DE102017213474A1 - Battery module and battery module stack for a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery module (10) for a motor vehicle, comprising: two contacting plates arranged parallel to one another or approximately parallel, comprising first and second contacting plates (12, 13), at least two adjacent to one another and between the two contacting plates (12 , 13) arranged, chambers comprising at least a first chamber (20.1) and at least one second chamber (20.2), - a plurality of battery cells (14) side by side between the two contacting plates (12, 13) and in the respective chambers (20.1 , 20.2) are arranged, and- a circulation system by means of which a cooling medium of the first chamber (20) can be fed, is discharged from the latter and the second chamber (20) can be fed, and is discharged from this, wherein each one battery cell (14) a longitudinal axis and two axially opposite ends, - the ends of each of a battery cell (14) with the contacting plates (12, 13) verb and - a respective heat removal channel (18) is formed between mutually facing regions of outer peripheral surfaces of adjacent battery cells (14), and - the first and / or the second contacting plate (12, 13) has openings through which the respective cooling medium by means of the circulation system the respective Wärmeabführkanälen (18) can be fed or discharged from these.

Description

The present invention relates to a battery module for a motor vehicle with improved cooling characteristics and construction of battery cells contained therein. Furthermore, the invention relates to a battery module stack for a motor vehicle and a motor vehicle with a battery module stack.

A battery commonly used in today's applications for driving a motor vehicle, such as an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle, typically consists of single battery cells. Several such individual cells are each electrically connected to each other and summarized to the battery. However, disposing the single cells may result in inefficiencies in cooling the single cells and utilizing the available space, which may diminish the performance of a battery and reduce the vehicle's electrical range.

From the DE 10 2015 013 377 A1 a tempering device for a battery system is known, with a cuboid hollow body having connection means for supplying and discharging a tempered fluid. The hollow body has a plurality of openings, wherein a cylindrical battery cell is received by each breakthrough. The battery cells are spaced apart and surrounded by the fluid.

The distance between the battery cells prevents direct contact of the battery cells with each other and an associated heat exchange of the battery cells. The efficiency of cell cooling and space utilization is thereby reduced.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to remedy the disadvantages described above in a battery for a motor vehicle or at least partially correct. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a concept for a battery module with a plurality of battery cells and for a battery module stack, wherein the efficiency of the cooling of the battery cells and the space utilization is improved by the battery cells.

The above object is solved by the independent claims. Accordingly, the object is achieved by a battery module with the features of claim 1, by a battery module stack with the features of claim 9 and by a vehicle having the features of claim 10. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, the description and the drawings. In this case, features and details that are described in connection with the battery module, also in connection with the battery module stack or the vehicle and in each case vice versa, so with respect to the disclosure of the individual aspects of the invention always reciprocal reference is or can be.

• - zwei, zueinander parallel oder annähernd parallel angeordnete, Kontaktierungsplatten umfassend eine erste und eine zweite Kontaktierungsplatte,
• - mindestens zwei, nebeneinander und zwischen den beiden Kontaktierungsplatten angeordnete, Kammern umfassend mindestens eine erste Kammer und mindestens eine zweite Kammer,
• - eine Mehrzahl von Batteriezellen, die nebeneinander zwischen den beiden Kontaktierungsplatten und in den jeweiligen Kammern angeordnet sind, und
• - ein Zirkulationssystem mittels welchem ein Kühlmedium der ersten Kammer zuführbar ist, aus dieser abführbar und der zweiten Kammer zuführbar ist, und aus dieser abführbar ist.

According to one aspect, the object is achieved by a battery module, preferably for a motor vehicle. The battery module includes:

• two contacting plates arranged parallel to one another or approximately parallel, comprising a first and a second contacting plate,
• at least two chambers arranged side by side and between the two contacting plates, comprising at least one first chamber and at least one second chamber,
• - A plurality of battery cells, which are arranged side by side between the two contacting plates and in the respective chambers, and
• - A circulation system by means of which a cooling medium of the first chamber can be supplied, is discharged from the latter and the second chamber can be fed, and is discharged from this.

In each case, a battery cell has a longitudinal axis and two axially opposite ends. Preferably, the battery cell can have a cell housing and can be tubular or approximately tubular, wherein, in particular, longitudinal axes of battery cells can be parallel or approximately parallel to one another. The longitudinal axes of the battery cells can form axes of rotation or axes of symmetry of the battery cells.

The ends of each of a battery cell are connected to the contacting plates, wherein each one battery cell may have a positive pole at the first end and a negative pole at the second end and preferably wherein the positive pole may be formed as a protrusion of an end face of the battery cell at the first end. The positive pole can be connected to the first contacting plate and the negative pole to the second contacting plate in each case.

Between regions facing each other, in particular of line-shaped or strip-shaped contact regions, regions of outer peripheral surfaces of adjacent, contacting battery cells, a heat removal channel is formed in each case. The respective contact areas may each define and preferably seal a heat dissipation channel. Possibly, a contact area may be leaking, so that a cooling medium circulating in a heat dissipation channel flows into an adjacent heat dissipation channel. The Cooling medium may in particular comprise or be a cooling liquid or possibly air.

The first and / or second contacting plate has openings through which each of the cooling medium by means of the circulation system to the respective heat removal channels can be supplied or discharged from these. This has the beneficial effect of making the circulation system or cooling circuit functional and operational.

• - übereinstimmen oder
• - elektrisch verbunden sein.

According to a further aspect, the object is achieved by a battery module stack, preferably for a motor vehicle. The battery module stack comprises a plurality of battery modules according to the invention stacked axially one on top of the other. Here, the first contacting plate of a respective battery module with the second contacting plate of an overlying battery module

• - agree or
• - be electrically connected.

As a result, stacked battery modules of a battery pack can be electrically connected in series or become.

As used herein, the terms "up," "down," "over," or "below" are to be understood from the perspective of a viewer looking sideways at a device (battery cell, battery module, or battery module stack) so that "up" on top of the device North pole and "bottom" refers to the south pole of the respective device. Thus, on the one hand are the first end and the positive pole at the north pole of the battery cell and on the other hand, the second end and the negative pole at the south pole of the battery cell. The arrangement of a second battery module over a first battery module is to be understood such that the second battery module is arranged at or above the north pole of the first battery module.

According to a further aspect, the object is achieved by a motor vehicle, preferably an electric vehicle or hybrid vehicle, with a battery module stack according to the invention.

The feature, wherein each a heat dissipation is formed between facing areas of outer peripheral surfaces of adjacent battery cells causes the effect of direct contact between the cooling medium and battery cells, and between adjacent, directly mutually heat exchanging battery cells, without a separate cooling channel is needed or used. An advantage of this effect is efficient, uniform cooling of the battery cells. Another advantage is a simplification of the cooling structure (a separate cooling channel is eliminated) and associated material and cost savings.

The feature wherein a battery module comprises at least two chambers arranged side by side and between the two contacting plates, wherein at least one first chamber and at least one second chamber are provided, has several effects and associated advantages.

The chambers may each comprise a plurality of battery cells and at least one heat removal channel. In each case one chamber can be assigned to a region of the first and a region of the second contacting plate, wherein the respective region is electrically insulated throughout and optionally electrically insulated from adjacent regions of the same contacting plate.

Advantageously, the separate chambers and the associated, region-wise conductivity of the contacting plates allow flexible electrical interconnection (in series or in parallel) of battery cells associated chambers with each other.

In each case a chamber may comprise a wall, the laterally encircling and enclosing battery cells arranged in the chamber. The wall may preferably be made of a thermally conductive and in particular electrically insulating material, preferably of plastic.

The properties of the wall cause the effect of heat exchange between adjacent chambers, wherein in each case a grouped or summarized battery cells can be electrically switched independently. The advantage of this effect is a more uniform cooling or temperature control of the chambers and enclosed therein battery cells while maintaining the flexibility of an electrical interconnection of the chambers, for example, depending on demand in parallel or in series.

• i) eine äußere Umfangsfläche jeweils einer, von benachbarten Batteriezellen vollständig umgebenen, Batteriezelle äußere Umfangsflächen von mindestens drei benachbarten Batteriezellen berührt, und
• ii) eine äußere Umfangsfläche jeweils einer, von benachbarten Batteriezellen unvollständig umgebenen, Batteriezelle äußere Umfangsflächen von mindestens zwei benachbarten Batteriezellen berührt.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the battery cells can be arranged such that

• i) an outer peripheral surface of each of a battery cell completely surrounded by adjacent battery cells touches outer peripheral surfaces of at least three adjacent battery cells, and
• ii) an outer peripheral surface of each of a, of adjacent battery cells incompletely surrounded, battery cell outer peripheral surfaces of at least two adjacent battery cells touches.

The designation of a battery cell as completely surrounded by neighboring battery cells (neighboring cells) means that the battery cell is embedded in the middle of neighboring cells, with neighboring cells in a 360 ° surrounding the battery cell. The battery cell completely surrounded by neighboring cells is not located in an edge area of the battery cell space.

In contrast, the designation of a battery cell as incompletely surrounded (by neighboring cells) means that the battery cell is located in an edge region of the battery cell space, wherein neighboring cells are arranged only in an environment of less than 360 ° around the battery cell. As a result, this battery cell has fewer neighboring cells and thus fewer contacts to neighboring cells.

The features i), ii) of the battery module cause the effects that on the one hand battery cells are space-saving side by side or juxtaposed and that on the other hand, a mutual heat balance between contacting battery cells is achieved, especially because the cell housing each made of a battery cell made of a thermally conductive material or can be produced, for example, from a metal or plastic. An advantage of these effects is that the space available for the battery cells can be utilized with high efficiency and high packing density, without redundant gaps; In other words, the battery cells can be set up in a space-optimized manner. Another advantage is that a balanced temperature of the battery cells can be achieved without a separate cooling channel is needed or used. The direct contact between the coolant and the battery cells, without a separate cooling channel, enables or ensures improved cooling efficiency of the battery cells.

Preferably, an outer circumferential surface of each of a battery cell completely surrounded by adjacent battery cells (neighboring cells) may contact outer peripheral surfaces of at least five, preferably six, adjacent battery cells (neighboring cells). In particular, the outer circumferential surface of each of a battery cell incompletely surrounded by adjacent battery cells can contact outer circumferential surfaces of at least three or four adjacent battery cells.

Advantageously, as the number of neighboring cells touched increases, space savings and packing density of the battery cells increase. The maximum number of neighbor cells that can be touched by a battery cell is six (with the same diameter of battery cells involved). Consequently, the maximum packing density or space saving is achieved when a battery cell touches six neighboring cells.

The cell housing can be connected to the negative pole and be electrically conductive, wherein it must be electrically isolated from the positive pole in a not mounted in the battery module state of the battery cells to ensure the basic functionality of the battery.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the positive pole can be connected directly to the first contacting plate and the negative pole to the second contacting plate. Here, a direct connection is to be understood as an immediate, unmediated connection without an intermediate element. A connection between the positive terminal and the first contacting plate via an interposed intermediate element, for example a spring, is not to be regarded as a direct connection.

This feature has the technical effect that an electric current can flow on a current path between the positive pole and the first contacting plate lossless or with only low line losses. In other words, the current path has a high electrical conductivity or a low electrical resistance. The said effect has the advantage of improved battery performance and a higher electrical range of the vehicle in which the battery is installed. Batteries in which positive pole and first contacting plate are not directly but indirectly, for example, connected via a contact spring, in contrast, have higher line losses.

In a preferred development of the invention it can be ensured that, in particular in a state of the battery cell mounted in the battery module, the cell housing is electrically insulated from the first contacting plate, and thus is preferably electrically insulated from the positive pole, whereby positive pole and negative pole of a battery cell in one in the battery module mounted state of the battery cell are electrically isolated from each other. As a result of the insulation of the first contacting plate relative to the cell housing, the negative pole of the battery cell is also electrically insulated from the first contacting plate.

This feature brings about the effect of a simple structure of the battery module, since no measures or at least no complicated or costly measures for isolating the cell housing from the first contacting plate are necessary. The mentioned effect has the advantage of reducing the complexity, the construction costs and the assembly costs for the battery module.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention may be provided in a battery module, that the positive pole is in each case inextricably connected to a battery cell with the first contacting plate. An inseparable connection can be produced for example by means of laser welding, ie a laser welding connection, or by means of bonding, or by means of a press connection, or a butt joint.

The inseparable (non-detachable) connection has the effect of further reducing the losses of the electric current on the current path between the positive pole and the first contacting plate, since preferably the contact area is increased and the contact resistance between elements which contact via an inseparable connection is lower as with loosely adjoining elements. The said effect has the advantage of further improving the battery performance and increasing the electric range of the vehicle.

As an alternative to the inseparable connection, a detachable electrical connection may also be used, for example a positive and / or non-positive connection, provided that sufficiently high mechanical forces act on the elements to be connected and / or the contact surface is high. Then, advantageously, the contact resistance or contact resistance can also be reduced. Preferably, a plug connection can be used for this purpose.

To realize a positive and / or non-positive connection, the first contacting plate may have openings, preferably at intersections of longitudinal axes of respective battery cells with the first contacting plate. In addition to this, the positive pole of each battery cell can protrude away from the housing in each case in an opening of the first contacting plate in the axial direction, as a result of which the positive pole is positively and directly connected to the first contacting plate.

Preferably, a positive and / or non-positive connection may be formed as a plug connection with a female connector and a male plug which can be plugged into the female connector, wherein the positive pole of a respective battery cell form the male connector and the opening of the first contacting plate the female connector. The socket connector designed as an opening can in the simplest case have a smooth edge (ordinary embodiment or normal case of an opening or a hole).

Alternatively, with a smooth opening edge, the female connector may have an inner diameter that is slightly smaller than an outer diameter of the male connector, or the lateral edges of the positive pole may be slightly skewed in the axial direction such that the positive pole forms an upwardly tapering truncated cone.

According to both embodiments of the connector, it is ensured that i) the pin connector exerts radial forces on the socket connector in a contact region with the socket connector, and / or ii) the contact region has a large contact surface, whereby the electrical contact of the connector is improved or the corresponding contact resistance is reduced is.

Alternatively, a female connector (opening of the first contacting plate) have an opening edge formed of flexible, elastic lamellae, so that when inserting the pin connector into the female connector, the lamellae are elastically spread, exert a radial force on the pin connector due to their elasticity and thus the pin connector in the Lock or fix socket connector mechanically in axial direction. Despite the locking ensures the elasticity of the slats a certain axial movement for the pen plug or the positive pole of the battery cells.

The force exerted by lamellae on the pin plug and the large contact area result in a reduction of the electrical contact resistance of the connector, i. the contact resistance between the negative pole and the second contacting plate, which is accompanied by the advantage of improving the battery performance or an increase in the electric range of the vehicle.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a battery module may comprise an electrically non-conductive, preferably elastic, insulating element, which is arranged between the cell housing in each case a battery cell and the first contacting plate.

Due to its electrically insulating property and its position, the insulation element causes the cell housing to be electrically insulated from the first contacting plate. This effect has the advantage that, on the one hand, manufacturing tolerances for the battery cells and contacting plates, and, on the other hand, mounting tolerances with regard to arrangement or positioning of the components of the battery module can be permitted. This is due to the fact that the probability of accidental, due to manufacturing or assembly tolerances, electrical contact between the first contacting plate and the cell housing of a respective battery cell, by the insulating element considerably can be reduced. As a result, advantageously the costs for production and assembly of the battery module and / or battery module stack can be reduced.

Preferably, an insulating element can be plate-shaped, in particular as an elastomer or an elastic membrane. Alternatively, the insulating element can also be annular, for example in the form of an insulating ring or a plurality of insulating rings, and can be arranged at the first end of a respective battery cell around the positive pole.

The elasticity of a plate-shaped or annular insulating element advantageously causes the first contacting plate to be pressed against the battery cells during assembly of the battery module until a secure and stable structure is achieved, without fear of accidental contacting of the cell housing of a respective battery cell with the first contacting plate have to.

Preferably, lateral expansions of a, in particular plate-shaped, insulating element can be equal or approximately equal to lateral expansions of the first or second contacting plate. This causes the effect that the insulating element covers the entire gap between the battery cells under the first contacting plate. This effect can advantageously bring about a simplification and simplification of the assembly of the battery module, as well as an increase in electrical safety due to a reduction in the probability of undesired electrical contacts or short circuits.

Preferably, an insulation element may have openings, in particular at intersections of the longitudinal axes of respective battery cells with the insulation element, so that in each case an opening of the insulation element is located above the positive pole of each battery cell, whereby the positive pole can be passed through the opening. This advantageously causes a simplification and simplification of the assembly of the battery module and an increase in electrical safety.

Advantageously, a positive pole each protrude a battery cell through each opening of the insulating member in the axial direction facing away from the housing. This causes the effect that the cell housing is separated by the insulating element of the first bonding plate and thus electrically isolated.

1. a) Bereitstellen einer zweiten Kontaktierungsplatte, oder Auflegen der zweiten Kontaktierungsplatte auf die erste Kontaktierungsplatte eines darunter liegenden Batteriemoduls, für die Montage eines ersten Batteriemoduls;
2. b) Aufstellen mehrerer Batteriezellen etwa senkrecht auf die Kontaktierungsplatte und etwa achsparallel auf die zweite Kontaktierungsplatte, sodass der Minuspol jeweils einer Batteriezellen die zweite Kontaktierungsplatte elektrisch kontaktiert;
3. c) direktes Verbinden der Minuspole der Batteriezellen mit der zweiten Kontaktierungsplatte, insbesondere mittels einer nicht lösbaren Verbindung, vorzugsweise mittels Laserschweißen;
4. d) Auflegen des plattenförmigen Isolationselements lose auf die Batteriezellen, sodass die Pluspole der Batteriezellen in die Öffnungen des Isolationselements eindringen können und/oder eindringen;
5. e) Auflegen der ersten Kontaktierungsplatte lose auf das plattenförmige Isolationselement, wobei die Pluspole der Batteriezellen in die Öffnungen der ersten Kontaktierungsplatte eindringen können oder eindringen;
6. f) Anpressen der ersten Kontaktierungsplatte axial an die zweite Kontaktierungsplatte;
7. g) Wiederholen der vorhergehenden Schritte für das zweite sowie für jedes weitere Batteriemodul, das hinzugefügt werden soll.

When mounting a battery module stack this can be compressed axially together. Thereby, the positive and / or non-positive connection can be made by means of the described connectors. The insulation element may correspond exactly or approximately to the first contacting plate in terms of shape and extent, so that the mounting of a battery module and / or battery module stack may comprise the following steps:

1. a) providing a second contacting plate, or placing the second contacting plate on the first contacting plate of an underlying battery module, for mounting a first battery module;
2. b) setting up a plurality of battery cells approximately perpendicular to the contacting plate and approximately axially parallel to the second contacting plate, so that the negative terminal of each of a battery cell electrically contacts the second contacting plate;
3. c) directly connecting the negative terminals of the battery cells with the second contacting plate, in particular by means of a non-detachable connection, preferably by means of laser welding;
4. d) placing the plate-shaped insulating element loose on the battery cells, so that the positive poles of the battery cells can penetrate into the openings of the insulating element and / or penetrate;
5. e) placing the first contacting plate loose on the plate-shaped insulating member, wherein the positive poles of the battery cells can penetrate into the openings of the first contacting plate or penetrate;
6. f) pressing the first contacting plate axially against the second contacting plate;
7. g) repeating the previous steps for the second and each additional battery module to be added.

The axial compression in step f) of the structure obtained in steps a) to e) makes it possible for the positive pole of each battery cell to be electrically conductively and directly and / or inseparably or only severably separably connected to the second contacting plate.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, in the step c), the connection between the negative pole of each of a battery cell and the second contacting plate can be designed as a plug connection, as an alternative to a connection by means of welding, in particular laser welding. For this purpose, the second contacting plate may have openings and the negative pole of the battery cell may be formed as a survey of the end face of the battery cell at its second end, analogous to the positive pole. Furthermore, the above applies to this connector for the Plug connection between the positive pole and the first contacting plate. Advantageously, in such a realization, the assembly of the battery module and / or battery module stack considerably simplified and associated costs can be significantly reduced.

In a preferred development of the invention, it can be provided in a battery module that the positive pole in each case projects beyond the first end of a battery cell, preferably also beyond the insulation element, in an axial direction facing away from the housing. This causes the effect that, the positive pole performing, survey of the end face of a respective battery cell at its first end mechanically supports the first contacting plate in the axial direction and at the same time forms a spacer between the first contacting plate and the cell housing. The cell housing is thus spaced from the first contacting plate and therefore also electrically insulated. The mentioned effect has the advantage of being able to achieve, simply and inexpensively achievable, a reduction in the complexity and the assembly outlay as well as the associated costs for the installation of the battery module.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a first and / or second contacting plate may be respectively partially or continuously electrically conductive. This causes the effect that battery cells are switchable or connected in regions or continuously parallel. The effect has the advantage that battery cells corresponding areas in different and separate groups or chambers can be set up or summarized in order to switch corresponding groups or chambers independently electrically, for example, depending on demand electrically in parallel or in series.

If the first and the second contacting plate are each continuously electrically conductive, then all intermediate battery cells are connected in parallel throughout.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a first and / or second contacting plate may be elastic and preferably consist of a conductive and elastic material, in particular a metal or plastic, the material having returned to its original position after deformation and after withdrawal of the deformation force. The first and / or second contacting plate may comprise, in a contact area with the battery cell, an elastic membrane which is optionally curved in a direction away from the battery cell and possibly has an opening. To improve the electrical conductivity, the first and / or second contacting plate may be lubricated in the contact region with a, the electrical conductivity-improving, contact paste comprising, for example, copper, aluminum or graphite pigments.

• a) Herstellungstoleranzen für Batteriezellen und Kontaktierungsplatten, und/oder Montagetoleranzen, hinsichtlich Anordnung bzw. Positionierung der Bauteile des Batteriemoduls zugelassen werden können, und/oder
• b) eine verbesserte Batterieperformance und eine höhere elektrische Reichweite des Fahrzeugs erzielbar sind, ohne aufwändige Schweißung zwischen einer Batteriezelle und einer Kontaktierungsplatte.

Dadurch können vorteilhafterweise die Kosten für Herstellung und Montage des Batteriemoduls und/oder Batteriemodulstapels erheblich reduziert werden.The development effects the effect of a possible compensation of thermal or tolerance-related fluctuations of an axial length of a respective battery cell, preferably with a simultaneous reduction of the contact resistance in the contact region. This effect has the advantage that

• a) manufacturing tolerances for battery cells and contacting plates, and / or mounting tolerances, with regard to arrangement or positioning of the components of the battery module can be admitted, and / or
• b) improved battery performance and a higher electrical range of the vehicle can be achieved without complex welding between a battery cell and a contacting plate.

As a result, advantageously the costs for production and assembly of the battery module and / or battery module stack can be considerably reduced.

In a preferred development of the invention, the outer circumferential surface of a battery cell can touch the peripheral surface of an adjacent battery cell in a linear or strip-shaped contact region. In particular, the linear contact region ideally occurs and the strip-shaped contact region occurs in practice. The contact region can have interruptions along its course and therefore consist of successive, linear or strip-shaped contact regions, due to possible unevenness of the peripheral surface of a battery cell. With increasing width of the contact region, the effectiveness of the heat balance between contacting battery cells increases.

Preferably, the respective heat removal channel can be flowed through by the cooling medium, for cooling adjacent battery cells. For this purpose, the cooling medium can be pumped or pressed into the heat removal channel and executed at the end of the Wärmeabführkanals from there. Advantageously, the circulation of the cooling medium promotes the cooling of the battery cells.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a battery module may comprise a circulation system, by means of which the cooling medium can be fed to a heat removal channel and can be discharged therefrom. Advantageously, the circulation system allows autonomous or autonomous operation of the battery module and / or battery module stack.

In a preferred development of the invention, a circulation system can be designed to move or circulate the cooling medium such that the cooling medium is supplied to the first chamber, removed therefrom and supplied to the second chamber, and discharged therefrom. If several Wärmeabführkanäle are provided in each case a chamber, so moves or flows through the cooling medium through the Wärmeabführkanäle the relevant chamber uniformly in one direction. This causes the effect of a closed cooling circuit, with the cooling medium circulating through the chambers and between the chambers. The effect has the advantage that thus a compact design of the battery module or battery module stack and / or a uniform temperature of the battery cells are made possible.

Preferably, connections can be provided by means of which the cooling medium can be supplied to a chamber and / or can be discharged therefrom. The connections can be arranged above the first or below the second contacting plate. This causes the advantageous effect of a compact design of the battery module or battery module stack, because the circulation system and the cooling circuit and the battery module together form a closed, autonomous or self-sufficient unit that can be accommodated in a battery case or overall housing.

Preferably, the ports may comprise one or more, for example, at least two, five, or ten feeds, for feeding the cooling fluid into each chamber. In addition, the connections comprise one or more, preferably at least two, five or ten, outlets for discharging the cooling medium from one chamber each. A high number of connections causes the effect of a strong or fine branching of the cooling circuit. The advantage of this effect is a good and uniform distribution of heat dissipation from the battery cells and a uniform temperature of the battery cells.

• i) einer Reduktion des Strömungsquerschnitts in dem Wärmeabführkanal, was vorzugsweise mit einer Erhöhung der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit des Kühlmediums in dem Wärmeabführkanal einhergeht, und/oder
• ii) einer Reduktion der Menge des benötigten, zirkulierenden Kühlmediums.

Der Effekt i) hat den Vorteil einer verbesserten Kühleffizienz für die Batteriezellen, und der Effekt ii) hat den Vorteil einer Material- und Kostenersparnis.In a preferred development of the invention, a filling material can be introduced or introduced into a respective heat removal channel. The introduced filling material causes the effect

• i) a reduction of the flow cross section in the heat removal channel, which is preferably accompanied by an increase in the flow rate of the cooling medium in the heat removal channel, and / or
• ii) a reduction in the amount of circulating cooling medium needed.

The effect i) has the advantage of improved cooling efficiency for the battery cells, and the effect ii) has the advantage of material and cost savings.

Preferably, the filler material may comprise an axial rod, or hollow spheres of glass or plastic. This has the advantage of a structurally simple and inexpensive way to increase the cooling efficiency and material savings.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a circulation system may comprise a heat exchanger or a cooling device for cooling the cooling medium. The heat exchanger can be arranged in an inner region of the battery module or battery module stack, for example in a lateral region of the inner region. In a battery module stack with a plurality of battery modules, the cooling medium can be introduced into the first battery module and removed from the axially opposite battery module, wherein the discharged liquid is circulated through the heat exchanger and cooled there. The circulation system thus formed, including heat exchangers, provides the advantage of an increased cooling effect and a compact design of the battery module or battery module stack.

The circulation system will work even if the battery module stack includes a single battery module or if each battery module includes a single chamber.

In a preferred development of the invention, an opening of the second contacting plate or of the insulating element can each rest directly or directly on the respective heat dissipation channel. This causes the advantageous effect that leakage of cooling medium can be prevented at the transition into the heat dissipation. In particular, the insulating element performs a sealing task, similar to a seal between components of a system of fluid lines.

In a preferred development of the invention, the battery module or the battery module stack may comprise a battery housing (overall housing), preferably made of aluminum, for accommodating the battery module or battery module stack. This has the advantage of improved and easier handling of the battery module and / or battery module stack.

Preferably, a battery module or battery module stack may comprise electrically non-conductive and possibly mechanically shock-absorbing insulation rings which enclose the battery module stack, electrically isolating the contacting plates from the battery housing and reduce or prevent movement of battery components relative to the battery case.

This has the advantage that this enables or ensures electrically safe operation and improved mechanical stability and vibration resistance.

The vehicle has the same advantages as described above with regard to the battery module and battery module stack according to the invention.

• 1a in einer perspektivischen Darstellung ein Batteriemodul bei fehlender erster Kontaktierungsplatte,
• 1b in einer perspektivischen Darstellung eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform eines Batteriemoduls,
• 2a in einer perspektivischen Darstellung eine Mehrzahl nebeneinander angeordneter Batteriezellen eines Batteriemoduls,
• 2b in einer Seitenansicht eine einzelne Batteriezelle,
• 3 in einer perspektivischen Darstellung eine erste Kontaktierungsplatte,
• 4a in einer perspektivischen Darstellung einen Batteriemodulstapel,
• 4b in einer Frontansicht einen Schnitt durch einen Batteriemodulstapel, zur Visualisierung eines Fluidstroms des Kühlmediums,
• 4c in einer Aufsicht einen Schnitt durch einen Wärmeabführkanal mit darin eingebrachtem Füllmaterial,
• 5 in einer Frontansicht eine Prinzipdarstellung eines Fluidstroms des Kühlmediums durch einen Batteriemodulstapel,
• 6 in einer Aufsicht einen Schnitt durch ein Batteriemodul, und
• 7 in einer perspektivischen Darstellung schockdämpfende Isolationsringe.

An inventive battery module will be explained in more detail with reference to drawings. Each show schematically:

• 1a in a perspective view of a battery module in the absence of the first contacting plate,
• 1b in a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a battery module,
• 2a in a perspective view, a plurality of juxtaposed battery cells of a battery module,
• 2 B in a side view a single battery cell,
• 3 in a perspective view a first contacting plate,
• 4a in a perspective view of a battery module stack,
• 4b in a front view a section through a battery module stack, for visualization of a fluid flow of the cooling medium,
• 4c in a plan view of a section through a Wärmeabführkanal with introduced therein filler material,
• 5 in a front view of a schematic diagram of a fluid flow of the cooling medium through a battery module stack,
• 6 in a plan view of a section through a battery module, and
• 7 in a perspective view of shock-absorbing insulation rings.

Elements with the same function and mode of operation are each provided with the same reference numerals in the figures shown.

• - zwei, zueinander parallel oder annähernd parallel angeordnete, Kontaktierungsplatten 12, 13 umfassend eine erste und eine zweite Kontaktierungsplatte, und
• - mindestens zwei, nebeneinander und zwischen den beiden Kontaktierungsplatten angeordnete, Kammern umfassend mindestens eine erste Kammer und mindestens eine zweite Kammer,
• - eine Mehrzahl von Batteriezellen, die nebeneinander zwischen den beiden Kontaktierungsplatten und in den jeweiligen Kammern angeordnet sind, und
• - ein Zirkulationssystem mittels welchem ein Kühlmedium der ersten Kammer zuführbar ist, aus dieser abführbar und der zweiten Kammer zuführbar ist, und aus dieser abführbar ist.

1a shows a battery module 10 in the absence of the first contacting plate, 1b shows a complete battery module 10 , and shows 6 shows a section through a battery module 10 , The battery module 10 includes:

• - Two, mutually parallel or approximately parallel, contacting plates 12 . 13 comprising a first and a second contacting plate, and
• at least two chambers arranged side by side and between the two contacting plates, comprising at least one first chamber and at least one second chamber,
• - A plurality of battery cells, which are arranged side by side between the two contacting plates and in the respective chambers, and
• - A circulation system by means of which a cooling medium of the first chamber can be supplied, is discharged from the latter and the second chamber can be fed, and is discharged from this.

The first chamber 20.1 and the second chamber 20.2 are each a portion of the first and a portion of the second contacting plate 12 . 13 assigned, wherein the respective area continuously electrically conductive and optionally with respect to adjacent areas of the same contacting plate 12 . 13 is electrically isolated. Preferably, the separate chambers allow 20.1 . 20.2 and the associated, regional conductivity of the contacting plates 12 . 13 a flexible electrical connection (in series or in parallel) of battery cells 14 belonging chambers 20.1 . 20.2 among themselves.

One chamber each 20.1 . 20.2 includes a wall 20 which laterally encircles and encloses the battery cells arranged in the chamber. The wall made of a thermally conductive and in particular electrically insulating material. This allows for efficient heat exchange between adjacent chambers 20.1 . 20.2 , wherein in each case a chamber 20.1 . 20.2 grouped or pooled battery cells 14 can be electrically switched independently. As a result, a more uniform cooling or temperature control of the chambers is advantageously 20.1 . 20.2 and enclosed battery cells 14 ,

2 B shows a single battery cell 14 in a side view. One battery cell each 14 has a cell case 14.1 and a longitudinal axis and two axially opposite ends. The battery cell 14 is tubular, with longitudinal axes of battery cells 14 are parallel to each other. The longitudinal axes of the battery cells 14 form rotary axes or symmetry axes of the battery cells 14 ,

One battery cell each 14 has a plus pole 14.2 at the first end and a negative pole 14.3 at the second end. The positive pole 14.2 is as a survey of an end face of the battery cell 14 formed at the first end.

The positive pole 14.2 is with the first contacting plate 12 and the negative pole 14.3 is with the second contacting plate 13 each directly connected (see 1 ).

The cell case 14.1 is with the negative pole 14.3 connected and is electrically conductive, wherein it is not in the battery module 10 assembled state of the battery cells 14 opposite the positive pole 14.2 is electrically isolated; This ensures the basic functionality of the battery.

Between regions facing each other, in particular bordered by linear or strip-shaped contact regions, areas of outer circumferential surfaces 18.3 (see also 4c) adjacent, touching battery cells 14 each is a heat dissipation channel 18 educated. The corresponding contact areas limit and seal each heat removal channel 18 from. If a contact area is leaking, then flows in a Wärmeabführkanal 18 circulating cooling medium into an adjacent heat removal channel 18 one. The cooling medium is a cooling liquid in the present embodiment.

The first and / or second contacting plate 12 . 13 has openings through which each of the cooling medium by means of the circulation system the respective heat removal ducts 18 can be supplied or discharged from these.

In the battery module 10 assembled state of the battery cell 14 is the cell case 14.1 opposite the first contacting plate 12 and thus advantageously also opposite the positive pole 14.2 electrically isolated, creating positive pole 14.2 and negative pole 14.3 a respective battery cell 14 in one in the battery module 10 assembled state of the battery cell 14 are electrically isolated from each other. By the isolation of the first contacting plate 12 opposite the cell case 14.1 is also the negative pole 14.3 the battery cell 14 opposite the first contacting plate 12 electrically isolated.

• i) eine äußere Umfangsfläche 18.3 jeweils einer, von benachbarten Batteriezellen 14 vollständig umgebenen, Batteriezelle 14.5 äußere Umfangsflächen von mindestens vier benachbarten Batteriezellen 14 berührt, und
• ii) eine äußere Umfangsfläche 18.3 jeweils einer, von benachbarten Batteriezellen 14 unvollständig umgebenen, Batteriezelle 14.6 äußere Umfangsflächen von mindestens zwei benachbarten Batteriezellen 14 berührt.

2a shows a perspective view of a plurality of juxtaposed battery cells 14 a battery module 10 , The battery cells 14 are arranged such that (see also 4c)

• i) an outer circumferential surface 18.3 one each, from adjacent battery cells 14 completely surrounded, battery cell 14.5 outer peripheral surfaces of at least four adjacent battery cells 14 touched, and
• ii) an outer peripheral surface 18.3 one each, from adjacent battery cells 14 incompletely surrounded, battery cell 14.6 outer peripheral surfaces of at least two adjacent battery cells 14 touched.

One of neighboring battery cells 14 (Neighboring cells) completely surrounded battery cell 14.5 is embedded in the middle of neighboring cells, whereby in a 360 ° environment around the battery cell 14.5 around neighboring cells are located.

An outer peripheral surface 18.3 one in each case 2a shown, from adjacent battery cells 14 completely surrounded battery cell 14.5 , touches outer peripheral surfaces 18.3 of six neighboring battery cells 14 ,

One of neighboring battery cells 14 (Neighbor cells) incompletely surrounded battery cell 14.6 is located in an edge region of the battery cell space, wherein only in an environment of less than 360 ° to the battery cell 14.6 around neighboring cells are arranged.

An outer peripheral surface 18.3 one in each case 2a shown, from adjacent battery cells 14 incompletely surrounded battery cell 14.6 , touches outer peripheral surfaces 18.3 of three adjacent battery cells 14 ,

Between adjacent, bounded by linear or strip-shaped contact areas areas outer peripheral surfaces of adjacent, touching battery cells 14 , each one is in 2a shown heat dissipation 18 educated. The corresponding contact areas limit and seal each heat removal channel 18 ,

3 shows a first contacting plate 12 in a perspective view. To realize a positive and / or non-positive connection between the positive pole 14.2 a battery cell 14 and the first contacting plate 12 has the first contacting plate 12 openings 12.1 on, at intersections of longitudinal axes of respective battery cells 14 with the first contacting plate 12 , In addition to this, the positive pole stands out 14.2 each of a battery cell 14 in each case an opening 12.1 the first contacting plate 12 facing away from the housing in the axial direction, whereby the positive pole 14.2 with the first contacting plate 12 non-positively and directly connected. In addition to or instead of a positive and / or non-positive connection is the positive pole 14.2 each of a battery cell 14 with the first contacting plate 12 connected via an inseparable connection, preferably by means of laser welding.

According to 1 and 3 the first contacting plate has openings 12.2 on, through which in each case the cooling medium by means of a (not shown) circulation system the respective heat dissipation 18 can be supplied or discharged from these.

4a shows a battery module stack 11 , This comprises a plurality of battery modules according to the invention stacked axially one on top of the other 10 , The first contacting plate 12 a respective battery module 10 is with the second contacting plate 13 an overlying battery module 10 electrically connected. As a result, the stacked battery modules 10 a battery stack electrically connected in series.

4b shows a section through a battery module stack 11 , for the visualization of a fluid flow 18.1 the cooling medium, wherein the fluid streams 18.1 are drawn as arrows. In addition to this shows 5 a schematic representation of a fluid flow of the cooling medium through a battery module stack. Each arrow symbolizes a variety of fluid flows 18.1 through respective heat removal channels 18 , The middle arrow points up fluid flows 18.1 through the middle, first chamber 20.1 The two lateral arrows point down fluid flows 18.1 through the side, second chambers 20.2 The mean fluid flow is at the top of the battery module stack 11 deflected and into the heat dissipation channels 18 the lateral second chambers 20.2 initiated.

The described fluid flows are part of a circulation system, which also comprises a heat exchanger and a pump, wherein the cooling medium cooled by the heat exchanger (not shown) is pumped by the pump (not shown) in the form of the upwardly directed fluid flow. The downwardly guided, heated fluid streams are fed to the heat exchanger and then through the pump back up into the middle chamber 20.1 directed. The circulation system thus represents a closed cooling circuit.

• - eine Reduktion des Strömungsquerschnitts in dem Wärmeabführkanal, was eine Erhöhung der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit des Kühlmediums in dem Wärmeabführkanal und eine damit einhergehende Verbesserung der Kühleffizienz zur Folge hat, und
• - eine Reduktion der Menge des benötigten, zirkulierenden Kühlmediums, was eine Material-und Kostenersparnis zur Folge hat.

4c shows a section through a Wärmeabführkanal 18 with filler introduced therein 18.2 , In the present case, the filling material is an axial rod made of plastic. The filler causes

• a reduction of the flow cross section in the heat removal channel, which results in an increase in the flow rate of the cooling medium in the heat removal channel and a concomitant improvement in the cooling efficiency, and
• a reduction in the amount of circulating cooling medium required, resulting in material and cost savings.

7 shows shock-absorbing insulation rings 10.1 in a perspective view, separate from the battery module stack 11 , The isolation rings are adapted to the battery module stack 11 to comprehensively include the contacting plates 12 . 13 electrically insulated from a battery case (not shown) and to reduce or prevent movement of battery components with respect to the battery case.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

battery module

10.1

shock-absorbing insulation ring between battery module and battery case or overall housing

11

Battery module stack

12

first contacting plate

12.1

Opening of the first contact plate for a battery cell plus pole

12.2

Opening the first contacting plate for a heat dissipation

13

second contacting plate

14

battery cell

14.1

cell case

14.2

Positive pole of a battery cell

14.3

Negative pole of a battery cell

14.5

Battery cell completely surrounded by adjacent battery cells

14.6

Battery cell incompletely surrounded by adjacent battery cells

16

Insulation element, disposed between a battery cell and the first contacting plate

16.1

Opening of the insulation element for a battery cell plus pole

16.2

Opening of the insulation element for a heat removal channel

18

Wärmeabführkanal

18.1

fluid flow

18.2

Fill material, axial rod in a heat removal channel

18.3

Wall of the heat dissipation channel, outer battery cell peripheral surface

20

Wall of a chamber

20.1

first chamber

20.2

second chamber

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 102015013377 A1 [0003]

Claims (10)

Battery module (10) for a motor vehicle comprising: two contacting plates arranged parallel to one another or approximately parallel, comprising a first and a second contacting plate (12, 13), - At least two, adjacent to each other and between the two contacting plates (12, 13) arranged, chambers comprising at least a first chamber (20.1) and at least one second chamber (20.2), - A plurality of battery cells (14), which are arranged side by side between the two contacting plates (12, 13) and in the respective chambers (20.1, 20.2), and - A circulation system by means of which a cooling medium of the first chamber (20) can be supplied, is discharged from the latter and the second chamber (20) can be fed, and is discharged from this, wherein each one battery cell (14) has a longitudinal axis and two axially opposite ends, the ends of each one battery cell (14) are connected to the contacting plates (12, 13), - In each case a Wärmeabführkanal (18) is formed between facing regions of outer peripheral surfaces of adjacent battery cells (14), and - The first and / or the second contacting plate (12, 13) has openings through which each of the cooling medium by means of the circulation system the respective heat removal ducts (18) can be supplied or discharged from these. Battery module (10) after Claim 1 comprising at least one of the following features: - the first and the second contacting plate (12, 13) are respectively partially or continuously electrically conductive, whereby battery cells (14) are connected in regions or continuously in parallel; - Each one chamber (20) comprises a wall which in the chamber (20) arranged battery cells (14) laterally encircling and enclosing and is preferably made of a thermally conductive and in particular electrically insulating material, optionally made of plastic. Battery module (10) after at least one of Claims 1 or 2 comprising at least one of the following features: - the respective heat removal channel (18) is traversed by a cooling medium, preferably a cooling liquid or possibly air, for cooling adjoining battery cells (14); - The circulation system has connections by means of which the cooling medium, preferably cooling liquid, a chamber (20) can be fed and / or discharged therefrom, and preferably the terminals above the first or below the second contacting plate (13) are arranged; - The connections comprise one or more, preferably at least two, five or ten, feeds, for supplying the cooling liquid in each case a chamber; - The connections comprise one or more, preferably at least two, five or ten, drains, for discharging the cooling medium from each chamber; - In each case a heat removal channel (18), a filler material can be introduced or introduced, by means of which a flow cross-section of the Wärmeabführkanals (18) can be reduced, whereby a flow rate of the cooling medium can be increased. Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following features: - The battery cells (14) are arranged such that the outer peripheral surface of each one of adjacent battery cells (14) completely surrounded, battery cell (14.5) touches outer peripheral surfaces of at least three or four, preferably six, adjacent battery cells (14); - The battery cells (14) are arranged such that the outer peripheral surface of each one of adjacent battery cells incompletely surrounded, battery cell touches outer peripheral surfaces of at least two, three or four adjacent battery cells. Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein - The outer peripheral surface of a battery cell (14) contacts the peripheral surface of an adjacent battery cell (14) in a line-shaped or strip-shaped contact region. Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following features: - Each one battery cell has a positive pole at the first end, a negative terminal at the second end and a cell housing (14.1), wherein the positive pole with the first contacting plate and the negative pole with the second contacting plate are each directly connected; - The positive pole (14.2) is connected to the first contacting plate (12) and the negative pole (14.3) is directly connected to the second contacting plate (13). Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein - The cell housing (14.1) opposite the first contacting plate (12) is electrically insulated. Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following features: - the, preferably as a survey of an end face of the battery cell (14) formed at the first end, plus pole (14.2) each of a battery cell (14) is inseparably connected to the first contacting plate (12), in particular by means of laser welding; - The negative pole (14.3) in each case a battery cell (14) is inseparably connected to the second contacting plate (13), preferably by means of laser welding. Battery module stack for a motor vehicle comprising a plurality of axially stacked battery modules (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein preferably the battery modules (10) are electrically connected in series. Motor vehicle with a battery module stack according to the preceding claim.

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