DE102013205451A1 - System for conveying a fluid from a volume space, use of such a system and vehicle with such a system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system (1) for conveying a fluid (2) from a volume space (3), in which a plurality of electrically interconnected galvanic cells is arranged, the volume space (3), an internal combustion engine (4) and a comprising the combustion chamber (4) connected to the feed device (6), such that during operation of the internal combustion engine (4) of the internal combustion engine (4) via the feed device (6) a fluid (2) from the volume space (3) is conveyed. In particular, use of the system (1) for cooling the galvanic cells arranged in the volume space (3) and / or for discharging gas / aerosol formed in the volume space (3) by the galvanic cells is provided. Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle with such a system.

Description

The invention relates to a system for conveying a fluid from a volume space, in which a plurality of electrically connected galvanic cells is arranged. A fluid in the context of the present invention is a summary term for liquids, gases and / or aerosols, and thus in particular also for mixtures of solid and liquid suspended particles and a gas. Furthermore, in particular air and galvanic cells, in particular battery cell, such as lithium-ion cells, or gas released from fuel cells, a fluid in the context of the present invention. Furthermore, a mixture of air and a gas released from galvanic cells and / or released aerosol is also a fluid in the sense of the present invention.

Furthermore, the invention relates to a use of such a system and a vehicle with such a system.

State of the art

In hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, the electrical energy required for the electric drive of such vehicles is provided by galvanic cells. Rechargeable battery cells (accumulators), such as lithium-ion cells, are used in particular as galvanic cells. As galvanic cells but also fuel cells can be used in particular. In principle, electrolysis devices (quasi "inverted" fuel cells) can also be used.

For a safe operation of the galvanic cells and for an optimized in particular with regard to the performance and the lifetime use of such galvanic cells must be ensured that the galvanic cells are used only in a certain temperature range. Thus, especially at high power consumption or high power output of the galvanic cells to prevent heating of the galvanic cells beyond a certain temperature addition, in particular not to shorten the life of the galvanic cells and a so-called thermal runaway (also called "thermal runaway") to avoid galvanic cells. For this reason, the galvanic cells are usually tempered, wherein a cooling of the cells takes place in particular by means of coolant flow-through cooling plates. A battery with such a cooling plate is for example from the document DE 10 2008 059 954 A1 known.

Despite the cooling of the galvanic cells, in particular with lithium-ion cells, disturbances, such as the occurrence of high electrical currents or overcharging of the battery cells during the charging process, can lead to a thermal runaway of the galvanic cells. In this case, gas or an aerosol, which may comprise, for example, hydrocarbons, can form in the affected cells. This gas formation causes a pressure increase within the cells. Via vents or so-called burst windows, the gas / aerosol can escape from the cells. Since the escaping gas / aerosol is usually undesirable, this should be derived in a targeted manner. From the publication DE 10 2009 000 660 A1 For this purpose, a battery module with a housing is known, in which formed gases can be removed via a degassing line.

Against this background, it is an object of the invention, in particular for use in hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles, which in addition to an electric drive also have an internal combustion engine for the drive, as well as in electric vehicles, the internal combustion engine as a so-called "range extender Range Extender (REX) range extender), a system for delivering a fluid from one and / or through a volume space in which a plurality of electrically interconnected galvanic cells is arranged to provide, the system advantageously for cooling the galvanic Cells and / or for the safe removal of released in the volume space by the galvanic cells gas or aerosol is used, and with respect to the above-mentioned known solutions for cooling galvanic cells by means of cooling medium flowed through cooling plates or over the above-mentioned known solutions for Abfü To reduce the weight of unwanted gas / aerosol from battery housings is lighter and less expensive.

Disclosure of the invention

To achieve the object, a system for conveying a fluid from a volume space, in which at least one galvanic cell or a plurality of electrically interconnected galvanic cells is arranged, proposed, which comprises the volume space, an internal combustion engine and a feed device connected to the internal combustion engine, wherein the volume space is connected to the feed device such that a fluid can be conveyed from the volume space during operation of the internal combustion engine from the internal combustion engine via the feed device. The fluid is advantageously sucked by the engine and thus promoted from the volume space and finally passes into the engine. The internal combustion engine may in particular be a reciprocating engine, for example, a gasoline or a diesel engine. The internal combustion engine is preferably an engine intended or used for the non-electric drive of a hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicle or an internal combustion engine used in electric vehicles as a range extender.

In particular, battery cells, preferably lithium-ion cells, or fuel cells are provided as galvanic cells. The galvanic cells are in particular designed to provide the electrical energy required for the electric drive of hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicles. If the galvanic cells are battery cells, they are preferably designed as rechargeable battery cells (accumulators), in particular as rechargeable lithium-ion cells.

The volume space in which the galvanic cells are arranged is preferably designed as a housing, in particular as a battery housing. Preferably, the volume space is up to the connection to the feed, gas-tight, so in particular airtight, formed or at least substantially gas-tight. If the galvanic cells are battery cells, it is provided according to the invention that the volume space together with the battery cells arranged therein can also be designed in particular as a so-called "battery pack". In the preferred use of the system according to the invention in a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle, wherein in particular fuel cell vehicles fall under the category of electric vehicles, the volume space can be arranged for example in the engine compartment of the vehicle or in the trunk. As a further embodiment variant, the volume space can in particular also be the installation space in a vehicle, for example a spare wheel well, in which the galvanic cells are arranged instead of the spare wheel, or an installation space provided under at least one seat of the vehicle.

The feeding device of the system according to the invention is advantageously designed tubular or tubular. In particular, the feed device can be formed in sections like a tube and sections of a tube. In particular, for bridging larger distances, for example, in the arrangement of the galvanic cells containing volume space in the trunk of a vehicle with simultaneous arrangement of the engine in the frontmost engine compartment of the vehicle, the feeder can be partially formed to bridge this greater distance as a hose and / or pipe.

The invention makes use of the fact that, during operation of an internal combustion engine for combustion of the fuel, air is usually sucked in via a feed device, with the sucked or conveyed air being combusted together with the fuel as a fuel-air mixture. The invention is based on the finding that the process step of the suction for promoting a fluid from a volume space is usable. In particular, by means of a suitable connection of the volume space to the feed device, the air sucked in by the internal combustion engine can be guided at least partially through the volume space containing the galvanic cells. The air thus at least partially reaches the volume space and is again sucked or conveyed out of the volume space by the operation of the internal combustion engine. This air flowing through the volume space is advantageously usable for cooling the galvanic cells. Advantageously, additional measures or means for the direct cooling of the galvanic cells, in particular the use of coolant-flowed (regardless of whether liquid or gaseous) cooling plates or cooling shafts, are therefore unnecessary. As a result, the design complexity for providing cooling of the galvanic cells advantageously decreases. By eliminating a conventional cooling system for cooling the galvanic cells advantageously also a weight reduction can be achieved and a reduction in the costs associated with the provision of cooling.

According to a further realization of the invention, by means of a connection according to the invention of the volume space containing the galvanic cells to the feed using the process step of suction during operation of an internal combustion engine in the case of a release of gas or aerosol by the galvanic cells in the volume space, a safe discharge of the released Gases / aerosols from the volume space feasible. For this purpose, provision is made in particular for the volume space to be connected to the feed device in such a way that, in the case of a gas or aerosol release, either only the released gas / aerosol is sucked in instead of air from the internal combustion engine, or if the volume space is connected to the feed device in this way, that air taken in by the internal combustion engine can flow through the volume space and released gas / aerosol is thereby conveyed together with the air from the internal combustion engine. The gas or the gas-air mixture enters the internal combustion engine. Advantageously, the gas or the gas-air mixture is discharged via the exhaust gas outlet of the internal combustion engine, so that except for the connection to the feeder, which can be done for example by means of a connection line, no additional degassing, as in the prior art so far Removal of gas released from battery cells known, is required. In this way, advantageously, a further weight and cost reduction can be achieved.

Advantageously, the system according to the invention can thus be used for cooling the galvanic cells arranged in the volume space and / or for discharging gas / aerosol released in the volume space. In particular, when using the system according to the invention in hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicles, which have an internal combustion engine, this internal combustion engine can be used as an internal combustion engine of the system and the volume space containing the galvanic cells to the supply device for the supply of air to the Combustion engine are connected so that with relatively little material and design effort, a system for cooling the galvanic cells and for discharging undesirable in the volume space released gas / aerosol is provided.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the system comprises at least one adjusting device, wherein by means of the at least one adjusting device is adjustable, that during operation of the internal combustion engine, a fluid, at least partially, is conveyed from the volume space. This can be realized, in particular, by blocking the usual air supply to the internal combustion engine via the supply device by means of the adjusting device in the event of a necessary discharge of gas / aerosol released in the volume space, and by means of the same or a further adjusting device to connect directly to the volume space the feeder is released, so that the internal combustion engine instead of pure air, ie of ambient air, a in the volume space of the galvanic cells formed gas or aerosol sucks. The gas or the aerosol can be sucked in together with other air. The gas / aerosol formed in the volume space is thus thus conveyed out of the volume space by the operated combustion engine, optionally together with further air. According to an advantageous embodiment, the adjusting device is designed as a flap inserted into the feeding device. This flap is preferably controllable or controllable, for example by design as a solenoid valve or by means of a pneumatic control. As a further advantageous embodiment variant, an electrical control flap can be provided as an actuating device. In particular, means for preventing backflow, in particular backflow within the feeder, are also provided as the setting means, e.g. Check valves.

A further particularly preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the feed device has an air inlet and is designed such that air can be sucked in via the air inlet during operation of the internal combustion engine, wherein the sucked air is supplied to the internal combustion engine via the feed device. Thus, advantageously both a fluid from the volume space can be conveyed or sucked in by the internal combustion engine via the feed device, as well as ambient air required for normal operation of the internal combustion engine, which passes via the air inlet of the feed device into the feed device and then into the internal combustion engine.

According to an advantageous embodiment variant of the invention, the volume space is quasi integrated into the feed device, that is to say the volume space is arranged between the air inlet and the internal combustion engine, so that air which has reached the feed device via the air inlet reaches the internal combustion engine, at least partially, through the volume space. wherein the air flowing through the volume space advantageously cools the galvanic cells. If, for example, as a consequence of thermal runaway of the galvanic cells, gas or aerosol release occurs in the volume space, then this gas / aerosol is sucked in by the internal combustion engine during operation of the internal combustion engine. The air and / or the mixture of air and released gas / aerosol is thereby at least partially conveyed as fluid from the volume space of the internal combustion engine.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the volume space is connected to the feed device such that, during operation of the internal combustion engine, air is conveyed via the air inlet of the feed device or a fluid from the volume space or air via the air inlet of the feed device and a fluid from the volume space of the internal combustion engine becomes. The volume space is preferably once in the manner of a T-connection once, twice or more times connected to the feeder. Advantageously, at least one actuating device is arranged in the region of the connection of the volume space to the feed device, wherein the conveying of a fluid takes place as a function of the setting of the actuating device. If the adjusting device blocks the connection of the volume space to the feed device, air is conveyed via the air inlet of the feed device by the internal combustion engine. On the other hand, if the adjusting device is set such that the connection of the volume space to the feed device is released and the supply of air via the air inlet of the feed device is blocked, then a fluid, in particular in the volume space, of the galvanic cells arranged therein released gas / aerosol, extracted from the volume space. In addition, the at least one adjusting device is advantageously adjustable such that both the connection of the volume space to the supply device is at least partially released, and the air supply via the at least one air inlet is at least partially released, so that air through the air inlet of the feeder and a fluid the volume space is promoted by the internal combustion engine during operation.

According to an advantageous embodiment variant of the invention, it is provided that the volume space is connected to the feed device in such a way that the volume space is arranged parallel to a section of the feed device so that air can be conducted at least partially through the volume space via the air inlet, wherein air directed into the volume space during operation of the internal combustion engine as fluid from the volume space can be conveyed. In this embodiment variant, the system preferably also has at least one adjusting device, so that the amount of air flowing through the volume space is advantageously adjustable. Since the amount of air flowing through the volume space directly influences the intensity of the cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space, the intensity of the cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space can advantageously be adjusted by means of the at least one setting device. If the air flow is conducted completely through the volume space, a maximum cooling effect is achieved. On the other hand, if cooling is not required or not desired, the air flow can advantageously be passed completely past the volume space. In particular, the invention provides that an air supply to the internal combustion engine can be blocked by means of the at least one adjusting device, so that only a fluid present in the volume space, in particular a released from the galvanic cells in the volume space gas / aerosol, by the operation of the internal combustion engine from the volume space is promoted or sucked.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the internal combustion engine comprises means for engine operation and / or for engine supercharging and / or for pollutant reduction, wherein the means are at least partially flowed through by at least a portion of the conveyed fluid. The engine charging can be realized in different ways. In particular, the charging by means of a turbocharger, a G-charger, a root blower, a Comprex charger or a combination of these charging systems can be implemented in one or more stages. The means for motor charging through which at least a portion of the delivered fluid flows are advantageously designed in such a way that they have increased resistance to ingredients of the pumped fluid. This is in particular when using the system according to the invention for discharging released gas / aerosol of relevance, as this advantageously avoids that the corresponding means for engine charging in an unwanted gas or aerosol release by contained in the aerosol components such as drops and / or particles be damaged. In particular, coatings of the means for engine charging, preferably nickel coatings, and / or the use of special alloys for the production of the means for engine charging are provided. As alloys in particular high-quality aluminum alloys and / or titanium alloys are provided. Higher-quality aluminum alloys and titanium alloys advantageously also have a higher temperature resistance. This is particularly advantageous since the fluid conveyed by the internal combustion engine, which flows through the means for charging the engine, can have high temperatures. Because of the internal combustion engine sucked air, which at least partially has flowed through the volume space containing the galvanic cells, has absorbed heat emitted by the galvanic cells. Thus, the temperature of the fluid flowing through the engine-charging means is usually higher than the temperature of the air usually flowing through these components.

The means for engine supercharging can, in particular in the case of an engine supercharging by means of a turbocharger, in particular comprise a compressor, a charge air cooler, a low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation and / or a high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation. A blow-by line can also be provided. In an implementation of the motor charging by means of the aforementioned means, the compressor preferably has a coated compressor wheel, advantageously a compressor wheel coated by means of a nickel coating. Moisture contained in the conveyed fluid condenses at least substantially in the intercooler, so that advantageously no or at least only small amounts of droplets or particles enter the internal combustion engine. The blow-by line, by means of which the so-called blow-by is advantageously conducted back into the feeder, preferably initiates the blow-by behind the volume space, so that the blow-by, which can be contaminated with oil and / or combustion residues that does not contaminate galvanic cells into the volume space. The low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation is preferably likewise connected to the feed introduction, advantageously in such a way that the connection takes place behind the volume space and preferably in front of the compressor. This advantageously also contamination of the galvanic cells by in the low-pressure Exhaust gas recirculation contained components prevented.

A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the system comprises at least one control device. This at least one control device is advantageously designed to control the at least one adjusting device and / or the internal combustion engine such that the delivered fluid quantity can be varied. Control devices mentioned or described in connection with the invention are advantageously designed for controlling and in particular also for regulating in the sense of control engineering, without explicitly referring to them. The control of the internal combustion engine comprises in particular the control of individual components of the internal combustion engine. Advantageously, by means of the at least one control device, the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine and / or the adjustment of the throttle valve and / or the fuel injection mass of the internal combustion engine can be controlled or regulated. In this case, by increasing the speed or by opening the throttle advantageously an increase in the delivery rate of the fluid can be realized. By this control of the internal combustion engine or the control of the components of the internal combustion engine is thus advantageously provided a further possibility to vary the intensity of the cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space.

Advantageously, using the at least one control device, the internal combustion engine not in operation can be started by fuel combustion or without fuel combustion, only the crankshaft can be rotated in order to be able to convey a fluid from the volume space if required. When using the system according to the invention in a vehicle, it is provided in particular that the control device can start or only turn the internal combustion engine even when the vehicle is parked or not in operation, in particular by cooling the galvanic cells at high internal and / or external temperatures enable. In addition, it is provided that the at least one control device is advantageously formed by controlling actuators in the engine system, in particular in a necessary discharge of unwanted released gas / aerosol from the volume space, a high-pressure and / or low-pressure exhaust gas Prevent or promote recirculation. Furthermore, the control device is advantageously designed to control the electric starter of the internal combustion engine, in particular in order to use the internal combustion engine as a pure pump can. This may be advantageous in particular with a very small amount of fresh air as a result of intensive cell degassing.

A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the system comprises at least one sensor which is designed to detect at least one parameter of at least one arranged in the volume space galvanic cell, wherein the at least one sensor for transmitting the detected at least one parameter with the at least one control device is connected. In particular, it is provided that cell voltages, cell currents and / or cell temperatures are detected as parameters of the at least one galvanic cell individually or in combination. In addition, advantageously at least one chemical sensor is provided which is designed to detect gas / aerosol released by the galvanic cells as a further parameter of the galvanic cell. The connection of the at least one sensor to the at least one control device is preferably conducted. However, a wireless connection of the at least one sensor to the at least one control device can also be provided, in which a transmission of detected parameters can take place, in particular by radio transmission. The control of the internal combustion engine and / or the adjusting means by means of the at least one control device is preferably carried out as a function of detected parameters, wherein the at least one control device is preferably designed to evaluate whether a detected parameter exceeds or falls below a predefined limit value. Furthermore, according to a further advantageous embodiment, at least one further sensor is provided, which is designed to determine at least one parameter with respect to a fluid flow through the feed device and / or the internal combustion engine. These detected parameters are advantageously also transmitted to the control device and used in particular for controlling or regulating the pump power by the internal combustion engine. Other parameters of the internal combustion engine can be detected and evaluated for control or regulation by means of at least one further sensor.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the system comprises an exhaust system, wherein during operation of the internal combustion engine, at least a part of the funded from the volume volume fluid is discharged into the exhaust system. Preferably, the at least one part of the fluid conveyed from the volume space is aftertreated in the exhaust system. Particularly if the conveyed fluid at least partially contains components from a gas release, these are advantageously largely filtered and / or converted by means provided by the exhaust system, in particular regenerated or neutralized , The exhaust system can be used individually or in combination with sound dampers, Catalysts, particulate filters, SCR systems, NOx traps and / or other systems included. These are preferably adapted to the substances in the fluid from the volume space with the cells.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the system comprises at least one filter, wherein the at least one filter is arranged such that a conveyed during operation of the internal combustion engine fluid is filtered by the at least one filter. The at least one filter is preferably arranged in the feed device behind the volume space, so that a fluid conveyed from the volume space passes through the filter and the conveyed fluid is thus filtered. As a result, fewer drops and / or particles, which may be present in the fluid delivered from the volume space, advantageously reach the internal combustion engine or the components of the internal combustion engine, in particular the engine charging means.

According to the invention, in particular, a use is provided for cooling the galvanic cells arranged in the volume space by means of the system according to the invention. A fluid conveyed out of the volume space is advantageously air introduced into the volume space. Furthermore, in addition to the cooling or as an alternative use of the system according to the invention, a use of the system for discharging released gas or aerosol from the volume space in the case of gas or aerosol release by the arranged in the volume space galvanic cells is provided. The fluid delivered from the volume space is advantageously at least partially the gas / aerosol released by the galvanic cells. In particular, use of the system in hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles having an internal combustion engine for propulsion in addition to an electric motor and use in electric vehicles having an internal combustion engine as a "range extender" is provided. Even in vehicles with at least one fuel cell, this system is conceivable. In this case, advantageously provided by the vehicle system components, such as in particular the internal combustion engine, possibly existing means for engine charging, the exhaust system and / or control devices of the vehicle are used.

To solve the above object, therefore, a vehicle is further proposed, which is at least partially electrically operated by means of at least one electric motor, and a system according to one of claims 1 to 10, in particular for use according to claim 11, wherein the internal combustion engine for driving the Vehicle or designed as a range extender and the volume space has at least one galvanic cell, which is designed to provide the necessary electrical energy for the operation of the vehicle. According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the internal combustion engine during non-operation, in particular at standstill of the vehicle, can be started to deliver a fluid from the volume space. According to a further advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the internal combustion engine can be towed out of the volume space during non-operation for conveying a fluid, preferably using a starter provided for starting the internal combustion engine. A further advantageous embodiment provides that the internal combustion engine after the vehicle operation, in particular after the parking of the vehicle, can run to the promotion of a fluid from the volume space. As a result, cooling of the galvanic cells after operation of the vehicle can advantageously be achieved in particular.

Further advantageous details, features and design details of the invention are explained in more detail in connection with the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures. Showing:

1 in a simplified schematic representation of an embodiment of an inventive system;

2 in a simplified schematic representation of another embodiment of an inventive system;

3 in a simplified schematic representation of another embodiment of an inventive system; and

4 in a simplified schematic representation of another embodiment of an inventive system.

The embodiments in 1 to 4 are greatly simplified and presented without regard to actual proportions of the individual components of the systems, so as to better emphasize the essential features of the invention and thus make it easier to understand.

In 1 is an embodiment of an inventive system 1 for conveying a fluid 2 from a volume space 3 shown. The system 1 has a volume space 3 , an internal combustion engine 4 and a feeder 6 on, where the volume space 3 via the feeder 6 to the internal combustion engine 4 is connected. In the volume space 3 of the system 1 is a single galvanic cell or a plurality of electrically interconnected galvanic cells arranged (in 1 not explicitly shown). The galvanic cells are formed in this embodiment as lithium-ion cells. The volume space 3 may be formed together with the lithium-ion cells arranged therein, for example, as a battery pack or battery case. The volume space 3 in the illustrated embodiment is up to the connection to the feeder 6 over the section 6 '' the feeder 6 formed substantially airtight. The volume space 3 is doing so to the feeder 6 Tethered that during operation of the internal combustion engine 4 from the internal combustion engine 4 via the feeder 6 and the associated branch 6 '' the feeder 6 a fluid 2 (symbolically by the arrows 2 shown) from the volume space 3 is eligible.

This in 1 illustrated system 1 is for discharging released gas / aerosol from the volume space 3 in the case of a gas or aerosol release by in the volume space 3 arranged battery cells provided. In normal operation, that is, when no degassing of the battery cells takes place, it is provided that the internal combustion engine 4 via the feeder 6 for the operation of the internal combustion engine 4 aspirates required air. For this purpose, the feeder 6 in the section 6 ' an air inlet 5 on. The sucked air is symbolic by the next to the section 6 '' drawn arrow shown. Through the air intake 5 flows during operation of the internal combustion engine 4 sucked air through the feeder 6 in the internal combustion engine 4 , The exhaust gas from the combustion process of the fuel-air mixture in the internal combustion engine 4 gets out of the drain hole 9 dissipated. The exhaust gas is symbolically indicated by the arrow next to the drain opening 9 shown.

In the volume space 3 is a chemical sensor (in 1 not explicitly shown), which is designed to detect a gas or aerosol release. This sensor is equipped with an in 1 not explicitly shown connected control device which is adapted to receive signals detected by the sensor and evaluate. Furthermore, the control device is designed, the adjusting device 7 to steer and intervene in the engine management and thus virtually the internal combustion engine 4 to control and regulate. Is by means of the sensor in the volume space 3 detects a gas or aerosol release, so controls / regulates the control device, the adjusting device 7 such that the supply line 6 '' the feeder 6 over which the volume space 3 in the manner of a T-connection to the feeder 6 Tied is released. One in the feeder 6 in front of the connection piece 6 '' arranged check valve 8th prevents the gas / aerosol released through the section 6 ' the feeder 6 through the air inlet 5 can escape. During operation of the internal combustion engine 4 will that be in the volume space 3 formed gas / aerosol as fluid from the volume space 3 from the internal combustion engine 4 promoted and thus from the volume space 3 dissipated. The converted and unconverted components of the fluid and air escape via the port 9 from the internal combustion engine 4 ,

In 2 is another embodiment of a system according to the invention 1 shown, which is an internal combustion engine 4 as well as one with the internal combustion engine 4 connected feeder 6 includes and which for conveying a fluid from a volume space 3 is trained. In the volume space 3 is arranged a plurality of electrically interconnected galvanic cells (in 2 not explicitly shown). This in 2 illustrated system 1 serves to cool the in the volume space 3 arranged galvanic cells and for discharging released gas / aerosol from the volume space 3 if it is in the volume space 3 starting from the galvanic cells to a gas or aerosol development.

The volume space 3 of in 2 illustrated system 1 is so to the feeder 6 Tethered that during operation of the internal combustion engine 4 from the internal combustion engine 4 via the feeder 6 a fluid from the volume space 3 is eligible. A conveyed fluid is in particular also air, which via the air inlet 5 the feeder 6 in the volume space 3 can be introduced, so that in the volume space 3 introduced air as fluid from the volume space 3 is eligible. In addition, in the case of a gas or aerosol release in the volume space 3 the released gas / aerosol as fluid from the volume space 3 conveyed. The system 1 in the present case comprises a plurality of adjusting devices 7 , These allow a block or release (with all possible intermediate positions) of sections of the feeder 6 , here the sections 6 '' . 6 ''' and 6 '''' , Thus, by means of the adjusting devices 7 adjustable or adjustable that during operation of the internal combustion engine 4 a fluid 2 from the volume space 3 at least in addition to a fluid, in particular air, from the inlet opening 5 is encouraged. The adjusting devices 7 can be designed in particular as electrical control valves.

At the in 2 illustrated embodiment of a system according to the invention 1 is the volume space 3 such to the feeder 6 Tethered that at the operation of the internal combustion engine 4 Air over the air intake 5 the feeder 6 is promoted, namely in particular when using the adjusting devices 7 the sections 6 '' and or 6 ''' over which the volume space 3 with the feeder 6 is connected, blocked and the section 6 '''' from the actuator 7 is released. In addition, it is possible that partially or exclusively a fluid 2 from the volume space 3 is encouraged. This is especially true in a gas or aerosol release in the volume space 3 desirable. This is the section 6 '' and the section 6 '''' the feeder 6 by means of the adjusting devices arranged there 7 partially closed or completely blocked. The section 6 ''' the feeder 6 is released on the other hand. In addition, it is possible that air over the air inlet 5 the feeder 6 and a fluid 2 from the volume space 3 from the internal combustion engine 4 is promoted, namely, when the adjusting devices 7 the sections 6 '' . 6 ''' and 6 '''' the feeder 6 at least partially free. In particular, the volume space 3 in the 2 illustrated embodiment of the feed device 6 tethered that volume space 3 parallel to the section 6 '''' the feeder 6 is arranged, allowing air through the air inlet 5 by appropriate control of the actuating devices 7 at least partially through the volume space 3 is conductive. In the volume space 3 Guided air is thereby during operation of the internal combustion engine 4 as fluid from the volume space 3 conveyed. The connection of the volume space 3 to the feeder 6 is also realized in the illustrated embodiment such that the section 6 '' and / or the section 6 ''' the feeder 6 at the bottom or near the bottom of the volume space 3 is positioned so that eventually in the volume space 3 formed condensate from the volume space 3 can run out or drain. The connections of the sections 6 '' and 6 ''' at 3 advantageously have the lowest point of the volume space 3 on. The flow through the volumetric cells having the volumetric space 3 with a fluid, in particular with air, is generally well suited to minimize the formation of condensate and / or to dissipate condensate already formed, in particular because improved conditions for evaporation of moisture are provided by the flow of air. This advantageously reduces the likelihood of corrosion of various components and the likelihood of short circuits.

In the volume space 3 of the system 1 sensors are arranged (in 2 not explicitly shown), which are formed, parameters in the volume space 3 to detect arranged galvanic cells. In particular, it is provided that sensors for monitoring the temperature of the galvanic cells are present. In addition, it is provided that sensors for detecting the cell voltages in the volume space 3 are arranged (in 2 not explicitly shown). The parameters detected by the sensors are sent to a control device of the system 1 (in 2 not explicitly shown). Depending on the detected temperature measured values and / or cell voltage measured values, the control device controls or regulates the actuating devices 7 In this way, the intensity of the cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space 3 to control or regulate. Is a cooling of the galvanic cells only slightly or not necessary, so the sections 6 '' and 6 ''' the feeder 6 by means of the adjusting devices 7 partially or completely closed, so little or no air through the volume space 3 flows. For maximum cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space 3 is provided that the sections 6 '' and 6 ''' the feeder 6 be fully released and the section 6 '''' the feeder 6 by means of the adjusting device 7 is blocked, so that the entire air flow through the volume space 3 is directed. By partially releasing the sections 6 '' . 6 ''' . 6 '''' the feeder 6 by means of the adjusting devices 7 can be differentiated between these two extremes, the cooling differentiated.

It is further provided that the control device is designed, the internal combustion engine 4 head for. In particular, by a corresponding control by means of the control device, the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine 4 be increased or decreased. An increase in the engine speed thereby increases the delivery rate of the internal combustion engine 4 and thus those of the internal combustion engine 4 delivered amount of fluid. In particular, thus the amount of air passing through the volume space 3 flows, increasing the cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space 3 is further intensified. Alternatively and / or in addition to this measure, the control device, the throttle valve (in 2 not explicitly shown) of the internal combustion engine 4 control or regulate. Opening the throttle increases the output of the engine 4 further. The control of the throttle valve can thus also be used to further vary the cooling of the galvanic cells. In the case of a gas or aerosol release of the galvanic cells by means of an adjusted position of the throttle valve of the internal combustion engine 4 also the removal of this unwanted gas / aerosol increases.

In the volume space 3 is arranged as a further sensor, a gas sensor (in 2 not explicitly shown), which is formed one of those in the volume space 3 arranged galvanic cells to detect unwanted released gas / aerosol. It is in the case of an unwanted gas or Aerosol release a corresponding signal to the controller of the system 1 transfer. This can be the adjusting devices 7 In particular, drive in such a way that the sections 6 '' and 6 '''' the feeder 6 be closed and only the section 6 ''' is released, so that only the undesirable released from the galvanic cells gas / aerosol as fluid from the volume space 3 is encouraged. Components of the undesired released gas / aerosol, which in the internal combustion engine 4 not burned or converted, are via the outlet 9 to an in 2 not explicitly shown exhaust system forwarded.

In 3 is another embodiment of a system according to the invention 1 for conveying a fluid 2 from a volume space 3 shown. The connection of the volume space 3 to the feeder 6 over which the internal combustion engine 4 ' a fluid 2 from the volume space 3 can promote or suck, essentially as in connection with the in 1 illustrated system 1 explained. This in 3 illustrated system 1 is used in a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle (in 3 if the vehicle is not explicitly shown as such). In case of using the system 1 In a hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicle is called an internal combustion engine 4 ' used in such a vehicle and provided primarily for driving the vehicle internal combustion engine. As feeder 6 For the purposes of the present invention, a feed device is advantageously provided, via which the internal combustion engine 4 ' at least during normal operation can suck in the required air. The air passes through an air inlet 5 in the feeder 6 , For filtering the air is in the section 6 ' the feeder 6 an air filter 10 intended. Furthermore, an air mass meter detects 11 the over the air intake 5 sucked air mass.

The in the volume space 3 arranged galvanic cells (in 3 not explicitly shown) are formed in the embodiment as lithium-ion cells, which provide the energy, inter alia for the electric drive of the vehicle. Is the vehicle in which the system 1 is used, an electric vehicle, which is driven only by the electric motor, it is provided in particular that the internal combustion engine 4 ' is used as a so-called range extender. The internal combustion engine 4 ' In this case, therefore, not as an alternative drive unit but to drive a generator (in 3 not explicitly shown), which is the one in the volume space 3 can charge arranged battery cells. Does it come as a result of disturbances of one or more battery cells in the volume space 3 to an unwanted release of gas / aerosol in the volume space 3 , is using the internal combustion engine 4 ' the formed gas or an aerosol formed by the absorption of particles and moisture together with the released gas as fluid from the volume space 3 promoted or sucked off. The system 1 So is for discharging released gas / aerosol from the volume space 3 used.

Basically, the internal combustion engine 4 ' be designed in different ways, especially as gasoline engine or diesel engine, with or without engine charging. At the in 3 as well as in the 4 illustrated embodiment, the internal combustion engine 4 ' each means for engine charging, in which case, for example, the engine is charged by means of a turbocharger. The charging can also be done in other ways, such as with a root blower. For better understanding is in 3 and 4 the combustion engine comprising the means for engine charging 4 ' symbolically represented by a dashed line. The actual internal combustion engine, ie the part of the internal combustion engine 4 ' , in which the combustion of the fuel-air mixture takes place, is symbolic by the rectangle 4 shown and is subsequently as an engine 4 designated.

In the embodiments in 3 and 4 points the internal combustion engine 4 ' as a means for engine charging in particular a compressor 12 , a trunk group 13 , a turbine 14 , a charge air cooler 15 , a blow-by line 16 , a high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation 17 , a low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation 18 and adjusting devices 7 ' , which may be formed, for example, as flaps or valves, on. The aforementioned means for engine charging are thereby at least partially of the at least a part of the operation of the internal combustion engine 4 ' funded fluid 2 flows through. By means of the adjusting devices 7 ' are advantageously the fluid flows (in the figures by the arrows, which have no reference symbol, symbolically represented) within the internal combustion engine 4 ' controllable or controllable. In particular, the adjusting devices can 7 ' from the controller of the system 1 be controlled such that in the case of degassing, the conversion of the undesired substances contained in the gas / aerosol can be controlled. In particular, a control of the actuating devices 7 ' but also so possible that in the case of degassing no high-pressure or low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation takes place and one of the internal combustion engine 4 ' from the volume space 3 promoted gas / aerosol thus not the engine again 4 would be fed.

The connection of the volume space 3 to the feeder 6 takes place in the in 3 illustrated embodiment before the compressor 12 of the turbocharger. This is particularly advantageous because the pressure is particularly low there and thus a better delivery of the fluid 2 from the volume space 3 is achievable.

The blow-by line 16 of the internal combustion engine 4 ' is present before the compressor 12 and behind the volume space 3 initiated. This prevents components contained in the blow-by, such as engine oil or soot, from passing through the volume space 3 flow and pollute it and the battery cells arranged therein.

To further prevent contamination of the volume space 3 and the battery cells arranged therein, the low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation takes place 18 likewise such that an introduction behind the volume space 3 and in front of the compressor 12 he follows. The high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation 17 begins in the illustrated embodiment in front of the turbine 14 and flows into the pressure pipe behind the intercooler 15 ,

In the case of unwanted gas release in the volume space 3 passing through one in the volume space 3 arranged gas sensor (in 3 not explicitly shown) detected and a control device (in 3 not explicitly shown) of the system 1 is signaled, the adjusting device 7 in the section 6 '' the feeder 6 so controlled that the section 6 '' is released. Is the internal combustion engine 4 ' at the time of unwanted gas or aerosol release not in operation, causes the controller to start or towing the engine 4 ' , By the operation of the internal combustion engine 4 ' will that be in the volume space 3 formed gas / aerosol 2 sucked. One in the section 6 '' the feeder 6 used filter 10 it filters a part of in the promoted gas / aerosol 2 contained substances (gas, drops, particles).

One before the connection of the section 6 '' to the feeder 6 provided check valve 8th prevents sudden high pressure that gas / aerosol 2 from the volume space 3 through the air inlet 5 , so contrary to the main flow direction, can escape. This check valve 8th may be formed such that it is electrically controlled by means of the control device. In particular, the check valve 8th but advantageously also be designed such that it can trigger automatically due to pressure differences or due to changes in flow direction.

After the gas / aerosol 2 the filter 10 in the section 6 '' the feeder 6 happened, the gas / aerosol passes 2 in the compressor 12 of the turbocharger. In particular to avoid damage to the compressor 12 or the compressor wheel (in 3 not explicitly shown) of the compressor 12 by in the gas / aerosol contained drops and / or particles, the compressor wheel is coated, preferably by means of a nickel coating. Basically, other suitable coatings are conceivable. As the temperature of the pumped gas / aerosol 2 compared to the temperature of normal operation via the air inlet 5 the feeder 6 conveyed air can be significantly increased, the compressor wheel is made of a titanium alloy. According to an embodiment variant, not shown, the compressor wheel may in particular also be made of an aluminum alloy.

Has the gas / aerosol the compressor 12 flows through, it enters the intercooler 15 , In this gas can condense and most of the droplets / particles still contained in the gas / aerosol are separated, as they condense on the comparatively cold walls of the intercooler. In the condensate advantageously further particles are bound from the aerosol, so that almost no drops and almost no particles in the engine 4 reach. Thus, essentially only gaseous components of the original gas / aerosol pass 2 the degassing in the engine 4 ,

The components of the gas / aerosol involved in the combustion process in the engine 4 are not burned or converted, get into the exhaust system 19 of the system 1 , This includes various components for exhaust gas treatment or exhaust aftertreatment, such as a catalyst, an SCR catalyst (SCR: selective catalytic reduction), a diesel particulate filter, and / or a NO _x adsorber. These components are also advantageously suitable for filtering or rendering harmless gas / aerosol components. By the derivation of the gas / aerosol or their residual components from the exhaust outlet 9 of the vehicle in which the system 1 is used, advantageously get no components of the gas / aerosol into the vehicle interior. Vehicle occupants are thus in front of the volume space 3 Protected from the battery cells arranged therein released gas / aerosol.

The system 1 is also designed such that the engine 4 at standstill due to intensive gas or aerosol release by the battery cells in the volume space 3 , by controlling the starter (in 3 not explicitly shown) by means of the control device can be operated in an emergency operation. In this emergency operation is the engine 4 turned by the starter and used as a pure pump delivery.

The control device of the system 1 is further configured to intervene in the engine management system and the speed of the internal combustion engine 4 ' to increase its flow rate and so in a shorter time a larger amount of gas or aerosol from the volume space 3 to promote. To further increase the aerosol mass flow, an adjustment of the throttling controlled or regulated by the control device is provided, in particular by more de-throttling. The gas / aerosol can thereby faster from the volume space 3 be encouraged.

In 4 is another embodiment of a system according to the invention 1 shown. As with the related 3 explained system 1 is a use of the system 1 provided in a hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicle or an electric vehicle with an internal combustion engine used as a range extender, wherein the combustion engine present in the respective vehicle as an internal combustion engine 4 ' of the system 1 is being used. The system 1 is doing to the cooling in the volume space 3 used arranged galvanic cells. Another use of the system 1 sees in the case of a gas or aerosol release by in the volume space 3 arranged galvanic cells, a discharge of the released gas / aerosol from the volume space 3 in front.

The connection of the volume space 3 of the system 1 to the feeder 6 takes place essentially as in connection with the in 2 illustrated embodiment explained. As an extension of in 2 illustrated embodiment are in the system 1 in 4 filter 10 in the sections 6 '' and 6 ''' the feeder 6 inserted. Another filter 10 is behind the air intake 5 the feeder 6 arranged. For acquiring a measured value from that of the internal combustion engine 4 ' sucked air mass, that points in 4 illustrated system 1 a sensor 11 for detecting the air mass flow on. So that the measured value is not falsified in case of gas release, the sensor is 11 behind the air intake 5 the feeder 6 and before the connection of the volume space 3 to the feeder 6 over the sections 6 '' and 6 ''' arranged.

The promotion of a fluid 2 from the volume space 3 takes place essentially as in connection with the in 2 illustrated embodiment explained. The internal combustion engine 4 ' as well as the fluid flow through the internal combustion engine 4 ' takes place essentially as in connection with the in 3 illustrated embodiment explained. Through in the volume space 3 arranged sensors for temperature detection, battery cell voltage detection and detection of released gas (in 4 not explicitly shown) measured values are detected and sent to a control device (in 4 not explicitly shown). Depending on the detected measured values, the control device controls or regulates the cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space 3 and optionally, a discharge of released gas / aerosol from the volume space 3 as explained in connection with the previous embodiments.

The system 1 according to the in 4 illustrated embodiment is advantageously designed such that the internal combustion engine 4 ' by activation by means of the control device of the system 1 can be started or towed (ie only turned off), especially when the vehicle is parked or parked, the internal combustion engine 4 ' that is not in operation and the speed of the engine 4 thus zero. Such a control can be realized in a simplified manner when the vehicle is a so-called "start / stop system" (in 4 not explicitly shown), which allows, for example, an automatic stop of the engine when stopping at traffic lights and an automatic starting of the engine when starting after the traffic light stop. An automatic starting of the internal combustion engine 4 ' by the control device, for example when parked vehicle, is in connection with the use of the system according to the invention 1 provided in particular when one in the volume space 3 arranged sensor, for example due to high temperature, has detected exceeding of a temperature limit or a gradient and thus a cooling of the galvanic cells in the volume space 3 is required. It is further provided that the internal combustion engine 4 ' can run after parking the vehicle to continue a cooling flow through the volume space 3 for cooling in the volume space 3 to provide arranged galvanic cells.

The exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures and explained in connection therewith serve to explain the invention and are not restrictive of it. The individual components are shown schematically and can also be constructed in other arrangements.

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 102008059954 A1 [0004]
• DE 102009000660 A1 [0005]

Claims (13)

System ( 1 ) for conveying a fluid ( 2 ) from a volume space ( 3 ), in which a plurality of electrically interconnected galvanic cells is arranged, characterized in that the system ( 1 ) the volume space ( 3 ), an internal combustion engine ( 4 ) and one with the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) connected feeder ( 6 ), wherein the volume space ( 3 ) to the feeder ( 6 ) is connected, such that during operation of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) via the feeder ( 6 ) a fluid ( 2 ) from the volume space ( 3 ) is eligible. System ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the system ( 1 ) at least one adjusting device ( 7 . 7 ' ), wherein by means of the at least one adjusting device ( 7 . 7 ' ) is adjustable, that during operation of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) a fluid ( 2 ) from the volume space ( 3 ). System ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the feeding device ( 6 ) an air intake ( 5 ) and is designed such that during operation of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) Air over the air intake ( 5 ) is sucked, wherein the sucked air via the feeder ( 6 ) the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) is supplied. System ( 1 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the volume space ( 3 ) in such a way to the feeder ( 6 ), that during operation of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) Air over the air intake ( 5 ) of the feeder ( 6 ) or a fluid ( 2 ) from the volume space ( 3 ) or air through the air intake ( 5 ) of the feeder ( 6 ) and a fluid ( 2 ) from the volume space ( 3 ) of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ). System ( 1 ) According to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the volume space ( 3 ) in such a way to the feeder ( 6 ), that the volume space ( 3 ) parallel to a section ( 6 '''' ) of the feeder ( 6 ) is arranged so that air through the air inlet ( 5 ) at least partially through the volume space ( 3 ) is conductive, wherein in the volume space ( 3 ) guided air during operation of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) as a fluid ( 2 ) from the volume space ( 3 ) is eligible. System ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) Medium ( 12 . 13 . 14 . 15 . 16 . 17 . 18 ) for engine operation and / or engine supercharging and / or for pollutant reduction, the means ( 12 . 13 . 14 . 15 . 16 . 17 . 18 ) at least partially of at least part of the delivered fluid ( 2 ) are flowed through. System ( 1 ) according to one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the system ( 1 ) comprises at least one control device, which is formed, the at least one actuating device ( 7 . 7 ' ) and / or the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) to control such that the delivered amount of fluid can be varied. System ( 1 ) according to claim 7, characterized in that the system ( 1 ) comprises at least one sensor, which is formed, at least one parameter of at least one in the volume space ( 3 ), wherein the at least one sensor for transmission of the detected at least one parameter is connected to the at least one control device. System ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system ( 1 ) an exhaust system ( 19 ), wherein during operation of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) at least part of the volume space ( 3 ) conveyed fluid ( 2 ) into the exhaust system ( 19 ) is discharged. System ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the system ( 1 ) at least one filter ( 10 ), wherein the at least one filter ( 10 ) is arranged such that during operation of the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) conveyed fluid from the at least one filter ( 10 ) is filtered. Using a system ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 10 for cooling the in the volume space ( 3 ) arranged galvanic cells, which from the volume space ( 3 ) conveyed fluid ( 2 ) into the volume space ( 3 ) and / or use of the system in the event of release of gas and / or release of aerosol by the in the volume space ( 3 ) arranged galvanic cells for discharging the released gas and / or aerosol from the volume space ( 3 ), whereby the volume space ( 3 ) conveyed fluid ( 2 ) is at least partially the released from the galvanic cells gas and / or aerosol. Vehicle which is at least partially electrically operable by means of at least one electric motor, comprising a system according to one of claims 1 to 10, in particular for use according to claim 11, wherein the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) is designed to drive the vehicle or as a range extender and the volume space ( 3 ) has at least one galvanic cell, which is designed to provide the electrical energy required for the electrical operation of the vehicle. Vehicle according to claim 12, characterized in that the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) in non-operation for conveying a fluid from the volume space ( 3 ) can be started and / or that the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) in non-operation for conveying a fluid from the volume space ( 3 ) and / or that the internal combustion engine ( 4 ) after vehicle operation for conveying a fluid from the volume space ( 3 ) can run.

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