Patent ID: 7563137
Filing Date: 2009-07-21
Classification: H01M

Abstract:
1. A mechanical fastener for coupling to electrical terminals of battery modules, comprising: a trapezoidal-shaped plate positioned on interconnect members of the battery modules, the trapezoidal-shaped plate having a top surface, a bottom surface, and first and second angled side surfaces, the first and second angled side surfaces extending between the top surface and the bottom surface, the trapezoidal-shaped plate having a first aperture extending from the top surface into the trapezoidal-shaped plate, the first aperture defining a first threaded region; a cover portion having a first plate and first and second leg portions, the first and second leg portions being disposed on opposite ends of the first plate and integral with the first plate, the first and second leg portions extending outwardly from the first plate, the first plate having a second aperture extending therethrough, a bottom surface of the first plate being received on the top surface of the trapezoidal-shaped plate; and a first coupling member configured to extend through the first and second apertures and to engage the first threaded region to urge the cover portion toward the trapezoidal-shaped plate such that first and second electrical terminals of the battery modules disposed adjacent to the first and second angled side surfaces, respectively, of the trapezoidal-shaped plate are secured between the first and second angled side surfaces, respectively, and the first and second leg portions, respectively, of the cover portion.