Battery with multi-connection terminals and integral fuse

Abstract

A battery for supplying power to an automotive electrical system. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the battery includes a first terminal and second terminal connected across at least one power cell configured to generate an electrical potential between the first and second terminals. The battery, however, further includes a first electrical distribution block being electrically connected directly with the first battery terminal, and thus is at the same electrical potential. Similarly, the battery includes a second electrical distribution block that is electrically isolated from the second terminal. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the second distribution block is electrically connected to the second battery terminal via a protection fuse. Typically, the protection fuse will range from 60 amperes to 300 amperes in its rating value. In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention the first and second distribution blocks define multiple connection points where cables or other items of the electrical system may be electrically connected to the battery terminals. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, these connection points may be defined by threaded bores within the distribution blocks and companion set screws. Cables or other items may then be secured, both physically and electrically, to the battery by advancing the set screw into the receiving bore.