US20190189997A1 - Lead Acid Battery Cell Connecting Assembly - Google Patents
Lead Acid Battery Cell Connecting Assembly Download PDFInfo
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- US20190189997A1 US20190189997A1 US16/281,280 US201916281280A US2019189997A1 US 20190189997 A1 US20190189997 A1 US 20190189997A1 US 201916281280 A US201916281280 A US 201916281280A US 2019189997 A1 US2019189997 A1 US 2019189997A1
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- acid battery
- lead acid
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
- H01M50/50—Current conducting connections for cells or batteries
- H01M50/528—Fixed electrical connections, i.e. not intended for disconnection
- H01M50/529—Intercell connections through partitions, e.g. in a battery casing
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- H01M2/24—
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M10/06—Lead-acid accumulators
- H01M10/12—Construction or manufacture
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- H01M2/206—
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
- Y02P70/00—Climate change mitigation technologies in the production process for final industrial or consumer products
- Y02P70/50—Manufacturing or production processes characterised by the final manufactured product
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to a lead acid battery and, in particular, to a cell connecting assembly for a lead acid battery.
- a lead-acid battery has a housing with a plurality of cells, each generating approximately 2.1 volts, connected in series to provide a desired battery voltage.
- six cells generally form a 12 V battery.
- the battery has two terminal posts positioned near the same edge. The arrangement results in terminals arranged near the same edge of the battery because of the series connection locations alternating from front to back for each series connected cell.
- each cell includes a number of positive and negative plates, each plate having a tab rising from its top and positioned off-center.
- the plates are stacked in an alternating fashion, so that all the tabs for plates of the same polarity are lined up with each other, but not with the tabs of the opposite polarity plates. Separators are provided between each plate in order to prevent direct physical contact between plates of opposite polarity. Both the positive and negative plates are connected at the top by separate cast-on-straps that are welded to the tabs. One strap connects the plates of one polarity near the front of the housing and another strap connects the plates of opposite polarity near the back of the housing. Adjacent cells are connected in series to each other by vertical extensions connected to the straps, known as flags or tombstones, that are welded to each other though openings in the housing.
- a lead acid battery comprises a plurality of cells provided in an odd number arrangement greater than one in only a single row, a plurality of outer cell connectors connecting the plurality of cells to provide a single series electrical current path, and a pair of inner cell connectors.
- Each cell has a plurality of plates of differing polarity.
- Each of the outer cell connectors is positioned in an alternating manner on opposite sides of a longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells.
- the plurality of outer cell connectors include a plurality of flags positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells.
- the inner cell connectors are connected to each other along the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective of a lead acid battery having a cell connecting assembly according to the invention
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the lead acid battery of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the lead acid battery of FIG. 2 , taken along line 3 - 3 .
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cell connecting assembly according to the invention.
- FIG. 5 is a top view of the cell connecting assembly shown in FIG. 4 .
- the lead acid battery 1 includes the following major components: a housing 10 , a plurality of cells 20 , a cover 30 , and a cell connecting assembly 50 .
- the housing 10 is a container having a front wall 12 , a rear wall 14 , a first and second side wall 16 a , 16 b , and a base wall 18 .
- the length and height of the front wall 12 and the rear wall 14 are approximately equal.
- the length and height of the first side wall 16 a and the second side wall 16 b are approximately equal.
- the width of the base wall 18 is approximately equal to the length of the side walls 16 a , 16 b .
- the length of the base wall 18 is approximately equal to the length of the front wall 12 and the rear wall 14 .
- the height of the side walls 16 a , 16 b is approximately equal to the height of the front wall 12 and the height of the rear wall 14 .
- the four substantially rectangular walls of substantially equal height and the substantially rectangular floor together form a box.
- An interior of the housing 10 is divided into N substantially equal cell cavities by a plurality of N ⁇ 1 partitions 19 substantially parallel to the end walls 12 , 14 .
- the height of the partitions 19 is substantially equal to the height of the four outer walls 12 , 14 , 16 a , 16 b .
- the housing 10 includes a plurality of cells 20 and of partitions 19 and, in particular, seven cells 20 and six partitions 19 .
- the number of cells 20 , N can be any odd integer greater than one.
- the housing 10 can be made from a heat moldable plastic resin or any suitable non-conductive material resistant to sulfuric acid and known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
- each cell cavity 20 receives a plurality of battery plates, including a plurality of positive plates 22 a and plurality of negative plates 22 b , and a plurality of separators 24 .
- Each plate 22 has a tab 23 , which is positioned off-center in the embodiment shown, and disposed on the top end thereof. Suitable rotation of the plates allows all the tabs of the plates of one polarity to be lined up with each other forward of the battery center line while all the tabs of the plates of the opposite polarity are lined up with each other to the rear of the battery center line.
- Each plate 22 is formed as a grid with perforations extending from one planar surface to an opposite planar surface thereof.
- Each surface on the positive plate 22 a is coated with a positive active material which also fills the grid perforations.
- Each surface of the negative plate 22 b is coated with a negative active material which fills the grid perforations.
- the grid forms a framework and current collector for the plates and is typically made substantially of lead. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that any compatible arrangement of materials suitable for this framework and collecting of the current to a tab may be employed.
- Each separator 24 is a porous electrical insulator substantially impervious to the electrolyte and resistant to electrochemical oxidation.
- the electrolyte is commonly a solution of water (H 2 O), sulfuric acid (H 2 SO 4 ) and possibly various additives.
- the separator 24 prevents electrical contact between adjacent plates 22 a , 22 b while providing minimal restriction to movement of ions (H 3 O + , HSO 4 ⁇ ) and water molecules (H 2 O).
- Separators can be made from various materials including micro-porous polyethylene, matted substantially glass fibers, phenolic sheet, certain rubber materials, expanded PTFE or any suitable non-conductive porous material known in the art.
- the positive and negative active materials generally begin as a paste of lead oxide (PbO or lead (II) oxide), lead, water and sulfuric acid.
- Other ingredients in may include fibers or red lead (Pb 3 O 4 ) in positive plates.
- Negative recipes may include fibers, barium sulfate (BaSO 4 ), lignins, or various forms of carbon. Through processes of curing and electrical formation, the materials are converted substantially to lead dioxide (PbO 2 or lead (IV) oxide) in the case of positive plates or lead sponge (Pb) in the case of negative electrodes.
- lead dioxide PbO 2 or lead (IV) oxide
- Pb lead sponge
- other known starting ingredients or conversion methods may be used.
- the plurality of partitions 19 are used to separate each cell cavity 20 from adjacent cell cavities 20 .
- the partition 19 is generally made from the same material as the housing and is often molded with the housing as a single piece. Any suitable material capable of substantially blocking ion flow between cells and allowing a series electrical connection to be made through it may be used by those skilled in the art.
- the cover 30 is provided for the housing 10 .
- Exemplary embodiments of the cover 30 include a plurality of mold well receiving openings, cutouts, and at least two terminal bushings (not shown).
- the cover 30 is generally rectangular in shape, with a length greater than the length of the base wall 18 of the housing 10 and with a width greater than the width of the base wall 18 .
- the cover 30 may include a wall receiving groove (not shown) that extends around the periphery of a bottom surface of the cover 30 , proximate to an outer circumferential edge of the cover 30 . Further embodiments may include an electrolyte filling hole that extends through the cover 30 .
- the cover 30 can be made from a heat moldable resin or any suitable plastic material known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
- the cell connecting assembly 50 includes a pair of terminal posts 52 , a plurality of cell connectors 60 , and a single pair of cell connectors 70 that are centrally positioned along a longitudinal axis of the housing 10 .
- the pair of terminal posts 52 include a positive terminal post 52 a and a negative terminal post 52 b positioned at opposite ends of the lead acid battery 1 .
- the positive terminal post 52 a is positioned at a first end along a first side of the housing 10
- the negative terminal post 52 b is positioned a second end, opposite the first end, along the same edge of the housing 10 .
- Each terminal post 52 includes a post section 54 and a cell connecting body 56 .
- the post section 54 in the shown embodiment is an elongated tubular body having a blunt end 54 a opposite the cell connecting body 54 b , 56 .
- the post section 54 extends substantially orthogonal with respect to the cell connecting body 56 .
- the post section 54 is positioned adjacent and connects to the cell connecting body 56 .
- the post section 54 may extend from the cell connecting body 56 .
- the cell connecting body 56 is a flat planar body having a cell connecting surface 57 disposed on a lower surface thereof.
- the terminal posts 52 are made from lead, copper, or any other common electrically conductive material known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
- each off-center cell connector 60 includes a strap 62 and a flag 64 .
- the strap 62 is an elongated body extending along horizontal plane along a longitudinal length of lead acid battery 1 .
- the strap 62 includes a cell connecting surface 63 disposed on a lower surface thereof. In the shown embodiment, all the tips of the plate tabs 23 that are aligned with the strap 62 penetrate the cell connecting surface 63 and are at least partially fused together (see FIG. 3 ).
- the flag 64 is a tabular body in the embodiment shown, which extend substantially orthogonal to the strap 62 . As shown, the flag 64 is positioned adjacent and connects to the strap 62 .
- the flag 64 may extend from the strap 62 .
- the strap 62 and the flag 64 are integrally formed.
- a mechanical connection such as a weld or fastener.
- each inner cell connector 70 includes a strap 72 , a flag 74 and a link 76 .
- the strap 72 is an elongated body extending along horizontal plane along a longitudinal length of lead acid battery 1 .
- the strap 72 includes a cell connecting surface 73 disposed on a lower surface thereof. In the shown embodiment, all the tips of the plate tabs 23 that are aligned with the strap 72 penetrate the cell connecting surface 73 and are at least partially fused together (see FIG. 3 ).
- the flag 74 is a tabular body in the embodiment shown and extends substantially orthogonal with respect to the strap 72 . As shown, the flag 74 is offset from the elongated body of the strap 72 .
- the link 76 is an elongated body connecting the flag 74 and the strap 72 . As shown, the strap 72 , the flag 74 , and the link 76 are integrally formed. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that other designs are possible, including a multi-piece assembly, with the strap 72 , the flag 74 , and the link 76 connected through a mechanical connection, such as a weld or fastener.
- a first pair of outer cell connectors 60 are aligned with each other, such that each strap 62 is linearly aligned with the other and the pair of flags 64 face each other.
- a second pair of outer cell connectors 60 positioned opposite the first pair of outer cell connectors 60 and aligned with each other.
- Each strap 62 of the second pair of outer cell connectors 60 is linearly aligned with the other, and the pair of flags 64 face each other.
- the pair of inner cell connectors 70 are positioned between the first pair of outer cell connectors 60 and the second pair of outer cell connectors 60 .
- the straps 72 are offset from each other, with one strap 72 aligned with the strap 62 from the first pair of outer cell connectors 60 , and another strap 72 aligned with the strap 62 of the second pair of outer cell connectors 60 .
- the pair of flags 64 face each other in a substantial center between the pair of straps 72 .
- a first terminal post 52 is disposed on one side of the pair of inner cell connectors 70 , while a second terminal post 52 is positioned on an opposite side of the pair of inner cell connectors 70 .
- the first terminal post is positioned opposite the first pair of the outer cell connectors 60 and aligned with the second pair of outer cell connectors 60 .
- the second terminal is positioned adjacent to and aligned with the second pair of outer cell connectors 60 .
- the plurality of positive plates 22 a and plurality of negative plates 22 b are positioned in the housing 10 .
- Each positive plate 22 a and negative plate 22 b is separated from each other by the separator 24 , and an electrolyte is disposed with an electrolyte receiving space 26 .
- Each cell 20 is separated from each other by the divider 19 .
- the cell connecting assembly 50 is positioned in the housing 10 on top of the cell 20 , with the terminal posts 52 connect with cells 20 at opposite ends of the lead acid battery 1 .
- the plurality of outer cell connectors 60 and pair of inner cell connectors 70 also connecting with cells 20 .
- the assembly consisting of the straps 72 , flags 74 , links 76 and posts 52 is cast and simultaneously welded to the proper plate tabs 23 .
- Proper plate polarity must be maintained throughout the final series circuit.
- the straps 72 with notched ends are intended to be welded to positive plates 22 a and the opposite straps to negative plates 22 b .
- other methods of polarity marking are acceptable.
- visible polarity markings are for the benefit of human observers and not strictly necessary for the workings of the battery. Holes are punched through the container partitions so that every opposed pair of flags will be centered over a hole after the assembly is stuffed into the housing. Electrical connections between opposing flags are made through the holes by a welding or similar process.
- the cover 30 connects with the housing 10 and encloses the cells 20 .
- Electrolyte is added.
- the battery is electrically formed.
- the electrolyte levels or strength may be adjusted and the battery is closed up. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that several variations are possible. Formation of the plates could occur prior to assembly. Formation of the assembled elements could occur prior to stuffing them into the housing. In these manufacturing variations, the responsibility of filling the battery with electrolyte could shift to the end user after sale.
Abstract
A lead acid battery comprises a plurality of cells provided in an odd number arrangement greater than one in only a single row, a plurality of outer cell connectors connecting the plurality of cells to provide a single series electrical current path, and a pair of inner cell connectors. Each cell has a plurality of plates of differing polarity. Each of the outer cell connectors is positioned in an alternating manner on opposite sides of a longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells. The plurality of outer cell connectors include a plurality of flags positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells. The inner cell connectors are connected to each other along the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells.
Description
- This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/214,959, filed on Jul. 20, 2016.
- This invention relates generally to a lead acid battery and, in particular, to a cell connecting assembly for a lead acid battery.
- Conventionally, a lead-acid battery has a housing with a plurality of cells, each generating approximately 2.1 volts, connected in series to provide a desired battery voltage. For example, six cells generally form a 12 V battery. In an even cell number battery wherein cells are connected in series, the battery has two terminal posts positioned near the same edge. The arrangement results in terminals arranged near the same edge of the battery because of the series connection locations alternating from front to back for each series connected cell. To explain in more detail, each cell includes a number of positive and negative plates, each plate having a tab rising from its top and positioned off-center. The plates are stacked in an alternating fashion, so that all the tabs for plates of the same polarity are lined up with each other, but not with the tabs of the opposite polarity plates. Separators are provided between each plate in order to prevent direct physical contact between plates of opposite polarity. Both the positive and negative plates are connected at the top by separate cast-on-straps that are welded to the tabs. One strap connects the plates of one polarity near the front of the housing and another strap connects the plates of opposite polarity near the back of the housing. Adjacent cells are connected in series to each other by vertical extensions connected to the straps, known as flags or tombstones, that are welded to each other though openings in the housing.
- When an odd number of cells is required for the desired voltage, connecting the cells in the customary manner described above results in the terminal posts being positioned near opposite corners of the battery. This creates problems in manufacturing and presents problems with existing venting and valve systems.
- A lead acid battery comprises a plurality of cells provided in an odd number arrangement greater than one in only a single row, a plurality of outer cell connectors connecting the plurality of cells to provide a single series electrical current path, and a pair of inner cell connectors. Each cell has a plurality of plates of differing polarity. Each of the outer cell connectors is positioned in an alternating manner on opposite sides of a longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells. The plurality of outer cell connectors include a plurality of flags positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells. The inner cell connectors are connected to each other along the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells.
- The invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures, of which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective of a lead acid battery having a cell connecting assembly according to the invention; -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the lead acid battery ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the lead acid battery ofFIG. 2 , taken along line 3-3. -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cell connecting assembly according to the invention; and -
FIG. 5 is a top view of the cell connecting assembly shown inFIG. 4 . - As shown in
FIGS. 1-3 , a lead acid battery 1 according to the invention is shown. The lead acid battery 1 includes the following major components: ahousing 10, a plurality ofcells 20, acover 30, and acell connecting assembly 50. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , thehousing 10 is a container having afront wall 12, arear wall 14, a first andsecond side wall base wall 18. In an embodiment, the length and height of thefront wall 12 and therear wall 14 are approximately equal. In another embodiment, the length and height of thefirst side wall 16 a and thesecond side wall 16 b are approximately equal. The width of thebase wall 18 is approximately equal to the length of theside walls base wall 18 is approximately equal to the length of thefront wall 12 and therear wall 14. The height of theside walls front wall 12 and the height of therear wall 14. The four substantially rectangular walls of substantially equal height and the substantially rectangular floor together form a box. - An interior of the
housing 10 is divided into N substantially equal cell cavities by a plurality of N−1partitions 19 substantially parallel to theend walls partitions 19 is substantially equal to the height of the fourouter walls housing 10 includes a plurality ofcells 20 and ofpartitions 19 and, in particular, sevencells 20 and sixpartitions 19. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that for the implementation of this invention the number ofcells 20, N, can be any odd integer greater than one. - The
housing 10 can be made from a heat moldable plastic resin or any suitable non-conductive material resistant to sulfuric acid and known to those of ordinary skill in the art. - As shown in
FIGS. 1-3 , eachcell cavity 20 receives a plurality of battery plates, including a plurality ofpositive plates 22 a and plurality ofnegative plates 22 b, and a plurality ofseparators 24. Eachplate 22 has atab 23, which is positioned off-center in the embodiment shown, and disposed on the top end thereof. Suitable rotation of the plates allows all the tabs of the plates of one polarity to be lined up with each other forward of the battery center line while all the tabs of the plates of the opposite polarity are lined up with each other to the rear of the battery center line. - Each
plate 22 is formed as a grid with perforations extending from one planar surface to an opposite planar surface thereof. Each surface on thepositive plate 22 a is coated with a positive active material which also fills the grid perforations. Each surface of thenegative plate 22 b is coated with a negative active material which fills the grid perforations. The grid forms a framework and current collector for the plates and is typically made substantially of lead. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that any compatible arrangement of materials suitable for this framework and collecting of the current to a tab may be employed. - Each
separator 24 is a porous electrical insulator substantially impervious to the electrolyte and resistant to electrochemical oxidation. The electrolyte is commonly a solution of water (H2O), sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and possibly various additives. When interposed between two adjacent positive andnegative plates separator 24 prevents electrical contact betweenadjacent plates - The positive and negative active materials generally begin as a paste of lead oxide (PbO or lead (II) oxide), lead, water and sulfuric acid. Other ingredients in may include fibers or red lead (Pb3O4) in positive plates. Negative recipes may include fibers, barium sulfate (BaSO4), lignins, or various forms of carbon. Through processes of curing and electrical formation, the materials are converted substantially to lead dioxide (PbO2 or lead (IV) oxide) in the case of positive plates or lead sponge (Pb) in the case of negative electrodes. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that other known starting ingredients or conversion methods may be used.
- In the shown embodiment, the plurality of
partitions 19 are used to separate eachcell cavity 20 fromadjacent cell cavities 20. Thepartition 19 is generally made from the same material as the housing and is often molded with the housing as a single piece. Any suitable material capable of substantially blocking ion flow between cells and allowing a series electrical connection to be made through it may be used by those skilled in the art. - As shown in
FIGS. 1-3 , thecover 30 is provided for thehousing 10. Exemplary embodiments of thecover 30 include a plurality of mold well receiving openings, cutouts, and at least two terminal bushings (not shown). Thecover 30 is generally rectangular in shape, with a length greater than the length of thebase wall 18 of thehousing 10 and with a width greater than the width of thebase wall 18. Thecover 30 may include a wall receiving groove (not shown) that extends around the periphery of a bottom surface of thecover 30, proximate to an outer circumferential edge of thecover 30. Further embodiments may include an electrolyte filling hole that extends through thecover 30. Thecover 30 can be made from a heat moldable resin or any suitable plastic material known to those of ordinary skill in the art. - As shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5 , thecell connecting assembly 50 according to the invention includes a pair ofterminal posts 52, a plurality ofcell connectors 60, and a single pair ofcell connectors 70 that are centrally positioned along a longitudinal axis of thehousing 10. - In the shown embodiment, the pair of
terminal posts 52 include a positiveterminal post 52 a and a negativeterminal post 52 b positioned at opposite ends of the lead acid battery 1. In particular, the positiveterminal post 52 a is positioned at a first end along a first side of thehousing 10, while the negativeterminal post 52 b is positioned a second end, opposite the first end, along the same edge of thehousing 10. - Each
terminal post 52 includes apost section 54 and acell connecting body 56. Thepost section 54 in the shown embodiment is an elongated tubular body having ablunt end 54 a opposite thecell connecting body post section 54 extends substantially orthogonal with respect to thecell connecting body 56. In particular, in the shown embodiment, thepost section 54 is positioned adjacent and connects to thecell connecting body 56. However, in other embodiments thepost section 54 may extend from thecell connecting body 56. Thecell connecting body 56 is a flat planar body having acell connecting surface 57 disposed on a lower surface thereof. In the shown embodiment, all the tips of theplate tabs 23 that are aligned with thecell connecting body 56 penetrate thecell connecting surface 57 and are at least partially fused together (seeFIG. 3 ). The terminal posts 52 are made from lead, copper, or any other common electrically conductive material known to those of ordinary skill in the art. - As shown in the
FIGS. 4 and 5 , each off-center cell connector 60 includes astrap 62 and aflag 64. Thestrap 62 is an elongated body extending along horizontal plane along a longitudinal length of lead acid battery 1. Thestrap 62 includes acell connecting surface 63 disposed on a lower surface thereof. In the shown embodiment, all the tips of theplate tabs 23 that are aligned with thestrap 62 penetrate thecell connecting surface 63 and are at least partially fused together (seeFIG. 3 ). Theflag 64 is a tabular body in the embodiment shown, which extend substantially orthogonal to thestrap 62. As shown, theflag 64 is positioned adjacent and connects to thestrap 62. However, in other embodiments, theflag 64 may extend from thestrap 62. As shown, thestrap 62 and theflag 64 are integrally formed. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that other designs are possible, including a multi-piece assembly, with thestrap 62 andflag 64 connected through a mechanical connection, such as a weld or fastener. - Now, with reference to
FIGS. 4 and 5 , the pair ofinner cell connectors 70 will be discussed. In particular, eachinner cell connector 70 includes astrap 72, aflag 74 and alink 76. - The
strap 72 is an elongated body extending along horizontal plane along a longitudinal length of lead acid battery 1. Thestrap 72 includes acell connecting surface 73 disposed on a lower surface thereof. In the shown embodiment, all the tips of theplate tabs 23 that are aligned with thestrap 72 penetrate thecell connecting surface 73 and are at least partially fused together (seeFIG. 3 ). Theflag 74 is a tabular body in the embodiment shown and extends substantially orthogonal with respect to thestrap 72. As shown, theflag 74 is offset from the elongated body of thestrap 72. Thelink 76 is an elongated body connecting theflag 74 and thestrap 72. As shown, thestrap 72, theflag 74, and thelink 76 are integrally formed. However, one skilled in the art should appreciate that other designs are possible, including a multi-piece assembly, with thestrap 72, theflag 74, and thelink 76 connected through a mechanical connection, such as a weld or fastener. - Now, positioning of various components of the
cell connecting assembly 50 will be described in detail with reference toFIGS. 4 and 5 . - A first pair of
outer cell connectors 60 are aligned with each other, such that eachstrap 62 is linearly aligned with the other and the pair offlags 64 face each other. Next a second pair ofouter cell connectors 60 positioned opposite the first pair ofouter cell connectors 60 and aligned with each other. Eachstrap 62 of the second pair ofouter cell connectors 60 is linearly aligned with the other, and the pair offlags 64 face each other. Next, the pair ofinner cell connectors 70 are positioned between the first pair ofouter cell connectors 60 and the second pair ofouter cell connectors 60. Thestraps 72 are offset from each other, with onestrap 72 aligned with thestrap 62 from the first pair ofouter cell connectors 60, and anotherstrap 72 aligned with thestrap 62 of the second pair ofouter cell connectors 60. The pair offlags 64 face each other in a substantial center between the pair ofstraps 72. - A first
terminal post 52 is disposed on one side of the pair ofinner cell connectors 70, while a secondterminal post 52 is positioned on an opposite side of the pair ofinner cell connectors 70. The first terminal post is positioned opposite the first pair of theouter cell connectors 60 and aligned with the second pair ofouter cell connectors 60. The second terminal is positioned adjacent to and aligned with the second pair ofouter cell connectors 60. - Now, assembly of the lead acid battery 1 will now be describe in detail with reference to
FIGS. 1-3 . - As for positioning, the plurality of
positive plates 22 a and plurality ofnegative plates 22 b are positioned in thehousing 10. Eachpositive plate 22 a andnegative plate 22 b is separated from each other by theseparator 24, and an electrolyte is disposed with anelectrolyte receiving space 26. Eachcell 20 is separated from each other by thedivider 19. - Next, the
cell connecting assembly 50 is positioned in thehousing 10 on top of thecell 20, with theterminal posts 52 connect withcells 20 at opposite ends of the lead acid battery 1. The plurality ofouter cell connectors 60 and pair ofinner cell connectors 70 also connecting withcells 20. - The assembly consisting of the
straps 72,flags 74,links 76 andposts 52 is cast and simultaneously welded to theproper plate tabs 23. Proper plate polarity must be maintained throughout the final series circuit. In the diagrammed embodiment thestraps 72 with notched ends are intended to be welded topositive plates 22 a and the opposite straps tonegative plates 22 b. It should be clear to those skilled in the art that other methods of polarity marking are acceptable. It should be clear to those skilled in the art that visible polarity markings are for the benefit of human observers and not strictly necessary for the workings of the battery. Holes are punched through the container partitions so that every opposed pair of flags will be centered over a hole after the assembly is stuffed into the housing. Electrical connections between opposing flags are made through the holes by a welding or similar process. - Next, the
cover 30 connects with thehousing 10 and encloses thecells 20. - Electrolyte is added. The battery is electrically formed. The electrolyte levels or strength may be adjusted and the battery is closed up. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that several variations are possible. Formation of the plates could occur prior to assembly. Formation of the assembled elements could occur prior to stuffing them into the housing. In these manufacturing variations, the responsibility of filling the battery with electrolyte could shift to the end user after sale.
- The terms and expressions which are employed in this specification are used as terms of description and not of limitation. Mirrored or rotated configurations are equally functional. There is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof. It is recognized that various modifications are possible within the invention described and claimed herein.
Claims (17)
1. A lead acid battery, comprising:
a plurality of cells provided in an odd number arrangement greater than one in only a single row, each cell having a plurality of plates of differing polarity;
a plurality of outer cell connectors connecting the plurality of cells to provide a single series electrical current path, each of the plurality of outer cell connectors positioned in an alternating manner on opposite sides of a longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells, the plurality of outer cell connectors include a plurality of flags positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells; and
a pair of inner cell connectors connected to each other along the longitudinal centerline of the plurality of cells.
2. The lead acid battery according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of outer cell connectors include a plurality of straps connecting all the plurality of plates with the same polarity within each cell.
3. The lead acid battery according to claim 2 , wherein the plurality of outer cell connectors include a first set of flags of the plurality of flags positioned on a first side of the longitudinal center line that are aligned along a length of the cells.
4. The lead acid battery according to claim 3 , wherein the plurality of outer cell connectors include a second set of flags of the plurality of flags positioned on a second side of the longitudinal center line opposite to the first side that are aligned along the length of the cells.
5. The lead acid battery according to claim 4 , wherein the pair of inner cell connectors includes a pair of inner flags positioned on the longitudinal centerline of the cells and connected to a pair of inner straps positioned on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline of the cells.
6. The lead acid battery according to claim 5 , wherein the pair of inner cell connectors are diagonally offset from each other.
7. The lead acid battery according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of outer cell connectors include a first strap and a last strap positioned on a common side with respect to the longitudinal centerline of the cells.
8. The lead acid battery according to claim 7 , wherein the first strap and the last strap connect to a pair of posts positioned on an opposite side of the longitudinal centerline with respect to the common side.
9. The lead acid battery according to claim 5 , wherein the pair of inner straps include a first inner strap aligned along the longitudinal direction with the first set of flags of the outer cell connectors and a second inner strap aligned along the longitudinal direction with the second set of flags of the outer cell connectors.
10. The lead acid battery according to claim 9 , wherein each of the inner straps is positioned offset from the inner flags in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
11. The lead acid battery according to claim 10 , wherein each of the inner cell connectors further includes a link positioned between and connecting the inner strap with the inner flag.
12. A lead acid battery, comprising:
a housing having sidewalls;
a plurality of cells provided in an odd number arrangement greater than one in only a single row, each of the plurality of cells having a plurality of positive plates and negative plates electrically isolated from each other by a plurality of separators;
a plurality of partitions separating each of the plurality of cells;
a plurality of outer straps positioned in the plurality of cells and including a first outer strap connecting the plurality of positive plates and a second outer strap connecting the negative plates, the first outer strap and second outer strap are positioned on opposite sides of a center line along a length of the battery;
a plurality of outer flags positioned on opposite sides of the center line and connecting the plurality of outer straps; and
a plurality of inner flags centrally positioned along the center line and connecting a pair of straps diagonally opposite from each other.
13. The lead acid battery according to claim 12 , wherein the plurality of outer straps include the first outer strap and a last outer strap positioned on a common side with respect to the center line along the length of the battery.
14. The lead acid battery according to claim 13 , wherein the first outer strap and the last outer strap connect to a pair of posts positioned on an opposite side of the center line with respect to the common side.
15. The lead acid battery according to claim 12 , further comprising a plurality of inner straps including a first inner strap aligned along the longitudinal direction with the first outer strap and a second inner strap aligned along the longitudinal direction with the second outer strap.
16. The lead acid battery according to claim 15 , wherein each of the inner straps is positioned offset from the inner flags in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
17. The lead acid battery according to claim 16 , further comprising a link positioned between and connecting the inner strap with the inner flag.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US16/281,280 US20190189997A1 (en) | 2016-07-20 | 2019-02-21 | Lead Acid Battery Cell Connecting Assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/214,959 US10256453B2 (en) | 2016-07-20 | 2016-07-20 | Lead acid battery cell connecting assembly |
US16/281,280 US20190189997A1 (en) | 2016-07-20 | 2019-02-21 | Lead Acid Battery Cell Connecting Assembly |
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US15/214,959 Continuation US10256453B2 (en) | 2016-07-20 | 2016-07-20 | Lead acid battery cell connecting assembly |
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US20190189997A1 true US20190189997A1 (en) | 2019-06-20 |
Family
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US15/214,959 Active 2036-12-30 US10256453B2 (en) | 2016-07-20 | 2016-07-20 | Lead acid battery cell connecting assembly |
US16/281,280 Abandoned US20190189997A1 (en) | 2016-07-20 | 2019-02-21 | Lead Acid Battery Cell Connecting Assembly |
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US15/214,959 Active 2036-12-30 US10256453B2 (en) | 2016-07-20 | 2016-07-20 | Lead acid battery cell connecting assembly |
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Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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USD830965S1 (en) * | 2017-01-27 | 2018-10-16 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Battery case with cover |
CN111976160B (en) * | 2019-05-23 | 2023-08-04 | 深圳市大族锂电智能装备有限公司 | Method and device for feeding switching sheet |
CN110400975B (en) * | 2019-06-18 | 2021-10-29 | 天能电池集团股份有限公司 | Horizontal lead accumulator |
Family Cites Families (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4720440A (en) | 1985-10-02 | 1988-01-19 | Japan Storage Battery Company Limited | Monoblock sealed lead-acid storage battery |
US5308719A (en) | 1992-09-21 | 1994-05-03 | Globe-Union Inc. | Lead acid batteries containing center lug plates and high performance cast-on straps |
FR2718886B1 (en) | 1994-04-13 | 1996-05-24 | Accumulateurs Fixes | Electrical connection system for electrochemical generator. |
TW447153B (en) * | 1999-06-07 | 2001-07-21 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Storage battery |
GB2355848B (en) | 1999-10-27 | 2003-10-08 | Chloride Ind Batteries Ltd | Multi cell battery |
JP2003523609A (en) | 2000-02-17 | 2003-08-05 | エクサイド テクノロジーズ | 6-volt lead-acid battery on the bottom side with front terminals |
EP1225651B1 (en) | 2001-01-22 | 2005-03-02 | Sociedad Espanola Del Acumulador Tudor, S.A. | Electric accumulator battery |
GB2387960B (en) * | 2002-04-20 | 2004-06-09 | Hawker Batteries Ltd | Improvements in or relating to batteries |
US20060216595A1 (en) * | 2005-03-22 | 2006-09-28 | Holliday Rex W | Battery assembly having improved lug profile |
US7635537B2 (en) * | 2005-07-05 | 2009-12-22 | Concorde Battery Corporation | Lead-acid storage batteries with lightweight connectors |
US8169194B2 (en) | 2008-07-18 | 2012-05-01 | Canadus Power Systems, Llc | System and method for applying pulsation energy to online battery backup systems |
WO2011027383A1 (en) * | 2009-09-01 | 2011-03-10 | パナソニック株式会社 | Lead acid battery |
JP5626852B2 (en) | 2010-05-19 | 2014-11-19 | Necエナジーデバイス株式会社 | Power supply |
US20120315531A1 (en) * | 2011-06-10 | 2012-12-13 | GM Global Technology Operations LLC | Battery cell connection apparatus |
-
2016
- 2016-07-20 US US15/214,959 patent/US10256453B2/en active Active
-
2019
- 2019-02-21 US US16/281,280 patent/US20190189997A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US10256453B2 (en) | 2019-04-09 |
US20180026253A1 (en) | 2018-01-25 |
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