Patent Publication Number: US-2023163393-A1

Title: Cell-to-pack fixation system and method

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates generally to battery systems for electric vehicles, and more particularly to fixation systems and methods for securing individual battery cells within a battery pack, with the elimination of enclosure modules surrounding the individual battery cells, thereby resulting in a more energy efficient, and more energy dense battery pack. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as consumers look to decrease their environmental impact and improve air quality. Instead of a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE), electric vehicles include one or more motors, powered by a rechargeable battery pack. Conventional electric vehicle battery packs are typically constructed of multiple components, including a plurality of battery modules, electrical current transmission systems, temperature control systems, safety systems, battery management systems (BMS) and structural supports. The battery modules, which are often constructed by a third party supplier, generally include an enclosure containing a plurality of battery cells, which act as galvanic cells when being discharged by converting chemical energy to electrical energy, and electrolytic cells when being recharged by converting electrical energy to chemical energy. Although there are certain advantages to the use of battery modules (e.g., defective modules can be removed and replaced), the enclosure portion of the modules generally represent a non-value added component, occupying valuable space within the battery pack. 
     More recently, efforts have been made to eliminate the module enclosures by integrating the battery cells directly into the battery pack, commonly referred to as cell-to-pack (CTP) technology, resulting in a more energy efficient, and more energy dense battery pack. According to a recent press release by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), using CTP technology can result in a battery pack with an increase in mass energy density by 10-15%, an improvement in volume utilization efficiency by 15-20%, and a reduction in the amount of parts for battery packs by 40%. Moreover, the resulting CTP battery can increase the system energy density from 180 Wh/kg to more than 200 Wh/kg. See https://www.catl.com/en/news/468.html. See also US Patent App. No. 2019/0312251, disclosing an approach to CTP battery construction, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein to the extent that the contents do not conflict with this disclosure. 
     Although such efforts have proved useful for their intended purpose, further improvements in energy density and efficiency are desirable. In particular, with the elimination of the module enclosures, the individual cells must still be secured within the battery pack. Securing the individual battery cells in a manner that doesn&#39;t take up a lot of space, and doesn&#39;t require a lot of effort during construction remains a persistent problem. The present disclosure addresses these concerns. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure provide cost-efficient devices and methods of securely fastening clusters of individual battery cells and cell voltage temperature nodes within a battery tray, in a manner which tends to reduce the overall number of components necessary for construction of the battery pack. In some embodiments, coupling of the individual battery cells and cell voltage temperature nodes within the battery tray can be completed without the use of additional fasteners, adhesives, or the like, thereby reducing the amount of labor and materials required for assembly of the battery pack. 
     One embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electric vehicle battery pack including a battery tray, a plurality of individual battery cells, one or more bands surrounding at least a portion of the plurality of individual battery cells, thereby banding the portion of individual battery cells together in a discrete cluster, and a bracket assembly configured to operably couple the banded discrete cluster to the battery tray. 
     In one embodiment, the electric vehicle battery pack comprises a total of eight rows of banded individual battery cells. In one embodiment, the discrete clusters each include an end plate configured to absorb stress exerted upon the discrete cluster. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly is operably coupled to the battery tray by at least one of a threaded fastener, rivet, or adhesive. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly is integrally formed within the battery tray. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly is mounted on at least one of a horizontal or vertical surface within the battery tray. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly includes one or more resilient portions configured to temporarily deform to enable coupling of the discrete cluster to the bracket assembly, and then to spring back to an un-deformed position to inhibit inadvertent decoupling of the bracket assembly from the discrete cluster. 
     In one embodiment, the one or more bands surrounding at least a portion of the plurality of individual battery cells includes a post, stud or protrusion configured to matingly engage with a portion of the bracket assembly. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly comprises at least one lateral cross band configured to at least partially traverse around a lateral portion of the discrete cluster of banded individual cells. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly is configured to aid in maintaining a desired spacing between two or more discrete clusters of banded individual battery cells. 
     Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electric vehicle battery pack, including a battery tray, at least one cell voltage temperature node, and a bracket assembly configured to operably couple the at least one cell voltage temperature node to the battery tray. 
     In one embodiment, the bracket assembly is operably coupled to the cell voltage temperature node by at least one of a threaded fastener, rivet, or adhesive. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly includes one or more resilient portions configured to temporarily deform to enable coupling of the discrete cell voltage temperature node to the bracket assembly, and then to spring back to an un-deformed position to inhibit inadvertent decoupling of the bracket assembly from the cell voltage temperature node. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly includes at least one post configured to be received within a corresponding aperture of the cell voltage temperature node. In one embodiment, the bracket assembly includes at least one channel configured to receive a portion of the cell voltage temperature node. In one embodiment, the cell voltage temperature node is operably coupled to the bracket assembly without the use of additional fasteners or adhesives. In one embodiment, the cell voltage temperature node is operably coupled to the bracket assembly with the aid of a frictional interfering fit. 
     Yet another embodiment of the present disclosure provides an electric vehicle battery pack, including a battery tray, a plurality of individual battery cells, one or more bands surrounding at least a portion of the plurality of individual battery cells, thereby banding the portion of individual battery cells together in a discrete cluster, at least one cell voltage temperature node for each banded discrete cluster, a battery cell bracket assembly configured to operably couple the banded discrete cluster to the battery tray, and a cell voltage temperature node bracket assembly configured to operably couple the at least one cell voltage temperature node to the battery tray. 
     In one embodiment, the electric vehicle battery pack comprises a total of eight rows of banded individual battery cells. In one embodiment, the battery cell bracket assembly and cell voltage temperature node bracket assembly are integrally formed within the battery tray. 
     The summary above is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure can be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the disclosure, in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG.  1 A  is a perspective view depicting a portion of a battery pack employing CTP technology, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  1 B  is a perspective view of a sealed battery pack employing CTP technology, positionable within an electric vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  2 A  is a perspective view depicting a cluster or bundle of individual battery cells banded together, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  2 B  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  3 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly within a battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  2 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  3 B  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  3 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  4 A  is a perspective view depicting a pair of bracket assemblies, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  4 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assemblies of  FIG.  4 A  positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  4 C  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assemblies of  FIG.  4 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  5 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  5 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  5 A  positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  5 C  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  5 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  6 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  6 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  6 A  positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  6 C  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  6 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  7    is a cross-sectional view depicting a bracket assembly operably coupling a cluster of individual battery cells within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  8 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  8 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  8 A  positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  8 C  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  8 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  9 A  is a perspective view depicting a of bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  9 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  9 A  positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  9 C  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  9 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  10 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  10 B  is a close-up view of the bracket assembly of  FIG.  10 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  11 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  11 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  11 A  positioned on a horizontal surface within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  11 C  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  11 A  positioned on a vertical surface within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view depicting a channel interacting with the post of a cluster of individual battery cells, thereby securing the cluster of individual battery cells within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  13 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  13 B  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  13 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  14 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  14 B  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  14 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  15 A  is a top view depicting a multi-row cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  15 B  is a profile view depicting the multi-row cluster of  FIG.  15 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  16 A  is a top view depicting a single row cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  16 B  is a profile view depicting the single row cluster of  FIG.  16 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  17 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  17 B  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  17 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  18 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  18 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  18 A  positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  18 C  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  18 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  19 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  19 B  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  19 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure 
         FIG.  20 A  is a perspective view depicting a bracket assembly positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  20 B  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  20 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIGS.  21 A-B  are a perspective views depicting a bracket assembly positioned within a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  21 C  is a perspective view depicting a cluster of individual battery cells operably coupled to a portion of the battery tray with the bracket assembly of  FIG.  21 A , in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIGS.  22 A-B  are profile views depicting a bracket assembly operably coupling a cluster of individual battery cells to a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  23 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  23 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  23 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  24 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  24 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  24 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  25 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  25 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  25 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  26 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  26 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  26 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  27 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  27 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  27 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  28 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  28 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  28 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  29 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  29 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  29 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  30 A  is a perspective view depicting a CVTN bracket assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG.  30 B  is a perspective view depicting the bracket assembly of  FIG.  30 A  operably coupled to a CVTN, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIGS.  31 A-D  are perspective views depicting a bracket assembly operably coupling a CVTN to an internal surface of a battery tray, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. 
     
    
    
     While embodiments of the disclosure are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof shown by way of example in the drawings will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring to  FIG.  1 A , an efficient, energy dense, battery pack  100  comprised of a plurality of individual battery cells  102  positioned within a battery tray  104  is depicted in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. As depicted, the individual cells  102  are grouped into five distinct clusters  106 A,  106 B,  106 C,  106 D, and  106 E, wherein each of clusters  106 A,  106 B and  106 C comprise two rows of cells  102 ; although the grouping of the individual cells  102  into other quantities of clusters of varying shapes and sizes is also contemplated. In addition to the clusters  106 , the battery pack can additionally include one or more electrical current transmission systems, temperature control systems, safety systems, battery management systems (BMS), and structural support systems (in addition to the structural support provided by the battery tray  104  itself). 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  1 B , a cover  108  can be fixed to the battery tray  104 , thereby creating a sealed battery cell compartment containing be clusters  106  of individual cells  102 . Thereafter, the assembled the battery pack  100  can be mounted to the frame and/or chassis of a vehicle  110 , which in some embodiments can be positioned adjacent to a cabin floor  112  of the vehicle  110 , thereby maintaining a low center of gravity. 
     Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Various directions and orientations, such as “upward,” “downward,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower”, etc. are generally described herein with reference to the drawings in the usual gravitational frame of reference, regardless of how the components may be oriented during assembly. 
     Referring to  FIG.  2 A , in some embodiments, each cluster  106  of cells  102  can be banded together. For example, in some embodiments, one or more bands of material  114 A,  114 B can be wrapped around the group of cells  102 , thereby firmly affixing a large quantity of cells  102  together without significantly adding to the weight or bulk of the cluster  106 . In some embodiments, the band of material  114  can be constructed of a variety of suitable materials (e.g., metal, plastic, or the like) configured to withstand the forces typically experienced by an electric vehicle battery pack during normal operation. As further depicted, in  FIGS.  2 A-B , in some embodiments, at least one of the one or more bands  114  can be operably coupled to an L-bracket  116 , which can in turn be operably coupled to the battery tray  104  (e.g., a crossmember  118  located within the battery tray  104 ). For example, in some embodiments, the L-bracket  116  can be operably coupled to the crossmember  118  via one or more fasteners, an adhesive material, or the like. Operably coupling the banded cluster  106  to other portions of the battery tray  104  is also contemplated. 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  3 A-B , in another embodiment, one or more bands material  114  can be operably coupled to a bracket  120 , configured to mate with a fixation member  122  positioned within the battery tray  114 . For example, in some embodiments, the bracket  120  can be positioned along an end  126  (as opposed to a lateral edge) of the cluster  106 . As further depicted in  FIG.  3 B , in some embodiments, the cluster of cells  102  can include an end plate  124  configured to absorb stress exerted upon the cluster  106 . Accordingly, and assembled cluster  106  of battery cells  102 , banded together with a band  114  of material, can be easily loaded into the battery tray  104  and secured in position. 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  4 A-C , in another embodiment, a plurality of brackets  128 A/B can be positioned along the one or more bands material  114 . As depicted in  FIG.  4 C , the plurality of brackets  128 A/B can be configured to mate with a corresponding plurality of fixation members  130 A/B mounted within the battery tray  104 , thereby securing be cluster  106  in a fixed position relative to the battery tray  104 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  5 A-C , in another embodiment, one of the one or more bands  114  can be configured to be secured to a bracket  132  operably coupled to the battery tray  104 . For example, in some embodiments, the bracket  132  can be configured to mount to a vertical surface within the battery tray  104 . In some embodiments, the bracket  132  can be configured to couple directly to the band  114 . In other embodiments, the cluster  106  can be operably coupled to the bracket  132  via one or more fixation members (not picked) operably coupled to the band  114 . In some embodiments, the bracket  132  can define a tray or channel  134  configured to receive at least a portion of the band  114  or fixation member. Thereafter, one or more fasteners, adhesive or the like can be used to fixedly coupled be cluster  106  in place relative to the bracket  132 . 
     With additional reference to  FIGS.  6 A-B , in another embodiment, the bracket  132  defining a channel  134  into which a portion of the one or more band  114  can be positioned, can further define a resilient retention member  136  configured to be deflected inwardly towards a body of the bracket  132  as the band  114  is positioned into the channel  134 , and naturally spring back into and on deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the band  114  from the channel  134 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, the cluster  106  can be secured in position relative to the battery tray  104  without a further need to insert fasteners, apply adhesive, or the like, thereby decreasing the labor and materials in construction of the battery  100 . 
     As depicted in  FIG.  7   , in another embodiment, an E-bracket  138  can be joined or otherwise operably coupled to the end plate  124  of the cluster  106 , with one or more fasteners  140 A/B operably coupling the E-bracket  138  to a retention member  142  positioned within the battery tray  104 . In some embodiments, the retention member  142  can be integrally formed within the battery tray  104 , for example in the form of a crossmember or other vertical surface within the battery compartment. 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  8 A-C , in another embodiment, a stud or other protrusion (not depicted) can extend outwardly from the one or more bands  114  surrounding the cluster  106 . When positioned in the battery tray  104 , the stud or protrusion can be received within one or more slots  144  defined within a retention bracket  146  mounted within the battery tray  114 . In order to further secure the stud or protrusion within the one or more slots  144 , in some embodiments, one end of a retention plate (not depicted) can be positioned within an aperture  152  defined in a top surface of the retention bracket  146 , with an opposite end of the retention plate secured in place with a fastener inserted into aperture  150 . 
     Other methods of securing the stud or protrusion in place within the slot  144  are also contemplated. For example, as depicted in  FIGS.  9 A-C , in another embodiment, the retention bracket  146  can include one or more resilient bayonet couplings  154 A/B configured to flex or temporarily deflect outwardly away from the one or more slots  114 A/B as the studs or protrusions extending outwardly from the one or more bands  114  are positioned in the one or more slots  114 . Thereafter, the one or more resilient bayonet couplings  154 A/B can spring back into an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the studs or protrusions from the one or more slots  114 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  10 A-B , in another embodiment, the stud or protrusion extending outwardly from the band  114  can be configured as a T-stud, configured to sliding reengage with a T-shaped channel  156  formed within a vertical surface of the battery tray  104 . In some embodiments, a bracket  158 A/B defining the T-shaped channel  156  can be fixedly coupled to the battery tray  104 . In other embodiments, the T-shaped channel  156  can be integrally formed within the battery tray  104 , thereby reducing number of required components in the construction of the battery  100 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  11 A-C , in another embodiment, the T-stud extending outwardly from the band  114  can be configured to selectively locked into a key slot  160  formed within either a vertical or horizontal surface within the battery tray  104 . In some embodiments, a bracket  162  defining the key slot  160  can be fixedly coupled to the battery tray. In other embodiments, the key slot  160  can be integrally formed within the battery tray, thereby reducing the number of required components in the construction of the battery. 
     As depicted in  FIG.  12   , in another embodiment, a stud or protrusion  170  extending outwardly from the band  114  can be slidably engaged with an S-shaped or other curvilinear shaped slot or channel  164  defined within the battery tray  104 . Thereafter, a pin or other fastener  166  can be inserted through an aperture  168 , thereby locking the stud or protrusion in place within the channel  164 . In some embodiments, the pin or other fastener  166  can serve a dual function of additionally securing the cover  108  of the battery  100  to the battery tray  104 . As depicted in  FIGS.  13 A-B , in another embodiment, one or more retention clips  172  can be configured to secure the clusters  106  and positioned within the battery tray  104 . In some embodiments, the one or more retention clips  172 A/B can include an angled resilient portion  174  configured to temporarily deflect as the cluster  106  exerts a force there on. Once the cluster  106  is in positioned within the battery tray  104 , the angled resilient portion  174  can spring back to an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the cluster  106  from the battery tray  104 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  14 A-B , in another embodiment, a banded or un-banded cluster  106  of individual cells can positioned within a retention bracket  176 . For example, in one embodiment, the retention bracket can include one or more lateral cross bands  178 A-C configured to wrap around a lateral portion of the cluster  106 . In some embodiments, the lateral cross bands  178 A-C can include a vertical support  180  configured to be positioned between rows of individual cells. One or more longitudinal supports  182 A-B can be positioned substantially orthogonal to the one or more lateral cross bands  178 A-C, and extend generally across a top portion of the cluster  106 , thereby securing the cluster  106  to the battery tray  104 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  15 A-B  &amp;  16 A-B, in some embodiments, at least one of the one or more lateral cross bands  178 A-B can be operably coupled to the cluster  106  and/or battery tray  104  via one or more fasteners  184 . In some embodiments, the one or more lateral cross bands  178 A-B are configured to traverse across a top surface of the cluster  106  only, so as to not encircle and/or pass underneath the cluster  106 . Other configurations of the retention bracket  176  are also contemplated. 
     For example, as depicted in  FIGS.  17 A-B , in one embodiment, the one or more lateral cross bands  178 A/B can define one or more guide members  186 A-C configured to be positioned adjacent to the lateral sides of the individual battery cells, as well as between individual rows of battery cells. In some embodiments, the one or more guide members  186 A-C can be configured as V-shaped bends within the one or more lateral cross bands  178 A/B. The V-shaped bend configuration of the one or more guide members  186 A-C configured to at least partially absorb physical shock and/or external forces experienced by the cluster  106 , and to encourage realignment of the rows of individual cells within the cluster  106 , should they become unaligned. 
     With additional reference to  FIGS.  18 A-C  &amp;  19 A-B, in some embodiments, the one or more lateral cross bands  178 A-C can include a vertical support  180  configured to be positioned between rows of individual cells, with a wedge portion  188  operably coupled to a bottom of the vertical support  180 , such that as the vertical support  180  is tightened (e.g., via a threaded coupling) the wedge portion  188  can be forcibly positioned between rows of cells, thereby ensuring a proper spacing between respective rows and locking the rows of cells into position relative to one another as well as relative to the battery tray  104 . As further depicted in  FIG.  19 B , in some embodiments, a bottom portion of the cluster  106  can be configured to interface with a fixation element  190  operably coupled to a bottom portion of the battery tray  104 , thereby securing the cluster  106  in position relative to the battery tray  104 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  20 A-B , in another embodiment, one or more lateral cross members  192 A/B can be positioned adjacent to respective top and bottom surfaces of the battery tray  104 , and can be configured to engage with the end plate  124  of the cluster  106 , thereby securing the cluster  106  of battery cells to the battery tray  104 . For example, in some embodiments, the one or more lateral cross numbers  192 A/B can define a plurality of cones  194  or other protrusions, which can be configured to be received within correspondingly shaped apertures  196  defined by the end plate  124 . In some embodiments, the one or more lateral cross members  192 A/B can be integrally formed into the cover  108  and bottom surface of the battery tray  104 , thereby reducing the overall number of components necessary for the construction of the battery pack  100 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  21 A-C , in another embodiment, at least one of the one or more lateral cross members  178 A-C can be configured to support a bottom and side surfaces of the cluster  106 , thereby adhering the cluster  106  to the battery tray  104 . For example, in some embodiments, the one or more lateral cross members  178 A-C can be fixed in position relative to the cluster  106  via the bands  114 . Thereafter, the one or more lateral cross members  178 A-C can be operably coupled to the battery tray, for example via one or more fasteners, adhesive, or the like. Other systems and methods of operably coupling the cluster  106  to the battery tray  104  are also contemplated. 
     For example, with reference to  FIGS.  22 A-B , in yet another embodiment, the one or more lateral cross members  178  can be pivotably coupled to the battery tray  104 , for example via a hinge  198 . With the cluster  106  of individual cells positioned within a compartment of the battery tray  104 , the lateral cross member  178  can be pivoted into contact or otherwise securing position, thereby securing the cluster  106  within the battery tray. In some embodiments, the one or more lateral cross members  178  can be selectively locked in position with the insertion of a pin  197 . As depicted in  FIG.  22 A , in some embodiments, the lateral cross member  178  can traverse across a top portion of the cluster  106 . In other embodiments, such as that depicted in  FIG.  22 B , the lateral cross member  178  can be configured to matingly engage with an end plate of the cluster  106 . Other configurations are also contemplated. 
     In addition to the grouping of individual battery cells  102  into distinct clusters  106  for mounted into the battery tray  104 , the battery pack  100  typically also includes at least one cell voltage temperature node (CVTN). In some embodiments, the battery pack  100  can include one CVTN for each cluster  106  of battery cells. For example, in one embodiment, the battery pack  100  can include a total of eight CVTNs; although the use of other quantities of CVTNs is also contemplated. As the CVTNs were typically incorporated into the battery modules in the past, the CVTNs must now be independently positioned within the battery tray  104 , like the clusters  106  of individual battery cells. Various systems and methods are contemplated for securing the CVTNs within the battery tray  104 . 
     For example, with reference to  FIGS.  23 A-B , in one embodiment, a pair of brackets  202 A/B can be used to operably couple the CVTN  204  to a surface within the battery tray  104 . In some embodiments, each of the brackets  202  can include a trough or channel  206  located on a lower portion of the bracket  202 , shaped and sized to enable a portion of the CVTN  204  to be positioned therein. Further, each of the brackets  202  can include a restriction plate  208  located on an upper portion of the bracket  202  configured to inhibit movement of the CVTN  204  beyond the restriction plate  208 . During installation, a portion of the CVTN  204  can be inserted into the channels  206  of the brackets  202 , then pivoted or rotated such that a second portion of the CVTN  204  contacts or comes into close proximity to the restriction plates  208  of the brackets  202 . To further secure the CVTN  204  in position relative to the brackets  202 , a fastener can be passed through an aperture  210  defined in the restriction plates  208 . Other configurations of the brackets  202  are also contemplated. 
     For example, with reference to  FIGS.  24 A-B , in one embodiment, the pair of brackets  202 A/B can include a resilient retention member  212  configured to flex or temporally deform so as to enable the CVTN  204  to be pivoted or rotated that a second portion of the CVTN  204  contacts or comes into close proximity to the restriction plates  208  of the brackets  202 . Thereafter, the resilient retention members  212  can spring back into an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the CVTN  204  from the brackets  202 A/B. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the CVTN  204  can be operably coupled to the battery tray  104  without the use of additional fasteners, adhesive, or the like, thereby reducing the amount of labor and materials required in the assembly of a battery pack  100 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  25 A-B , in one embodiment, the channels  206  and the restriction plates  208  can serve as contacting surfaces for portions of the CVTN  204 , thereby securely fastening the CVTN  204  to the pair of brackets  202 A/B. For example, in one embodiment, each restriction plate  208  can include a post  214  configured to traverse through a corresponding aperture  216  defined in the CVTN  204 , thereby inhibiting movement of the CVTN  204  relative to the restriction plate  208 . During installation, a portion of the CVTN  204  can be aligned with the channels  206  of the brackets  202 , then rotated slightly into an upright position for alignment of the aperture  216  of the CVTN  204  with the posts  214  of the pair of brackets  202 A/B. The CVTN  204  can then be shifted into contact with the channels  206  and the restriction plates  208 , thereby securing the CVTN  204  relative to the pair of brackets  202 A/B. In some embodiments, the posts  214  can be threaded, such that a nut or other threaded coupling member can be applied to the post after installation of the CVTN  204 , thereby further securing the CVTN  204  relative to the pair of brackets  202 A/B. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  26 A-B , in one embodiment, the pair of brackets  202 A/B can include a resilient retention member  218  configured to flex or temporally deform, so as to enable the CVTN  204  to be shifted into contact with the channels  206  and the restriction plates  208 . Thereafter, the resilient retention members  218  can spring back into an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the CVTN  204  from the brackets  202 A/B. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the CVTN  204  can be operably coupled to the battery tray  104  without the use of additional fasteners, adhesive, or the like, thereby reducing the amount of labor and materials required in the assembly of a battery pack  100 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  27 A-B , in one embodiment, the pair of brackets  202 A/B can be configured to enable coupling of the CVTN  204  to the pair of brackets  202 A/B through a combination of, sliding, pivoting and twisting motion. For example, in one embodiment, one of the brackets  202 B can define a U-shaped channel portion  220  operably coupled to the restriction plate  208 B into which a portion of the CVTN  204  can be positioned. The other bracket  202 A can define a resilient retention member  222  configured to flex or temporally deform, so as to enable the CVTN  204  to be shifted into contact the restriction plate  208 A. During installation, a portion of the CVTN  204  can be slid into the U-shaped channel portion  220  and the channel  206 B of one of the brackets  202 B. Through a combination of pivoting and twisting, the CVTN  204  can then be passed over the resilient retention member  222  to comment to contact with the restriction plate  208 A and the channel  206 A, thereby securing the CVTN  204  relative to the pair of brackets  202 A/B. In some embodiments, at least one of the restriction plates  208 A/B can include a protuberance  224  configured to reside within a respective cut out of the CVTN  204 , thereby aiding in retention of the CVTN  204  relative to the pair of brackets  202 A/B. Further, in some embodiments, a fastener can be passed through an aperture  226  defined in the U-shaped channel portion  220 , thereby locking the CVTN  204  relative to the pair of brackets  202 A/B. 
     With reference to  FIGS.  28 A-B , in another embodiment, a pair of brackets  228 ,  232  can be used to operably couple the CVTN  204  to a surface within the battery tray  104 . In this embodiment, a first bracket  228  can be configured to retain a top portion of the CVTN  204 , while a second bracket  232  can be configured to retain a bottom portion of the CVTN  204 . As an aid in retention, in one embodiment, the second bracket  232  can define one or more channels  232  into which a portion of the CVTN  204  can be positioned. The first bracket  228  can define one or more resilient retention members  234 A-C configured to flex or temporally deform so as to enable the CVTN  204  to be pivoted or rotated such that a top portion of the CVTN  204  contacts or comes into close proximity with one or more restriction plates  236 A-C of the bracket  228 . Thereafter, the resilient retention members  234 A-C can spring back into an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the CVTN  204  from the brackets  228 ,  232 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, the CVTN  204  can be operably coupled to the battery tray  104  without the use of additional fasteners, adhesive, or the like, thereby reducing the amount of labor and materials required in the assembly of a battery pack  100 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  29 A-B , in another embodiment, the bracket  242  can define a channel  244  (e.g., a U-shaped channel) into which a portion of the CVTN  204  can be positioned. Further, the bracket  242  can define one or more resilient retention members  246 A-D configured to flex or temporally deform so as to enable the CVTN  204  to be slidably positioned within the channel  244 . Thereafter, the resilient retention members  246 A-D can spring back into an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the CVTN  204  from the bracket  242 . Accordingly, in some embodiments, the CVTN  204  can be operably coupled to the battery tray  104  without the use of additional fasteners, adhesive, or the like, thereby reducing the amount of labor and materials required in the assembly of a battery pack  100 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  30 A-B , in another embodiment, the bracket  248  can define one or more hooks  250 A/B configured to engage with the CVTN  204  (e.g., at least partially insert into a corresponding loop defined by the CVTN  204 ), thereby securing the CVTN  204  in position relative to the bracket  248 . As an aid in further retaining the CVTN  204  relative to the bracket  248 , in some embodiments, the bracket  248  can define one or more resilient retention members  252 A-B configured to flex or temporally deform so as to enable the CVTN  204  to be slidably positioned on the one or more hooks  250 A/B. Thereafter, the resilient retention members  252 A-B can spring back into an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the CVTN  204  from the bracket  248 . 
     With reference to  FIGS.  31 A-D , in yet another embodiment, the bracket  254  can be formed as a U-shaped channel, slightly offset from a surface within the battery tray  104 . A corresponding coupling member  256  of the CVTN  204  can be configured to be inserted within the U-shaped channel of the bracket  254 , thereby securing the CVTN  204  in position relative to the bracket  254 . As a further aid in retaining the CVTN  204  relative to the bracket  254 , in some embodiments, either of the bracket  254  or the coupling member  256  can include one or more one or more resilient retention members configured to flex or temporally deform so as to enable the CVTN  204  to be slidably positioned into contact with the bracket  254 . Thereafter, the resilient retention members can spring back into an un-deflected position, thereby inhibiting removal of the CVTN  204  from the bracket  254 . In one embodiment, an additional fixation member  258  can be positioned within the battery tray  104  to abut up against a portion of the CVTN  204 , thereby providing a further aid in securing the CVTN  204  within the battery tray  104 . Other embodiments are also contemplated. 
     The invention is further illustrated by the following embodiments: 
     An electric vehicle battery pack comprising: a battery tray; and a plurality of individual battery cells; one or more bands surrounding at least a portion of the plurality of individual battery cells, thereby banding the portion of individual battery cells together in a discrete cluster; and a bracket assembly configured to operably couple the banded discrete cluster to the battery tray. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the electric vehicle battery pack comprises a total of eight rows of banded individual battery cells. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the discrete clusters each include an end plate configured to absorb stress exerted upon the discrete cluster. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly is operably coupled to the battery tray by at least one of a threaded fastener, rivet, or adhesive. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly is integrally formed within the battery tray. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly is mounted on at least one of a horizontal or vertical surface within the battery tray. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly includes one or more resilient portions configured to temporarily deform to enable coupling of the discrete cluster to the bracket assembly, and then to spring back to an un-deformed position to inhibit inadvertent decoupling of the bracket assembly from the discrete cluster. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the one or more bands surrounding at least a portion of the plurality of individual battery cells includes a post, stud or protrusion configured to matingly engage with a portion of the bracket assembly. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly comprises at least one lateral cross band configured to at least partially traverse around a lateral portion of the discrete cluster of banded individual cells. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly is configured to aid in maintaining a desired spacing between two or more discrete clusters of banded individual battery cells. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, further comprising a bracket assembly configured to operably couple the at least one cell voltage temperature node to the battery tray. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly is operably coupled to the cell voltage temperature node by at least one of a threaded fastener, rivet, or adhesive. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly includes one or more resilient portions configured to temporarily deform to enable coupling of the discrete cell voltage temperature node to the bracket assembly, and then to spring back to an un-deformed position to inhibit inadvertent decoupling of the bracket assembly from the cell voltage temperature node. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly includes at least one post configured to be received within a corresponding aperture of the cell voltage temperature node. 
     A system or method according to any embodiment, wherein the bracket assembly includes at least one channel configured to receive a portion of the cell voltage temperature node. 
     Various embodiments of systems, devices, and methods have been described herein. These embodiments are given only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed inventions. It should be appreciated, moreover, that the various features of the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, dimensions, shapes, configurations and locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the claimed inventions. 
     Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that the subject matter hereof may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the subject matter hereof may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the various embodiments can comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, elements described with respect to one embodiment can be implemented in other embodiments even when not described in such embodiments unless otherwise noted. 
     Although a dependent claim may refer in the claims to a specific combination with one or more other claims, other embodiments can also include a combination of the dependent claim with the subject matter of each other dependent claim or a combination of one or more features with other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are proposed herein unless it is stated that a specific combination is not intended. 
     Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein. 
     For purposes of interpreting the claims, it is expressly intended that the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in a claim.