Custom battery pack configurations are how the individual battery cells are connected together to create a complete battery pack assembly.
There are many different battery pack configurations that need to be considered when designing a battery pack for your end product and below you will find some standard battery pack configurations: Cells are welded together end to end to create a stick battery pack.
The operating voltage of the pack is fundamentally determined by the cell chemistry and the number of cells joined in series. If there is a requirement to deliver a minimum battery pack capacity (eg Electric Vehicle) then you need to understand the variability in cell capacity and how that impacts pack configuration.
Each cell typically has a nominal voltage of 3.7V and a capacity ranging from 2000mAh to 3500mAh. Understanding how to configure these cells is crucial for creating custom battery packs that meet specific voltage and capacity needs.
As a battery pack designer it is important to understand the cell in detail so that you can interface with it optimally. It is interesting to look at the Function of the Cell Can or Enclosure and to think about the relationship between the Mechanical, Electrical and Thermal design.
Capacity values are usually given in ampere-hours (Ah). Ultimately, a battery pack needs to not only provide the correct amount of current—a requirement we’ll discuss shortly—but to continue providing it for the duration of the system’s use time.