Beam welding of a multi-sheet work stack with a single common welding interface

A method for beam welding a battery module using a beam source, wherein the battery module includes an interconnect member, a first battery tab that defines one of a flange portion and a slot, and a second battery tab, the method comprising:

• positioning the interconnect member adjacent to the first battery tab;
• positioning the second battery tab adjacent to the first battery tab such that a single common welding interface is defined by the interconnect member, the first battery tab, and the second battery tab, including placing the flange portion in direct contact with the interconnect member along the single common welding interface when the first battery tab defines the flange portion and, when the first battery tab defines the slot, inserting the tab portion into the slot so that the tab portion contacts the interconnect member along the single common welding interface;
• positioning the beam source adjacent to a common end of the interconnect member, the first battery tab, and the second battery tab;
• and
• directing an energy beam from the beam source and onto the welding interface for a duration sufficient for forming a fusion weld along the single common welding interface.

A welded assembly comprising:

• a first sheet;
• a second sheet positioned adjacent to the first sheet;
• a third sheet positioned adjacent to the second sheet such that a work stack with a single common welding interface is defined by the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet, wherein the third sheet defines one of:
• a flange portion positioned on the first sheet and a slot within which is positioned a tab portion of the second sheet;
• and
• an energy beam-welded fusion joint which joins the first sheet, the second sheet, and the third sheet along the single common welding interface.