DE102017213476A1 - 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, parallel to each other or approximately parallel arranged, contacting plates comprising a first and a second contacting plate (12, 13), and
a plurality of battery cells (14) arranged side by side and between the two contacting plates,
in which
in each case a battery cell (14) has a cell housing (14.1) as well as a longitudinal axis and two axially opposite ends,
- Each one battery cell (14) has a positive pole (14.2) at the first end and a negative pole (14.3) at the second end,
- The positive pole (14.2) with the first contacting plate (12) and the negative pole (14.3) with the second contacting plate (13) are each directly connected, and
- The cell housing (14.1) opposite the first contacting plate (12) is electrically insulated.

Description

The present invention relates to a battery module for a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a battery module stack for a motor vehicle. The invention also relates to 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. When electrically connecting the individual cells, however, line losses may occur which weaken the performance of the battery and reduce the vehicle's electrical range.

From the EP 3096372 A1 is a battery storage module with a plurality of cylindrical single-cell battery cells each having a negative pole and a positive pole known. The individual cells are arranged between two plates and electrically contact one plate each at the positive pole and at the negative pole. At the positive pole, the individual cells are electrically conductively connected to one of the plates via a respective contact spring which, due to its elasticity, compensates for tolerances of the individual cells.

However, the electrical connection via the contact spring may be subject to line losses, due to the loose connection between the positive pole and contact spring and the positioning inaccuracy of the single cell relative to the contact spring during assembly of the battery.

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, whereby the electrical conductivity between elements of the battery module improves and the assembly of the battery module and the battery module stack can be facilitated and made more efficient.

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, und
• - eine Mehrzahl von Batteriezellen, die nebeneinander und zwischen den beiden Kontaktierungsplatten angeordnet sind.

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

• - Two, parallel to each other or approximately parallel arranged, contacting plates comprising a first and a second contacting plate, and
• - A plurality of battery cells, which are arranged side by side and between the two contacting plates.

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

In each case, a battery cell has a positive pole at the first end and a negative pole at the second end. The positive pole may be formed as a protrusion of an end face of the battery cell at the first end.

The positive pole is connected directly to the first contacting plate and the negative pole is directly connected 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.

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 the present case, it is ensured that, particularly 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 a state mounted in the battery module Battery cell are electrically insulated from each other. By the isolation of the first Contacting plate relative to the cell housing and the negative terminal of the battery cell is electrically insulated from the first contacting plate.

1. i) übereinstimmen oder
2. ii) elektrisch verbunden sein.

Dadurch können aufeinander gestapelten Batteriemodule eines Batteriestapels elektrisch in Serie geschaltet sein oder werden.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

1. i) agree or
2. ii) 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 of the battery module, wherein the positive pole with the first contacting plate and the negative pole are directly connected to the second contacting plate causes 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 connected directly, but indirectly, for example via a contact spring, have higher line losses on the other hand.

The feature of the battery module, wherein the cell housing of a respective battery cell is electrically insulated from the first contacting plate, in particular in a vehicle mounted state of the battery module, causes the effect of a simple structure of the battery module, since no action or at least no costly or expensive measures Isolation of the cell housing relative to the first contacting plate are needed. 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, whereby the advantage of improving the battery performance and an increase in the electric range of the vehicle is accompanied.

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 an accidental, caused by manufacturing or assembly tolerances, electrical contact between the first contacting plate and the cell housing of a respective battery cell, can be significantly reduced by the isolation element. 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 the plug-in connection between the positive pole and the first contacting plate for this connector. 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 embodiment of the invention may be provided in a battery module that the positive pole each protrudes a battery cell via the first end, preferably also on the insulating element, facing away from the housing in an axial direction. This causes the effect that the positive pole representing 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.

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

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

1. 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 allowed, and / or
2. b) improved battery performance and a higher electrical range of the vehicle can be achieved without costly 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.

1. i) eine äußere Umfangsfläche jeweils einer, von benachbarten Batteriezellen vollständig umgebenen, Batteriezelle äußere Umfangsflächen von mindestens vier benachbarten Batteriezellen berührt, und
2. 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, battery cells can be arranged such that

1. i) an outer peripheral surface of a battery cell completely surrounded by adjacent battery cells touch outer peripheral surfaces of at least four adjacent battery cells, and
2. 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) cause the effects that on the one hand battery cells are space-saving side by side or arranged together and that on the other hand, a mutual heat balance between contacting battery cells is achieved, in particular because the cell housing each made of a battery cell made of a thermally conductive material or produced is, for example, 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.

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). As the number of neighboring cells touched increases, the 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.

Preferably, the outer peripheral surface of each one of a battery cell incompletely surrounded by adjacent battery cells, outer peripheral surfaces of at least three or four adjacent battery cells touch.

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 area occur in the ideal case and the strip-shaped contact area 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.

In a preferred development of the invention, in each case a heat removal channel can be formed between facing regions of outer peripheral surfaces of adjacent, contacting battery cells which are delimited by line-shaped or strip-shaped contact regions. 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 development 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.

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 battery module can comprise at least two chambers arranged next to one another and between the two contacting plates, at least one first chamber and at least one second chamber being provided. 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 modules associated chambers with each other.

Preferably, one chamber each may comprise a wall enclosing laterally surrounding 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.

In a preferred development of the invention, a circulation system may 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.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a first and / or second contacting plate having openings through which each of the cooling medium by means of the circulation system the respective Wärmeabführkanälen be supplied or is deducible from these. This has the beneficial effect of making the circulation system or cooling circuit functional and operational.

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.

1. i) einer Reduktion des Strömungsquerschnitts in dem Wärmeabführkanal, was vorzugsweise mit einer Erhöhung der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit des Kühlmediums in dem Wärmeabführkanal einhergeht, und/oder
2. 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

1. 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
2. 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 insulate the contacting plates from the battery housing and reduce or prevent movement of battery components relative to the battery housing. This has the advantage that this enables or ensures electrically safe operation and improved mechanical stability and vibration resistance.

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

• 1 in einer perspektivischen Darstellung eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Batteriemoduls,
• 2a in einer perspektivischen Darstellung eine Mehrzahl nebeneinander angeordneter Batteriezellen eines Batteriemoduls,
• 2b in einer Seitenansicht eine einzelne Batteriezelle,
• 3a in einer Draufsicht einen Ausschnitt eines Isolationselements, und
• 3b in einer perspektivischen Darstellung eine erste Kontaktierungsplatte.

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

• 1 in a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a battery module according to the invention,
• 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,
• 3a in a plan view of a section of an insulating element, and
• 3b in a perspective view of a first contacting plate.

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
• - eine Mehrzahl von Batteriezellen 14, die nebeneinander und zwischen den beiden Kontaktierungsplatten 12, 13 angeordnet sind.

1 shows a preferred embodiment of a battery module according to the invention 10 in a perspective view. The battery module 10 includes:

• - Two, mutually parallel or approximately parallel, contacting plates 12 . 13 comprising a first and a second contacting plate, and
• - A plurality of battery cells 14 , side by side and between the two contacting plates 12 . 13 are arranged.

A battery module 10 includes at least two, side by side and between the two contacting plates 12 . 13 arranged, chambers 20 , wherein at least a first chamber and at least one second chamber are provided. The chambers 20 each comprise a plurality of battery cells 14 and at least one heat dissipation channel 18 , One chamber each 14 is a region of the first and a region of the second contacting plate 12 . 13 assigned, wherein the respective area is continuously electrically conductive and optionally electrically insulated from adjacent areas of the same contacting plate. Preferably, the separate chambers allow 20 and the associated, regional conductivity of the contacting plates a flexible electrical interconnection (in series or in parallel) of battery modules associated chambers 20 among themselves.

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.

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.

1. i) eine äußere Umfangsfläche jeweils einer, von benachbarten Batteriezellen 14 vollständig umgebenen, Batteriezelle 14.5 äußere Umfangsflächen von mindestens vier benachbarten Batteriezellen 14 berührt, und
2. ii) eine äußere Umfangsfläche 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

1. i) an outer peripheral surface of each one of adjacent battery cells 14 completely surrounded, battery cell 14.5 outer peripheral surfaces of at least four adjacent battery cells 14 touched, and
2. ii) an outer circumferential surface of one of 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 of each one in 2a shown, from adjacent battery cells 14 completely surrounded battery cell 14.5 , contacts outer peripheral surfaces of six adjacent battery cells 14 ,

One of neighboring battery cells 14 (Neighboring 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 of each one in 2a shown, from adjacent battery cells 14 incompletely surrounded battery cell 14.6 , contacts outer peripheral surfaces 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 ,

3a shows a section of an electrically non-conductive, elastic insulating element 16 that in a battery module 10 is included. The isolation element 16 is between the cell case 14.1 each of a battery cell 14 and the first contacting plate 12 arranged.

The isolation element 16 causes, due to its electrical insulating property and its location, that the cell housing 14.1 opposite the first contacting plate 12 is electrically isolated.

The isolation element 16 is plate-shaped, in particular as an elastomer or an elastic membrane. The isolation element 16 In terms of shape and extent approximates with the first contacting plate 12 match.

The elasticity of the insulation element 16 causes during assembly of the battery module 10 the first contacting plate 12 against the battery cells 14 can be pressed until a secure and stable structure is achieved without accidental contact of the cell housing 14.1 a respective battery cell 14 through the first contacting plate 12 to fear.

At intersections of the longitudinal axes of respective battery cells 14 with the insulation element 16 has the insulation element 16 Openings on, so that in each case an opening of the insulating element 16 at the positive pole 14.2 each of a battery cell 14 which causes the positive pole 14.2 can be passed through the opening. This can be a positive pole 14.2 each of a battery cell 14 through in each case an opening of the insulation element 16 projecting housing side facing away in the axial direction. That causes the cell case 14.1 through the insulation element 16 from the first contacting plate 12 separated and thus electrically isolated.

3b 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 3b 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.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

battery module

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

20

Chamber, wall of a 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

• EP 3096372 A1 [0003]

Claims (10)

Battery module (10) for a motor vehicle comprising: - Two, parallel to each other or approximately parallel arranged, contacting plates comprising a first and a second contacting plate (12, 13), and - A plurality of battery cells (14), which are arranged side by side and between the two contacting plates, wherein in each case a battery cell (14) has a cell housing (14.1) as well as a longitudinal axis and two axially opposite ends, - Each one battery cell (14) has a positive pole (14.2) at the first end and a negative pole (14.3) at the second end, - The positive pole (14.2) with the first contacting plate (12) and the negative pole (14.3) with the second contacting plate (13) are each directly connected, and - The cell housing (14.1) opposite the first contacting plate (12) is electrically insulated. Battery module (10) after Claim 1 comprising, at least one of the following features: - the positive pole (14.2) of a respective battery cell (14), preferably designed as a projection of an end face of the battery cell (14) at the first end, is inseparably connected to the first contacting plate (12) by 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 (10) after at least one of Claims 1 or 2 , - wherein the positive pole (14.2) in each case a battery cell (14) projecting beyond the first end in an axial direction away from the housing, whereby the cell housing (14.1) to the first contacting plate (12) spaced and thus with respect to 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 battery module (10) comprises an electrically non-conductive, preferably elastic, insulating element (16) which is arranged between the cell housing (14.1) respectively a battery cell (14) and the first contacting plate (12), whereby the cell housing (14.1) opposite the first contacting plate (12) is electrically insulated; - The insulation element (16) is plate-shaped, preferably as an elastomer; lateral dimensions of the insulating element (16) are identical or approximately equal to lateral dimensions of the first or second contacting plate (12, 13); - The insulation element (16) has openings (16.1), preferably at intersections of the longitudinal axes of respective battery cells (14) with the insulation element (16); - The positive pole (14.2) each of a battery cell (14) protrudes through each opening (16.1) of the insulating member (16) in the axial direction away from housing, whereby the cell housing (14.1) by the insulating member (16) of the first contacting plate (14) 12) is separated and thus electrically isolated. Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following features: - The first contacting plate (12) has openings (12.1), preferably at intersections of longitudinal axes of respective battery cells (14) with the first contacting plate (12); - The positive pole (14.2) each of a battery cell (14) protrudes into a respective opening (12.1) of the first contacting plate (12) in the axial direction away from the housing, whereby the positive pole (14.2) is directly connected to the first contacting plate (12), preferably by means of a positive connection; - The first contacting plate (12) is elastic, whereby a compensation of thermal or tolerance-induced variations of an axial length of each of a battery cell (14) is possible. Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, 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; the battery module (10) comprises at least two chambers (20) arranged next to one another and between the two contacting plates, comprising at least one first chamber (20) and at least one second chamber (20), - 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) according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following features: - the outer peripheral surface of each of a, of adjacent battery cells (14) completely surrounded, battery cell (14.5) touches outer Peripheral surfaces of at least three, preferably six, adjacent battery cells (14); - 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; - Each a Wärmeabführkanal (18) is formed between facing each other, bounded by linear contact areas areas outer peripheral surfaces of adjacent, touching battery cells (14); - The respective Wärmeabführkanal (18) of a cooling medium, preferably a cooling liquid or possibly air can be flowed through, for cooling adjacent battery cells (14). Battery module (10) according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following features: - The battery module (10) comprises 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; - The first and / or the second contacting plate (12, 13) has openings (12.1, 12.2), through which each of the cooling medium by means of the circulation system the respective heat removal channels can be supplied or discharged from these; - 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; - In each case a Wärmeabführkanal a filler material can be introduced or introduced, by means of which a flow cross-section of the Wärmeabführkanals can be reduced, whereby a flow velocity of the cooling medium can be increased. 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.

Images