High voltage access prevention

摘要

Methods and apparatus for assembling a high voltage battery without exposing an operator to contacts having a voltage greater than a predetermined maximum are presented. A bus bar module has standard compartments equipped with integrated bus bars separated by break compartments without bus bars. The bus bar module can be coupled to a plurality of electrochemical cells to connect the cells in groups having a voltage less than a predetermined maximum Vmax. Compartment lids can be closed to prevent contact with connected posts. A separate non-integrated bus bar can be provided to a break compartment to connect a first group of cells with a second group of cells to form a series of connected cells that can provide a voltage greater than Vmax, to achieve a desired battery voltage. The bus bar module and methods of the invention can protect an operator during battery assembly or service.

主权项

1. A system, comprising:
a bus bar module comprising a row of standard compartments in which a break compartment is positioned adjacent and between two of said standard compartments in said row; an array of electrochemical cells, received at, and coupled to, said bus bar module; wherein each said standard compartment is configured with an integrated bus bar configured to electrically couple electrochemical cell posts received therein; wherein said break compartment is configured to receive a stand-alone non-integrated bus bar, insertable at said break compartment by an operator to couple electrochemical cell posts received at said break compartment; wherein said bus bar module is configured for electrical connection of said electrochemical cell posts received at said standard compartments prior to electrical connection of said electrochemical cell posts received at said break compartment.