DE102012219782A1 - Battery module for use in electric vehicle, has upper floor space and lower floor space of respective end wall whose distance is greater than height of end walls arranged in battery module housing - Google Patents

Abstract

The battery module (1) has a box-shaped battery module housing (20) that is configured to accommodate several battery cells. The end walls (22) are connected at opposite ends of the side walls (23a, 23b). The end walls of the top battery module rest on the end walls of the bottom battery module. The end walls are provided with lower and upper floor spaces (22c,22d). The distance between the upper floor space and the lower floor space of the respective end wall is greater than the height of end walls arranged in the battery module housing. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) a system of battery module; and (2) a method for manufacturing a battery module.

Description

The invention relates to a battery module, in particular for use in a vehicle, such. B. an electric vehicle. The preferably rechargeable battery module can supply the energy required for driving the vehicle or at least a part thereof, d. H. provide an intended for driving electric motor with electrical energy. In particular, the invention relates to a system or arrangement of at least two battery modules, wherein the battery modules are stackable. Furthermore, the invention relates to a battery module housing part, which allows easy mounting of the battery module. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for producing a battery module.

From the prior art, such as. B. the DE 10 2010 046 529 A1 a battery module is known, which has a plurality of juxtaposed battery cells. The battery cell stack thus formed is enclosed by a quadrangular frame system. The frame system consists of two side walls and frontally screwed to the ends of the side walls pressure plates. The printing plates are connected to the side parts via tabs. Through this connection, the tensile load is transferred by possibly resulting cell bellies of the battery cells on the positive locking of the tabs of the pressure plates in the side panels. The printing plates have a lower height than z. B. on the side parts.

From the WO 2008/106948 A1 For example, a U-shaped battery module housing part bent from a metal sheet is known, which has two side parts and a bottom, wherein the side parts are angled with respect to the ground and are connected by means of the bottom. In the JP 2004 171856 A and the DE 10 2011 016 799 A1 are also U-shaped curved battery module housing parts with a bottom and side walls known.

It is an object of the invention to provide a battery module, which can be arranged to save space with a further battery module. It is a further object of the invention to provide a system comprising a plurality of battery modules, wherein the battery modules of the system should be space-saving to each other can be arranged. It is a further object of the invention to provide a battery module housing part which allows a particularly simple installation of the battery module. Yet another object of the invention is to provide a cost-effective method for producing a battery module, wherein the resulting battery module should be independent of a state of charge or aging of the battery cells with respect to its outer dimensions.

The objects are achieved with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous developments emerge from the dependent claims, the description and the figures.

The battery module comprises a particular box-shaped or cuboid battery module housing, which accommodates a plurality of battery cells. The battery module housing may e.g. be designed in several parts. The battery module housing may include a first sidewall and a second sidewall, e.g. is arranged approximately parallel to the first side wall, and having a first end wall and a second end wall, wherein the first and the second end wall connecting the first and second side wall at the opposite ends of the side walls, in particular the front side closing. As a result, a quadrangular, in particular rectangular, enclosure is formed. Although it is preferred that the side walls be longer than the end walls, the side walls and the end walls may also be of equal length, so that the enclosure is square, which is a special case of a rectangle. In particular, the side walls can be screwed to the end walls or preferably welded, in particular laser welded. The sidewalls and the end walls may be at least partially made of a metallic material, such as e.g. be made of an aluminum material. The sidewalls may e.g. be made of a sheet-shaped semi-finished product. The end walls can be designed as printing plates and / or plate-shaped. The side walls may be connected to a floor which forms the bottom of the battery module or the battery module housing. For example, the bottom and the first and second sidewalls may be made of a sheet such as e.g. be formed of a metal or aluminum material, wherein the side walls are angled with respect to the ground, in particular to form a bending edge, such. in about 90 °, whereby in particular a U-shaped battery module housing part is formed in cross section.

Generally speaking, the battery module housing may have a bottom connected to the sidewalls, which closes the underside of the battery module. For example, the sidewalls and floor may be formed of a U-shaped bent metal sheet, e.g. made of an aluminum material, be formed. The side walls may also be formed of an aluminum material.

The battery module housing may have on its upper side a lid which is formed or shaped, for example, from plastic, such as a thermoplastic material. The lid serves to cover the battery cells, in particular their connections from external access. For example, the lid may be shaped to have an opening, in particular can close or close an access opening on the first and / or second side wall and preferably the first end wall or second end wall.

The battery cells are preferably arranged in a row. The battery cells are in particular electrically interconnected, in particular connected in parallel and / or in series. The battery cells may, for example, be prismatic or cuboidal battery cells, their cell thickness being less than their cell height and / or their cell width. Preferably, a plurality of battery cells are in the thickness direction, i. arranged in a row in the direction of the cell thickness, in particular along the longitudinal direction of a gas channel or along the first and / or second side wall. The battery cells each have an electrically positive terminal (positive terminal) and an electrically negative terminal (negative terminal), which are preferably on a common, z. B. flat surface of the prismatic or cuboid battery cell are arranged. The connections can also be referred to as terminals or connection terminals. The terminals may be used, for example, as metal welding or screw terminals, such as e.g. be made of a copper material or preferably an aluminum material. One of the electrical connections of the battery cell may be arranged closer to the first side wall than the other of the electrical connections of this battery cell, wherein the other of the electrical connections for it is arranged closer to the second side wall. In particular, the electrical connections can point in the direction of the upper side or towards the cover.

The battery module housing may, as e.g. mentioned above, two side walls and two end walls, wherein the end walls connect the two side walls at the ends thereof. In particular, the end wall can be screwed or welded to the side wall. In particular, the end walls can be designed as printing plates. The battery module housing can thus have four edges, at which an end wall meets a side wall.

At least the two side walls and the end walls form a lateral enclosure which supports the juxtaposed battery cells, i. surrounds the battery cell stack formed thereby.

The battery module comprises a first connection piece, which forms an electrically positive battery module connection and which is electrically conductively connected to at least one of the battery cells. Furthermore, the battery module comprises a second connection piece, which forms an electrically negative battery module connection and is electrically conductively connected to at least one of the battery cells. In particular, the battery cells of the battery module are electrically connected between the first connection piece and the second connection piece, such as e.g. parallel and / or serial. For example, one battery cell may be connected in series with the next battery cell, and so on. In another example, two parallel connected battery cells may be connected in series with two subsequent parallel connected battery cells, and so on. In yet another example, three parallel connected battery cells may be connected In another example, four parallel-connected battery cells may be connected in series with four subsequent parallel-connected battery cells, and so on. This series may be continued as desired. Preferably, the poles of the same electric charge are arranged by battery cells connected in parallel on the same side, in particular the width side of the battery cell. In particular, the poles, which have the same electric charge, of battery cells connected in parallel with one another may lie on opposite sides, in particular broad sides of the battery cells. As a result, a plurality of battery cells can be connected in parallel and / or in series with one another by a relatively simple elongate, in particular straight busbar. The busbar may in this case with its longitudinal direction, e.g. stretch parallel in the direction in which the battery cells are lined up.

The first fitting and the second fitting are preferably mated with an electrically conductive connecting element, such as an adapter. an external power rail or an external cable to be connected, e.g. screwed or welded. By means of the connecting element, which preferably does not belong to the battery module, the battery module with another battery module or another electrical component, such. the drive motor to be connected. By means of the connecting element, the battery module can be connected to a power grid or (high-voltage) electrical system, which supplies a drive motor for driving the vehicle with electrical energy.

In a first aspect, the battery module is configured to be stackable with a same battery module, the end walls of the upper battery module resting on the end walls of the lower battery module. For example, the first end wall of the upper battery module can rest on the first end wall of the lower battery module. The same applies to the second end wall of the upper and lower battery module accordingly. The battery modules are preferably the same, at least with regard to their features defined in the claims. Since two identical battery modules cooperate advantageously, ie stackable The invention also relates to a system of at least two battery modules. At least two battery modules, preferably three, four, five or even more battery modules can be stacked on top of each other. The advantage here is that the weight of the stacked battery modules is passed over the end walls of the or the underlying battery modules. The load on the first and second side wall by stacked battery modules can therefore be reduced or even eliminated to a large extent. As a result, the side wall can be made simpler, in particular weight-saving and cost-effective.

It is particularly advantageous that the first end wall and the second end wall each have at least one upper support surface, preferably two upper support surfaces and at least one lower support surface, preferably two lower support surfaces. In this way, a battery module can be formed, in particular three and particularly preferably four upper shelves and four lower shelves can have. In particular, each upper footprint may have a lower footprint associated therewith, wherein the mutually associated footprints are aligned with one another in the height direction of the battery module.

The at least one upper footprint can be arranged on the upper side of the battery module. The at least one lower footprint can be arranged on the underside of the at least one battery module. For example, the lid may be disposed at the top of the battery module and the bottom at the bottom of the battery module. The at least one upper footprint can therefore be on the side with the lid and the at least one lower footprint can be on the side with the bottom.

Particularly preferably, the lower shelves of the upper battery module can rest on the upper shelves of the lower battery module, d. h., That the lower shelves with the upper shelves in a contact, in particular surface contact. Advantageously, the weight of the upper battery module can be introduced via the lower shelves of the upper battery module and the upper shelves of the lower battery module in the side walls of the lower battery module, wherein the weight on the lower shelves of the lower battery module in z. B. a support structure of the vehicle, such. B. a vehicle frame, on which the lower footprint of the lower battery module is supported, are passed. Alternatively, the weight force on the lower footprint in end walls of a further underlying battery module, in particular on its upper footprint are passed.

Preferably, each end wall on two upper and two lower shelves, which are spaced apart and in particular in the region of the edges where the side walls meet the end walls, are formed.

To advantageously ensure that the weight of the upper battery module is guided as possible only on the end walls in the lower battery module, it is advantageous that the distance between the upper shelf and the lower footprint of the respective end wall is greater than the height of the between the first end wall and the second end wall disposed portion of the battery module is. In principle, the distance can also be equal to the height, whereby it is also ensured here that the greatest part of the weight force is dissipated via the side walls. However, it is preferred that an at least very small gap is formed between the bottom of the upper battery module and the lid of the lower battery module.

For example, the at least first footprint may be offset upwardly or downwardly with respect to the lid, wherein the lower footprint may be offset up or down with respect to the floor. For example, the upper shelf may be offset upwardly with respect to the lid and the lower shelf may be offset downwardly with respect to the floor.

Particularly preferably, the first and second end wall are each configured as a pressure plate. The end wall or the pressure plate is preferably designed to be rigid in itself. The front wall can z. B. at least one, preferably a plurality of window-like or pocket-shaped recesses, which can also fulfill other functions in addition to the weight savings. A window-like recess is preferably a recess which passes through the thickness of the pressure plate and is surrounded by one or more side flanks. A pocket-shaped recess is a recess extending only over part of the thickness of the pressure plate, forming a pocket bottom which is bordered by one or more side flanks.

In preferred embodiments, the end wall, in particular on its upper side an upper bore and in particular on its underside have a lower bore. The upper bore and the lower bore serve to mechanically interconnect the upper and lower battery modules, such as those shown in FIGS. B. can be screwed, such. B. with a bolt. The bolt can be designed as a screw with screw shaft and screw head. Alternatively, the bolt may be designed as a threaded rod with a nut arranged thereon.

Particularly preferably, the upper bore and the lower bore may have a common bore longitudinal axis. This has the advantage that the lower bore of the upper battery module is aligned with the upper bore of the lower battery module, so that the battery modules z. B. can be screwed together.

Particularly preferably, the upper bore has an internal thread and the lower bore also has an internal thread, wherein the internal thread of the upper bore has a smaller thread diameter than the inner thread of the lower bore. In particular, the thread diameter of the upper hole is smaller than the thread core diameter of the inner thread of the lower hole. The advantage is that a bolt that is adapted for the thread of the upper hole, through the threads of the lower hole can be inserted through, without having to be screwed. The lower thread in this case forms a through hole for the bolt, so that the bolt can be screwed to the internal thread of the upper bore of the underlying battery module. Alternatively, the holding structure may also have such a bore, so that the battery module can be screwed to the holding structure arranged underneath. Alternatively, however, the holding structure may have a through hole, wherein from the bottom of a bolt inserted through this through hole and be screwed to the thread of the lower hole or can be.

In preferred embodiments, the end wall can have a recess, in particular the window-shaped or pocket-shaped recess mentioned above, into which the upper bore and the lower bore open. The recess is preferably open to the outwardly facing side of the battery module, in particular to the front side of the battery module. Preferably, the upper bore opens into a side edge of the recess and the lower hole in a side edge of the recess. In addition to the weight saving through the recess, this advantageously achieves that the screw or the screw bolt can be inserted via the recess into the lower bore. A further advantage of the aligned upper and lower bores is that through the upper bore a screwing tool, which has a screw driving profile, which may be configured, for example, as an inner profile or outer profile, led to the arranged in the recess Schaub bolt or the screw can be, so that the screw tightened or can be solved alternatively. The bolt or the screw may have a profile into which the screw driving profile can be brought into a torque-transferable engagement. Can be the screw-driving profile can be connected to the profile of the screw, which, for example as a hexagon socket (Allen ^®), square, hexagon socket (Torx ^®), cross-slot or formed may be adjusted.

For example, the part of the side wall disposed between the lower footprint and the side flank of the recess can be pressed or tensioned by the screw against the battery module underneath.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the upper bore can pass through the upper footprint and / or the lower bore penetrate the lower footprint. Alternatively, the upper bore of the upper footprint may be set so far that the upper footprint is not penetrated by the upper bore. The same applies accordingly for the lower bore and the lower footprint.

In general, it is preferred that the lower battery module is secured to the support structure of the vehicle, the support structure having a bore through which extends a screw whose threads are bolted to the inner thread of the lower bore of the lower battery module. Through the lower bore of the upper battery module, a screw may extend, which is bolted to the internal thread of the upper bore of the lower battery module.

Another aspect that z. B. can be combined with the first aspect, relates to a battery module housing part, which may be part of a housing for a battery module. The battery module housing part comprises the first side wall and the second side wall, wherein the first side wall is connected to the second side wall via a bottom and is thereby in particular U-shaped in cross-section. The first side wall, the second side wall and the bottom can be made of a sheet-shaped semi-finished product, such. B. be made of an aluminum sheet. In general, the thickness of a sheet-like semi-finished product is small compared to its areal extent. The first side wall is angled with respect to the bottom along a first bending edge. The second side wall is angled with respect to the bottom along a second bending edge. For example, the first and second sidewalls may be angled at approximately 90 ° or at right angles with respect to the floor.

To bend the side wall defined at its corresponding bending edge without bending the side wall and / or the bottom, it is necessary for a sheet metal of constant sheet thickness that the sheet-shaped semi-finished product in a bending device such. B. a folding bench is clamped. However, this means extra Manufacturing steps, whereby the manufacturing costs are increased.

According to the further aspect, the first bending edge has at least one weakening device and / or the second bending edge at least one weakening device, which reduces the bending resistance moment around the first bending edge - when bending the first side wall - or around the second bending edge - when bending the second side wall, in particular in comparison to the bending resistance moment of the second side wall or the floor or in comparison to a version without weakening device.

Particularly preferably, the weakening device one or more, the sheet thickness reducing z. B. have groove-shaped impressions. Multiple impressions may be made along the bending edge, e.g. at regular intervals, be strung together. The at least one impression is preferably stamped into the sheet before the sheet is bent. Due to the reduced sheet thickness at the or impressions and the bending resistance torque is reduced. Alternatively, the weakening means may comprise one or more perforations penetrating the sheet metal, in particular slots and / or round holes, wherein connecting webs are formed between the perforations connecting the bottom to the first side wall or the second side wall. The perforations may be along the bending edge, e.g. at regular intervals, be strung together. As a result of this removal of material, the cross-section to be formed by the bend is reduced, as a result of which the bending resistance moment is reduced.

In general, it is preferred that the weakening device is elongated, and preferably extends with its longitudinal direction along the bending edge. For example, a plurality of slots or perforations or indentations along the bending edge can be arranged in a row. If the weakening device is an embossment, it is preferred that the embossment is stamped into the material from the side stretched during the bending (tension side). Alternatively, it is of course also possible that the impression of the compressed at the bend side is stamped into the sheet (pressure side).

By lowering the bending resistance, the first and second side walls can be relatively easily deformed with respect to the floor, so that the use of a complex bending device is not absolutely necessary. A particular advantage of the attenuation device during assembly of the battery module, whereby the mounting method described herein can be advantageously developed. The battery cells or the battery cell stack is preferably in the Z direction, i. at least with a normal direction on the ground stationary direction part brought to the ground. In principle, it is possible that the side walls are already angled with respect to the ground to their final position, such as e.g. around 90 °. If the sheet metal shell formed from the bottom and the first and second bent-over side walls on the side walls an angled portion (see below), in particular fold, may supply the battery cells or the battery cell stack in the Z direction may not occur because the angled Sections of the sidewalls are in the way. It is therefore advantageous that the first and second side walls are pre-bent with respect to the ground about the first and second bending edges, respectively, to the extent that feeding is possible in spite of the angled portions in the Z direction, e.g. at an acute angle, in particular from 30 ° to 80 °, in particular about 75 °. The battery cells are brought to the bottom of the pre-bent sheet metal shell, wherein after bringing the battery cells, the first and / or second side wall are bent or folded towards the battery cells in their final position, in particular so that the first side wall and the second side wall respectively stand at a right angle to the ground.

Preferably, the first side wall having an angled portion, the z. B. angled at 90 °. The angled portion may be bent with respect to the side wall about a third bending edge. The first and third bending edges are preferably parallel. The battery cells are preferably at least partially enclosed between the folded portion of the first side wall and the bottom.

Further, the second side wall may have an angled portion, the z. B. angled at 90 °. The angled portion may be bent with respect to the side wall about a fourth bending edge. The second and fourth bending edges are preferably parallel. The battery cells are preferably at least partially enclosed between the folded section of the second side wall and the bottom.

Particularly preferably, the first and second side walls are connected at their opposite ends in each case by means of one of the end walls described herein. As a result, the reduced torsional stiffness of the battery module housing part caused by the attenuation device can be compensated for.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the manufacture of a battery module. First, lined-up battery cells, which thus a Make battery cell stack provided. The battery cells or the battery cell stack is arranged between the first side wall and the second side wall of the battery module housing. The first and the second side wall extend in the direction in which the battery cells are lined up, in particular in the thickness direction of the battery cells.

Furthermore, the first end wall and the second end wall are provided. The first and second end walls, which are preferably designed as pressure plates, are arranged such that the stack of the juxtaposed battery cells is arranged between the first end wall and the second end wall. The preferably flat configured battery cells are arranged approximately parallel to the first end wall and the second end wall.

The first and second end walls are moved towards each other, so that the first and second end wall respectively press against the stack, in particular from opposite sides, in such a way that the battery cells are clamped between the first end wall and the second end wall. Preferably, the first end wall and the second end wall are moved together in relation to each other until a desired distance is reached (path control). Alternatively, the first end wall and second end wall can be moved against each other until a certain pressing force is reached (force control). In order to generate a defined, always repeatable outer geometry of the battery module, the path control is preferred.

The battery cells, which in particular bulge depending on their charge state, their age, their temperature, etc., can vary relatively greatly, in particular in their cell thickness, are thereby compressed.

The first end wall is connected to the first and second side wall, optionally with the z. B. existing soil, connected by means of a joint connection. Furthermore, the second end wall is connected to the first and second side wall, in particular to the optionally present floor by means of a joint connection. In particular, the first end wall and / or the second end wall are connected to the side walls and possibly the bottom, while the end walls are held in the position in which they press against the battery cell stack. The holding can z. B. with a tensioning device which holds the end walls in the stack compressing position. For example, one of the end walls may already be connected to at least one side wall when the end walls are moved toward each other.

After the first and second end wall have been joined to the first and second side wall, in particular by screwing, riveting, or welding, so that a screw, rivet or welded connection has been made, the product thus completed can be removed from the tensioning device, wherein the end walls continue to squeeze or compress the stack.

For example, the joint connection may be a weld seam, in particular a laser weld seam. Preferably, the side walls, the bottom and the end walls of a steel or aluminum material, whereby also different steel or aluminum materials come into question, as long as they are welded together.

The method includes, in preferred embodiments, the step of forming the sidewalls and the floor connecting the sidewalls from a sheet-like part, the stack of battery cells being located above the floor, and the first sidewall and the first flexing edge, optionally through a weakening device may be weakened, arranged or is being bent and the first side wall is bent around the first bending edge with respect to the bottom and to the battery cells. The same applies mutatis mutandis to the second side wall, so that the second side wall is bent around the second bending edge, which may be weakened by a weakening device, with respect to the bottom and to the battery cells out. The first and / or second sidewall are bent approximately at right angles with respect to the floor.

Particularly preferably, the first side wall and the second side wall each z. B. bent by 90 ° section already on before the first and / or second side wall are bent into their final, in particular with respect to the ground rectangular position. The battery cells are arranged or enclosed around the bending edges between the folded portion of the respective side wall and the bottom after bending the side walls.

The invention has been described with reference to several preferred aspects and embodiments, which can also be combined with one another as desired. In the following, particularly preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to figures. The features disclosed in this case individually and in any combination of features form the subject matter of the invention advantageously. Show it:

1 a battery module,

2 a battery module with the lid removed,

3 a schematic diagram of juxtaposed and connected by busbar battery cells,

4 the outline sketch 3 with an inserted U-profile for a gas channel,

5 the outline sketch 4 with a U-profile closing circuit board, which is bolted to the busbars,

6 a schematic diagram of juxtaposed and connected by busbar battery cells, the busbars as an alternative to those from 4 are designed

7 a busbar 6 in a cross-sectional view,

8th a unit of a printed circuit board and arranged on the sides of the circuit board, in particular by means of screw fastened busbars, according to the 6 and 7 are designed

9 an alternative unit of a printed circuit board and arranged on the sides of the circuit board, in particular by means of clamping connection fixed busbars in a cross-sectional view

10 the unit off 9 in a perspective view

11 a two battery modules electrically connecting connecting element which is arranged in a separating gap between two contact tongues and the two contact tongues is welded,

12 a two battery modules electrically connecting connecting element which is arranged in a groove formed on the upper side of the contact tongues and welded to the groove flanks,

13 a system having a plurality of battery modules juxtaposed on its side walls,

14 a system with several battery modules lined up at their end walls,

15 a system having a plurality of battery modules arranged in juxtaposition on their side and end walls,

16 a system comprising a plurality of battery modules stacked on top of one another and juxtaposed on their sidewalls,

17 a detailed view 16 on the front wall of two stacked battery modules and

18 a detailed view 17 .

19 a perspective view of a battery module housing part, in particular for the battery module of the 1 and 2 .

20 an unwound representation of the sheet-shaped battery module housing part 19 and

21 an alternative for the weakening devices used in the 19 and 20 to be shown.

In the 1 and 2 becomes a battery module according to the invention 1 shown. The battery module 1 includes a battery module housing 20 which has a housing cover 21 and an enclosure 22 . 23a . 23b having. The enclosure 22 . 23a . 23b is made of a U-shaped metal sheet, which forms the bottom 24 and the first and second sidewalls arranged approximately parallel to one another 23a . 23b forms and two approximately parallel end walls 22 formed the side walls 23a . 23b at its opposite ends close the front side and the side walls 23a . 23b thus connect with each other. The formed as printing plates first and second end walls 22 are, in particular by means of laser welding, with the side walls 23a . 23b welded. Alternatively, the end walls could 22 with the side walls 23a . 23b screwed or glued. The end walls 22 and / or the side walls 23a . 23b and the ground 24 are preferably formed of a steel material or an aluminum material.

The first and second side walls 23a . 23b are formed by the legs of a U-shaped bent metal sheet, the bottom 24 the two side walls 23a . 23b combines. The side walls 23a . 23b are in relation to the ground 24 bent at approximately right angles, so that between the first side wall 23a and the floor 24 and the second side wall 23b and the floor 24 in each case a bending edge is formed. At the top of the battery module 1 are the side walls 23a . 23b folded in about 90 °, leaving a folded section 23c is formed, which preferably to the other side wall 23a . 23b points. The folded section 23c can eg parallel to the ground 24 be.

On the side walls 23a . 23b , in particular on the folded sections 23c is the lid formed preferably from plastic 21 , in particular its main section 21a attached. Of the main section 21a of the lid 21 is preferably fixed so that it is not readily accessible from the battery module 1 can be removed.

The lid 21 points to each of its end walls 22 out of each a foldable section 21c on that with the main section 21a by means of a film hinge 21b connected is. The foldable section 21c can be pivoted between an open position and a closed position. The closed position is in 1 shown. The pivot axis of the hinged section 21c is preferably parallel to the end walls 22 , By folding up the section 21c is the access to a first or second connector 30a . 30b , from the top of the battery module 1 or from the side of the lid 21 released. In the open position of the lid can thus an external connection element 70 that does not belong to the battery module, to the mounting bolt 62 of the first or second fitting 30a . 30b be attached, causing the battery module 1 eg with another battery module 1 electrically conductive is connectable. On the mounting bolts 62 is a mother 61 screwed, between the and the connector 30a . 30b the external connection element is clamped. The section 21c prevents access to the fitting in its closed position 30a . 30b from above or the lid side. The main section 21 permanently prevents access to the battery module 1 arranged busbars 30 whereby the risk of a short circuit accidentally produced by the installation personnel is reduced.

The first and second end walls 22 of the battery module 1 allow for multiple battery modules 1 stackable or stackable (see also 16 ), with the end walls 22 of the upper battery module 1 on the end walls 22 of the lower battery module 1 rest. This causes the weight of the upper battery module 1 over the end walls 22 of the lower battery module 1 is directed. Preferably, the side walls 23a . 23b of the lower battery module 1 essentially unloaded. In principle it is possible that the ground 24 of the upper battery module 1 the top, especially the lid 21 or the folded sections 23c of the lower battery module 1 touched. Preferably, however, there is between the upper battery module 1 and the under battery module 1 at least a very small gap, so that ensures that the upper battery module 1 with his end walls 22 on the end walls 22 of the lower battery module 1 supported.

The first and second end wall 22 has at its upper side at least one, in this example, two upper shelves 22d and on its underside at least one, in this example, two lower shelves 22c on. In the example shown, four upper and four lower shelves are used 22d . 22c shown disposed in the corners of the top and in the corners of the bottom of the box-shaped battery module. The upper battery module 1 can with its lower shelves 22c on the shelves 22d of the lower battery module 1 be placed so that the shelves 22c . 22d touch. The upper battery module 1 can eg with the lower battery module 1 be bolted, making a stable unit of several battery modules 1 is formed.

The distance between the lower footprint 22c and the upper floor space 22d the side wall 22 is preferably greater than or equal to the height of the remaining battery module 1 , In the example shown, the upper footprint 22d in terms of the lid 21 offset in height, especially upwards, where it is also possible in principle, the upper footprint 22d to arrange vertically offset. The lower footprint 22d is in relation to the ground 24 offset in height, in particular downwards, whereby a vertical displacement is also possible upwards. The important thing is that the distance between the shelves 22c and 22d greater than the height of the remaining battery module 1 is. Is eg the upper floor space 22d in terms of the lid 21 offset down, the lower footprint must be 22c in relation to the ground 24 be offset at least as far down as the upper floor space 22d in terms of the lid 21 is offset down. The same applies to the opposite case, ie when the lower footprint 22c in relation to the ground 24 is offset upward, the upper floor space 22d at least that far over the lid 21 be offset upwards, as the lower footprint 22c in relation to the ground 24 is offset upwards.

In the case 20 are a variety in the thickness direction 10 _D ( 3 ) lined up battery cells 10 added. The battery cells 10 are cuboidal and are also called prismatic battery cells 10 designated. Every battery cell 10 has an electrically positive connection terminal 11 and an electrically negative connection terminal 12 on, on a common side of the battery cell 10 are arranged. Between the positive and negative terminals 11 . 12 assigns each battery cell 10 a gas outflow opening 13 on, on which a pressure relief valve is formed, which opens and the outflow of gas from the battery cell 10 allowed when in the battery cell 10 an excessively high pressure is generated, as may be the case, for example, when a so-called thermal runaway takes place.

The fat 10 _D of each battery cell 10 varies due to certain parameters, such as the state of charge, the temperature and the age of the battery cell 10 , The fat 10 _{D of} the battery cell 10 is thus variable in operation. Advantageously, the juxtaposed battery cells 10 during installation of the battery module 1 through the end walls designed as pressure plates 22 in the thickness direction 10 _{D of} the battery cells 10 compressed or compressed with a biasing force, wherein the end walls 22 with the side walls 23 be welded so that the battery cells 10 from the battery module housing 20 , in particular the end walls 22 be stored under pretension. The battery module housing 20 is designed so that it is the battery cells 10 even when they tend to expand, such as when loading. This will ensure that the battery module 1 always maintains substantially the same external dimensions, regardless of the state of charge of the battery cells 10 ,

The battery module shown in the example 1 has twelve battery cells 10 on, each with two cells 10 are connected in parallel and with two adjacent cells connected in parallel 10 are connected in series.

The connection terminals 11 . 12 the battery cells 10 are designed as screw connections, where they can alternatively be designed as welding connections. The connection terminals 11 . 12 have threaded studs on each of which a nut 61 is screwed. Between the mother 61 and the connection terminal 11 . 12 becomes a busbar 30 clamped, the at least two adjacent battery cells 10 connects to each other, in particular in parallel and / or connected in series. In the in 2 shown example are each two adjacent battery cells 10 connected in parallel, these two battery cells 10 with the next two parallel connected battery cells 10 are connected in series. For this purpose, the busbar 30 with two electrically negative connection terminals 12 and two electrically positive connection terminals 11 contacted, in particular screwed or alternatively welded.

The connection terminals 11 . 12 of the juxtaposed battery cells 10 lie on two spaced-apart first and second lines, in particular straight lines, extending along the first and second side wall 23a . 23b or extend in the direction in which the battery cells 10 strung together. The first line is closer to the first side wall 23a and the second line is closer to the second sidewall 23b , The with a power rail 30 parallel connected battery cells 10 are arranged so that their electrically equal charged connection terminals 11 ; 12 lying on the same line. The with these battery cells 10 by means of the busbar 30 in series connected battery cells 10 are arranged so that their differently charged electrical connection terminals 11 ; 12 also lie on this line.

• – eine erste belegbare Stelle, die eine vorbereitete Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der ersten Seitenwand 23a hin und eine vorbereitete Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der ersten Stirnwand 22 hin aufweist,
• – eine zweite belegbare Stelle, die eine vorbereitete Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der ersten Seitenwand 23a hin und eine vorbereitete Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der zweiten Stirnwand 22 hin aufweist,
• – eine dritte belegbare Stelle, die eine vorbereitete Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der zweiten Seitenwand 23b hin und eine vorbereitete Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der ersten Stirnwand 22 hin aufweist, und
• – eine vierte belegbare Stelle, die eine vorbereitete Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der zweiten Seitenwand 23b hin und eine Durchtrittseinrichtung zu der zweiten Stirnwand 22 hin aufweist.

As in particular from 2 is recognizable, is the battery module housing 20 at four different, with a connector 30 assignable places, ie in the area of the corners or edges, on which a side wall 23a . 23b on a front wall 22 meets, for receiving a first or second connector 30a . 30b prepared. The battery module housing 20 For each verstellbarer point has two prepared passage means, one of which on the side with the side wall 23a . 23b and the other on the side with the front wall 22 opens or points out. The battery module housing 20 thus has four assignable posts, namely:

• A first assignable location containing a prepared passageway to the first side wall 23a towards and a prepared passage means to the first end wall 22 has,
• - A second verstellbare body, the prepared passage means to the first side wall 23a towards and a prepared passage means to the second end wall 22 has,
• A third verifiable location providing a prepared passageway to the second sidewall 23b towards and a prepared passage means to the first end wall 22 has, and
• - A fourth verstellbare body, the prepared passage means to the second side wall 23b towards and a passage means to the second end wall 22 towards.

Each of the four prepared to one of the side walls facing passage means has a recess 21d in the sidewall 23a . 23b and the folded section 23c on. The first and second assignable points each have a recess 21d on the first side wall and the third and fourth assignable points each have a recess 21d on the second side wall 23b on.

Each of the four prepared to one of the end walls 22 pointing passage means has a recess 21e in the front wall 22 on. The first and third assignable points have a recess 21e at the first end wall 22 and the second and fourth assignable locations each have a recess 21e at the second end wall 22 on.

How out 2 recognizable, are only two of the four prepared bodies with a fitting 30a . 30b ie the first location with a first fitting 30a and the second location with a second connector 30b busy. The thus prepared battery module housing 20 is thus flexible for different interconnected battery modules 10 used. In addition, that allows Battery module housing 20 that the fittings 30a . 30b be arranged in the places that short paths to an adjacent battery module 1 insist to this adjacent battery module 1 with the battery module 1 electrically conductive to connect.

The lid 21 indicates at its foldable section 21c a frontal access closure 21g , the frontal access 21e the first and third place closes, and a side access closure 21f that the long-distance access 21d closes, on. The access closures 21g . 21f are each by means of a predetermined breaking point 21h on the foldable section 21c arranged. Depending on which of the prepared places a connection piece 30a . 30b is arranged and from which wall, ie end wall 22 or sidewall 23 , Her an external, in particular battery module connecting busbar with the connector 30a . 30b is to be connected, the corresponding access closure 21f . 21g removed, leaving the remaining, unused access with the appropriate access closures locked or are.

The first connector 30a and the second connector 30b are each formed by a busbar, which two battery cells 10 electrically conductively connects, in particular switches in parallel. The connection piece 30a . 30b is with the connection terminals 11 . 12 screwed. In addition to these fittings has the fitting 30a . 30b a first tongue-like projection, which faces the front-side passage means, and a second tongue-shaped projection which is approximately perpendicular to the first tongue-shaped projection and points in the direction of the lateral passage means.

The battery module 1 has a gas channel 40 on top of a U-profile 41 and a circuit board 50 , which forms or co-forms a module controller is formed, as best of the 3 to 5 is recognizable. The elongated U-profile 41 has two legs in cross section 42 on top of that by a connecting section 43 get connected. The the connecting section 43 opposite side between the thighs 42 is from the circuit board 50 locked. The connecting section 43 of the U-profile 41 points for each of the gas outlets 13 a breakthrough 44 on, with the breakthroughs 44 are arranged so that they each have a Gasausströmöffnung 13 cover. This causes the battery cell 10 escaping gas into the gas channel 40 flows and on the gas channel 40 passed along. The elongated gas channel 40 extends with its longitudinal direction in the direction in which the battery cells 10 strung together. The gas channel 10 has in this example at its longitudinal end in the region of the end walls 22 of the battery module 1 one transitional section each 45 on, a transition from the quadrangular cross-section of the gas channel 40 forms on a round cross-section of a connection. The gas channel 40 is to an external, ie not to the battery module 1 belonging line connectable, in particular by means of the round connection, so that gas from the gas channel 40 and thus from the battery module 1 escape and can be led to a suitable location. This will prevent gas from escaping uncontrollably from the battery module 1 leakage and possibly occupants of the vehicle endangered.

The circuit board 50 has at least one, preferably a plurality of conductor tracks 52 on, preferably on the top, ie on the side facing away from the U-profile side of the circuit board 50 are arranged. Unless the circuit board 50 includes electronic components, they are also arranged on top.

The tracks 52 the circuit board 50 can have at least one electrical connection on the outside of the battery module 1 be electrically conductive, such. B. a plug-in connection, whereby printed conductors 52 the circuit board 50 with an external control device for monitoring and / or controlling the battery module 1 are connectable.

The circuit board 50 is in the in the 1 to 8th shown examples by means of a screw on the busbars 30 which the battery cells 10 electrically connected to each other, fastened, each with a conductor track 52 the circuit board 50 each with a busbar 30 is contacted electrically. This is advantageously done by the fact that on the top of the circuit board 50 arranged conductor track 52 is connected to a via or forms a via, extending through an opening, in particular the holes through which the screw 60 for fixing the circuit board 50 at the power rails 30 extends to the other side of the circuit board 50 extends and there the busbar 30 contacted. By attaching the circuit board 50 at the power rail 30 By means of screw connection, the through-connection of the printed conductor is also simultaneously 52 against the busbar 30 pressed, reducing the contact resistance between busbar 30 and trace 52 is reduced. For example, the via may annularly surround the bore through which it passes.

In the 3 to 5 are several busbars 30 shown with the connection terminals 11 . 12 the battery cells 10 are bolted, with the connection terminals 11 . 12 Studs have, which through holes in the busbars 30 extend, with the busbars 30 by means of a screwed onto the stud bolt nut 61 against the connection terminals 11 . 12 be pressed. The busbars 30 each have a tab 31 on which of the respective busbar 30 towards the terminals on the other side 11 . 12 protrudes. The tab 31 has a hole or threaded hole, alternatively a stud. The circuit board 50 points corresponding to the holes or studs of the tabs 31 congruent holes on. The circuit board 50 can be adjusted by means of screws 60 which extends through the holes of the circuit board 50 extend, at the thread of the busbars 30 fasten, alternatively by nuts screwed onto the studs (not shown).

In the 6 to 12 are preferred embodiment of busbars 30 for the battery module 1 from eg the 1 and 2 shown, with the busbars 30 in terms of their from an elongated busbar 33 protruding contact tongues 34 are the same design. The embodiment of the contact tongues 34 allows the attachment of an external connection element 70 , which, for example, two battery modules 1 electrically interconnect, such as parallel or serial connect ( 11 and 12 ). The busbars from the 6 to 8th differ from the busbars 30 from the 9 to 12 regarding the mounting of the printed circuit board 50 at the power rails 30 , For the execution of the 6 to 12 are the connections 11 . 12 the battery cells designed as welding connections.

The busbar preferably made of an extruded profile 30 has several of the busbar 30 protruding flat contact tongues 34 on. The number of contact tongues 34 corresponds to the number of battery cells 10 or their connections 11 . 12 coming from the power rail 30 to be contacted. Depending on the connection to be contacted 11 . 12 has the busbar 30 a contact tongue 34 on.

Between adjacent contact tongues 34 a separating gap is formed, which can be produced for example by punching. The contact tongue 34 is over a joint section 38 with the busbar 33 connected so that the contact tongue 34 about a hinge axis of the joint portion 38 , which is approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the busbar 33 extends, is elastically or plastically pivotable. The joint section 38 has a smaller thickness than the contact tongue 34 on. The contact tongue 34 points at its free end, that is from the busbar 33 far away a sweat banner 39 on whose thickness is less than that of the contact tongue 34 is. The contact tongue 34 is by means of a welding process, in particular a laser welding process on the connection terminal 11 . 12 the battery cell 10 welded thereto, wherein the weld seam for this purpose preferably parallel to the longitudinal direction of the busbar 33 and / or the hinge axis of the joint portion 38 runs. With this version of the busbar 30 can be height differences between the connection terminals 11 . 12 from with a common busbar 33 connected battery cells 10 compensate particularly advantageous. Furthermore, the weld between terminal terminal 11 . 12 and contact tongue 34 by the unavoidable expansion and contraction of the battery cells 10 only moderately burdened.

The contact tongue 34 has on its top a groove 35 which is bordered laterally by two groove flanks and along the longitudinal direction of the busbar 33 extends. The groove 35 it allows one of the battery module 1 external, in particular busbar-like or flat-material-like connecting element 70 in the groove 35 positioned ( 12 ) and with the busbar 30 , in particular the contact tongue 34 is welded, such as with a laser welding process. For this purpose, in each case a weld, such as a fillet weld can be made on the groove sides. The busbar is preferred 30 so in the battery module housing 20 arranged that the groove 35 in an extension or escape with the to the side with the front wall 22 pointing passage means is located.

The separation gap between adjacent contact tongues 34 it allows one of the battery module 1 external, in particular busbar-like or flat-material-like connecting element 70 positioned in the separation gap ( 11 ) and with the busbar 30 , in particular the reeds 34 , between which the separating gap is formed, is welded, such as by a laser welding process. This can be done at the contact tongues 34 one weld each, such as a fillet weld, are made. The busbar is preferred 30 so in the battery module housing 20 arranged that the separating gap in an extension or escape with the to the side with the front wall 22 pointing passage means is located. The width of the separating gap preferably corresponds approximately to the width of the groove 35 and the connecting element 70 so that the connecting element 70 optionally in the groove 35 or the separating gap can be positioned, as can be seen from the comparison of 11 and 12 evident.

When the connecting element 30 is positioned in the separation gap, it extends through the passageway that faces the side wall 23a . 23b points ( 11 ). When the connecting element 30 in the groove 35 is positioned, it extends through the passage means which is to the side with the end wall 22 points ( 12 ).

The busbar 30 is a monolithic body and is formed by an extruded profile, in particular of an aluminum material, wherein the gaps between adjacent contact tongues are punched out.

The busbar 30 , in particular the busbar 33 is in the execution of the 6 to 8th with the circuit board 50 screwed and executed from the 9 to 12 with the circuit board 50 clamped connected, ie to the side edge of the busbar 30 attached.

In the execution of the 6 to 8th become the threaded holes for the screws 60 for mounting the circuit board 50 with a separate step in the busbar 33 shaped. The busbar 33 has a longitudinally extending notch, the flank of which the longitudinal edge of the circuit board 33 leads and / or with a corresponding notch, in particular its edge, a busbar 30 the opposite side of a bezel for the circuit board 50 forms, which the circuit board 50 laterally bordered or leads. The threaded hole for the screw is arranged in the notch, in particular on a bottom of the notch.

In the execution of the 9 to 12 eliminates the attachment of these threaded holes and these notches, as the circuit board 50 from the busbar 33 is trapped. The busbar 33 has a nip 36 on top, between a monolithic with the busbar 33 shaped clamping spring 37 and also monolithic with the busbar 33 formed counter-holder is formed. The clamping spring 37 is elastically yielding, with a clearance between it and the anvil, ie the nip 36 , is formed, which is less than the thickness of the circuit board 50 is. Will the circuit board 50 in the nip 36 plugged in, the clamping spring 37 curious, causing the nip 36 expands so that he has the circuit board 50 can absorb and presses against the counterpart. One from the circuit board 50 formed trace 52 is from the clamping spring 37 against the counterpart 36 pressed, causing the trace 52 with the busbar 30 electrically conductive is contacted. The clamping spring 37 has a free end, which is elastically yielding against in particular the underside of the circuit board 50 suppressed. The clamping spring 37 protrudes from the busbar 33 from, with the free end of the clamping spring 37 bent over, in particular bent by about 180 °, that it is to the busbar 33 points. As seen from the cross-sectional view 7 can be seen, can the busbar 30 produce in a simple manner from an extruded profile.

In 13 becomes a system with several battery modules 1a -D shown, wherein the multiple battery modules 1a - 1d with their side walls 23a . 23b arranged side by side, so that the side walls 23a . 23b adjacent battery modules 1a -D point to each other. The battery modules 1a -D can eg like the battery module 1 from the 1 to 5 , optional with the modifications after the 6 to 12 be designed.

The battery module housing 20 points to the side with the first side wall 23a and on the side with the second side wall 23b two prepared passageways on each. The battery modules 1a -D are arranged to each other so that at least one, preferably two prepared passage means of a battery module 1a Each one prepared passage means of the adjacent battery module 1a -D, ie that the opposite passage means are aligned. The opposite passage means may be referred to as a passageway pair. The facing sides of the adjacent battery modules 1a . 1b ; 1b . 1c ; 1c . 1d each form a first penetrator pair and a second penetrator pair.

The connection piece 30b of the one battery module 1a can by means of a rail-like or flat material-like connecting element 70 with a connector 30a of the adjacent battery module 1b electrically connected, wherein the connecting element 70 through the passages 21d the opposite and facing each other passage means, that extends through the eg first passage means pair. The optional the passage opening 21d closing and from the lid 21 formed passage opening closure 21f is this by breaking off at the breaking point 21h been removed. Advantageously, the length of the connecting element 70 This will be kept very low.

The passages 21d the other, eg second passage means pair, are by means of the respective passage opening closure 21f closed or can remain closed because no connecting element through the second passage device pair 70 extends.

Includes the system as in 13 specified, at least three battery modules in a row 1 and would be the battery modules 1a - 1d after eg 2 configured, would be an interconnection of the battery modules 1a -D with such short fasteners 70 not consistently possible. The Number of battery cells ( 12 Piece) and their interconnection 2 parallel 2 serial would come with the 2 apparent configuration of the busbars 30 cause the fittings 30a . 30b on the same line or on the same side wall 23a . 23b would have to be attached. Thus, at the latest at the connection of the second battery module 1b ie electrically between the first and second battery module 1a . 1c switched battery module 1b , the problem arise that the connecting element 70 longer than the direct connection would have to be configured.

To achieve that the connecting element 70 the fittings 30a . 30b the neighboring battery modules 1a . 1b ; 1b . 1c ; 1c . 1d Nevertheless, it can be connected in a direct way, it is advantageous that the connecting pieces 30a . 30b to two diagonally opposite points of the four assignable points of the second battery module 1b are arranged and / or that the second battery module 1b a crossover busbar 32 having.

The traverse power rail 32 is by means of a first section at the lying on the first line connection 11 at least one of the battery cells 10 and by means of a second portion at a lying on the second line connection of at least one other, in particular the adjacent battery cell 10 attached and connects these connections 11 . 12 by means of a cross section electrically conductive. Since in the example shown in each case two battery cells 10 are connected in parallel by a first portion of the traverse busbar, connecting the traverse busbar 32 two parallel connected battery cells 10 with two subsequent ones by means of a second section of the traverse busbar 32 parallel connected battery cells 10 , The traverse section is arranged between the first section and the second section. The traverse power rail 32 , In particular the first section and / or the second section, analogous to the embodiments described herein, a fastening device, in particular a stud or a threaded hole, for mounting the circuit board 50 , as for example by means of a screw connection, have. The connections between the first section and the connection of the at least one battery cell 10 and the second portion and the connection of the at least one battery cell 10 may be designed as screw connections or optionally as welded connections as in the example shown. For a welded connection, the first section and the second section may each have at least one or at least two contact tongues 34 ( 6 to 8th ) projecting from the first portion and the second portion and between which a separating gap is formed. Further developments are analogous to the 6 to 8th . 11 and 12 , such as the attachment by means of a joint portion 38 , the welding section 39 , the groove 35 ,

The traverse power rail 32 is preferably made of a metal sheet, such as. B. punched an aluminum or copper sheet.

In 14 becomes a system with several battery modules 1a C shows the several battery modules 1a - 1c with their end walls 22 arranged in juxtaposition so that the end walls of adjacent battery modules 1a -C point to each other. The battery modules 1a -C can eg like the battery module 1 from the 1 to 5 , optional with the modifications after the 6 to 12 be designed.

The battery module housing 20 points to the side with the first end wall 22 and on the side with the second end wall 22 two prepared passageways on each. The battery modules 1a -C are arranged relative to each other such that at least one, preferably two, prepared passage means of the one battery module 1a C each a prepared passage means of the adjacent battery module 1a C, ie that the opposite passage means are aligned. The opposite passage means may be referred to as a passageway pair. The facing sides of the adjacent battery modules 1a . 1b ; 1b . 1c each form a first penetrator pair and a second penetrator pair.

The connection piece 30b of the one battery module 1a can by means of a rail-like or flat material-like connecting element 70 with a connector 30a of the adjacent battery module 1b electrically connected, wherein the connecting element 70 through the passages 21e the opposite and facing each other passage means, that extends through the eg first passage means pair. The optional the passage opening 21e closing and from the lid 21 formed passage opening closure 21g is this by breaking off at the breaking point 21h been removed. Advantageously, the length of the connecting element 70 be kept very low.

The passages 21e the other, eg second passage means pair, are by means of the respective passage opening closure 21g closed or can remain closed because no connecting element through the second passage device pair 70 extends.

Includes the system as in 14 specified, at least three battery modules in a row 1 and are the battery modules 1a - 1d after eg 2 configured, is an interconnection of the battery modules 1a -D with such short fasteners 70 consistently possible. The number of battery cells ( 12 Piece) and their interconnection 2 parallel 2 serial effects with the 2 apparent configuration of the busbars 30 that the fittings 30a . 30b on the same line or on the same side wall 23a . 23b are attached. A crossover busbar 32 how they look for the system 13 is not in any battery module 1a -C required, but possible if at least one adjacent battery module 1a . 1b ; 1b . 1c such a crossing busbar 32 having.

In 15 becomes an arrangement of several battery modules 1a -H shown. The arrangement comprises a battery module 1e that with his front wall 22 on the side wall 23a ; 23b a neighboring battery module 1f is arranged, wherein the passage means of the battery module 1e , which is to the side with the front wall 22 points, the passage means of the battery module 1f to the side with the end wall 22 pointing sidewall 23a ; 23b facing, so that the opposite passage means are aligned and form a pair of passage means. In the example shown, the lined-up battery modules form 1e . 1f only one passageway pair. The respective locations of the opposite passage means are each with a connection piece 30a . 30b equipped with a simply designed, in this example angled connecting element 70 , in particular a busbar, are electrically conductively connected.

The arrangement off 15 also corresponds to a combination of the arrangements of the 13 and 14 , For example, the arrangement comprises a plurality, in particular five, battery modules 1a -E, which are strung together with their side walls ( 13 ) and several, in particular two, battery modules 1f -G, lined up with their end walls ( 14 ). One side wall each of the battery modules 1f -G is at the front of the battery modules 1a -E arranged so that the side walls facing the end walls to the end walls. Further, the battery modules 1g -H arranged with their side walls lined up ( 13 ). Depending on the interconnection and positioning of the battery modules 1a -H can the battery modules 1a -H crossover busbars 32 include ( 13 ).

In 16 becomes an arrangement with several battery modules 1 shown. The battery modules 1 are stacked in the manner described above and with their side walls 23a . 23b arranged in a row, so that a stack with the height of at least two battery modules 1 and a width of at least two, in this example four, battery modules.

Representing the front walls 22 of the battery module 1 will be related to the 1 . 2 . 16 . 17 and 18 an end wall 22 described in more detail.

The front wall 22 has on its underside at least one bore, in particular threaded bore 22e , like here two tapped holes 22e , for fixing the battery module 1 on a support structure, such as a frame or vehicle structure, or on a battery module located thereunder 1 on. The front wall 22 has at its top at least one bore, in particular threaded bore 22f , like here two tapped holes 22f , for fixing the battery module 1 on a battery module arranged above it 1 on. The longitudinal axis of the upper bore 22f Aligns with the longitudinal axis of the lower bore 22e , Between the upper hole 22f and the lower hole 22e is a particular pocket-shaped or continuous recess 22b educated.

The lower mounting hole extends through the lower footprint 22c , The upper mounting hole extends through the upper footprint 22d , The front wall 22 has ever upper shelf 22d an upper mounting hole 22f and the lower floor space 22c a lower mounting hole 22e on.

In particular, have the upper hole 22f a thread and the bottom hole 22e a thread on. The thread diameter of the thread of the upper hole 22f is smaller than the core diameter of the thread of the lower hole 22e , This thread arrangement allows particularly advantageous that battery module 1 with its underside optionally on a support structure or on a battery module arranged underneath 1 screw tight.

If the battery module with its underside screwed to a support structure, a fastening screw, which has the nominal diameter of the thread of the lower bore, are screwed from the underside into which the thread, so that the support structure between the lower footprint and the screw head is clamped.

If the battery module is screwed with its underside to a battery module arranged underneath, a fastening screw, which has the nominal diameter of the thread of the upper bore, extends from the recess 22b extend through the lower bore of the upper battery module and be screwed into the thread of the upper bore of the lower battery module, so that the between recess 22b and lower footprint of the upper battery module is clamped between the screw head and the upper footprint of the lower battery module. The screw can be screwed in, for example by means of a screwing tool which is guided through the upper bore of the upper battery module to the screw.

For this purpose, metric ISO threads can be used by way of example, such as e.g. M6 for the upper thread and M8 for the lower thread or M8 for the upper thread and M10 for the lower thread.

In 20 will be a settlement of in 19 shown in perspective battery module housing part. The battery module housing part produced from a sheet-shaped semifinished product 23a . 23b . 24 has a first sidewall 23a and a second side wall 23b on, each approximately at right angles with respect to the ground 24 , the side walls 23a . 23b connects, angled. The first side wall 23a is at a first bending edge 24a that is between the ground 24 and the first sidewall 23a is formed, especially where the first side wall 23a and the ground 24 meet, angled. The same applies mutatis mutandis to the second side wall 23b around a second bending edge 24b in relation to the ground 24 is angled. The first and second bending edge 24a . 24b each has a weakening device, the more along the bending edge arranged perforations, in particular slot-shaped recesses or slots 24c , having. Alternatively or in addition to the slots 24c The perforations can have round holes, in particular with a circular or elliptical cross section.

Between adjacent perforations, especially slots 24c , webs are formed, which are the first side wall 23a with the ground 24 or the second side wall 23b with the ground 24 connect. The slots 24c are elongated and with their longitudinal directions along the bending edge 24a . 24b arranged. The perforations, especially the slots 24c , are on the bending edge 24a . 24b arranged. Due to the weakening effect of the perforations, the bending resistance moment for the bending of the first side wall 23a around the first bending axis and the bending resistance moment of the second side wall 23b lowered around the second bending axis, leaving the side walls 23a . 23b are bendable with less force and in bending a plastic deformation of the soil 24 and / or the first sidewall 23a or the second side wall 23b is largely avoided.

As well as the execution of z. B. the 1 and 2 has the first housing wall 23a and the second housing wall 23b two each as passage openings 21d serving recesses, which are each part of a passage means. The passage facilities 21d extend through the folded section 23c and a third bending edge 23d to the side wall 23a or by the folded section 23c and a fourth bending edge 23e to the second side wall 23b , In the example shown, the bending edge 23d . 23e no weakening device on. However, alternatively, a weakening device, as for the first and second bending edges 24a . 24b is provided for the third and fourth bending edges 23d . 23e be provided. The perforations, especially the slots 24c , the first and second bending edges 24a . 24b are bordered by a closed contour, in contrast to the recesses 21d which are open on one side.

For example, the angled sections 23c in relation to the first side wall 23a or the second side wall 23b before bending the first and second side wall 23a . 23b in relation to the ground 24 be angled. The battery cell stack from the battery cells 10 can z. B. over the ground 24 be arranged, with the first side wall 23a and the second side wall 23b in the in 19 End position shown around the first bending edge 24a and the second bending edge 24b be bent. For example, the side walls 23a . 23b in relation to the ground 24 around the first and second bending edge 24a . 24b be pre-bent, the battery cell stack then over the ground 24 is arranged, and then the side walls 23a . 23b finished bending, ie in the in 19 be bent position shown.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

battery module

10

 battery cell

10 _B

 cell width

10 _H

 cell height

10 _d

 cell thickness

11

 positive electrode / terminal

12

 negative electrode / terminal

13

 gas outflow

20

 Battery module housing

21

 housing cover

21a

 main section

21b

 Hinge / Movie Hinge

21c

 foldable section

21d

 Passage opening / recess

21e

 Passage opening / recess

21f

 Through opening closure

21g

 Through opening closure

21h

 Breaking point

21i

 locking element

22

 End wall / pressure plate

22a

 Weld seam / laser weld

22b

 Recess / pocket

22c

 lower footprint

22d

 upper footprint

22e

 lower mounting hole / lower thread

22f

 upper mounting hole / upper thread

23a

 first sidewall

23b

 second side wall

23c

 folded section / fold

23d

 third bending edge

23e

 fourth bending edge

24

 ground

24a

 first bending edge

24b

 second bending edge

24c

 slot

24d

 Indentation / groove

30

 conductor rail

30a

 first connection piece

30b

 second connector

31

 flap

32

 Querungssstromschiene

33

 bus

34

 contact tongue

35

 groove

36

 nip

37

 clamping spring

38

 hinge section

39

 welding lug

40

 Fluid channel / gas channel

41

 U-profile

42

 Thighs / side legs

43

 Connecting section / connecting bridge

44

 breakthrough

45

 Transition section / transition piece

50

 Plate / circuit board / controller

51

 drilling

52

 conductor path

60

 screw

61

 mother

62

 mounting bolts

70

 connecting element

71

 Weld

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102010046529 A1 [0002]
• WO 2008/106948 A1 [0003]
• JP 2004171856 A [0003]
• DE 102011016799 A1 [0003]

Claims (16)

Battery module ( 1 ), in particular for use in a vehicle, the battery module ( 1 ) comprising: a) a particularly box-shaped battery module housing ( 20 ), which has a plurality of battery cells ( 10 ) and a first side wall ( 23a ) and a second side wall ( 23b ) and a first end wall ( 22 ) and a second end wall ( 22 ), wherein the first and second end wall ( 22 ) the first and second side wall ( 23a . 23b ) at their opposite ends, characterized in that b) the battery module ( 1 ) is designed so that it is connected to a same battery module ( 1 ) is stackable, the end walls ( 22 ) of the upper battery module ( 1 ) on the end walls ( 22 ) of the lower battery module ( 1 ) and / or c) the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) at least one upper footprint ( 22d ) and at least one lower footprint ( 22c ), wherein the distance between the upper footprint ( 22d ) and the lower footprint ( 22c ) of the respective end wall ( 22 ) greater than the height of the one between the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) arranged portion of the battery module housing ( 20 ). Battery module ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second end wall ( 22 ) is designed in each case as a printing plate. Battery module ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the end wall ( 22 ) at its top an upper bore ( 22f ) and on its underside a lower bore ( 22e ), wherein the upper bore ( 22f ) and the lower hole ( 22e ) have a common bore longitudinal axis. Battery module ( 1 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the upper bore ( 22f ) an internal thread and the lower bore ( 22e ) has an internal thread, wherein the internal thread of the upper bore ( 22f ) has a smaller thread diameter than the inner thread of the lower hole ( 22e ) having. Battery module ( 1 ) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the upper bore ( 22f ) an internal thread and the lower bore ( 22e ) has an internal thread, wherein the internal thread of the upper bore ( 22f ) has a thread diameter which is less than the thread core diameter of the internal thread of the lower bore ( 22e ). Battery module ( 1 ) according to one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the end wall ( 22 ) a recess ( 22b ), in particular a window-shaped or pocket-shaped recess into which the upper bore ( 22f ) and the lower hole ( 22e ), the upper bore ( 22f ) and the lower hole ( 22e ) preferably on or in a side flank of the recess ( 22b ) in the recess ( 22b ). System according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the upper bore ( 22f ) the upper footprint ( 22d ) and / or the lower bore ( 22e ) the lower footprint ( 22c ) interspersed. System comprising at least two battery modules ( 1 ), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 7, the battery modules ( 1 ) each comprising: a) a particular box-shaped battery module housing ( 20 ), which has a plurality of battery cells ( 10 ) and a first side wall ( 23a ) and a second side wall ( 23b ) and a first end wall ( 22 ) and a second end wall ( 22 ), wherein the first and second end wall ( 22 ) the first and second side wall ( 23a . 23b ) at their opposite ends, characterized in that b) the battery modules ( 1 ) are stackable on top of each other, the end walls ( 22 ) of the upper battery module ( 1 ) on the end walls ( 22 ) of the lower battery module ( 1 ) rest. System according to claim 8, characterized in that the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) at least one upper footprint ( 22d ) and at least one lower footprint ( 22c ), wherein the lower shelves ( 22c ) of the upper battery module ( 1 ) on the upper shelves ( 22d ) of the lower battery module ( 1 ) rest. System according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the lower battery module ( 1 ) is attached to a support structure of a vehicle, such as a vehicle frame, the support structure having a bore through which a screw extends, the threads of which engage with the internal thread of the lower bore (FIG. 22e ) of the lower battery module ( 1 ) is screwed. System according to one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that through the lower bore ( 22e ) of the upper battery module ( 1 ) extends a screw with the internal thread of the upper bore ( 22f ) of the lower battery module ( 1 ) is screwed. Battery module housing part ( 23a . 23b . 24 ), full: a) a first side wall ( 23a ) and a second side wall ( 23b ), which over a ground ( 24 ), wherein the first and second side walls ( 23a . 23b ) and the ground ( 24 ) are made of a sheet-shaped semi-finished product and the first side wall ( 23a ) in relation to the ground ( 24 ) along a first bending edge ( 24a ) is angled and the second side wall ( 23b ) along a second bending edge ( 24b ) in relation to the ground ( 24 ) is angled, characterized in that b) the first bending edge ( 24a ) and / or the second bending edge ( 24b ) at least one weakening device ( 24c ; 24d ), which the bending resistance moment about the first or second bending edge ( 24a ; 24b ). Battery module housing part ( 23a . 23b . 24 ) according to claim 12, characterized in that the weakening device ( 24c ; 24d ) one or more indentations ( 24d ) or the sheet penetrating slots or perforations ( 24c ) located on and along the bending edge ( 24a . 24b ). Method for producing a battery module ( 1 ), comprising the following steps: a) provision of juxtaposed battery cells ( 10 ), which between a first side wall ( 23a ) and a second side wall ( 23b ) are arranged, wherein the first and the second side wall ( 23a . 23b ) extend along the direction in which the battery cells ( 10 ) are strung together, b) providing a first end wall ( 22 ) and a second end wall ( 22 ), wherein the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) are each designed as a pressure plate and wherein the stack of the juxtaposed battery cells ( 10 ) between the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ), c) wherein the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) are moved towards each other, so that the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) each press against the stack so that the battery cells ( 10 ) between the first end wall ( 22 ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) are clamped, d) wherein the first end wall ( 22 ) with the first and second side wall ( 23a . 23b ) by means of a joint connection ( 22a ) and the second end wall ( 22 ) with the first and second side wall ( 23a . 23b ) by means of a joint connection ( 22a ) is connected. A method according to claim 14, characterized in that the joint connection ( 22a ) is a screw or rivet connection or preferably a welded connection, in particular a laser welding connection. Method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the side walls ( 23a . 23b ) and the side walls ( 23a . 23b ) connecting ground ( 24 ) are formed from a sheet-like part, wherein the stack of the battery cells ( 10 ) above the ground ( 24 ) is arranged or is and the first side wall ( 23a ) around a first bending edge ( 24a ) in relation to the ground ( 24 ) and to the battery cells ( 10 ) and the second side wall ( 23b ) around a second bending edge ( 24b ) in relation to the ground ( 24 ) and to the battery cells ( 10 ), wherein it is preferred that the first side wall ( 23a ) and / or the second side wall ( 23b ) each have a folded section ( 23c ), wherein the battery cells ( 10 ) after bending the side walls ( 23a . 23b ) around the bending edges ( 24a . 24b ) between the folded section ( 23c ) and the ground ( 24 ) are arranged or enclosed.

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