of the plurality of cutouts.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery where the electrically conductive surface coating comprises an electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) surface coating and/or a lead-free immersion silver surface coating.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to forming an electrical connection between each electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads with a weld. In some cases, the weld is formed using a laser welding process. In some cases, the weld is formed using an ultrasonic welding process.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a conformal wearable battery where a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads has a width that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements and/or where a height of an electrical connection is within a range of 1.2 to 3 times a thickness of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements. In some cases, a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads may have a circular shape with a diameter that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
Aspects of the disclosure may relate to a system including a first plurality of battery cells and a second plurality of battery cells and a flexible printed circuit board (PCB). In some cases, the first battery cell of the first plurality of battery cell includes a first pair of electrically conductive elements and the second battery cell of the second plurality of battery cell includes a second pair of electrically conductive elements. The flexible PCB may include a plurality of battery cell connection sections disposed in a grid-like pattern along a first surface of the flexible PCB, a plurality of cutouts disposed adjacent and parallel to an edge of the plurality of battery cell connection sections, and a plurality of electrical connection pads disposed on a second surface of the flexible PCB opposite the first surface. In some cases, the plurality of cutouts may be arranged as multiple pairs of cutouts arranged adjacent a majority of the plurality of battery cell connection sections and/or a majority of the plurality of electrical connection pads may be arranged adjacent the plurality of cutouts, and where the plurality of electrical connection pads may include an electrically conductive surface coating. In some cases, an electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements may wrap around an edge of the flexible PCB and may extend along the second surface of the flexible PCB such that the electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements may be connected to a corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads forming a first electrical connection. In some cases, an electrically conductive element of the second pair of electrically conductive elements may extend through a cutout of the plurality of cutouts such that each electrically conductive element of the second pair of electrically conductive elements may be connected to a corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality electrical connection pads forming a second electrical connection.
Aspects of this disclosure may relate to a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) that may include a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) and a plurality of battery cell modules physically affixed to the first side of the flexible PCB. The flexible PCBA may have a first side and a second side opposite the first side, where a plurality of electrical connection pads may be disposed on the second side of the flexible PCB. The plurality of electrical connection pads may be arranged in multiple pairs of electrical connection pads. In some cases, the plurality of electrical connection pads may include an electrically conductive surface coating. The flexible PCBA may include a plurality of cutouts linearly disposed in the flexible PCB and adjacent to corresponding electrical connection pads. In some cases, the plurality of battery cell modules may be arranged in a grid-like pattern and comprise pouch cell packaged polymer lithium-ion and each battery cell module of the plurality of battery cell modules may include a pair of electrically conductive elements that extend substantially parallel to the second side of the flexible PCB and may be configured to connect to corresponding electrical connection pads of the plurality of electrical connection pads to form an electrical connection for each battery cell module.
The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements and in which:
In the following description of various illustrative arrangements, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, various arrangements in which aspects of the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other arrangements may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The drawings may not be shown to scale.
It is noted that various connections between elements are discussed in the following description. It is noted that these connections are general and, unless specified otherwise, may be direct or indirect, and that the specification is not intended to be limiting in this respect.
For a product and/or case in which a sealed fit is a useful feature, typical sealing techniques that use glue, adhesives, welding, or soldering may not always form a robust seal especially around complex shapes. When a seal's integrity is compromised, contaminants may breach the seal and cause damage within the product. The seal's integrity may be compromised by cracks, voids, stress fractures, and/or other defects associated with or caused by the sealing techniques within a material associated with the seal. For example, a glue or an adhesive may lose adhesion to the material associated with the seal, stress fractures in the material may be caused by heat associated with welding or soldering, or a void leading to a breach of the seal may form when performing soldering or welding. Heat from welding or soldering techniques may cause the material of the case to liquefy and flow at the location of the desired seal, thereby preventing a reliable seal from being formed. As a result, attempts to seal an electrical conductor, for example, passing through a material enclosing a product using typical sealing techniques may result in failure of the seal, breaching of the seal by fluid and/or contaminants, and/or damage to the product protected by the seal.
Disclosed herein is a method of installing an electrically conductive component passing through an exterior wall of a sealed case or housing by an insert molding process. An insert molding process may provide greater reliability and integrity of the seal, as well as an improved cosmetic appearance of the seal compared to typical sealing techniques. The electrically conductive component may include a plurality of knurled regions for making a friction fit with a wall of the molded case to create a seal between the electrically conductive component and the material of the molded case, which may be a polymeric material. The friction fit produced by the insert molding process may avoid the above-mentioned failure modes associated with sealing a space between an electrically conductive component and an edge of a material of a case with glue, adhesive, welding, or soldering. For example, the insert molding process may avoid application of high levels of heat at the joint between the electrically conductive component and the material of the case as may be applied in a soldering or welding process.
The seal produced between the electrically conductive component and the material of the molded case may satisfy requirements of an International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) IP67 rating for preventing dust and water ingress to the case and creating a water-tight fit between the electrically conductive component and the case in which the electrically conductive component is disposed. The IP67 rating is specified by the Ingress Protection Code (IP Code) IEC standard 60529. The equivalent European standard is EN 60529. The IP Code also may be referred to as the International Protection Code. The IP Code classifies and rates a degree of ingress protection provided by mechanical casings and electrical enclosures for electronic equipment against intrusion, dust, accidental contact, and liquid (e.g., water). In the IP67 rating, the first digit (i.e. ‘6’) specifies a level of protection offered against ingress of solid objects, while the second digit (i.e. ‘7’) specifies a level of protection offered against ingress of liquids. The larger the value of the digit specifying the level of protection, the greater the amount of protection offered. For example, an IP67 rating specifies total protection against dust ingress and protection against short periods of immersion in water. An IP68 rating specifies dust resistance and immersion in 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes duration.
A reliable seal, for example, an IP67 rated seal, may be desirable and beneficial for protection and maintenance of batteries enclosed in environmentally protected housings. Such a battery for powering electronic devices in outdoor environments, for example, in dusty, sandy, rainy, and/or wet environments, may fail early if contaminants such as water, dust, dirt, and/or sand get into the battery enclosed in the housing. A rechargeable conformal wearable battery (CWB) assembly may be worn by a user to power electronic devices that the user carries. The CWB assembly may be subjected to environmental conditions that may cause the CWB (and its housing) to physically deform or bend while also being exposed to moisture. A reliable seal may facilitate longer battery life and utility for the user regardless of environmental conditions that the CWB may be subjected.
A CWB assembly may include an array of a first quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a horizontal direction and a second quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a vertical direction. The array of battery cells may be arranged in a grid-like pattern. Each of the battery cells may be separate from other battery cells. A battery cell as described herein may include a plurality of individual battery cell elements that are electrically connected together to form a compound battery cell that electrically performs as a single unit. Each of the battery cells may be physically connected to adjacent battery cells by flexible elements (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board), thereby facilitating a surface outline or shape of the array of battery cells to generally conform to a surface outline or shape of a user wearing the CWB assembly. One or more of the battery cells may include a positive-charge electrical terminal and a negative-charge electrical terminal that are electrically connected with the battery cell within an interior of the battery cell and provide electrical power to electrical devices disposed exterior to the battery cell. Electrical terminals of a plurality of the battery cells in the array of battery cells may be connected together to route electrical current through the plurality of the battery cells and a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells. The positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal may provide an electrical current that passes through an electrically conductive path, for example, through an electronic device, via transfer of electrons through the electrically conductive path between the positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal on the exterior of the housing. The CWB assembly may include a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells of the array of battery cells. The plurality of the battery cells may be electrically coupled together, for example, in series, in parallel, or in groups of series connected battery cells connected in parallel, etc.
The CWB housing may be formed from molded components. The molded housing components may form a sealed case. Each of the housing components may be formed by a molding process, for example, an injection molding process. The molded casing may be formed of a polymeric material, for example. The casing may be sealed to prevent ingress of solid material and/or liquid material, for example, according to an IP67 rating, IP68 rating, or other ingress protection rating. The casing may feature a seam between two components or portions of the casing that is sealed to encase the battery cell within the casing. The positive-charge terminal and the negative-charge terminal may each include a conductive contact component that passes between the interior of the CWB housing and the exterior of the CWB housing. The conductive region may include a flexible circuit, wiring or PCBA that is affixed and electrically connected to the battery cells in an interior of the housing at one end, and electrically connected to a contact component that passes through a wall of the casing, and electrically couples with electrical devices at an exterior of the CWB housing. The details of the housing are described in more detail below.
The contact component may include a textured region on an exterior of the contact component that is adjacent to and/or interfaces with the wall of the housing. In some examples, the textured region may include two separate knurled areas and a recessed groove between the two knurled areas. The contact component may include a threaded element that mates with a corresponding threaded conductive element that electrically connects to conductive region (i.e. flexible circuit, wiring) of the battery cells. The threaded element of the contact component may include a female threaded element. The female threaded element of the contact component may mate with a corresponding male threaded conductive element. A thread pitch or thread count of the threaded element of the contact component may match a thread pitch or thread count of the corresponding threaded element of the conductive element. The contact component may be physically and electrically accessible outside of the housing, for example, at an exterior of the cell housing. For example, the contact component may have an outward facing surface that is accessible outside housing. The contact component may be in direct physical and electrical contact with the conductive region inside the housing. The textured region of the exterior of the contact component may form a seal at an interface with the casing, for example, at a wall of the casing that prevents ingress of solids and/or liquids into the interior region of the casing according to an IP rating.
While the preceding example of
An upper housing (not shown) that mates with the lower housing 205 may be seated over the lower housing 205 of the CWB housing 200 and fit together during assembly. A seam between the upper housing and the lower housing 205 may be formed to seal (e.g., by laser welding) the upper housing and lower housing 205 of the CWB housing 200 to each other, while the knurled regions 135 and the groove regions 140 of the contact components 130 may be fully encased and sealed within the lower housing 205 of the CWB housing 200.
One or more of the electrically conductive fasteners 105 may pass through a hole in a corresponding PCBA 125, with a head end of the electrically conductive fasteners 105 disposed on a side of the PCBA 125 facing an interior 210 of the CWB housing 100, and an opposite (e.g., threaded or shaft end) of the electrically conductive fasteners 105 inserted through the PCBA 125 and into and/or mated with corresponding contact components 130 on an opposite side of the PCBA 125 that faces the exterior 215 of the CWB housing 100. The electrically conductive fasteners 105 may secure the PCBA 125 against the inward facing surface of the contact components 130. The electrically conductive fasteners 105 may electrically connect an electrically conductive plate and/or electrical trace of the PCBA 125 with a corresponding interior-facing side of the contact component 130. One end of the wires 145 may be electrically connected to electrically conductive traces and/or electronic circuitry disposed on the PCBA 125. The one or more of the wires 145 may be directly and/or electrically connected to the fasteners 105. In some examples (not shown), the PCBA 125 may be replaced by a washer to which a corresponding end of a wire 145 is connected. An opposite end of the wires 145 may be connected to one of a positive battery cell terminal, negative battery cell terminal, protection circuitry, data circuitry, clock circuitry, or other circuitry associated with the battery cells 20. Circuitry associated with the battery cells 20 may include battery charging control circuitry, for example. The wires 145 may carry electrical current and/or data signals between the battery cell and/or associated circuitry within the interior 210 of the CWB housing 100 and the contact component accessible on the outside 215 of the CWB housing 100. Dimensions of the various components shown in
At least one advantage of the aforementioned method is that a high-quality friction fit is produced without exposing the materials to glue, adhesive, welding, and/or soldering. For example, by avoiding soldering and welding, the aforementioned process avoids application of high levels of heat at the joint between the electrically conductive component and the edge of the material of the case as may be applied in a soldering or welding process. Unlike systems that may rely upon an application of heat, the aforementioned embodiment is an improvement because, inter alia, it creates a high-quality seal without relying upon an application of heat or a messy, potentially manual application of glue to join two or more pieces of a casing/housing.
The contact component 130 may have features and characteristics that vary from those illustrated in
In operation 505, contact components (e.g., compact components 130) may be positioned in a mold for forming the lower housing of the CWB housing (e.g., lower housing 205). The contact components 130 may be seated in a portion of the mold that forms an outer wall of the lower housing 205. The mold may be arranged to keep the contact components 130 from moving during the molding process.
In operation 510, an injection molding process may be performed to form the lower housing 205 of the CWB housing with the contact components embedded within the edge or side of the lower housing of the CWB housing. A polymeric material may be injected into the mold and flow through the mold to form the lower housing 205. The material may flow around the edges of the contact components 130 that are positioned in the mold. For example, the material may flow around and/or through the crossed lines or cross-hatching of the knurled regions and into the groove regions between the knurled regions of the contact components 130 to form a seal between the lower housing 205 of the molded CWB housing and the contact components 130. As the material solidifies, the material may form a strong, robust, and reliable seal with the contact components 130. The lower housing 205 may be molded to encase the curved walls of the contact components 130 that comprise the knurled regions 135 and the one or more groove regions 140 while exposing opposite ends of the contact components 130 to the interior and the exterior of the lower housing 205.
The knurled regions 135 and one or more groove regions 140 may improve the seal between the contact components 130 and the lower housing 205 by forming a mechanical lock to secure the contact components 130 within the lower housing 205. The mechanical lock may be formed by the variations in radius of the contact components 130 through the knurled regions 135 and the one or more groove regions 140. The knurled regions 135 and one or more groove regions 140 may improve a seal between the contact components 130 and the lower housing 205 compared to traditional contact components that do not include the features of the knurled regions and one or more groove regions. A path length along a surface of the contact component 130 including the knurled regions 135 and one or more groove regions 140 from an end facing the interior of the lower housing 205 to an end facing the exterior of the lower housing 205 may be longer than a corresponding path length in the traditional contact component that does not include the features of the knurled regions and one or more groove regions. The variations in radius of the contact components 130 through the knurled regions 135 and the one or more groove regions 140 may increase the path length along the surface of the contact component 130 including the knurled regions 135 and one or more groove regions 140 compared to traditional contact components that do not include the features of the knurled regions and one or more groove regions. The increased path length may also increase a surface area of the contact component 130 that contacts and forms a seal with the wall of the lower housing 205 in which the contact component 130 is embedded, and this surface area may be greater than a corresponding surface area of the traditional contact component, that does not include the features of the knurled regions and one or more groove regions, adjacent to a wall of a housing. The increase surface area may improve adhesion between the mold material that directly contacts the contact components 130 compared to an alternative similarly sized traditional contact component lacking the knurled regions and one or more groove regions. Flowing the material around and through the knurled regions 135 and the one or more groove regions 140 during the injection molding process of the lower housing 205 may form a stronger, more reliable, and tighter bond between the material of the housing 205 and the contact components 130 than using glue, adhesive, or reflowing a liquid material between alternative similarly-sized contact components and a previously molded housing.
In operation 515, the molded lower housing 205 of the CWB housing having the embedded contact components 130 may be inspected. The inspection may include visual inspection, machine vision, and/or image processing to identify any voids, cracks, or regions of the molded lower housing 205 that do not meet minimum thickness requirements. The inspection may be performed using light in a visual spectrum region, infrared spectrum region, or other spectrum region.
In operation 520, a determination may be made regarding whether the molded lower housing of the CWB housing passes specified quality standards. If the inspection does not pass the specified quality standards, the failed molded lower housing 205 of the CWB housing with embedded contact components may be discarded in operation 525. The parts of the failed molded lower housing 205 of the CWB housing with embedded contact components 130 may be recycled. Following the discard and/or recycling of operation 525, the method may return to operation 505 to begin again with another set of materials. If the inspection does pass the specified quality standards in operation 520, the method may proceed to operation 530.
In operation 530, interior components 20 of the CWB 10, for example, one or more battery cell elements, PCBAs, wires, electronic circuits, and electrically conductive fasteners 105 that mate with the contact components 130, may be assembled and installed in the dried and solidified lower housing 205 of the molded CWB housing. The interior components 20 of the CWB 10 may be seated against and/or attached to the interior wall(s) of the molded CWB housing. The interior components 20 of the CWB 10 may be electrically coupled with the contact components 130 via the electrically conductive fasteners 105 being mated with corresponding holes of the contact components 130 accessible from the interior of the lower housing 205. The interior components 20 of the CWB may be tested for functionality before or when being installed, and any problems discovered by testing the interior components 20 may be identified and corrected before advancing to the next assembly operation.
In operation 535, a mold for an upper housing of the CWB housing, for example, a mold for forming an upper housing that mates with lower housing 205, may be used to form the upper housing by an injection molding process. A polymeric material may be injected into the mold for the upper housing of the CWB housing and flow through the mold while being molded into a shape of the upper housing of the CWB housing.
In operation 540, the molded upper housing may be disposed adjacent to the molded lower housing 205 of the CWB housing having the contact components encased therein. The upper housing and the lower housing may be attached, glued, welded, or laser welded together to secure and form a seal between the upper housing and the lower housing to seal the interior of the CWB housing. The attachment process may form a strong, robust, and reliable seal between the upper housing and the lower housing of the CWB housing.
In operation 545, the molded lower housing 205 having the embedded contact components 130 may be inspected. The inspection may include both the upper housing and the previously inspected lower housing 205 of the molded CWB housing, including seams between the upper and lower housings. The inspection may include visual inspection, machine vision, and/or image processing to identify any voids, cracks, or regions of the molded CWB housing that do not meet minimum thickness requirements. The inspection may be performed using light in a visual spectrum region, infrared spectrum region, or other spectrum region. The inspection may include immersion tests according to a standard, for example, the IP Code, to detect whether any solids and/or liquids are able to enter the interior of the CWB housing within test conditions.
In operation 550, a determination may be made regarding whether the molded CWB housing passes specified quality standards. If the inspection does not pass the specified quality standards, the failed molded CWB housing with embedded contact components may be discarded in operation 555. The parts of the failed molded CWB housing with embedded contact components may be recycled. Following the discard and/or recycling of operation 555, the method may return to operation 505 to begin again with another set of materials. If the inspection does pass the specified quality standards in operation 550, the method may end with a completed molded CWB housing.
While aspects of the disclosure have been described with reference to battery cells and/or a CWB comprising battery cells, arrangements and methods as described herein may also be applied to other devices and systems having one or more objects or inserts that communicate between an interior region and an exterior region of a housing. For example, the arrangements and methods described herein may apply to any electronic device disposed within a housing for which protection against immersion in liquids and/or intrusion of solids or fluids is desired. Example electronic devices may include underwater cameras, sonar devices, radar devices, lidar devices, emergency radio beacons, satellite communications devices, terrestrial wireless communications devices, global positioning system (GPS) receivers, electronic environmental sensor devices, electronic medical devices, solar cell based power generation devices, wave motion based power generation devices, fuel cell based power generation devices, and/or portable chemical batteries for powering electronic or electrical devices.
Turning now to another exemplary housing 300 for the exemplary conformal wearable battery (CWB) 10 shown in
To meet these requirements, each shell 310, 340 may be constructed such that each shell 310, 340 may bend and flex. In addition to allowing the CWB 10 to bend and flex, the housing 300 may also protect the internal battery cells 20 and other components to keep the CWB 10 working properly. In some examples, each shell 310, 340 may be constructed to include rigid regions to strengthen localized area of each shell 310, 340 while having some areas that are more flexible to allow housing 300 to bend and move. In particular, the upper shell 310 may be formed from multiple materials and may include a first member 318 formed from a first material and a second member 326 that is formed from a second material, and the lower shell 340 may be similarly formed to include a first member 342 formed from a first material and a second member 350 that is formed from a second material. In both of the shells 310, 340, the first material may have a higher stiffness or hardness (i.e. durometer) than the second material. For example, the first material may have a durometer of approximately 50 Shore D or greater, or within a range of 40 Shore D and 70 Shore D, or in some cases within a range of 30 Shore D and 80 Shore D, while the while the second material may have a durometer of approximately may have a durometer of approximately 70 Shore A, or within a range of 55 and 90 Shore A. Accordingly, the second member 326, 350 of each shell 310, 340 may bend easier or be more flexible than its corresponding first member 318, 342. In addition, as discussed above, the contact component 130 may be molded into one of the shells 310, 340 in either its corresponding members when the shell is formed. For instance, as illustrated in
In the illustrated examples of
As discussed above, the second member 326 may form flexible regions within the front wall 312 of the upper shell 310 that promotes bending within these regions while allowing the rigid regions 320 to remain substantially planar when the housing 300 is in a deformed state. In addition, the thickness of the second member 326 may be substantially the same thickness as the rigid regions 320 such that when the housing 300 is in an undeformed or unstressed state the outward facing surface 330 of the second member 326 may be substantially coplanar with the outward facing surface 322 of the rigid regions 320. In order to further promote bending within the vertical regions 328A or horizontal regions 328B of the second member 326, a plurality of grooves 332 may be located within the outward facing surface 330 of the second member 326. In some examples, the grooves 332 may only be located in the outward facing surface 314, or in other examples, the grooves 332 may be located in both the outward facing surface 314 and the inward facing surface 315. The grooves 332 in the horizontal regions 328B may have a width that is greater than a width of the grooves 332 in the vertical regions 328A. For example, the width of the grooves 332 in the horizontal regions 328B may be 1.2 to 1.5 times greater than the width of the grooves 332 in the vertical regions 328A. In addition, the grooves 332 in both the horizontal and vertical regions 328A, 328B may have the same depth, such that the grooves 332 may have a constant depth. The width of the grooves 332 may be greater than a depth of the grooves 332. For example, the depth of the grooves 332 may be that is within a range of 50 percent and 85 percent of the overall width of the groove 332 to help promote flexing in the proper locations. In some examples, the depth of the grooves may be within a range of 2 mm and 4 mm. Alternatively, such as in the housing 300 shown in
Each of the rigid regions 320 may be sized to correspond to the size of each of the battery cells. For instance, a length and/or a width of each rigid regions 320 may be within a range of 0.95 and 1.05 of a corresponding length and/or width of a corresponding battery cell. In other examples, the length of width of each rigid region 320 may be within a range of 0.90 and 1.10 of the corresponding length and/or width of the corresponding battery cell. In addition, each rigid region 320 may be substantially aligned (where the center of the rigid region 320 and the center of the battery cell are substantially coaxial with each other) with the corresponding battery cell located behind it. Each rigid region 320 may be connected to an adjacent rigid region 320 by a channel 324. The channel 324 may help to form a living hinge between the rigid regions 320 and may have a thickness that is less than the thickness of the rigid region 320. As illustrated in
Additionally, the second member 326 may form the outer perimeter surfaces 316 along with the outer surfaces of the front wall 312 to provide some flexibility along the outer edges of the upper shell 310. The interior perimeter edges 325 of the upper shell 310 may include a receiver 327 or other feature to mate with a corresponding engaging member 355 on the lower shell 340. The engaging member 355 may engage the receiver 327 on the upper shell to help provide a mechanical connection to assist with securing the upper shell 310 to the lower shell 340.
As discussed above, the lower shell 340 may connect to the upper shell 310 to form the interior cavity 302 that receives the battery cells and other electronics. The lower shell 340 may include a rear wall 341 that forms an exterior or rear outward facing surface 344 of the housing 300 and an interior surface 346 opposite the exterior surface 344. The lower shell 340 may also include a perimeter wall 348 that extends away from the exterior surface 344 forming exterior side surfaces 351 and interior side surfaces 352. The lower shell 340 may be similarly constructed as the upper shell 310 with a first member 342 and a second member 350. The first member 342 may include a plurality of rigid regions 354, where the plurality of rigid regions 354 may be arranged in an array with the plurality of rigid regions 354 in both a horizontal direction and a vertical direction similar to the array of the upper shell 310. Each of the rigid regions 354 may be sized to correspond to the size of each of the battery cells. The length and width of the rigid regions 354 may be similarly sized with the rigid regions 320 of the upper shell 310. Similar to the upper shell 310 each rigid region 354 may be connected to an adjacent rigid region 354 by a channel 358. The second member 350 may be located between each of the rigid regions 354, such that the second member 350 forms a grid-like structure with vertical regions 362A and horizontal regions 362B that are arranged in the spaces between the array of rigid regions 354. The flexible regions 362A, 362B of the second member 350 may promotes bending within these regions while allowing the rigid regions 354 to remain substantially planar when the housing 300 is in a deformed state. The length and width of the flexible regions 362A, 362B may be similarly sized with the flexible regions 328A, 328B of the upper shell 310. In order to further promote bending within the vertical regions 362A or horizontal regions 362B of the second member 350, a plurality of grooves 364 may be located within the outward facing surface 366 of the second member 350. In some examples, the grooves 364 may only be located in the outward facing surface 366 or in other examples, the grooves 364 may be located in one of or both the outward facing surface 366 and the inward facing surface 368 of the second member 350. The grooves 364 may be sized similarly to the grooves 332 of the upper shell 310 as described above, or may have a different size than grooves 332. Optionally, in some examples, a plurality of ribs 370 may extend from the inward facing surface 368 of lower shell 340 along the vertical regions 362A. These ribs 370 may be intermittent and run substantially along a vertical length of each rigid region 354 while being absent across the horizontal regions 362B of the second member 350. In addition, as shown in the illustrated example of
Both the upper shell 310 and the lower shell 340 may be formed in a similar manner. For example, each shell 310, 340 may be formed using an injection molding process, in particular, each shell 310 may be formed using a two-shot molding or overmolding technique. Using this process, the first members 318, 342 of each shell 310, 340 may be formed using an injection molding technique by filling a first mold with the first material, thereby forming the first member as a single unitary member. The first members 318, 342 may then be removed from the first mold and placed into a second mold. A second material may then be injected into the second mold where the second material flows over the first member 318, 342 whereby the second member 326, 350 is formed onto its respective first member 318, 342 also using an injection molding process. For example, second member 326 is formed onto the first member 318 to form the upper shell 310, and second member 350 is formed onto first member 342 to form the lower shell 340. In some examples, the first mold may have additional slides or components that can be arranged such that the second member 326, 350 may be formed onto its corresponding first member 318, 342 without removing the first member 318, 342 from the first mold and placing it into a second mold. Alternatively, the second members 326, 350 may be molded separately from their corresponding first members 318, 342 and joined using adhesives, welding, or other methods for attachment. Optionally, the first members 318, 342 and second members 326, 350 may be stamped, machined, or formed using other production methods.
The interface between the first member 318, 342 and its corresponding second member 326, 350 may be arranged to help secure the members together and to handle the stresses created in this joint to prevent any separation between the two members during repeated bending cycles. As shown in
Alternatively, the interface between rigid member 318 and the flexible members 326 may have different edge geometry along the rigid regions 320 to promote a robust and durable joint. For instance, as shown in
As discussed above, the shells 310, 340 utilize rigid members 318, 342 and flexible members 326, 350 to form a bendable housing 300. The rigid members 318, 342 may be formed by a molding technique such as injection molding and may be formed from a material with a greater stiffness or rigidity than a material used to form the flexible members 326, 350. For instance, the rigid members 318, 342 may be formed from a first material that may be a polymeric material such as polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), or similar materials known to one skilled in the art. The polymeric material may be a filled or unfilled polymer. The second material may be molded onto the rigid member 318, 342 that forms the flexible member 326, 350. The second material may be a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), a thermoplastic urethane (TPU), thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV), or other similar material. Optionally, the second material may have a deep red aniline dye colorant that appears black. This aniline dye may be an infrared transmitter that allows the upper shell 310 and the lower shell 340 to be laser welded to permanently join the shells 310, 340 together to seal the CWB 10.
The upper shell 710 may have a front wall 712 with an outward facing surface 714, an inward facing surface 716 opposite the outward facing surface 714, and a perimeter surface 718 may extend from a perimeter of the outward facing surface 714 towards the inward facing surface 716. In addition, the lower shell 750 may have a rear wall 752 with an outward facing surface 754, an inward facing surface 756 opposite the outward facing surface, and a plurality of perimeter sidewalls 760, 761, 762, 763 that extend from a perimeter of the outward facing surface 754 beyond the interior surface 756, where sidewalls 760 and 762 are arranged opposite each other on a top and bottom of the housing 700 and sidewalls 761 and 763 are arranged opposite each other on a first and second side of the housing 700.
As discussed above, CWB 50 may provide power to various electrical devices by transmitting power from the battery cells 60 through a connector 70 and may be rechargeable through the connector 70 or through the contact components 730. Contact components 730 may be electrically connected with the battery cells 60 through a conductive region 62 (i.e. flexible circuits or wiring) connected to the battery cells 60 and may have similar electrical connections as discussed above regarding contact components 130, such as a conductive element 105 (i.e. a mechanical fastener) inserted into openings of the conductive regions 62 to electrically connect the battery cells 60 and the contact components 730. The CWB 50 may include a plurality of contact components 730 that each have an outward facing surface 736 accessible from outside of the CWB 50 of the housing 700 and an inward facing surface 740 that may be connected with the conductive region 62 to the battery cells 60. Each outward facing surface 736 of the plurality of contacts 730 may be substantially planer with each other, meaning each outward facing surface 736 may be within a range +/−5 degrees with the outward facing surface of the neighboring contact 730. In the illustrated example, CWB 50 includes four contact components 730, although the CWB 50 may include fewer contacts such as one, two, or three contacts, or greater than four contacts like five contacts, six contacts, or more than six contacts. Each of the contact components 730 may be secured to the lower shell 750 of housing 700 where the lower shell 750 forms a seal around each contact component 730 to prevent ingress of moisture and debris.
As shown in
The lower housing 750 may also be formed around the connector plate 720 to secure the connector plate 720 to the lower housing 750. For instance, the connector plate 720 may have a front surface 722, a rear surface 724 opposite the front surface, and a plurality of openings 726 extending through the front and rear surfaces 722, 724. The connector plate 720 may have a connector opening or plurality of connector openings 728 to receive a connector 70 from the battery cells 60. Similar to the contact carrier(s) 780, the lower shell 750 may be formed around the connector plate 720 and may be secured to a sidewall 761 of the lower shell 750 between a rear surface 765 of sidewall 761 and a rear flange 767 that is spaced rearward of rear surface 765. In addition, a plurality of plugs may extend from rear surface 765 of sidewall 761 through an opening 726 of the connector plate 720 to the rear flange 767 of the lower shell 750.
To enhance the upper and lower shells 710, 750 ability to bend, the upper and lower shells 710, 750 may include a plurality of vertically and horizontally intersecting grooves 755. The grooves 755 may be located within the front walls 712, 752 of the respective shells 710, 750. In some examples, the grooves 755 may be located in the outward facing surfaces 714, 754, and may have corresponding inward protrusions 757 that extend from inward facing surfaces 716, 756 of the respective upper and lower shells 710, 750. The grooves 755 may be arranged in the spaces that are between the individual battery cells within the array of battery cells 60. The grooves 755 may be arranged in both a vertical oriented grooves 755A and horizontal oriented grooves 755B. The horizontal grooves 755A may have a width that is greater than a width of the vertical grooves 755B. For example, the width of the horizontal grooves 755B may be 1.2 to 1.5 times greater than the width of the vertical grooves 755A. In addition, the vertical and horizontal grooves 755A, 755B may have the same depth, such that the grooves 755 may have a constant depth. The width of the grooves 755 may be greater than the depth of the grooves 755. For example, the depth of the grooves 755 may be that is within a range of 50 percent and 85 percent of the overall width of the groove 755 to help promote flexing in the proper locations. In some examples, the depth of the grooves 755 may be within a range of 2 mm and 4 mm. In addition, both of the upper and lower shells 710, 750 may also include a plurality of substantially rectangular shaped pockets 759 may be located in a grid-like pattern that substantially matches the layout of the plurality of battery cells 60.
As shown in
Each contact carrier 780 may include features to ensure the proper alignment of the contact components 730 and to secure the carrier 780 to the lower shell 750. For instance, each contact carrier 780 may have a front surface 782, a rear surface 784 opposite the front surface 782, a sidewall surface 785 extending between the front surface 782 and the rear surface 784, and a plurality of openings 786, at least one contact opening 790, a plurality of alignment apertures 788 on the rear surface 784 above the contact openings 790, an engaging member 792 extending from the front surface 782, and a recess 794 extending around the engaging member 792 below the front surface 782. The engaging member 792 may have a tapered outer surface such that when the lower shell 750 is formed around the engaging member 792, a corresponding tapered surface 774 is formed in the lower shell 750. This pair of tapered surfaces may further help to secure the carrier 780 within the shell 750 to prevent any movement of the contact components 730 during use. Alternatively, the engaging member 792 may have an outer surface that is orthogonal to the front surface 782. In addition, recess 794 may allow a corresponding protrusion 776 to be formed within the recess to help secure the carrier 780 in shell 750. As discussed above, the contact carrier 780 may have a plurality of openings 786. As shell 750 is formed around carrier 780, the material forming shell 750 may flow through each of the openings 786 to form a mechanical lock securing the carrier 780 to shell 750 making these components integrally joined. Each opening 786 may be a cylindrical hole or may be a truncated conical shape such that the inner wall has a taper, or may be a different geometric shape. In the illustrated example, the openings 786 are symmetrically arranged about a center plane of the carrier 780, although in other examples, the openings 786 may be asymmetrically arranged. Further, the openings 786 may all be the same size or may have different shapes. For instance, the openings 786 may be larger on an upper portion of the carrier 780 than a bottom portion of the carrier 780 or may be larger on a bottom portion than an upper portion, or may be larger on a left side than a right side, or may be larger on a right side than a left side. The alignment aperture 788 may help to align and secure the contact carrier 780 within a mold when the lower shell 750 is formed. The alignment aperture 788 may engage a corresponding feature within the mold to secure the contact carrier assembly 775 within the mold to ensure proper alignment of the contact components 730.
Each contact component 730 may have a front portion 732 and a rear portion 734, where the front portion 732 includes the outward facing surface 736 and a forward perimeter region 738 surrounding the outward facing surface 736, and the rear portion includes the inward facing surface 740, a rear perimeter region 742 surrounding the inward facing surface 740, and an opening 744 on the inward facing surface 740. In addition, the forward perimeter region 738 of each contact component 730 may be secured to sidewall 762 of lower shell 750 to form a sealed edge to prevent ingress of liquids into the interior cavity 702 to protect the electronic components and prolong the life of the battery cells 60. In some examples, each contact component 730 may be encased by different materials. For instance, as shown in
As shown in
In operations 810 and 815, the contact components 730 may be inserted into a first mold configured to form the contact carrier 780. The contact carrier 780 may be formed using a molding process such as injection molding from a non-metallic material. The contact carrier 780 may be formed from a polymeric material as described above that may a stiffness that is greater than the stiffness of the material that forms the shells 710, 750. For example, the material forming the contact carrier 780 may have a modulus (i.e. stiffness) that is 1.5 times greater than a modulus (i.e. stiffness) of the material forming the lower shell 750 (or upper shell 710). Because the contact carrier 780 may be formed from a rigid impact absorbing material, the contact carrier 780 may be easier to hold within the mold. With the contact components 730 installed within the mold, the contact carrier 780 is formed within the mold. As the contact carrier 780 is formed, the material forming the contact carrier 780 flows around the rear portion 734 of each contact component 730 including between the helical gear teeth 748 to form a mechanical lock around the rear portion 734 of each contact component 730 to secure them to the contact carrier 780.
In operations 820 and 825, after removing contact carrier 780 from the first mold, the contact carrier 780 and a connector plate 720 may be installed into a second mold. The lower shell 750 is then formed using injection molding or similar type process from a non-metallic material different from the material of the contact carrier 780. As the lower shell 750 is formed, the material forming the lower shell 750 flows around the contact carrier 780 forming the rear flange 766 and also the plugs 768 may be formed by flowing through the openings 786 to secure the contact carrier(s) 780 to the lower shell 750. Similarly, as the lower shell 750 is formed, the material forming the lower housing 750 may flow around the connector plate 720 to secure the connector plate 720 to the lower housing 750.
In operations 830 and 835, the upper shell 710 may be formed using injection molding or similar type process from the same or similar material similar forming the lower shell 750 in a third mold. Next, the battery cells 60 may be installed into the lower housing 750. A connector 70 from the battery cells 60 may be inserted into an opening of the connector plate 720 and then secured to the connector plate 720. In addition, the battery cells 60 may be electrically connected through a conductive element 105 (i.e. a mechanical fastener) inserted into opening 744 of each contact component 730. As shown in
Lastly, in operation 840, the upper shell 710 may be attached to the lower shell 750 along with the two shells 710, 750 being sealed together to help the CWB 50 meet the environmental requirements. In some examples, the upper shell 710 and/or the lower shell 750 may have a second polymeric material molded along the perimeter of either or both shells 710, 750 that has a dye, such as a deep red aniline dye, that causes the material to be an infrared transmitter This second material may allow the upper shell 710 and the lower shell 750 to be laser welded to permanently join the shells together to seal the CWB 50.
In the following description of various illustrative arrangements, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, various arrangements in which aspects of the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other arrangements may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
It is noted that various connections between elements are discussed in the following description. It is noted that these connections are general and, unless specified otherwise, may be direct or indirect, and that the specification is not intended to be limiting in this respect.
A rechargeable conformable wearable battery (CWB) assembly may be worn by a user to power electronic devices that the user carries. The CWB assembly may be subjected to environmental conditions that the user is also subjected to. A sealed housing and a reliable seal may facilitate longer battery life and utility for the user regardless of environmental conditions that the CWB may be subjected to. To provide a desired power output, the CWB assembly may include a plurality of battery cells, each with a rated power capacity and when electrically connected, may allow the CWB to provide a desired power output.
A CWB assembly may include an array of a first quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a horizontal direction and a second quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a vertical direction. The array of battery cells may be arranged in a grid-like pattern. Each of the battery cells may be encased or housed in a battery cell housing separate from other battery cells. A battery cell as described herein may include a plurality of individual battery cell elements that are electrically connected together to form a compound battery cell that electrically performs as a single unit. Each of the battery cell housings may be physically connected to adjacent battery cell housings by flexible elements (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board), thereby facilitating a surface outline or shape of the array of battery cells to generally conform to a surface outline or shape of a user wearing the CWB assembly. One or more of the battery cell housings may include a positive-charge electrical terminal and a negative-charge electrical terminal that are electrically connected with the battery cell within an interior of the battery cell housing and provide electrical power to electrical devices disposed exterior to the battery cell housing. Electrical terminals of a plurality of the battery cells in the array of battery cells may be connected together to route electrical current through the plurality of the battery cells and a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells. The positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal may provide an electrical current that passes through an electrically conductive path, for example, through an electronic device, via transfer of electrons through the electrically conductive path between the positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal on the exterior of the battery cell housing. The CWB assembly may include a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells of the array of battery cells. The plurality of the battery cells may be electrically coupled together, for example, in series or in parallel.
The battery cell housing may be formed of a molded casing. The molded casing may be a sealed case that is formed by a molding process, for example, an injection molding process. The molded casing may be formed of a plastic material, for example. The casing may be sealed to prevent ingress of solid material and/or liquid material, for example, according to an IP67 rating, IP68 rating, or other ingress protection rating. The casing may feature a seam between two halves of the casing that is sealed to encase the battery cell within the casing. The positive-charge terminal and the negative-charge terminal may each include a conductive region that passes between the interior of the cell housing and the exterior of the cell housing at a seam of the casing. The conductive region may be affixed and electrically connected to the battery cell in an interior of the cell housing at one end, pass through the sealed seam of the casing, and affix to a contact component that electrically couples with electrical devices at an exterior of the cell housing.
Electrical terminals of a plurality of the battery cells in the array of battery cells may be connected together to route electrical current through the plurality of the battery cells and a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells. The positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal may provide an electrical current that passes through an electrically conductive path, for example, through an electronic device, via transfer of electrons through the electrically conductive path between the positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal on the exterior of the battery cell housing. The CWB assembly may include a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells of the array of battery cells. The plurality of the battery cells may be electrically coupled together, for example, in series or in parallel.
The battery cell housing may be formed of a molded casing. The molded casing may be a sealed case that is formed by a molding process, for example, an injection molding process. The molded casing may be formed of a plastic material, for example. The casing may be sealed to prevent ingress of solid material and/or liquid material, for example, according to an IP67 rating, IP68 rating, or other ingress protection rating. The casing may feature a seam between two halves or portions of the casing that is sealed to encase the battery cell within the casing.
The positive-charge terminal and the negative-charge terminal may each include a conductive region that passes between the interior of the cell housing and the exterior of the cell housing at an outer wall of the casing. The conductive region may be affixed and electrically connected to the battery cell in an interior of the cell housing at one end, pass through the sealed wall of the casing, and affix to a contact component that electrically couples with electrical devices at an exterior of the cell housing.
In some cases, the CWB assembly may be provided in a form factor easily carried by a person, such as within a pocket or with other means of securing the CWB assembly to a person's clothing, uniform, or the like. To provide the specified power output, while also providing flexibility for conforming to a shape of person's body or equipment when carried, the matrix of battery cells may be arranged on, and affixed to, a flexible printed circuit board. To fit within the housing of the CWB assembly, the flexible printed circuit board assembly may be configured to be folded along an axis (e.g., a center line), such that battery cell modules may be on an exterior surface of the flexible printed circuit board assembly closest to the housing, while the electrical connections may be made on an interior surface of the folded printed circuit board assembly. An electrical insulator (e.g., foam, insulating tape, etc.) may be placed between the folded sections to provide electrical insulation for the electrical contacts.
The flexible PCB 1100 may be configured to bend along a bend line 1105 located at or near a center line of the flexible PCB 1100. One or more elongated cut-outs may be disposed parallel to the bend line 1105 (e.g., cut-out 1110) and/or perpendicular to the bend line 1105 (e.g., cut-out 1120), where the cut-outs perpendicular to the bend line 1105 may be aligned with a flex line 1125 perpendicular to the bend line 1105. In some cases, the flex line may correspond to a section of the flexible PCB 1100 located between rows of components (e.g., battery cells) along which the CWB may bend during use. Such cut-outs may provide additional flexibility to the flexible PCB 1100 to allow for easier formation of a 180-degree bend such as by folding the right half of the flexible PCB 1100 over the left half of the flexible PCB 1100. In the illustrative example, relief cuts, such as the cut-out 1110 may be formed as a rounded elongated rectangular cutout and the cut-out 1120, may be formed in a generally obround shape (e.g., two substantially semi-circular sections connected by a rectangular section). As mentioned, the elongated rounded rectangular cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1110) parallel to the bend line 1105 may reduce stress on the plastic substrate when forming the about 180-degree bend. Additionally, the obround-shaped cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1120) may reduce stresses placed on the flexible PCB substrate during use, such as by reducing stresses along a line of deformation (e.g., the flex line 1125) between battery cells. In some cases, additional cut-outs may be included to reduce stresses along the flex line, such as at an edge of the flexible PCB 1100, such as a corner notch 1190a located near a corner formed in the edge of the flexible PCB 1100 near a flex line and/or a notch 1190b located along an edge of the flexible PCB 1100 and aligned near a flex line. By reducing the bending stress at locations along the bend line, a probability of a catastrophic failure of the substrate (e.g., cracking, delamination, and the like) is reduced. While cut-out 1110 is shown as a rounded rectangular shape and the cut-out 1120 is shown as an obround shape, other shapes may be used to reduce stress due to bending and/or flexing of the flexible PCB 1100. While an obround shape is shown on the illustrative example, other cut shapes may be used to achieve a same or similar purpose. Such other shapes may include circular cuts which may be used, for example, for removing more weight, oval cuts which may provide additional stress relief, for example, based on the curves, elongated slots which, for example, may be similar to the rectangular cuts but with even more filet on corners to reduce additional stresses, a dog-bone shape (e.g., two substantially circular sections connected by a rectangular section, or the like.
The flexible PCB 1100 may also include a plurality of solder pads (e.g., pads 1150) to provide electrical connection for the cathode and anode of each battery module. For battery cells located near an edge of the flexible PCB 1100, the cathode an anode connectors may be bent over the edge of the flexible PCB 1100. For battery cells located away from the edge of the flexible PCB, a plurality of cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1140) are located near a corresponding pad 1150 to allow for solder or weld connection of the battery cathode or anode connector to the flexible PCB 1100. Additionally, the flexible PCB 1100 may include charging connection portion 1190 that may be used to connect to one or more charging tabs on an exterior portion of a case of the conformal wearable battery enclosure and/or a flexible connector portion 1160 that may include one or more flexible connectors to connect to additional circuitry, such as a control module, a display module, or the like). The flexible PCB 1100 may also include one or more semi-circular cut-out sections 1170 to provide an area of low mechanical stress at an interior portion of the flexible PCB 1100. In some cases, an electrical component 1280, shown in
The electrical connection cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1140) and/or end cut outs (e.g., cut-out 1190a, 1190b) may be disposed near or offset from a flex line 250 between rows of battery cell locations 1230 at a distance configured to reduce or eliminate stresses applied to the cell tabs (e.g., a cathode connection tab, an anode connection tab) of each battery cell. Because the battery cell locations are reinforced or otherwise stiffened by the battery modules, the flex lines 1250 allow for the CWB to be flexed within a designed range of motion, when in use. To provide stress relief along these flex lines between the rigid battery cell portions, the obround-shaped cut-outs 1120 are disposed within each flex line 1250 and may be aligned with a portion of the battery cell connection cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1140) and the edge cut-outs 1190a, 1190b may be aligned to the flex lines 1250 and located at an edge of the flexible PCB 1100.
The illustrative obround-shaped cut-out 1120 may be formed as a rectangular area 1322b (e.g., a rectangular area of about 2.2 mm×about 5 mm) connecting two semi-circular areas 1328a and 1328b (e.g., semicircular areas having a diameter of about 5 mm). For example, the obround-shaped connector 1120 may be centered on and perpendicular to the bend line 1105. The rectangular area 1322b may larger than the distance between adjacent battery cell connection areas. Each semi-circular area 1328a and 1328b may overlap at least a portion of adjacent battery connection areas.
The illustrative battery connection cut-out 1140 may be formed as an elongated oval shape, such as an illustrative shape of about 1.5 mm high and having a distance of about 6 mm between a center point of each circular end portion (e.g., 1344) and an overall length of about 9 mm. In some cases, a second edge 1342 of the cut-out 1140 may align with a center line through the obround shaped cut-out 1120. Additionally, the obround-shaped cut-out 1120 may be located a distance (e.g., about 4 mm) from the battery connection cut-out 1140.
The flexible PCB 1100 with the rectangular and/or circular cuts may allow for an improved manufacturable bend along the bend axis 1105. In addition, the flexible PCB 1100 allows for an improved configuration for the connection of a plurality of cells (e.g., 36 cells) in as flat a pattern as possible and within a minimized area, while maintaining flexibility. Generally, printed circuit boards such as the flexible PCB 1100 are not useful for other battery packs, particularly if the other battery pack does not have to be flexible. A main advantage to the disclosed flexible PCB 1100 is that the flexible PCB 1100 allows for easy connection of each cell, both physically and electrically to the flexible PCB 1100, while allowing a finished product incorporating the flexible PCB 1100 (e.g., a conformal wearable battery) to meet or exceed flexibility requirements defined for the conformal wearable battery.
The flexible PCB 2900 may be configured to bend along a bend line 1105 located at or near a center line of the flexible PCB 2900. One or more elongated cut-outs may be disposed parallel to the bend line 1105 (e.g., cut-out 1110) and/or perpendicular to the bend line 1105 (e.g., cut-out 2920). Such cut-outs may provide additional flexibility to the flexible PCB 2900 to allow for easier formation of a 180-degree bend such as by folding the right half of the flexible PCB 2900 over the left half of the flexible PCB 2900. In the illustrative example, relief cuts, such as the cut-out 1110 may be formed as a rounded elongated rectangular cutout and the cut-out 2920, may be formed in a “dog bone” shape (e.g., two substantially circular sections connected by a rectangular section). As mentioned, the elongated rounded rectangular cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1110) parallel to the bend line 1105 may reduce stress on the plastic substrate when forming the about 180-degree bend. Additionally, the dog bone-shaped cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 2920) may reduce stresses placed on the flexible PCB substrate during use, such as by reducing stresses along a line of deformation between battery cells. By reducing the bending stress at locations along the bend line, a probability of a catastrophic failure of the substrate (e.g., cracking, delamination, and the like) is reduced. While cut-out 1110 is shown as a rounded rectangular shape and the cut-out 2920 is shown as a dog bone shape, other shapes may be used to reduce stress due to bending and/or flexing of the flexible PCB 2900. While a dog bone shape is shown on the illustrative example, other cut shapes may be used to achieve a same or similar purpose. Such other shapes may include circular cuts which may be used, for example, for removing more weight, ovular cuts which may provide additional stress relief, for example, based on the curves, elongated slots, which, for example, may be similar to the rectangular cuts but with even more filet on corners to reduce additional stresses, or the like.
The flexible PCB 2900 may also include a plurality of solder pads (e.g., pads 1150) to provide electrical connection for the cathode and anode of each battery module. For battery cells located near an edge of the flexible PCB 2900, the cathode an anode connectors may be bent over the edge of the flexible PCB 2900. For battery cells located away from the edge of the flexible PCB, a plurality of cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1140) are located near a corresponding pad 1150 to allow for solder or weld connection of the battery cathode or anode connector to the flexible PCB 2900. Additionally, the flexible PCB 2900 may include charging connection portion 1180 that may be used to connect to one or more charging tabs on an exterior portion of a case of the conformal wearable battery enclosure and/or a flexible connector portion 1160 that may include one or more flexible connectors to connect to additional circuitry, such as a control module, a display module, or the like). The flexible PCB 2900 may also include one or more semi-circular cut-out sections to provide an area of low mechanical stress at an interior portion of the flexible PCB 2900. In some cases, an electrical component 1280, shown in
The electrical connection cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1140) may be disposed near a flex line 1250 between rows of battery cell locations 1230 at a distance configured to reduce or eliminate stresses applied to the cell tabs (e.g., a cathode connection tab, an anode connection tab) of each battery cell. Because the battery cell locations are reinforced or otherwise stiffened by the battery modules, the flex lines 1250 allow for the CWB to be flexed within a designed range of motion, when in use. To provide stress relief along these flex lines between the rigid battery cell portions, the dog bone-shaped cut-outs 2920 are disposed within each flex line 1250 and may be aligned with a portion of the battery cell connection cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 1140).
The illustrative dog bone-shaped cut-out 2920 may be formed as a rectangular area 2322b connecting two circular areas 2328a and 2328b. For example, the dog bone-shaped connector 2920 may be centered on and perpendicular to the bend line 1105. The rectangular area 2322b may be about 1 mm high and about 2.25 mm wide. Each circular area 2328a and 2328b may have a radius of about 2 mm.
The illustrative battery connection cut-out 1140 may be formed as an elongated oval shape of about 1.5 mm high and having a distance of about 6 mm between a center point of each circular end portion (e.g., 1344) and an overall length of about 9 mm. In some cases, a second edge 1342b of the cut-out 1140 may align with a center line through the dog bone-shaped cut-out 2920. Additionally, the dog bone-shaped cut-out 2920 may be located about 4.8 mm from the battery connection cut-out 1140.
While aspects of the disclosure have been described with reference to battery cells and/or a CWB comprising battery cells, arrangements and methods as described herein may also be applied to other devices and systems having a flexible PCBA to maximize space within a housing. For example, the arrangements and methods described herein may apply to any electronic device disposed within a housing for which maximizing usable interior space within a housing by folding a flexible PCBA within the available interior space is desired. Examples of such electronic devices may include underwater cameras, sonar devices, radar devices, lidar devices, emergency radio beacons, satellite communications devices, terrestrial wireless communications devices, global positioning system (GPS) receivers, electronic environmental sensor devices, electronic medical devices, computing processors, solar cell based power generation devices, wave motion based power generation devices, fuel cell based power generation devices, battery charging controllers, and/or portable chemical batteries for powering electronic or electrical devices.
In an illustrative example, a conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of battery cells and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may include a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is physically affixed to the flexible PCBA at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections, a bend axis disposed between two parallel physical connection sections, wherein the bend axis facilitates folding of the flexible PCBA in half. Additionally, the flexible PCBA may include a plurality of first cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is disposed parallel to the bend axis and a plurality of second cut-outs disposed across the bend axis, wherein each second cut-out of the plurality of second cut-outs are disposed perpendicular to the bend axis.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, may include a bend axis where the bend axis comprises a center portion of the grid like pattern of the physical connection sections.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, may include the plurality of cut-outs where each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is rectangular-shaped, and where a longer edge of each first cut-out is disposed parallel to the bend axis.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, where each corner of each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is rounded.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, where each second cut-out of the plurality of second cut-outs comprises a first semi-circular section, a second semi-circular section and a rectangular section.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, where the rectangular section is disposed between the first semi-circular section and the second semi-circular section.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, where the rectangular section is disposed laterally across the bend axis, wherein a mid-point of the rectangular section is located near the bend axis.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, where each of the plurality of battery cells is physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example, where the plurality of battery cells is disposed on an outside surface of the flexible PCBA, when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may further include a sealed flexible housing wherein the flexible PCBA is disposed within an interior cavity of the sealed flexible housing and wherein the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
A second illustrative example of a system may include a plurality of battery cell modules and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA includes a plurality of battery cell connection sections disposed in a grid-like pattern along a first surface of the flexible PCBA, a bend axis configured to divide the flexible PCBA in half when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration, and a plurality of cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein each of the plurality of cut-outs reduce a bending force placed on the flexible PCBA when a flexing force is applied to the flexible PCBA.
The system of the second illustrative example, where the plurality of cut-outs comprises a plurality of first cut-outs having a first shape, and a second plurality of cut-outs having a second shape.
The system of the second illustrative example, where the first shape comprises a substantially rectangular shape having rounded corners.
The system of the second illustrative example, where the second shape comprises at least one semi-circular section and a rectangular section.
The system of the second illustrative example, where the second shape comprises a rectangular section disposed across the bend axis and a first semi-circular section disposed at an end of the rectangular section on a first side of the bend axis and a second semi-circular section disposed at an opposite end of the rectangular section and on an opposite side of the bend axis.
The system of the second illustrative example, where a first plurality of cut-outs of the plurality of cut-outs are located near an approximate mid-point of a battery cell module.
The system of the second illustrative example, where a portion of the plurality of cut-outs is disposed on a bend line that is perpendicular to the bend axis and between two adjacent battery cell modules
A third illustrative example may include a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) comprising a plurality of battery modules physically affixed to the flexible PCBA, wherein the plurality of battery modules are arranged in a grid-like pattern, a bend axis near an approximate mid-point of the flexible PCBA, wherein bending the flexible PCBA along the bend axis folds the flexible PCBA in half, and a plurality of cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein the cutouts reduce a force exerted on the flexible PCBA along the bend axis when the flexible circuit board is flexed.
The flexible PCBA of the third illustrative example, where the plurality of cut-outs disposed along the bend axis comprise a plurality of first cut-outs having a first shape and a plurality of second cut-outs having a second shape and wherein the plurality of first cut-outs are disposed along a flexible portion of the flexible PCBA between adjacent rows of the grid-like pattern that are perpendicular to the bend axis and the plurality of second cut-outs are disposed between adjacent battery modules in columns of the grid-like pattern, wherein the columns are on opposite sides of the bend axis.
Aspects of the disclosure have been described in terms of illustrative examples thereof. Numerous other examples, modifications, and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will occur to persons of ordinary skill in the art from a review of this disclosure. For example, one or more of the steps depicted in the illustrative figures may be performed in other than the recited order, and one or more depicted steps may be optional in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.
In the following description of various illustrative arrangements, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, various arrangements in which aspects of the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other arrangements may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. It is noted that the accompanying drawings may not be drawn to scale.
It is noted that various connections between elements are discussed in the following description. It is noted that these connections are general and, unless specified otherwise, may be direct or indirect, and that the specification is not intended to be limiting in this respect.
A rechargeable conformal wearable battery (CWB) may be worn by a user to power electronic devices that the user carries. The CWB may be subjected to a multitude of environmental conditions such as harsh shock and vibration, moisture exposure, and extreme temperatures. The CWB may have a housing that is sealed to facilitate longer battery life and utility for the user regardless of environmental conditions it may encounter. To provide a desired power output, the CWB may include a plurality of battery cells, each with a rated power capacity and when electrically connected, may allow the CWB to provide a desired power output.
A CWB may include an array of a first quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a horizontal direction and a second quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a vertical direction. The array of battery cells may be arranged in a grid-like pattern. Each of the battery cells may be encased or housed in a battery cell housing (e.g., a pouch, a metal enclosure, etc.) separate from other battery cells. A battery cell as described herein may include a plurality of individual battery cell elements that are electrically connected together to form a compound battery cell that electrically performs as a single unit. Each of the battery cells may be physically connected to adjacent battery cells by flexible elements (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board), thereby facilitating a surface outline or shape of the array of battery cells to generally conform to a surface outline or shape of a user wearing the CWB. For example, the CWB may include one or more flex lines along which the CWB may flexibly conform to a shape of an object adjacent to the CWB, such as a portion of a user's body. One or more of the battery cells may include a positive-charge electrical terminal and a negative-charge electrical terminal that are electrically connected with the battery cell within an interior of the battery cell and provide electrical power to electrical devices disposed exterior to the battery cell. Electrical terminals of a plurality of the battery cells in the array of battery cells may be connected together to route electrical current through the plurality of the battery cells and a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells. The positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal may provide an electrical current that passes through an electrically conductive path, for example, through an electronic device, via transfer of electrons through the electrically conductive path between the positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal on the exterior of the battery cell. The CWB may include a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells of the array of battery cells. The plurality of the battery cells may be electrically coupled together, for example, in series or in parallel.
In some cases, each battery cell may be formed of electrodes and a solid electrolyte that are stacked in layers or laminations and enclosed in a foil envelope housing, which is then sealed. The positive-charge terminal and the negative-charge terminal may each include a conductive region that passes between the interior of the cell housing and the exterior of the cell housing.
The CWB housing may secure a plurality of the battery cells within an interior region. may be formed from a molding process such as injection molding. The CWB housing may be formed of a polymeric material, for example. The CWB housing may be sealed to prevent ingress of solid material and/or liquid material, for example, according to an IP67 rating, IP68 rating, or other ingress protection rating. The CWB housing may include a plurality of electrically conductive contacts and/or connectors that may pass between the interior region of the CWB housing and the exterior of the CWB housing. The IP67 rating is specified by the Ingress Protection Code (IP Code) IEC standard 60529. The equivalent European standard is EN 60529. The IP Code also may be referred to as the International Protection Code. The IP Code classifies and rates a degree of ingress protection provided by mechanical casings and electrical enclosures for electronic equipment against intrusion, dust, accidental contact, and liquid (e.g., water). In the IP67 rating, the first digit (i.e., ‘6’) specifies a level of protection offered against ingress of solid objects, while the second digit (i.e., ‘7’) specifies a level of protection offered against ingress of liquids. The larger the value of the digit specifying the level of protection, the greater the amount of protection offered. For example, an IP67 rating specifies total protection against dust ingress and protection against short periods of immersion in water. An IP68 rating specifies dust resistance and immersion in 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes duration.
As shown in
The arrangement of the battery cells 3130 on the outward facing surfaces 3118A, 3118B of the flexible PCB 3110 positions an outward facing surface 3132 of each battery cell 3130 to face an interior surface 3168 of the upper housing member 3162 or an interior surface 3170 of the lower housing member 3164 as shown in
The battery cells 3130 may be a pouch cell type battery (i.e., a packaged polymer lithium-ion battery or similar type battery). For instance, each battery cell 3130 may include a pouch cell portion 3134 and a foil portion 3136 that wraps around at least three sides of the pouch cell portion 3134. The foil portion 3136 may have a length that is greater than a length of the pouch battery portion. In addition, the foil portion 3136 may contact the sides of the pouch cell portion 3134 across the width of the battery cell 3130 and/or may be integrated into a pouch cell package. Each battery cell 3130 may have a non-cylindrical shape and may have generally rectangular cuboid shape or a substantially parallelepiped shape. Further, a chemical system of battery cell 3130 may include one of a lithium cobalt oxide, nickel cobalt manganese, nickel cobalt aluminum, or other such chemical systems. In an illustrative example, the dimensions of the battery cell 3130 may be about 43 mm in length, about 34 mm in width, and about 6 mm in height, but battery cells of other dimensions may be used within the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, the battery cell 3130 may weigh between 22.5 grams and 24.5 grams (i.e., 23.5 grams) and may have an energy storage capacity between 1400 mAh and 1500 mAh (i.e., about 1,435 mAh). The size, weight, and energy storage capacity of each battery cell 3130 of the CWB 3010 may be designed such that the overall size, weight, and energy storage capacity of the flexible PCBA 3100 for the CWB 3010 meets an energy storage capacity specification, weight specification, and/or size specification for a CWB 3010. For example, the height, width, and length of each battery cell 3130 may be designed, at least in part, to meet a flexibility requirement of the CWB 3010. Additionally, the size, and/or shape of the battery cells may allow for a specified number of battery cells (e.g., about 36 battery cells) and/or configuration of the battery grid such that the energy capacity for the CWB 3010 may be at least 148 Watt-hours (Wb) (e.g., about 150 Wh, about 170 Wh, about 190 Wh, about 200 Wh, etc.) and/or where the maximum weight of the CWB 3010 is less than a specified maximum weight (e.g., about 2.6 pounds). In some cases, a configuration of the battery cells 3130 of the CWB 3010 may allow the CWB 3010 to output a voltage between about 10 and about 20 V, (e.g., about 14.8V) within a specified size and/or shape of the CWB. For example, an illustrative CWB 3010 may have an overall dimensions of between about 8.5 in. and 9.0 inches (i.e., about 8.7 in.)×between about 7.5 in and 8 in. (i.e., about 7.66 in.)×between about 0.5 in. and 0.8 in. (i.e., 0.70 in.).
As the battery cells 3130 go through cycles of discharging and recharging, the chemical reaction inside the battery cells 3130 may cause the battery cells 3130 to swell or increase in volume. In some examples, the battery cells 3130 may also go through cycles of swelling and then shrinking (i.e., increasing and decreasing in volume) as it goes through the discharging and recharging cycles. When a battery cell 3130 swells, the cell 3130 may expand into a cavity or void 3178 created by an opening 3188 in the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180. In some cases, the battery cells 3130 may encounter swelling of less than 4 percent. In other cases, the battery cells 3130 may swell in a range between 4 percent and 10 percent. In still other cases, the battery cells 3130 may encounter swelling of about 15 percent or less. In addition, each battery cells 3130 may swell different amounts in various locations of the battery cell 3130. For instance, each battery cell 3130 may experience a greater amount of swelling in a central region than along its edges.
The flexible PCB 3110 for the conformal wearable battery 3010 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The flexible PCB 3110 may be configured to provide power and/or electrical signals from a plurality of battery cells and/or other components of a CWB. The flexible PCB 3110 may be formed of one or more of a flexible polymer or plastic material, such as a polyimide or other such flexible substrate. In some cases, markings showing locations of placement of battery cells may be formed through a silk screening process or other like method. Electrical conductors may be included in one or more layers of the flexible PCB 3110. In some cases, electrical conductors may be configured as a conductive pattern (e.g., a copper overlay, a conductive ink, etc.) on the surface of the substrate of the flexible PCB 3110. In some cases, exposed conductive features (e.g., conductors, a bare copper surface, a bare aluminum surface, etc.) may be coated with a coverlay substance, such as an electrical insulator. For conductive portions of the flexible PCB not covered with a coverlay, the surface may be plated, such as with an electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) finish, a lead-free immersion silver finish or other substances with improved conductive properties. The flexible PCB 3110 may have a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, where each of the plurality of battery cells 3130 is physically affixed to the flexible PCB 3110 at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections.
The central shock-attenuating member 3140 may be positioned between the upper and lower portions 3114, 3116 and may also contact the inward facing surfaces 3120A, 3120B of the PCB 3110. The central shock-attenuating member 3140 may compress to absorb any impacts or forces that are received by the CWB 3010. As shown in
Each battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may have an opening 3188 extending through the thickness of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180. Each opening 3188 may create a cavity 3178 between the respective outward facing surface 3132 of the battery cell 3130 and one of the interior surfaces 3168, 3170 of the housing 3160. The cavity 3178 may provide room for a battery cell 3130 to expand into the cavity 3178 to prevent any swelling induced stress on the battery cell 3130 as it expands. The thickness of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may be approximately 10 percent of the thickness of the battery cell 3130, or may be within a range of 4 percent and 12 percent of the thickness of the battery cell 3130. In some examples, the opening 3188 may not extend through the entire thickness of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 creating cavity 3178 within the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180. For example, the opening 3188 may extend from the rear surface 3184 through at least 50 percent of the thickness, or through at least 75 percent of the thickness. In these cases, the depth of the cavity 3178 may be within a range of 4 percent and 12 percent of the thickness of the battery cell 3130.
In some examples, the battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180 may have a front surface 3182, a rear surface 3184 opposite the front surface, a perimeter surface 3186 extending between the front surface 3182 and the rear surface 3184, and an opening 3188 extending through the front and rear surfaces 3182, 3184. The opening 3188 may be located in substantially the center 3185 of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 and may be substantially aligned with a center 3135 (i.e., a horizontal and/or a vertical centerline) of a pouch cell portion 3134 each battery cell 3130. For purposes of this disclosure, substantially aligned means that a first axis extending normal from a geometric center point of a first component is collinear with a second axis extending in the same direction as the first axis from a geometric center of a second component are within 2 mm of each other. In some examples, the opening 3188 may be offset from a center of the pouch cell portion 3134. The shape of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may be substantially rectangular although it may have any geometric shape, such as oval, circular, or other polynomial. In general, the shape of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may correspond to the shape of each battery cell 3130, where the length and width of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may be substantially the same or within 5 percent of the length and width of the length and width of each battery cell 3130. The perimeter edges of the battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may extend to and cover the perimeter edges of the corresponding battery cell 3130 that it is attached. The rear surface 3184 of each battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may be affixed the outward facing surface 3132 of each respective battery cell 3130 with an adhesive, such as a glue, an epoxy, an acrylic, or a tape.
As shown in the illustrated example, the opening 3188 may have an oval shape or may have a different shape such as a rectangular shape, circular shape, or other geometric shape. In some examples, the opening 3188 may have a size that has an area that is within a range of 30 percent and 70 percent of an area of the front surface 3182 of the shock-absorbing member 3140, where the area of the front surface 3182 is defined as the area of the front surface 3182 that is free of the opening 3188. While in other examples, the opening 3188 of each battery cell shock-attenuating member 3180 may have an area that is at least 70 percent of the surface area of member 3140.
The central shock-attenuating member 3140 and the battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180 may be formed from a visco-elastic material that can attenuate shock and vibration while also having electrically insulating properties. In addition, the shock-attenuating members 3140, 3180 may be compressible to assist in absorbing any swelling from the battery cells 3130. The battery cells 3130 may swell on one side or both sides (i.e. a front and rear side of the battery cell 3130). The shock-attenuating members 3140, 3180 may be very compressible at low strain rates, such as a battery cell 3130 swelling, where each member 3140, 3180 may compress less than 50 percent of its thickness, the shock-absorbing members 3140, 3180 may push back against the swelling battery with a pressure of less than or up to 0.05 N/mm2 (0.05 MPa). As such, if any of the battery cells 3130 swell, a portion of the swelling may be absorbed by the compression of the shock-attenuating members 3140, 3180 to prevent any swelling induced stress on the expanded battery cell 3130. In some examples, the shock-attenuating members 3140, 3180 may be compressed within a range of 7 percent and 12 percent. The shock-attenuating members 3140, 3180 may be resilient to resist any permanent deformation caused by any swelling of the battery cells 3130. This resilience allows for the shock-attenuating members 3140, 3180 to compress and expand to accommodate any cycling of a battery cell 3130 swelling and then contracting partly or completely back to its normal size. By compressing and expanding to correspond with the swelling and shrinking of the battery cell 3130, the shock-absorbing members 3140, 3180 may not permanently deform or may have a minimal compression set. In some examples, the shock-attenuating members 3140, 3180 may have a maximum compression set of between 2 percent and 5 percent when tested using ASTM D 1667-90 Test D @ 73° F. (23° C.).
The visco-elastic material may be formed from a polymeric material such as a polyurethane based material such as Poron®, Sorbothane® or similar material. In some cases, the visco-elastic material may absorb heat to assist in conducting heat away from the batteries. The central shock-attenuating member 3140 and/or the battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180 may be formed from the same material or, in some examples, formed from different materials. The material forming the central shock-attenuating members and/or the battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180 may be a polymeric foam (i.e., porous) or a solid polymeric material. The central shock-attenuating members and/or the battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180 may be formed from a sheet of material and then cut to the final shape using a die cutting, laser cutting, water jet cutting process, or other cutting process known to one skilled in the art. The central shock-attenuating members 3140 and/or the battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180 may have a constant thickness, where the thickness of the central shock-attenuating member 3140 may substantially the same thickness (i.e., within 10 percent) as a thickness of at least one of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180. In some examples, the thickness of the central shock-attenuating member 3140 may be greater than a thickness at least one of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180. For instance, the thickness of the central shock-attenuating member 3140 may be within a range of 1.2 and 1.4 times a thickness of one of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members 3180. Additionally, the thickness of the central shock-attenuating member 3140 may be approximately 3 percent of the overall thickness of the CWB 3010, where the thickness of the housing 3160 is defined as the distance, T1, from an outermost outward facing surface 3174 of the upper housing member 3162 to an outermost outward facing surface 3176 of the lower housing member 3164. In some examples, the thickness of the central shock-attenuating member 3140 may be within a range of 2 percent and 5 percent of the thickness, T1, of the housing 3160. In addition, the combined thicknesses of the shock-absorbing members 3140, 3180 may be approximately 9 percent of the overall thickness T1 of the CWB 3010, or within a range of 7 percent and 11 percent of the overall thickness, T1.
Aspects of the disclosure have been described in terms of illustrative examples thereof. Numerous other examples, modifications, and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will occur to persons of ordinary skill in the art from a review of this disclosure. For example, one or more of the steps depicted in the illustrative figures may be performed in other than the recited order, and one or more depicted steps may be optional in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.
A rechargeable conformable wearable battery (CWB) assembly may be worn by a user to power electronic devices that the user carries. The CWB assembly may be subjected to environmental conditions that the user is also subjected to. The CWB may be subjected to a multitude of environmental conditions such as harsh shock and vibration, moisture exposure, and extreme temperatures. The CWB may have a sealed housing that is sealed to facilitate longer battery life and utility for the user regardless of environmental conditions that the CWB may encounter. To provide a desired power output, the CWB may include a plurality of battery cells, each with a rated power capacity and when electrically connected, may allow the CWB to provide a desired power output and within a specified size range and/or weight range.
A CWB may include an array of a first quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a horizontal direction and a second quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a vertical direction. The array of battery cells may be arranged in a grid-like pattern. Each of the battery cells may be encased or housed in a battery cell housing (e.g., a pouch, a metal enclosure, etc.) separate from other battery cells. A battery cell as described herein may include a plurality of individual battery cell elements that are electrically connected together to form a compound battery cell that electrically performs as a single unit. Each of the battery cell housings may be physically connected to adjacent battery cell housings by flexible elements (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board), thereby facilitating a surface outline or shape of the array of battery cells to generally conform to a surface outline or shape of a user wearing the CWB. For example, the CWB may include one or more flex lines along which the CWB may flexibly conform to a shape of an object adjacent to the CWB, such as a portion of a user's body. One or more of the battery cell housings may include a positive-charge electrical terminal and a negative-charge electrical terminal that are electrically connected with the battery cell within an interior of the battery cell housing and provide electrical power to electrical devices disposed exterior to the battery cell housing. Electrical terminals of a plurality of the battery cells in the array of battery cells may be connected together to route electrical current through the plurality of the battery cells and a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells. The positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal may provide an electrical current that passes through an electrically conductive path, for example, through an electronic device, via transfer of electrons through the electrically conductive path between the positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal on the exterior of the battery cell housing. The CWB may include a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells of the array of battery cells. The plurality of the battery cells may be electrically coupled together, for example, in series or in parallel.
In some cases, the battery cell may be formed of electrodes and a solid electrolyte that are stacked in layers or laminations and enclosed in a foil envelope housing, which is then sealed. The positive-charge terminal and the negative-charge terminal may each include a conductive region that passes between the interior of the cell housing and the exterior of the cell housing at an outer wall of the casing. The conductive region may be affixed and electrically connected to the battery cell in an interior of the cell housing at one end, pass through the sealed wall of the casing, and affix to conductive elements that electrically couples with electrical devices at an exterior of the cell housing.
The CWB housing may be formed of a molded casing that may be created through a molding process, such as an injection molding process. The molded CWB housing may be formed of a polymeric material, for example. The CWB housing may be sealed to prevent ingress of solid material and/or liquid material, for example, according to an IP67 rating, IP68 rating, or other ingress protection rating. In some cases, the CWB housing may be created through connecting at least two housing portions into a complete sealed housing to encase the battery cells within the casing. The positive-charge terminal and the negative-charge terminal may each include a conductive region that passes between the interior of the CWB housing and the exterior of the CWB housing.
In some cases, the CWB may be provided in a form factor easily carried by a person, such as within a pocket or with other means of securing the CWB assembly to a person's clothing, uniform, or the like. To provide the specified power output, while also providing flexibility for conforming to a shape of person's body or equipment when carried, the matrix of battery cells may be arranged on, and affixed to, a flexible printed circuit board. To fit within the housing of the CWB assembly, the flexible printed circuit board assembly may be configured to be folded along an axis (e.g., a center line), such that battery cell modules may be on an exterior surface of the flexible printed circuit board assembly closest to the housing, while the electrical connections may be made on an interior surface of the folded printed circuit board assembly. An electrical insulator (e.g., foam, insulating tape, etc.) may be placed between the folded sections to provide electrical insulation for the electrical contacts.
The flexible PCB 4100 may be configured to bend along a bend line 4105 located at or near a center line of the flexible PCB 4100 such as to form a bend of a desired angle (e.g., a 4180-degree bend). One or more elongated cut-outs may be disposed parallel to the bend line 4105 (e.g., cut-out 4110) and/or perpendicular to the bend line 4105 (e.g., cut-out 4120), where the cut-outs perpendicular to the bend line 4105 may be aligned with a flex line (e.g., a flex line 4125a, a flex line 4125b, a flex line 4125c, etc.) perpendicular to the bend line 4105. In some cases, the flex line may correspond to a section of the flexible PCB 4100 located between rows of components (e.g., battery cells) along which the CWB may bend during use. Such cut-outs may provide additional flexibility to the flexible PCB 4100 to allow for easier formation of the desired bend angle (e.g., the 180-degree bend) such as by folding the right half of the flexible PCB 4100 over the left half of the flexible PCB 4100 and/or flexing along one or more adjacent flex lines. In the illustrative example, relief cuts, such as the cut-out 4110 may be formed as a rounded elongated rectangular cutout and the cut-out 4120, may be formed in a generally obround shape (e.g., two substantially semi-circular sections connected by a rectangular section). As mentioned, the elongated rounded rectangular cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 4110) parallel to the bend line 4105 may reduce stress on the plastic substrate when forming the about 180-degree bend. Additionally, the obround-shaped cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 4120) may reduce stresses placed on the flexible PCB substrate during use, such as by reducing stresses along a line of deformation (e.g., the flex line 4125a, a flex line 4225a of
In some cases, additional cut-outs may be included to reduce stresses along the flex line (e.g., the flex line 4125a, the flex line 4125b, the flex line 4125c), such as at an edge of the flexible PCB 4100, such as a corner notch 4190a located near a corner formed in the edge of the flexible PCB 4100 near a flex line and/or a notch 4190b located along an edge of the flexible PCB 4100 and aligned near a flex line. By reducing the bending stress at locations along the bend line, a probability of a catastrophic failure of the substrate (e.g., cracking, delamination, and the like) is reduced. While cut-out 4110 is shown as a rounded rectangular shape and the cut-out 4120 is shown as an obround shape, other shapes may be used to remove weight and/or to reduce stress due to bending and/or flexing of the flexible PCB 4100. While an obround shape is shown on the illustrative example, other cut shapes may be used. Such other shapes may include circular cuts which may be used, for example, for removing more weight, oval cuts which may provide additional stress relief, for example, based on the curves, elongated slots which, for example, may be similar to the rectangular cuts but with even more filet on corners that may reduce additional stresses, a dog-bone shape (e.g., two substantially circular sections connected by a rectangular section), and/or the like.
The flexible PCB 4100 may also include a plurality of conductive pads (e.g., pads 4150) to provide electrical connection for the cathode and anode of each battery module connected to the flexible PCB 4100. For battery cells located near an edge of the flexible PCB 4100, the cathode an anode connectors may be bent over the edge of the flexible PCB 4100. For battery cells located away from the edge of the flexible PCB, a plurality of cut-outs (e.g., the cut-out 4140) are located near a corresponding pad 4150 to allow for solder or weld connection of the battery cathode or anode connector to the flexible PCB 4100. Additionally, the flexible PCB 4100 may include charging connection portion 4190 that may be used to connect to one or more charging tabs on an exterior portion of a case of the conformal wearable battery enclosure and/or a flexible connector portion 4160 that may include one or more flexible connectors to connect to additional circuitry, such as a control module, a display module, or the like). The flexible PCB 4100 may also include one or more semi-circular cut-out sections 4180 to provide an area of low mechanical stress at an interior portion of the flexible PCB 4100. In some cases, an electrical component 4280, shown in
The battery cell locations, circuitry module locations, cut outs, and/or electrical connection locations may be provided in a matrix or grid pattern on an outward facing surface or front side of the flexible PCB 4100. For example, the battery cell locations may be arranged in rows, such as battery cell row 4232, battery cell row 4234, and the like, an/or in columns, such as battery cell column 4233, battery cell column 4235, and the like. Additionally, one or more of the cut-out area 4260, the cut-out area 4270, the circuitry module location 4240, the circuitry module 4250, and the like may be aligned in a same row (e.g., row 4236). In some cases, one or more of the cut-out areas, circuitry module areas, and/or electrical connection areas may be located in different rows and/or columns of the matrix or grid pattern. In some cases, a matrix or grid pattern may include a combination of one or more of the battery cell locations, the one or more circuitry module locations and/or the cut-out locations. In the illustrative configuration shown in
In some cases, each battery cell location 4230 may be associated with a pair of cut-outs for the anode and cathode connections, as discussed above. Here, a battery cell module may be physically attached to the substrate of the flexible PCB 1400, such as by use of an adhesive material (e.g., glue, tape, etc.) or other such bonding material. The cathode and anode connection tabs may be inserted through a corresponding cut-out 4140 so that the connection tabs may be soldered, welded, or otherwise connected to the connection pad 4150 on the opposite side of the flexible PCB 4100. Additional to a plurality of battery cell locations (e.g., 36 battery cell locations), the flexible PCB 4100 may include one or more locations, marked or unmarked on the flexible PCB 4100, where electronic circuit modules may be attached, such as the electronic circuit location 4240, the electronic circuit location 4250, and the like. For example, electronic circuit modules may be physically attached to the substrate of the flexible PCB 4100, such as by use of an adhesive material (e.g., glue, tape, etc.) or other such bonding material. Further, the flexible PCB 4100 may include a cut-out section 4260 that is of similar size to a battery cell location 4230 that may also be inclusive of at least a portion of an area associated with one or more flex lines (e.g., a flex line 4125a, a flex line 4225b), and the like. The cut-out section 4270 may be configured to correspond with the flexible connector portion 4160.
In some cases, the electrical connection cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 4140) and/or end cut outs (e.g., cut-out 4190a, 4190b) may be disposed near or offset from the flex line 4125b between rows of battery cell locations 4230 at a distance configured to reduce or eliminate stresses applied to the cell tabs (e.g., a cathode connection tab, an anode connection tab) of each battery cell. Because the battery cell locations are reinforced or otherwise stiffened by the battery modules, the flex lines 4225a-i and 4125a-c may allow for the CWB to be flexed within a designed range of motion, when in use. To provide stress relief along these flex lines between the rigid battery cell portions, the obround-shaped cut-outs 4120 are disposed within each flex line 4125 and may be aligned with a portion of the battery cell connection cut-outs (e.g., cut-out 4140) and the edge cut-outs 4190a, 4190b may be aligned to the flex lines 4125 and located at an edge of the flexible PCB 4100.
In the illustrative example of
The illustrative obround-shaped cut-out 4120 may be formed as a rectangular area 4322b connecting two semi-circular areas 4328a and 4328b. For example, the obround-shaped connector 4120 may be centered on and perpendicular to the bend line 4105. The rectangular area 4322b may larger than the distance between adjacent battery cell connection areas. Each semi-circular area 4238a and 4328b may overlap at least a portion of adjacent battery connection areas.
The illustrative battery connection cut-out 4140 may be formed as an elongated oval shape, such as an illustrative shape of about 1.5 mm high (e.g., between edge 4342a and edge 4342b) and having a distance of about 6 mm between a center point of each circular end portion (e.g., point 4344) and an overall length of about 9 mm. In some cases, the edge 4342b of the cut-out 4140 may align with a center line through the obround shaped cut-out 4120. Additionally, the obround-shaped cut-out 4120 may be located a distance (e.g., about 4 mm) from the battery connection cut-out 4140.
Spacing of the battery cell connection areas may be configured to allow for construction of the finished CWB and/or for a specified amount of movement (e.g., flexing, bending, etc.) of the CWB when in use. For example, the spacings of the battery cells relative to flex lines 4225a-4225i and/or flex lines 4125a-4125c may allow for an amount of flexing or bending of the CWB as defined in a specification such as, for example, MIL-PRF-32383/4A, while maintaining structural integrity. For example, the spacings of battery cell connection areas may allow for bending of the CWB such that a center section of the CWB to bend while the edges of the CWB are held stationary. In some cases, the edges of the CWB may pivot in the direction of the bend. Upon application of force to the center section of the CWB, e.g., at a distance equidistant between centerline edges of the CWB, the center portion of the CWB may flex up and/or down a specified distance (e.g., at least one inch, between 1 inch and two inches, etc.). For example, spacing of the battery cell connection areas 4330 may be distributed as a grid or matrix pattern such that spacing between allows for uniform distribution of the adjacent battery cell connection areas, along column of battery cell location areas (e.g., column 4235) and/or along rows of battery cell connection areas (e.g., row 4234). In some cases, spacing of adjacent battery cell connection areas adjacent to a central flex line (e.g., flex line 4105) may differ such as to allow for forming a 180-degree bend in the flexible PCB 4100. In the illustrative example shown in
Because of the compact nature of the CWB and the folded configuration of the flexible PCBA 4500, the electrical connection between the connection pads 4150 and the battery connection tabs 4540 may be minimized with respect to the height of the overall connection relative to the inward facing surfaces 4520A, 4520B. For instance, by using a welding technique that applies localized heat over a smaller amount of time compared to traditional soldering, the amount of material, and heat, needed to form a solid connection may be reduced. This means that the outward facing surface of the connection tab 4540 may be have little to no additional material on it after being secured to the pad 4150. Further, by minimizing applied heat during the connection process, a probability that the folded flexible PCBA 4500, the battery cell(s), or other component near the connection site may be damaged is similarly reduced. In some cases, the joint may be formed using only by joining the material of the pad 4150 and the material of the connection tab 4540 without the addition of solder, weld filler, or any additional material. By minimizing the amount of material in the joint, the height, H1, of the connection may be controlled to reduce the overall thickness of the folded flexible PCBA 4500. As shown in
As can be seen in
In some cases, one or more of the alternative conductive pathways may be connected to one of a positive battery cell tab, a negative battery cell tab, protection circuitry, data circuitry, clock circuitry and/or other circuitry associated with operation and/or monitoring of the CWB. Circuitry associated with the battery cell may include battery charging control circuitry, for example. Conductive pathways may carry electrical current and/or data signals between the battery cell and/or associated circuitry within an interior of a CWB housing and one or more contact component accessible on the outside of the CWB housing.
As shown, the plurality of battery cell attenuating members 4710 may be individually attached to the outward facing surface of each battery cell 4720. Each battery cell attenuating member 4710 may be positioned between the outward facing surface of the battery cell 4720 so that a top surface of the attenuating member 4710 faces an interior surface of the CWB, when assembled. In addition, each battery cell attenuating member 4710 may also contact one of the interior surface of the CWB. In short, attenuating member 4710 may be located between the battery cells 4720 arranged on the flexible PCBA 4500, and the battery cell attenuating members 4710 may located between the battery cells 4720 and the housing of the CWB. The attenuating members 4710 may help to protect the battery cells 4720 by absorbing the forces received by the CWB 3010 from any impacts or collisions. The battery cell attenuating members 4710 may be formed from a visco-elastic material that can attenuate shock and vibration. In some cases, the visco-elastic material may include other properties including intumescent properties or other fire blocking and/or suppression characteristics. The visco-elastic material may be formed from a polymeric material such as a polyurethane based material such as Poron®, Sorbothane®, or similar material. In some cases, the battery cell attenuating members 4710 may be made of an electrically insulative material.
Each battery cell attenuating member 4710 may have an opening 4730 extending through the thickness of the attenuating member 4710. Each opening 4730 may create a cavity between the respective outward facing surface of the battery cell 4720 and one of the interior surfaces of the housing of the CWB. As the battery cells 4720 go through cycles of discharging and recharging, the chemical reaction inside the battery cells 4720 may cause the battery cells 4720 to swell or increase in volume. As the battery cells 4720 swell, they may expand into the cavity created by the opening 4730. In some cases, the battery cells 4720 may encounter swelling of less than 4%. In some cases, the battery cells 4720 may swell in a range between 4% and 10%. In some cases, the battery cells 4720 may encounter swelling of about 15% or less. The thickness of the battery cell attenuating member 4710 may be approximately 10 percent of the thickness of the battery cell 4720, or may be within a range of 8 percent and 15 percent of the thickness of the battery cell 4720. In some examples, the opening 4730 may not extend through the entire thickness of the attenuating member 4710 creating cavity within attenuating member 4710. For example, the opening 4730 may extend from the rear surface through at least 50 percent of the thickness, or through at least 75 percent of the thickness. In these cases, the depth of the cavity may be within a range of 4 percent and 15 percent of the thickness of the battery cell 4130.
In
In some cases, connection locations for each battery cell 5300 may be marked on the flexible PCB 4100 Additionally or alternatively, battery cell connection locations may include a rigidizing material, or may be otherwise reinforced such as via attachment of a battery cell module. Each battery cell connection location may be associated with a pair of cutouts 4140 for the anode and cathode connections, as discussed above. Here, a battery cell module 5300 may be physically attached to the substrate of the flexible PCB 4100, such as by use of an adhesive material (e.g., glue, tape, etc.). Electrically conductive cathode and anode connection tabs 5302, 5304 may be inserted through a corresponding cutout 4140 so that the connection tabs 4540 may be welded, or otherwise connected to the connection pad 4150 on the rear side of the flexible PCB 4100 to create an electrical connection between the battery cell 5300 and the flexible PCB 4100. The cathode and anode connection tabs 5302, 5304 may be different materials. For instance, the electrically conductive cathode and anode connection tabs 5302, 5304 may comprise one or more of aluminum, copper, nickel, or other materials.
Because of the compact nature of the CWB and the folded PCBA 5000, the electrical connection between the connection pads 4150 and the battery connection tabs (e.g., tabs 5540A, tabs 5540B) may be minimized with respect to the height of the overall connection relative to the inward facing surfaces 4520A, 4520B, as shown in
In some regions of the flexible PCB 4100, such as for battery cell 5300B, each connection tab 4540 may extend through a cutout 4140 of the flexible PCB 4100 to attach to its corresponding connection pad 4150, while in other regions, connection tabs 4540 may extend from respective battery cell 5300 and wrap around an upper edge of the flexible PCB 4100 before attaching to its corresponding connection pad 4150. For example, as shown in
In some cases, a battery cell matrix may include only battery cells, such as a 3×3 battery cell matrix, a 4×4 battery cell matrix, a 5×4 battery cell matrix, or other single-sided or double-sided matrix configuration within a flexible and sealed housing, where control and monitoring circuitry may be externally connected (e.g., via a flexible connector, a cable, and/or the like) to the battery cell matrix, either within or external to a CWB housing. The specific matrix configurations and spacings are given for illustrative purposes and other matrix configurations and spacings may be contemplated within the scope of this disclosure.
As shown in
The arrangement of the battery cell modules 6130 on the outward facing surfaces of the flexible PCBA 4500 places the battery cell modules such that an outward facing surface of each battery cell module faces an interior surface of either the upper housing member 6162 or the lower housing member 6164. Additionally, a plurality of battery cell shock absorbing members may be individually attached to the outward facing surface of each battery cell. Each battery cell attenuating member may be positioned between the outward facing surface and one of the interior surfaces of the respective upper or lower housing members 6162, 6164.
As discussed above, each battery cell may be connected to the flexible PCB 4100 using a means to reduce the height profile, while also maximizing the density of the matrix of the battery cells. As shown in
In step 6310, the cathode tab of each battery cell may be routed either to wrap around an edge of the flexible PCB 4100 (if the battery cell module 6130 is located along an edge of the flexible PCB 4100) or through a cut-out 1140 (if the battery cell module 6130 is located away from an edge of the flexible PCB 4100). The cathode tab is then formed or bent such that the cathode tab extends substantially parallel to a corresponding inward facing surface of the flexible PCB 4100 and onto the appropriate electrical connection pad 4150. In step 6315, an electrical connection may then be created between the cathode tab and the electrical connection pad 4150 or its corresponding surface coating. The electrical connection may be formed using a technique to create an electrical connection between metal interfacing materials, such as ultrasonic welding, laser welding, or other appropriate welding technique. By using laser welding or ultrasonic welding, the different materials such a cathode tab that includes aluminum to an ENIG surface coating without additional filler materials which can help minimize the height, H1, of the tab to the rear surface of the flexible PCB 4100 (e.g., an inward facing surface) of the flexible PCB 4100. In steps 6320 and 6325, the steps of routing and connecting the cathode tab may be repeated for the anode tab of the battery cell module 6130 to complete the electrical connection for the battery cell 6130. In some examples, the anode tab may be routed and connected before the cathode tab. As another option, to accommodate a production environment, the attachment steps may be done as groupings such that all of the battery cell modules 6130 may be affixed with adhesive first, then the tabs may be routed appropriately, and then the tabs may be have the electrical connections formed using the appropriate welding technique (e.g., each battery connection tab 4540, such as the cathode tab and/or the anode tab, may be welded individually in a sequence until all of the electrical connections are formed).
A CWB assembly may include an array of a first quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a horizontal direction and a second quantity of battery cells disposed adjacent to one another in a vertical direction. The array of battery cells may be arranged in a grid-like pattern. Each of the battery cells may be encased or housed in a battery cell housing separate from other battery cells. A battery cell as described herein may include a plurality of individual battery cell elements that are electrically connected together to form a compound battery cell that electrically performs as a single unit. Each of the battery cell housings may be physically connected to adjacent battery cell housings by flexible elements (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board), thereby facilitating a surface outline or shape of the array of battery cells to generally conform to a surface outline or shape of a user wearing the CWB assembly. One or more of the battery cell housings may include a positive-charge electrical terminal and a negative-charge electrical terminal that are electrically connected with the battery cell within an interior of the battery cell housing and provide electrical power to electrical devices disposed exterior to the battery cell housing. Electrical terminals of a plurality of the battery cells in the array of battery cells may be connected together to route electrical current through the plurality of the battery cells and a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells. The positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal may provide an electrical current that passes through an electrically conductive path, for example, through an electronic device, via transfer of electrons through the electrically conductive path between the positive-charge electrical terminal and the negative-charge electrical terminal on the exterior of the battery cell housing. The CWB assembly may include a set of positive-charge and negative-charge electrical terminals that are shared among the plurality of the battery cells of the array of battery cells. The plurality of the battery cells may be electrically coupled together, for example, in series or in parallel.
While aspects of the disclosure have been described with reference to battery cells and/or a CWB comprising battery cells, arrangements and methods as described herein may also be applied to other devices and systems having a flexible PCBA to maximize space within a housing. For example, the arrangements and methods described herein may apply to any electronic device disposed within a housing for which maximizing usable interior space within a housing by folding a flexible PCBA within the available interior space is desired. Examples of such electronic devices may include underwater cameras, sonar devices, radar devices, lidar devices, emergency radio beacons, satellite communications devices, terrestrial wireless communications devices, global positioning system (GPS) receivers, electronic environmental sensor devices, electronic medical devices, computing processors, solar cell based power generation devices, wave motion based power generation devices, fuel cell based power generation devices, battery charging controllers, and/or portable chemical batteries for powering electronic or electrical devices.
In an illustrative example, a conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of battery cells and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may include a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is physically affixed to the flexible PCBA at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections, a bend axis disposed between two parallel physical connection sections, wherein the bend axis facilitates folding of the flexible PCBA in half. Additionally, the flexible PCBA may include a plurality of first cut-outs disposed along the bend axis, wherein each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is disposed parallel to the bend axis and a plurality of second cut-outs disposed across the bend axis, wherein each second cut-out of the plurality of second cut-outs are disposed perpendicular to the bend axis.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly.
The conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of battery cells, at least one circuitry module configured to control and monitor charging and discharging of the plurality of battery cells, and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may include a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells and the at least one circuitry module is physically affixed to the flexible PCBA at a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a flexible PCBA that includes a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a plurality of battery cells and at least one circuitry module that, when affixed to the flexible PCBA, forms a matrix of physical components. The matrix of physical components may be a matrix of at least two rows and at least two columns.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may further include at least one connector configured to provide an electrical power connection from internal circuitry of the conformal wearable battery to an external device to be powered.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include the plurality of battery cells, where the at least one connector, and the at least one circuitry module, when affixed to the flexible PCBA, comprises a matrix of physical components.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may comprise a bend axis that is a center of the grid like pattern of the physical connection sections when the flexible PCBA is unfolded. The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a flexible PCBA having each of the plurality of battery cells physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA. The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include the flexible PCBA having each of the plurality of battery cells physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA and each of the plurality of battery cells electrically connected to the flexible PCBA on a second side of the flexible PCBA that is opposite the first side. The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include the flexible PCBA having the plurality of battery cells disposed on an outside surface of the flexible PCBA, when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a plurality of battery cells that are arranged in a three-dimensional grid pattern. The conformal wearable battery of the illustrative example may include a sealed flexible housing wherein the flexible PCBA is disposed within an interior cavity of the sealed flexible housing and wherein the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
An illustrative system may include a plurality of battery cell modules and a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The flexible PCBA may further include a plurality of battery cell connection sections disposed in a grid-like pattern along a first surface of the flexible PCBA where each of the plurality of battery cell modules is electrically attached to the flexible PCBA on a second surface of the flexible PCBA in a grid-like pattern, wherein the second surface is opposite the first surface.
The illustrative system may further include a housing, wherein the flexible PCBA, when in a folded configuration, is located within the housing.
The illustrative system may include a plurality of battery cell modules, where each of the plurality of battery cell modules includes a battery cell and an attenuating member made of a resilient material. Each battery cell may be a lithium-ion battery cell. The illustrative system may include a plurality of battery cells arranged in a three-dimensional grid pattern when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
An illustrative flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) may include a plurality of battery modules physically affixed to the flexible PCBA, where the plurality of battery modules is arranged in a grid-like pattern and a bend axis near an approximate mid-point of the flexible PCBA. When the flexible PCBA is bent along the bend axis, the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration and, when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration, the plurality of battery modules is disposed in a three-dimensional grid-like pattern.
The illustrative flexible PCBA may include a plurality of flexible sections, wherein the flexible sections allow for the flexible PCBA to flex between adjacent rows and adjacent columns of battery modules. The illustrative flexible PCBA may include at least one circuitry module that comprises a portion of the grid-like pattern.
A conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of battery cells and a flexible printed circuit board (PCB). In some cases, each battery cell may include a pair of electrically conductive elements that correspond to either a cathode or an anode of each battery cell. The flexible PCB may include a plurality of physical connection sections disposed in a grid like pattern on a first side of the flexible PCB, were each of the plurality of battery cells may be disposed associated with a corresponding physical connection section of the plurality of physical connection sections. The flexible PCB may include a plurality of electrical connection pads linearly disposed on a second side opposite the first side of the flexible PCB, where the plurality of electrical connection pads may include an electrically conductive surface coating. The electrically conductive surface coating may comprise an electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) surface coating and/or a lead-free immersion silver surface coating.
In some cases, the pair of electrically conductive elements may extend substantially parallel to and along the second side of the flexible PCB and each of the electrically conductive elements may be connected to a corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads on the second side of the flexible PCB forming an electrical connection.
In some cases, the conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of battery cells that may be configured as pouch cell packaged polymer lithium-ion batteries Each battery cell of the plurality of battery cells may be physically attached to the first side of the flexible PCB.
In some cases, the flexible PCB of the conformal wearable battery may include a plurality of cutouts extending through the flexible PCB, wherein at least one cutout of the plurality of cutouts is located adjacent to an electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads. Each conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements may extend through a corresponding cutout of the plurality of cutouts. In some cases, the electrical connection between each electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads may be joined with a weld, such as by using one or more of a laser welding process and/or an ultrasonic welding process.
In some cases, a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads may have a width that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements and/or a height electrical connection may be within a range of 10% to 70% of a thickness of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
In some cases, a system may include a first plurality of battery cells, wherein a first battery cell of the first plurality of battery cell includes a first pair of electrically conductive elements and a second plurality of battery cell, wherein a second battery cell of the second plurality of battery cell includes a second pair of electrically conductive elements, and may also include a flexible printed circuit board (PCB). The flexible PCB may include a plurality of battery cell connection sections disposed in a grid-like pattern along a first surface of the flexible PCB, a plurality of cutouts disposed adjacent and parallel to an edge of the plurality of battery cell connection sections, where the plurality of cutouts is arranged as multiple pairs of cutouts arranged adjacent a majority of the plurality of battery cell connection sections. The flexible PCB may also include a plurality of electrical connection pads disposed on a second surface of the flexible PCB opposite the first surface, where a majority of the plurality of electrical connection pads may be arranged adjacent the plurality of cutouts and the plurality of electrical connection pads may include an electrically conductive surface coating. In some cases, an electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements may wrap around an edge of the flexible PCB and may extend along the second surface of the flexible PCB. The electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements may connect to a corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads forming a first electrical connection and an electrically conductive element of the second pair of electrically conductive elements may extend through a cutout of the plurality of cutouts such that each electrically conductive element of the second pair of electrically conductive elements connects to a corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality electrical connection pads forming a second electrical connection.
In some cases, the system may further include the first electrical connection between the electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads may be joined with a weld, such as by using a laser welding process and/or using an ultrasonic welding process. In some cases, the connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads may have a circular shape with a diameter that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
In some cases, a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) may include a flexible printed circuit board (PCB) that may include a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The flexible PCBA may further include a plurality of electrical connection pads disposed on the second side of the flexible PCB, where the plurality of electrical connection pads may be arranged in multiple pairs of electrical connection pads and the plurality of electrical connection pads may include an electrically conductive surface coating. In some cases, the flexible PCBA may include a plurality of cutouts linearly disposed in the flexible PCB and adjacent to corresponding electrical connection pads and a plurality of battery cell modules physically affixed to the first side of the flexible PCB, were the plurality of battery cell modules may be arranged in a grid-like pattern and may include pouch cell packaged polymer lithium-ion material. In some cases, each battery cell module of the plurality of battery cell modules may include a pair of electrically conductive elements that extend substantially parallel to the second side of the flexible PCB and connect to corresponding electrical connection pads of the plurality of electrical connection pads forming an electrical connection for each battery cell module. In some cases, the electrical connection between each electrically conductive elements of the pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pads of the plurality of electrical connection pads may be formed using a welding process. In some cases, a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads may have a circular shape with a diameter that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements. In some cases, each electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads may include an electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) surface coating.
A molded housing may enclose an electronic component and include an electrically conductive contact component embedded within an exterior wall to conduct electricity between an interior and an exterior of the casing. The contact component may include two knurled areas separated by a recessed groove. The knurled areas and recessed groove may be coplanar with the exterior wall. The knurled areas and recessed groove may form an interface with the molded casing to seal the casing against ingress of liquid into the interior. The molded casing may include an upper housing and a lower housing formed from a combination of a rigid member and a flexible member. The rigid member may have a plurality of rigid regions, and the flexible member may have a plurality of flexible regions formed between neighboring rigid regions. The flexible member may be molded onto the rigid member using a two-shot injection molding process. In some examples, the contact component may be secured to a contact carrier, where the contact carrier is then secured to the exterior housing.
A molded housing may enclose an electronic component and include an electrically conductive contact component embedded within an exterior wall to conduct electricity between an interior and an exterior of the casing. The contact component may include two knurled areas separated by a recessed groove. The knurled areas and recessed groove may be coplanar with the exterior wall. The knurled areas and recessed groove may form an interface with the molded casing to seal the casing against ingress of liquid into the interior. The molded casing may include an upper housing and a lower housing formed from a combination of a rigid member and a flexible member. The rigid member may have a plurality of rigid regions, and the flexible member may have a plurality of flexible regions formed between neighboring rigid regions. The flexible member may be molded onto the rigid member using a two-shot injection molding process. In some examples, the contact component may be secured to a contact carrier, where the contact carrier is then secured to the exterior housing.
A flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) for a conformal wearable battery (CBB) includes attachment sections for a plurality of battery cells that are arranged in a grid-like pattern on a same side of the flexible PCBA. The flexible PCBA is configured to fold along a bend axis so that the flexible PCBA is folded approximately in half. To reduce mechanical stresses placed on the flexible PCBA when folding the flexible PCBA along the bend axis, the flexible PCBA includes a plurality of cut-outs dispersed along the bend axis and parallel to adjacent battery cells. The CWB is configured to flex during use. The flexible PCBA includes a plurality of cut-outs disposed perpendicular to the bend axis, between adjacent rows of battery cells, and on the bend axis to relieve mechanical stresses applied to a bent portion of the flexible PCBA when the CWB is flexed during use.
A battery system that is formed from a plurality of battery cells arranged on a flexible printed circuit card, where the flexible printed circuit card is folded along an axis forming an upper and lower portion of the flexible circuit card. A visco-elastic shock-absorbing member installed between the upper and lower portion of the flexible circuit card. Each battery cell may also have a visco-elastic shock-absorbing member that is attached individually to each battery cell of the plurality of battery cells.
A matrix of battery cell modules includes a flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) for a conformal wearable battery (CWB) with a plurality of attachment sections for each of a plurality of battery cells that are arranged in a grid-like pattern on a same side of the flexible PCBA. Each battery cell may be joined with a flexible PCB via a welding process. The flexible PCBA is configured to fold along a bend axis so that the flexible PCBA is folded approximately in half. When affixed to the flexible PCBA, the plurality of battery cell modules and a circuitry module form a grid of physical components. When folded, the flexible PCBA forms a three-dimensional grid of physical components comprising at least the battery cell modules.
Aspects of the disclosure have been described in terms of illustrative examples thereof. Numerous other examples, modifications, and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will occur to persons of ordinary skill in the art from a review of this disclosure. For example, one or more of the steps depicted in the illustrative figures may be performed in other than the recited order, and one or more depicted steps may be optional in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.
Many illustrative embodiments are listed below in accordance with one or more aspects disclosed herein. Although many of the embodiments listed below are described as depending from other embodiments, the dependencies are not so limited. For example, embodiment #5 (below) is expressly described as incorporating the features of embodiment #1 (below), however, the disclosure is not so limited. For example, embodiment #5 may depend any one or more of the preceding embodiments (i.e., embodiment #1, embodiment #2, embodiment #3, and/or embodiment #4). Moreover, that any one or more of embodiments #2-#6 may be incorporated into embodiment #1 is contemplated by this disclosure. Likewise, any of embodiments #1, 8, and 16 may be combined with one or more of the features recited in embodiments #2-8, 9-15, and/or 17-20. Further likewise, any of embodiments #21, 32, and 39 may be combined with one or more of the features recited in embodiments #22-31, 33-37, and 40. Further likewise, any of embodiments #41, 49, 60 may be combined with one or more of the features recited in embodiments #42-48 and #50-59. Further likewise, any of embodiments #61, 70, and 76 may be combined with one or more of the features recited in embodiments #62-69, 71-75, and 77-80. Further likewise, any of embodiments #81, 92, 97, 105, and 110 may be combined with one or more of the features recited in embodiments #82-91, 93-97, 98-104, 106-109, and 111-115. Further likewise, any of embodiments #116, 128, and 133 may be combined with one or more of the features recited in embodiments #117-127, 129-132, 134, and 135. In addition, that any one or more of the features in embodiments #1, 6, 16, 21, 32, 39, 41, 49, 60, 61, 70, 76, 81, 92, 97, 105, 110, 116, 128, and 133 may be combined is contemplated by this disclosure. Moreover, that any one or more of the features in embodiments #1-135 can be combined is contemplated by this disclosure.
Embodiment #1. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #2. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #1, further comprising a contact carrier that encases the rear portion of the contact component, wherein the contact carrier is secured to the housing.
Embodiment #3. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #2, wherein the contact carrier is secured to the housing between a rear surface of a sidewall of the housing and a rear flange that is spaced rearward of the rear surface.
Embodiment #4. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #3, wherein a first plug extends from the rear surface of the sidewall through an opening in the contact carrier to the rear flange of the housing.
Embodiment #5. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #1, wherein the electrically conductive material is formed from at least one material selected from brass, gold, copper, silver, aluminum, steel, or a combination thereof.
Embodiment #6. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #1, wherein the perimeter region includes a groove and the rear portion includes a textured region and a threaded female element.
Embodiment #7. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #6, wherein the textured region includes a plurality of angled gear teeth, and wherein the contact component includes an opening that receives a conductive element to create a connection between the conductive region and the contact component.
Embodiment #8. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #9. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #8, wherein the first contact carrier is secured to the housing between a first rear surface of a first sidewall of the first shell and a first rear flange that is spaced rearward of the first rear surface.
Embodiment #10. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #9, wherein a first plug extends from the first rear surface of the first sidewall through an opening in the first contact carrier to the first rear flange of the first shell.
Embodiment #11. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #10, wherein the first plug, the first rear flange, and the first sidewall are a single unitary member.
Embodiment #12. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #8, wherein a sidewall of the first shell surrounds the perimeter region of the first contact component and the first contact carrier surrounds a textured region of the first contact component.
Embodiment #13. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #9, wherein the first rear flange includes an opening to allow access to an inward facing surface of the first contact component.
Embodiment #14. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #9, wherein a connector plate configured to receive a connector is secured between a second rear surface of a second sidewall of the first shell and a second rear flange, and
Embodiment #15. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #8, further comprising a second contact carrier, wherein the first contact carrier secures the first contact component and a second electrically conductive contact component, and the second contact carrier secures a third electrically conductive contact component and a fourth electrically conductive contact component.
Embodiment #16. A system comprising:
Embodiment #17. The system of Embodiment #16, wherein the electronic component comprises a battery charging controller and a computing processor.
Embodiment #. The system of Embodiment #16, wherein the perimeter region of the contact component includes a groove, and wherein the rear portion includes a textured region and a threaded female element.
Embodiment #19. The system of Embodiment #18, wherein the contact component includes a threaded opening that receives a conductive element to create a direct connection between the conductive region and the contact component.
Embodiment #20. The system of Embodiment #19, wherein the rear portion of the contact component is secured to a contact carrier that is formed from the second material.
Embodiment #21. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #22. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, wherein the flexible PCBA comprises a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly.
Embodiment #23. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, wherein the bend axis comprises a center of the grid like pattern of the physical connection sections.
Embodiment #24. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, wherein each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is rectangular-shaped, wherein a longer edge of each first cut-out is disposed parallel to the bend axis.
Embodiment #25. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, wherein each corner of each first cut-out of the plurality of first cut-outs is rounded.
Embodiment #26. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, wherein each second cut-out of the plurality of second cut-outs comprises a first semi-circular section, a second semi-circular section and a rectangular section.
Embodiment #27. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #26, wherein the rectangular section is disposed between the first semi-circular section and the second semi-circular section.
Embodiment #28. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #26, wherein the rectangular section is disposed laterally across the bend axis, wherein a mid-point of the rectangular section is located near the bend axis.
Embodiment #29. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA.
Embodiment #30. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, wherein the plurality of battery cells are disposed on an outside surface of the flexible PCBA, when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Embodiment #31. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #21, further comprising a sealed flexible housing wherein the flexible PCBA is disposed within an interior cavity of the sealed flexible housing and wherein the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Embodiment #32. A system comprising:
Embodiment #33. The system of Embodiment #32, wherein the plurality of cut-outs comprises:
Embodiment #34. The system of Embodiment #33, wherein the first shape comprises a substantially rectangular shape having rounded corners.
Embodiment #35. The system of Embodiment #33, wherein the second shape comprises at least one semi-circular section and a rectangular section.
Embodiment #36. The system of Embodiment #33, wherein the second shape comprises a rectangular section disposed across the bend axis and a first semi-circular section disposed at an end of the rectangular section on a first side of the bend axis and a semi-second circular section disposed at an opposite end of the rectangular section and on an opposite side of the bend axis.
Embodiment #37. The system of Embodiment #32, wherein a first plurality of cut-outs of the plurality of cut-outs are located near an approximate mid-point of a battery cell module.
Embodiment #38. The system of Embodiment #32, wherein a portion of the plurality of cut-outs is disposed on a bend line that is perpendicular to the bend axis and between two adjacent battery cell modules Embodiment #39. A flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) comprising:
Embodiment #40. The flexible PCBA of Embodiment #39, wherein the plurality of cut-outs disposed along the bend axis comprise a plurality of first cut-outs having a first shape and a plurality of second cut-outs having a second shape and wherein the plurality of first cut-outs are disposed along a flexible portion of the flexible PCBA between adjacent rows of the grid-like pattern that are perpendicular to the bend axis and the plurality of second cut-outs are disposed between adjacent battery modules in columns of the grid-like pattern, wherein the columns are on opposite sides of the bend axis.
Embodiment #41. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #42. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #41, wherein the first member is formed from a first material and the second member is formed from a second material, wherein the first material has a hardness that is greater than a hardness of the second material.
Embodiment #43. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #42, wherein the third member is formed from the first material and the fourth member is formed from the second material.
Embodiment #44. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #43, wherein the first material comprises a polycarbonate, and the second material comprises a thermoplastic elastomer.
Embodiment #45. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #41, wherein the second member is molded onto the first member to form the first shell.
Embodiment #46. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #41, wherein the first rigid region of the first plurality of rigid regions includes a first outward facing surface, a first inward facing surface, and a first edge region along a majority of a perimeter of the first rigid region extending between the first outward facing surface and the first inward facing surface.
Embodiment #47. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #46, wherein the first edge region includes a first edge surface and a second edge surface, wherein the first edge surface and the second edge surface extend in different directions.
Embodiment #48. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #47, wherein the second member has a second edge region that has a complementary structure to the first edge region such that the first member and the second member are substantially coplanar on adjacent surfaces of the first edge region.
Embodiment #49. A housing for a plurality of battery cells arranged in a grid-like pattern, the housing comprising:
Embodiment #50. The housing of Embodiment #49, wherein the plurality of rigid regions are arranged in an array with the plurality of rigid regions in both a horizontal direction and a vertical direction that correspond to the grid-like pattern of the plurality of battery cells.
Embodiment #51. The housing of Embodiment #49, wherein each rigid region of the plurality of rigid regions are spaced apart from an adjacent rigid region and is connected to the adjacent rigid region by a channel.
Embodiment #52. The housing of Embodiment #51, wherein the channel acts as a living hinge.
Embodiment #53. The housing of Embodiment #51, wherein the channel has a thickness that is less than a thickness of the first rigid region.
Embodiment #54. The housing of Embodiment #49, wherein the first rigid region of the plurality of rigid regions includes a first outward facing surface, a first inward facing surface, and a first edge region along a majority of a perimeter of the first rigid region extending between the first outward facing surface and the first inward facing surface.
Embodiment #55. The housing of Embodiment #54, wherein the first edge region includes a first edge surface that extends substantially perpendicular to the first outward facing surface and a second edge surface has a portion that extends substantially perpendicular to the first edge surface.
Embodiment #56. The housing of Embodiment #55, wherein the second edge surface includes a curved portion.
Embodiment #57. The housing of Embodiment #49, wherein a thickness of the first rigid region is substantially the same as a thickness of the flexible region, wherein the thickness of the first rigid region is measured at a center of the first rigid region and the thickness of the flexible region is measured at a location adjacent a first edge region of the first rigid region.
Embodiment #58. The housing of Embodiment #49, wherein the second shell includes a third member having a second plurality of rigid regions and a fourth member that has a second flexible region located between a first rigid region and a second rigid region of the second plurality of rigid regions, and wherein a first wall of the second shell has an outward facing surface formed from outward facing surfaces of the plurality of rigid regions and an outward facing surface of the second member.
Embodiment #59. The housing of Embodiment #49, wherein the second member includes a plurality of horizontal grooves and a plurality of vertical grooves.
Embodiment #60. A housing for a plurality of battery cells arranged in a grid-like pattern, the housing comprising:
Embodiment #61. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #62. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #61, further comprising:
Embodiment #63. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #62, wherein the opening has an area that is within a range of 30 percent and 70 percent of an area of a front surface of the battery cell shock-absorbing member, wherein the area of the front surface is defined as the area of the front surface that is free of the opening.
Embodiment #64. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #62, wherein at least one battery cell shock-absorbing member of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members contacts an interior surface of the housing.
Embodiment #65. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #62, wherein a thickness of the central shock-absorbing member is substantially the same as a thickness of one of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members.
Embodiment #66. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #62, wherein a thickness of the central shock-absorbing member is within a range of 1.2 and 1.4 times a thickness of one of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members.
Embodiment #67. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #61, wherein the central shock-absorbing member is continuous and extends at least 90 percent of a width of the upper portion of the flexible PCB.
Embodiment #68. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #61, wherein a thickness of the central shock-absorbing member is within a range of 2 percent and 5 percent of a thickness of the conformal wearable battery, wherein the thickness of the conformal wearable battery is a distance from an outermost outward facing surface of an upper housing member to an outermost outward facing surface of a lower housing member.
Embodiment #69. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #62, wherein the central shock-absorbing member is the same material as a battery cell shock-absorbing member of the plurality of battery cell shock-absorbing members, and wherein the central shock-absorbing member comprises polyurethane.
Embodiment #70. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #71. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #70, wherein when a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells increases in volume, one of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of shock-attenuating members is compressed.
Embodiment #72. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #70, wherein a thickness of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members is within a range of 4 percent and 12 percent of a thickness of a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells.
Embodiment #73. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #70, wherein the opening of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members has an oval shape.
Embodiment #74. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #70, further comprising:
Embodiment #75. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #74, wherein a thickness of the central shock-attenuating member is substantially the same as a thickness of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members.
Embodiment #76. A system comprising:
Embodiment #77. The system of Embodiment #76, wherein when a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells increases in volume, one of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of shock-attenuating members or the central shock-attenuating member is compressed.
Embodiment #78. The system of Embodiment #76, wherein when a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells increases in volume, the battery cell that increases in volume expands into a cavity formed by an opening in each battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members.
Embodiment #79. The system of Embodiment #76, wherein a thickness of a battery cell shock-attenuating member of the plurality of battery cell shock-attenuating members is within a range of 4 percent and 12 percent of a thickness of a battery cell of the plurality of battery cells.
Embodiment #80. The system of Embodiment #76, wherein the central shock-attenuating member contacts both inward facing surfaces of the upper portion and the lower portion of the flexible PCB.
Embodiment #81. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #82. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #81, wherein the plurality of battery cells comprise pouch cell packaged polymer lithium-ion, and each battery cell of the plurality of battery cells is physically attached to the first side of the flexible PCB.
Embodiment #83. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #81, wherein the flexible PCB further comprises:
Embodiment #84. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #83, wherein each conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements extends through a corresponding cutout of the plurality of cutouts.
Embodiment #85. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #81, wherein the electrically conductive surface coating comprises an electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) surface coating.
Embodiment #86. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #81, wherein the electrically conductive surface coating comprises a lead-free immersion silver surface coating.
Embodiment #87. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #81, wherein the electrical connection between each electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads are joined with a weld.
Embodiment #88. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #87, wherein the weld is formed using a laser welding process.
Embodiment #89. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #87, wherein the weld is formed using an ultrasonic welding process.
Embodiment #90. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #81, wherein a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads has a width that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #91. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #81, wherein a height electrical connection is within a range of 1.2 to 3 times a thickness of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #92. A system comprising:
Embodiment #93. The system of Embodiment #92, wherein the first electrical connection between the electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads are joined with a weld.
Embodiment #94. The system of Embodiment #93, wherein the weld is formed using a laser welding process.
Embodiment #95. The system of Embodiment #94, wherein the weld is formed using an ultrasonic welding process.
Embodiment #96. The system of Embodiment #92, wherein a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads has a circular shape with a diameter that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #97. A flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) comprising:
Embodiment #98. The flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) of Embodiment #97, wherein the electrical connection between each electrically conductive elements of the pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pads of the plurality of electrical connection pads are joined with a weld.
Embodiment #99. The flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) of Embodiment #97, wherein a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads has a circular shape with a diameter that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #100. The flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) of Embodiment #97, wherein each electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads comprises an electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) surface coating.
Embodiment #101. The system of Embodiment #92, wherein the first plurality of battery cells and the second plurality of battery cells comprise pouch cell packaged polymer lithium-ion.
Embodiment #102. The system of Embodiment #92, wherein the electrically conductive surface coating comprises an electroless nickel immersion gold (ENIG) surface coating.
Embodiment #103. The system of Embodiment #92, wherein the electrically conductive surface coating comprises a lead-free immersion silver surface coating.
Embodiment #104. The system of Embodiment #92, wherein a first height of the first electrical connection is within a range of 1.2 to 3 times a thickness of a first electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements and a second height of the second electrical connection is within a range of 1.2 to 3 times a thickness of a second electrically conductive element of the second pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #105. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #106. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #105, wherein the first electrical connection between the electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements and the corresponding electrical connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads are joined with a weld.
Embodiment #107. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #106, wherein the weld is formed using a laser welding process.
Embodiment #108. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #106, wherein the weld is formed using an ultrasonic welding process.
Embodiment #109. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #105, wherein a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads has a circular shape with a diameter that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #110. A flexible printed circuit board (PCB) assembly comprising:
Embodiment #111. The flexible printed circuit board (PCB) assembly of Embodiment #110, wherein the first plurality of battery cells and the second plurality of battery cells comprise pouch cell packaged polymer lithium-ion.
Embodiment #112. The flexible printed circuit board (PCB) assembly of Embodiment #110, wherein the weld is formed using a laser welding process.
Embodiment #113. The flexible printed circuit board (PCB) assembly of Embodiment #110, wherein the weld is formed using an ultrasonic welding process.
Embodiment #114. The flexible printed circuit board (PCB) assembly of Embodiment #110, wherein a connection pad of the plurality of electrical connection pads has a circular shape with a diameter that is within a range of 1.8 times and 3 times a width of an electrically conductive element of the pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #115. The flexible printed circuit board (PCB) assembly of Embodiment #110, wherein a first height of the first electrical connection is within a range of 1.2 to 3 times a thickness of a first electrically conductive element of the first pair of electrically conductive elements and a second height of the second electrical connection is within a range of 1.2 to 3 times a thickness of a second electrically conductive element of the second pair of electrically conductive elements.
Embodiment #116. A conformal wearable battery comprising:
Embodiment #117. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, wherein the flexible PCBA comprises a first plurality of electrical connections each connecting a cathode of a corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells and second plurality of electrical connections each connecting an anode of the corresponding battery cell of the plurality of battery cells to electrical conductors of the flexible printed circuit board assembly.
Embodiment #118. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, wherein the plurality of battery cells and the at least one circuitry module, when affixed to the flexible PCBA, comprises a matrix of physical components.
Embodiment #119. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #18 wherein the matrix of physical components comprises a matrix of at least two rows and at least two columns.
Embodiment #120. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, wherein conformal wearable battery comprises at least one connector configured to provide an electrical power connection from internal circuitry of the conformal wearable battery to an external device to be powered.
Embodiment #121. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #120, wherein the plurality of battery cells, the at least one connector, and the at least one circuitry module, when affixed to the flexible PCBA, comprises a matrix of physical components.
Embodiment #122. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, wherein a bend axis comprises a center of the grid like pattern of the physical connection sections when the flexible PCBA is unfolded.
Embodiment #123. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA.
Embodiment #124. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is physically attached to a first side of the flexible PCBA and each of the plurality of battery cells is electrically connected to the flexible PCBA on a second side of the flexible PCBA, the second side being opposite the first side.
Embodiment #125. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, wherein the plurality of battery cells is disposed on an outside surface of the flexible PCBA, when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Embodiment #126. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #125, wherein the plurality of battery cells is arranged in a three-dimensional grid pattern.
Embodiment #127. The conformal wearable battery of Embodiment #116, further comprising a sealed flexible housing wherein the flexible PCBA is disposed within an interior cavity of the sealed flexible housing and wherein the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Embodiment #128. A system comprising:
Embodiment #129. The system of Embodiment #128, further comprising a housing, wherein the flexible PCBA, when in a folded configuration, is located within the housing.
Embodiment #130. The system of Embodiment #128, wherein a center line of the attenuating member of each of the plurality of battery cell modules is offset from a center line of the lithium-ion pouch cell.
Embodiment #131. The system of Embodiment #129, wherein the battery cell comprises a lithium-ion battery cell.
Embodiment #132. The system of Embodiment #128, wherein the plurality of battery cell modules is arranged in a three-dimensional grid pattern when the flexible PCBA is in a folded configuration.
Embodiment #133. A flexible printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) comprising:
Embodiment #134. The flexible PCBA of Embodiment #133, further comprising a plurality of the flexible sections, wherein the plurality of the flexible sections allows for the flexible PCBA to flex between adjacent rows and adjacent columns of battery modules.
Embodiment #135. The flexible PCBA of Embodiment #133, comprising at least one circuitry module that comprises a portion of the grid-like pattern.
This application is a continuation of PCT/US2021/022377 filed on Mar. 15, 2021 and entitled “Conformal Wearable Battery”, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/038,287 filed on Sep. 30, 2020, entitled “Flexible Circuit Board for a Conformal Wearable Battery,” a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/085,873 filed on Oct. 30, 2020, entitled “Housing for a Conformal Wearable Battery,” a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/086,132 filed on Oct. 30, 2020, entitled “Impact Absorbing Member for a Conformal Wearable Battery,” a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/085,864, entitled “Flexible Battery Matrix for a Conformal Wearable Battery,” and a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/085,928 filed on Oct. 30, 2020, entitled “Flexible Battery Matrix for a Conformal Wearable Battery”. Each of the above-mentioned applications is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
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| 20240023244 A1 | Jan 2024 | US |
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| Parent | PCT/US2021/022377 | Mar 2021 | WO |
| Child | 18128477 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 17085873 | Oct 2020 | US |
| Child | PCT/US2021/022377 | US | |
| Parent | 17086132 | Oct 2020 | US |
| Child | PCT/US2021/022377 | US | |
| Parent | 17085864 | Oct 2020 | US |
| Child | PCT/US2021/022377 | US | |
| Parent | 17085928 | Oct 2020 | US |
| Child | PCT/US2021/022377 | US | |
| Parent | 17038287 | Sep 2020 | US |
| Child | PCT/US2021/022377 | US |
