DE102022107998A1 - Hybrid end plate for a holding device for holding a battery cell stack - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an end plate (10) for a holding device (20) for holding a battery cell stack (30). The end plate (10) has a base body (12) which has a hollow profile section (14) with a hollow chamber (14a). Furthermore, the end plate (10) has a stiffening insert (16a), which is accommodated in the hollow chamber (14a) and stiffens the base body (12). The invention further relates to a holding device (20) with a similar end plate (10) and a battery module (40) with a corresponding holding device (20).

Description

The invention relates to an end plate for a holding device for holding a battery cell stack. The invention further relates to a holding device with a similar end plate and a battery module with a corresponding holding device.

It is known in the prior art to equip electric and hybrid vehicles with battery modules in order to drive the drive units of the corresponding vehicles using the electrical energy stored or storable there. As a rule, such battery modules include several battery cells (e.g. lithium-ion battery cells) that are electrically connected to one another to form a high-voltage battery.

It is also known to mechanically brace the battery cells of such a battery module. For this purpose, the battery cells are usually arranged in the form of a cell stack, which is then mechanically fixed by applying a preload force by means of a holding device (e.g. in the form of a holding frame). In addition to holding the cell stack together, bracing also serves as a measure to prevent the battery cells from aging too quickly. Applying an ideal bias voltage, which depends on the chemistry of the battery cells, enables the battery cells to achieve the highest usable number of charge and discharge cycles while at the same time achieving the greatest possible usable battery capacity.

A corresponding clamping device can e.g. B. end plates delimiting the cell stack on both sides can be provided, which can be clamped together via tension straps, tie rods, side plates or the like that run laterally in the stacking direction. The battery cells usually expand over the lifespan of such a battery module, so that the pressure within the module or on the end plates increases. In this context, previous end plates are often characterized by low bending stiffness, high weight and sometimes a complex connection of the side plates.

Accordingly, it is the object of the invention to provide an improved end plate for a holding device for holding a battery cell stack. It is preferably an object of the invention to provide an end plate that is as light as possible and yet rigid.

These tasks can be solved with the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and applications of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and are explained in more detail in the following description with partial reference to the figures.

A first independent aspect of the present disclosure relates to an end plate for a holding device (e.g., a holding frame). The holding device is preferably used to hold a battery cell stack. The battery cell stack can, for example, comprise several (e.g. fifteen) battery cells (e.g. lithium-ion battery cells) stacked along a stacking direction.

The end plate has a, preferably plate-shaped, base body (e.g. made of an aluminum alloy). The base body can e.g. B. be an extruded profile. The base body has a hollow profile section with a, preferably continuous, hollow chamber. By way of example only, the hollow profile section can have a wall area with a rectangular, square or other closed cross section, which delimits the hollow chamber on the circumference.

Furthermore, the end plate has a stiffening insert (e.g. made of steel), which is accommodated (e.g. pressed in) in the hollow chamber and preferably stiffens the base body. Merely by way of example, the stiffening insert can completely fill the hollow chamber and/or have an outer contour which is designed to be at least partially adapted to a contour of the hollow chamber. In an advantageous manner, the flexural rigidity of the base body or the end plate can be increased locally and thus as required. For example, an area of the end plate in which a high (compressive) load is to be expected during operation (e.g. a middle area) can be specifically stiffened without the entire end plate being made of a correspondingly stiff and therefore in As a rule, it must be made of heavy material (e.g. steel). By choosing or dimensioning the stiffening insert, the force/pressure distribution on the end plate can be advantageously adapted to the respective cell requirements as homogeneously and/or specifically as possible.

According to a first aspect, the stiffening insert can be essentially rod-shaped. For example, the stiffening insert can have an elongated and/or straight shape. The stiffening insert can therefore preferably have an extent along a longitudinal axis of the stiffening insert that is greater than a maximum extent perpendicular or radial to the longitudinal axis.

Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can be designed as a profile (e.g. as a steel profile). For example, the stiffening insert a (e.g. rolled, drawn and / or pressed) shaped body whose cross section is the same over its entire length. In a preferred embodiment, the profile is designed as a solid profile and/or made of a solid material.

Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can extend through the entire hollow chamber. For example, the stiffening insert can extend (e.g. continuously) between a first front end of the hollow chamber and a second front end, preferably opposite the first front end.

Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can have an outer contour which is designed to be at least partially shape-adapted to an outer contour of the hollow chamber and/or an inner contour of the hollow profile section. By way of example only, the hollow profile section or the hollow chamber can have a square cross section and the stiffening insert can be designed as a solid material square.

Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can essentially completely fill the hollow chamber. For example, the stiffening insert can have a shape that essentially completely occupies the cavity delimited by the hollow profile section.

According to a further aspect, the stiffening insert can be made of a different material than the base body and/or the hollow profile section. For example, the stiffening insert can be made from a first metal alloy, while the base body and/or the hollow profile section are made from a second metal alloy, preferably different from the first metal alloy. In an advantageous manner, the material properties of the respective components can be adapted as optimally as possible to the respective requirements.

Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can be made of a heavier and/or stiffer material than the base body and/or the hollow profile section. For example, the stiffening insert can be made of steel, while the base body and/or the hollow profile section are made of an aluminum alloy. In an advantageous manner, an end plate can be provided in which the rigidity advantages of steel are combined with the weight advantages of aluminum as optimally as possible.

Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can be made of a weldable material (e.g. steel). As will be explained in more detail below, this can advantageously enable a simple and secure connection of further components (e.g. the holding device) - for example side plates of the holding device which are also made of a weldable material. In particular, in the case that the base body is made of a non-weldable material, a simple and secure connection of the other components (e.g. the holding device) can be made possible in an advantageous manner.

According to a further aspect, the base body can be an extruded profile. Additionally or alternatively, the base body can be made of an aluminum alloy. In an advantageous manner, a base body of the end plate that is as light as possible and easy to manufacture can be provided overall.

According to a further aspect, the hollow profile section can be an extruded profile. Additionally or alternatively, the hollow profile section can be formed from an aluminum alloy. Particularly preferably, the base body and the hollow profile section are connected to one another in an integral, one-piece manner. For example, the hollow profile section can be formed integrally with the base body from an (aluminum) compact. The hollow profile section and the base body should therefore preferably not be separate components or components that can be detached from one another (non-destructively).

According to a further aspect, the hollow profile section can have a closed cross section (on the circumference). For example, the hollow profile section or the hollow chamber can have a rectangular or square cross section. Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can be completely surrounded on the circumference by the hollow profile section. For example, the stiffening insert can be completely surrounded by the hollow profile section in the circumferential direction. Accordingly, the stiffening insert can only be accessible (e.g. visible) (from the outside) via the front ends of the hollow chamber of the hollow profile section.

According to a further aspect, the hollow profile section can have a, preferably straight, slot. The hollow chamber can be connected to an outside space via the slot. For example, the stiffening insert can be accessible (e.g. visible) via the slot - in addition to possible front ends of the hollow chamber of the hollow profile section. The slot is preferably designed as an elongated and/or narrow opening in an (outer) wall of the hollow profile section. The slot particularly preferably runs along a longitudinal axis of the hollow chamber. Overall, this can advantageously provide an additional option Connection (e.g. welding) of components of the holding device to the stiffening insert can be provided.

According to a further aspect, the stiffening insert may not be completely surrounded circumferentially by the hollow profile section. For example, the hollow profile section cannot have a closed cross section (e.g. due to the slot). Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can fill the slot, preferably flush. For example, the stiffening insert can also be accommodated in the slot. Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert can have a (e.g. straight) section received in the slot, which is flush with an outer surface of the hollow profile section. The stiffening insert can preferably be accessible from the outside via this section (e.g. for welding on further components of the holding device).

According to a further aspect, the hollow profile section can be a multi-chamber hollow profile section which has further hollow chambers. Accordingly, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can have several (e.g. five) further hollow chambers - in addition to the aforementioned hollow chamber. The multi-chamber hollow profile section is preferably formed integrally in one piece. For example, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can be an extruded profile. Furthermore, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can also be made of an aluminum alloy. In a preferred embodiment, the further hollow chambers are continuous hollow chambers. For example, the further hollow chambers can extend through the entire base body. Advantageously, as will be described in more detail below, an end plate that can be flexibly adapted to the respective requirements or expected loads can be provided by targeted stiffening or non-stiffening of the corresponding further hollow chambers.

According to a further aspect, the hollow chamber and the further hollow chambers can each be designed the same. For example, all hollow chambers can have the same shape and/or size.

Additionally or alternatively, the hollow chamber and the further hollow chambers can each be oriented the same, preferably parallel to one another. For example, the corresponding hollow chambers of the end plate can preferably all be arranged parallel to one another (e.g. one above the other or next to one another).

Additionally or alternatively, the hollow chamber and the further hollow chambers can each extend through the entire base body. For example, the corresponding hollow chambers of the end plate can all be continuous hollow chambers.

Additionally or alternatively, the hollow chamber and the further hollow chambers can be arranged next to one another (e.g. in a row next to one another). For example, the corresponding hollow chambers of the end plate can be arranged along a straight line.

According to a further aspect, the end plate can - in addition to the aforementioned stiffening insert - have at least one further stiffening insert (e.g. made of steel). This at least one stiffening insert can be accommodated in at least one of the further hollow chambers of the multi-chamber hollow profile section and can preferably stiffen the base body. It is understood that the at least one further stiffening insert can have the features described above in connection with the stiffening insert - regardless of its design. For example, the at least one further stiffening insert can also be essentially rod-shaped and / or designed as a profile and / or completely fill at least one of the further hollow chambers, etc. Consequently, the ones described above in connection with the stiffening insert or its inclusion in the hollow profile section should Features can also be disclosed and claimed in connection with the at least one further stiffening insert. The same should also apply to the features of the hollow profile section described in this context. So the multi-chamber hollow profile section can z. B. have at least one further slot, the hollow chamber of the further hollow chambers, in which the at least one further stiffening insert is accommodated, being connected to the outside space via the at least one further slot.

According to a further aspect, at least one of the further hollow chambers of the multi-chamber hollow profile section can be empty to reduce the weight of the base body. For example, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can also have at least one unfilled and/or non-stiffened hollow chamber. Additionally or alternatively, no insert stiffening the base body can be accommodated in at least one of the further hollow chambers of the multi-chamber hollow profile section. In an advantageous manner, an end plate that is as light as possible can be provided, which has appropriate stiffening (only) at predetermined (e.g. at heavily stressed) locations.

According to a further aspect, the multi-chamber hollow profile section may have a stiffening insert distribution that is irregular and/or asymmetrical. The stiffening insert distribution can preferably be understood as a distribution of all stiffening inserts of the end plate, ie the distribution of the stiffening insert and the at least one further stiffening insert. The stiffening insert distribution can z. B. be given by the arrangement of the hollow chambers with stiffening inserts or the empty hollow chambers in the end plate.

Additionally or alternatively, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can have a stiffening insert distribution which has a larger number of stiffening inserts in a central region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section than in an edge region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section. For example, more stiffening inserts can be arranged in a central region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section than in a corresponding edge region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section. This is advantageous because the greatest pressure loads are often expected in the central area of the end plate due to swelling-related “bulging” of the battery cells during their aging process.

Additionally or alternatively, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can have a stiffening insert distribution, in which the stiffening inserts are arranged essentially in areas in which an increased load (e.g. pressure load) on the multi-chamber hollow profile section is to be expected during operation of the battery cell stack . For example, the distribution of the stiffening inserts can be selected depending on the expected load on the end plate or the multi-chamber hollow profile section.

Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a holding device (e.g. a holding frame). The holding device is preferably used to hold a battery cell stack, preferably in a tensioned manner. The holding device has at least one end plate, as described in this document. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one end plate further comprises two end plates, which can be designed the same or different.

According to one aspect, the holding device further has at least one side part (e.g. a side plate or a tie rod). The at least one side part is preferably used for attachment to a side surface of the battery cell stack. For example, the side part can be designed to be on the side of the battery cell stack, i.e. H. running in the stacking direction, to be attached to the battery cell stack. Preferably, the at least one side part is designed to be at least as long as the battery cell stack (in the stacking direction). In a preferred embodiment, the at least one side part can be welded, preferably butt, to the stiffening insert. For example, the at least one side part and the stiffening insert can be welded together via a corner joint or T-joint. Preferably, the at least one side part is welded to a front end of the stiffening insert. For this purpose, corresponding recesses (e.g. holes) can be provided in the at least one side part. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one side part can also be welded to the section of the stiffening insert received in the slot. In an advantageous manner, a simple and secure fixation of the corresponding components of the holding device can be achieved, especially if the base body itself is made of a non-weldable material.

Additionally or alternatively, in a preferred embodiment, the at least one side part can encompass the at least one end plate (e.g. by means of a radius of the at least one side part). For example, the at least one side part has a (e.g. hook or clip-shaped) section which is oriented transversely to a longitudinal axis of the at least one side part for (e.g. positive) gripping around the at least one end plate. Preferably, the aforementioned section can be a tab.

Additionally or alternatively, the at least one side part can be connected to the at least one end plate in such a way that the at least one side part is exposed to a tensile load due to a pressure load acting on the at least one end plate. For example, this can be achieved by gripping around the at least one end plate.

Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a battery module for a motor vehicle. The battery module has a battery cell stack made up of several battery cells (e.g. lithium-ion battery cells) stacked in a stacking direction. This can only be an example of prismatic battery cells. Furthermore, the battery module can have a holding device, as described in this document, by means of which the battery cell stack is held, preferably in a clamped manner. Additionally or alternatively, the battery module can also (only) have at least one end plate (without a holding device), the at least one end plate being designed as described in this document. The at least one end plate is preferably at one end of the Battery cell stack (e.g. an end face) arranged. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one end plate can limit the battery cell stack at its, preferably front, end. For example, the at least one end plate can be arranged oriented perpendicular to the stacking direction.

Ultimately, the present disclosure relates to a motor vehicle (e.g., a truck), the motor vehicle having a battery module as disclosed in this document. The motor vehicle is preferably a commercial vehicle, i.e. H. a motor vehicle which, due to its design and equipment, is specifically designed to transport goods and/or to tow one or more (e.g. agricultural) trailer vehicles. For example, the commercial vehicle can be a truck, a semi-trailer, a construction site vehicle and/or an agricultural machine (e.g. a tractor).

• 1A eine schematische Pseudo-3D-Ansicht einer Endplatte gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 1 B eine schematische Pseudo-3D-Ansicht einer Endplatte gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 2 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung eines Batteriemoduls für ein Kraftfahrzeug gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 3A eine schematische Pseudo-3D-Ansicht einer Endplatte gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 3B eine schematische Pseudo-3D-Ansicht einer Endplatte gemäß einer Ausführungsform; und
• 4 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung eines Batteriemoduls für ein Kraftfahrzeug gemäß einer Ausführungsform.

The aspects and features of the invention described above can be combined with one another in any way. Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:

• 1A a schematic pseudo-3D view of an end plate according to an embodiment;
• 1 B a schematic pseudo-3D view of an end plate according to an embodiment;
• 2 a schematic sectional view of a battery module for a motor vehicle according to one embodiment;
• 3A a schematic pseudo-3D view of an end plate according to an embodiment;
• 3B a schematic pseudo-3D view of an end plate according to an embodiment; and
• 4 a schematic sectional view of a battery module for a motor vehicle according to one embodiment.

The embodiments shown in the figures are at least partially the same, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and for their explanation reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures in order to avoid repetitions.

The figures each show different embodiments of an end plate 10 for a holding device 20 (cf. 2 or 4 ) for holding a battery cell stack 30. The end plate 10 is preferably designed for attachment to an end face of the battery cell stack 30. For example, the end plate 10 can be designed to rest on a first or last battery cell of the battery cell stack 30.

The preferably one-piece end plate 10 has a preferably plate-shaped base body 12. The base body 12 can z. B. have a flat and/or flat shape. In a preferred embodiment, the base body 12 can be essentially cuboid-shaped. The base body 12 can z. B. be limited at least on two opposite sides (e.g. a front and back) by a flat (e.g. rectangular) surface. The base body 12 can also have a longitudinal axis L, which is oriented along its greatest extent. The base body 12 can have a transverse axis Q, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L and is oriented along the smallest extent of the base body 12. Furthermore, the base body 12 can have a vertical axis H, which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L and transverse axis Q. The base body 12 can be an extruded profile. Alternatively, the base body 12 can also be cast. In order to advantageously provide an end plate 10 that is as light as possible and yet stable, the base body 12 is made of an aluminum alloy in a preferred embodiment.

The base body 12 also has a hollow profile section 14 with a hollow chamber 14a. For example, the base body 12 can have a tubular section that delimits the hollow chamber 14a. The hollow profile section 14 can z. B. have a round, rectangular, or other closed cross section. The hollow chamber 14a can preferably be a continuous hollow chamber 14a. For example, the hollow chamber 14a can be between a first outer surface 12a of the base body 12 and a second outer surface 12b, preferably opposite the first outer surface 12a (cf. 2 ) extend. The hollow chamber 14a can thus be a passage opening through the base body 12. The hollow chamber 14a can be located, for example, along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 12 (cf. 1A , 1 B and 2 ) extend. Alternatively, the hollow chamber 14a can also be located along the vertical axis H of the base body 12 (cf. 3A , 3B and 4 ) extend.

As shown in the figures, the hollow profile section 14 can also have at least one further hollow chamber 14b - in the present case, for example, five further hollow chambers 14b. The hollow profile section 14 can thus be designed as a multi-chamber hollow profile section.

The at least one further hollow chamber 14b or the several further hollow chambers is preferred Chambers 14b are formed continuously. For example, the one or more further hollow chambers 14b can extend between the first outer surface 12a and the second outer surface 12b of the base body 12, ie through the entire base body 12.

The hollow chambers 14a and the at least one further hollow chamber 14b are preferably oriented parallel and offset from one another. For example, the corresponding hollow chambers 14a, 14b, ie the hollow chamber 14a and the at least one further hollow chamber 14b, can each have a longitudinal direction that is oriented parallel to one another. The corresponding hollow chambers 14a, 14b can also be next to each other - e.g. B., as in the 1A , 1B , 3A and 3B is shown, in a row - be arranged. Furthermore, the corresponding hollow chambers 14a, 14b can all be designed the same. For example, the corresponding hollow chambers 14a, 14b can all have the same shape and/or size. In a preferred embodiment, the corresponding hollow chambers 14a, 14b each have a prismatic, preferably cuboid, shape. Like in the 1A and 1 B is shown as an example, the corresponding hollow chambers 14a, 14b can extend along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 12. The longitudinal axis L can be oriented horizontally, for example. Alternatively, the corresponding hollow chambers 14a, 14b can also extend along the vertical axis H of the base body 12 (cf. 3A and 3B) . The vertical axis H can be oriented vertically, for example.

It is also preferably provided that the hollow profile section 14 or the multi-chamber hollow profile section is connected integrally to the base body 12. For example, the hollow profile section 14 or the multi-chamber hollow profile section and the base body 12 should be separate or detachable (non-destructive) components. The hollow profile section 14 is preferably formed integrally or together with the base body 12 (e.g. by extrusion) from a blank or compact. The hollow profile section 14 or the multi-chamber hollow profile section can thus - like preferably also the base body 12 - be an extruded profile and / or be made of an aluminum alloy.

Furthermore, it is provided that the end plate 10 has a stiffening insert or a stiffening insert 16a (e.g. a profile), the stiffening insert 16a being accommodated in the hollow chamber 14a and preferably stiffening the base body 12. For this purpose, the stiffening insert 16a can preferably be made of a stiffer material than the base body 12 or the hollow profile section 14. For example, the stiffening insert 16a can have a larger modulus of elasticity than the base body 12 or the hollow profile section 14. The stiffening insert 16a is preferably made of steel, while the base body 12 or the hollow profile section 14 is preferably made of an aluminum alloy.

In order to fix the stiffening insert 16a in the hollow chamber 14a in an advantageous manner, the stiffening insert 16a and the hollow profile section 14 can be connected to one another via a press connection. For example, the stiffening insert 16a and the hollow profile section 14 can be connected to one another by shrinking the hollow profile section 14. Additionally or alternatively, the stiffening insert 16a can be screwed, riveted and/or otherwise positively, non-positively and/or cohesively connected to the hollow profile section 14.

The stiffening insert 16a can also completely fill the hollow chamber 14a. For this purpose, the stiffening insert 16a can be used, for example. B. be made from a solid material. Furthermore, the stiffening insert 16a can have an outer contour which is designed to match a contour of the hollow chamber 14a. For example, the stiffening insert 16a and the hollow chamber 14a can have essentially the same cross section (transverse to the longitudinal direction). The stiffening insert 16a can thus be accommodated with a precise fit in the hollow chamber 14a. The stiffening insert 16a and/or the hollow chamber 14a preferably have a compact cross section. For example, the respective cross section can essentially have a convex shape (e.g. square, rectangular, round, etc.). The stiffening insert 16a can also be designed not to completely fill the hollow chamber 14a or the cross section of the hollow chamber 14a. For example, the stiffening insert 16a can have a cross section that deviates from the cross section of the hollow chamber 14a. Furthermore, the stiffening insert 16a can z. B. be designed as an I-profile or hollow profile.

The stiffening insert 16a can also be rod-shaped. For example, the stiffening insert 16a can have an elongated shape and/or have a smaller extent perpendicular to its longitudinal direction than in the longitudinal direction. The stiffening insert 16a can extend through the entire hollow chamber 14a. The stiffening insert 16a can extend between the first outer surface 12a of the base body 12 and the second outer surface 12b. The stiffening insert 16a can be flush with the first and/or second outer surface 12a, 12b. Preferably, the stiffening insert 16a therefore do not protrude or protrude from the hollow chamber 14a.

Furthermore, the stiffening insert 16a (on the circumference) can be completely enclosed by the hollow profile section 14 (cf. 1A and 3A) . For example, the hollow chamber 14a cannot have any further openings to the outside apart from the front openings. Accordingly, the hollow profile section 14 or the tubular section of the base body 12 delimiting the hollow chamber 14a should preferably have a closed (e.g. square) cross section.

Alternatively, the stiffening insert 16a (on the circumference) cannot be completely enclosed by the hollow profile section 14 (cf. 1 B and 3B) . For example, the stiffening insert 14a cannot be completely surrounded circumferentially by the hollow profile section 14. Here, the hollow profile section 14 can z. B. have a (e.g. straight) slot 18a. The hollow chamber 14a can be connected to an outside space via this slot 18a. The slot 18a preferably has an elongated and/or narrow shape. In a preferred variant, the slot 18a runs parallel to the longitudinal axis L or vertical axis H of the end plate 10. Additionally or alternatively, the hollow profile section 14 surrounding the hollow chamber 14a (on the circumferential side) can also have an opening (e.g. not slot-shaped) through which the hollow chamber 14a is preferably connected to the outside space. For example, the stiffening insert 16a can be accessible (e.g. visible) via the slot 18a and/or the opening (from the outside). For example, the slot 18a and/or the opening can be formed in an outer surface of the hollow profile section 14, which will be referred to below as the third outer surface 12c. The third outer surface 12c is preferably oriented perpendicular to the first and/or the second outer surface 12a, 12b. Particularly preferably, the third outer surface 12c is a side surface of the end plate 10 facing away from the battery cell stack 20. Overall, the hollow profile section 14 surrounding the hollow chamber 14a (at least in sections) can thus be open (e.g. due to the slot 18a or the opening). (e.g. C-profile-shaped) cross-section.

The stiffening insert 16a can fill the slot 18a and/or the opening, preferably flush. For example, the stiffening insert 16a can also be accommodated in the slot 18a and/or the opening. Accordingly, the stiffening insert 16a can have a section 16a ₁ received in the slot 18a and/or the opening, which is flush to the outside with the third outer surface 12c of the hollow profile section 14. The stiffening insert 16a can preferably be accessible from the outside (e.g. for welding on components) via this section 16a ₁ .

In addition to the stiffening insert 16a described above, the end plate 10 may include at least one further stiffening insert 16b. This at least one further stiffening insert 16b can be accommodated in one of the further hollow chambers 14b of the multi-chamber hollow profile section. The at least one further stiffening insert 16b can also preferably stiffen the base body 12. Like in the 1A , 1B , 3A and 3B is shown as an example, the at least one further stiffening insert 16b can also have several further stiffening inserts 16b, e.g. B. two or three further stiffening inserts 16b. The at least one further stiffening insert 16b or the several further stiffening inserts 16b can be designed in accordance with the features described above in connection with the stiffening insert 16a (e.g. rod-shaped, solid material, etc.). To avoid repetition, please refer to the above statements in connection with the stiffening insert 16a.

In this context, it should only be emphasized that the multi-chamber hollow profile section can also have at least one further slot 18b and/or at least one further opening. The multi-chamber hollow profile section preferably has a number of further slots 18b and/or openings, which corresponds to a number of further stiffening inserts 16b. Those hollow chambers of the further hollow chambers 18b in which the at least one further stiffening insert 16b is accommodated can be connected to the outside space via the at least one further slot 18b and/or the at least one further opening. Preferably, the at least one further slot 18b is arranged parallel to the slot 18a. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one further opening can be arranged parallel to the corresponding opening.

Furthermore, the at least one further stiffening insert 16b can fill the at least one further slot 18b and/or the at least one further opening, preferably flush. Correspondingly, the at least one further stiffening insert 16b can also have a section 16b ₁ received in the at least one further slot 18b and/or in the at least one further opening, which is flush with the third outer surface 12c of the hollow profile section 14 on the outside. Finally, it should be mentioned in this context that the hollow chambers 14a, 14b, stiffening inserts 16a, 16b and / or slots 18a, 18b or openings present in the end plate 10 All of them can be the same but can also be designed differently.

In addition or as an alternative to the above-described presence of at least one further stiffening insert 16b, at least one of the further hollow chambers 14b of the multi-chamber hollow profile section 14 can also be empty. This means that no insert stiffening the base body 12 can be accommodated in at least one of the further hollow chambers 14b. This preferably serves to reduce the weight of the base body 12.

As has already been explained above, in a preferred embodiment the multi-chamber hollow profile section can - in addition to the hollow chamber 14a in which the stiffening insert 16a is accommodated - have further hollow chambers 14b, which can be empty or in which the further stiffening inserts 16b can be accommodated. In one embodiment, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can have a stiffening insert distribution that is irregular and/or asymmetrical (cf. 1A and 1B) . That is, in this embodiment, all stiffening inserts 16a, 16b of the end plate 10 should preferably not be arranged in a regular sequence (e.g. empty - stiffened - empty - stiffened - etc.).

Additionally or alternatively, the multi-chamber hollow profile section can also have a stiffening insert distribution which has a larger number of stiffening inserts 16a, 16b in a central region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section than in an edge region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section. For example, in the exemplary embodiment according to 3A or. 3B A stiffening insert 16b is accommodated in each of the two middle hollow chambers 14b, while only one stiffening insert 16a or 16b is accommodated in the two edge-side hollow chambers 14b. In addition to these exemplary stiffening insert distributions 1A , 1B , 3A and 3B The multi-chamber hollow profile section can also have further or alternative stiffening insert distributions. However, it is preferably provided that the multi-chamber hollow profile section has a stiffening insert distribution, in which the stiffening inserts 16a, 16b are arranged essentially in areas in which an increased load (e.g. pressure load) on the multi-chamber hollow profile section during the Operation of the battery cell stack 20 is to be expected. In an advantageous manner, a local and therefore needs-based stiffening of the end plate 10 can be realized, the stiffness of the end plate 10 being able to be adapted as individually as possible to the respective requirements in each individual case through the distribution and/or design of the stiffening inserts 16a, 16b.

The 2 and 4 show (partial) sectional views of various embodiments of a battery module 40 for a motor vehicle (not shown). The battery module 40 can provide electrical energy for at least one electric drive unit for driving the motor vehicle. For example, the motor vehicle can be driven by a central electric drive, by several electric wheel hub drives or by several electric drives close to the wheel. The battery module 40 can be designed as a high-voltage battery module. The high-voltage battery module can e.g. B. can be operated or operated with a direct voltage between 60 V and 1.5 kV, particularly preferably between 400 V and 850 V. The battery module 40 can be charged externally via an electrical charging cable connected to a charging socket of the motor vehicle.

The battery module 40 has a battery cell stack 30 made up of a plurality of (e.g. prismatic) battery cells 32 stacked in a stacking direction S. The multiple battery cells 32 can z. B. lithium-ion battery cells. The battery cell stack 30 may include, for example, fifteen or sixteen battery cells 32. It is possible for a gap filler 34 (e.g. a gap pad) to be arranged between two battery cells 32 of the battery cell stack 30 in order to bridge a gap between the battery cells 32.

The battery cell stack 30 can have a first end face. The first end face can be delimited by a side surface of a frontmost or first battery cell of the plurality of battery cells 32. The battery cell stack 30 can also have a second second end face, preferably arranged opposite to the first end face. The second end face can be limited by a side surface of a rearmost or last battery cell of the plurality of battery cells 32. A surface normal of the first and/or second end face can be oriented parallel to the stacking direction S. Furthermore, the battery cell stack 30 can have several (e.g. four) side surfaces. The side surfaces can each have a surface normal that is oriented perpendicular to the stacking direction S.

The battery module 40 can also have a holding device 20, by means of which the battery cell stack 30 is held, preferably in a clamped manner. The holding device 20 can be designed, for example, in the form of a holding frame. The holding device 20 can have at least one end plate 10, which should be designed as described in this document. For example, the at least one end plate 10 can be an end plate 10 in which the hollow chamber 14a or the stiffening insert 16a accommodated in the hollow chamber 14a is oriented along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 12 (see. 2 ). Alternatively, the at least one end plate 10 can also be an end plate 10 in which the hollow chamber 14a or the stiffening insert 16a accommodated in the hollow chamber 14a is oriented along the longitudinal axis H of the base body 12 (cf. 4 ).

The at least one end plate 10 can be arranged, for example, on the first end face of the battery cell stack 30. The at least one end plate 10 can be arranged oriented perpendicular to the stacking direction S. The at least one end plate 10 can be arranged (possibly via a gap filler 34) adjacent to the frontmost battery cell. The at least one end plate 10 can be arranged to absorb pressure that occurs along the stacking direction S (e.g. caused by swelling of the battery cells 32 of the battery cell stack 30).

The holding device 20 can also have at least one side part 22 (e.g. a side plate). The at least one side part 22 is preferably arranged on one of the side surfaces of the battery cell stack 30. The at least one side part 22 can have a length that corresponds to at least one length of the battery cell stack 30. For example, the at least one side part 22 can preferably extend at least from the first or frontmost battery cell to the last or rearmost battery cell. The at least one side part 22 should preferably be arranged running in the stacking direction S. The at least one side part 22 can be made of steel, for example.

The at least one side part 22 can encompass or engage behind the at least one end plate 10. For this purpose, the at least one side part 22 can have a (e.g. hook or clip-shaped) section 22a (e.g. a tab), the section 22a being designed to grip around the at least one end plate 10. The section 22a can preferably protrude from the side part 22 transversely to the stacking direction S. For example, an end region of the at least one side part 22 can be folded and/or bent in the form of a radius. The corresponding section 22a can rest on an outer surface of the end plate 10 facing away from the interior of the holding device 20 or the battery cell stack 30. For example, the section 22a can abut the third outer surface 12c of the end plate 10. In this way, a compressive load acting on the at least one end plate 10 can be converted into a tensile load on the at least one side part 22 in an advantageous manner.

The at least one side part 22 and the at least one end plate 10 can also be fastened to one another. For example, the at least one side part 22 and the at least one end plate 10 can be welded together. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one side part 22 can be butt-welded to the stiffening insert 16a of the at least one end plate 10. For example, the at least one side part 22 and the stiffening insert 16a can be welded together via a T-joint or corner joint. For example, in the in 2 In the embodiment shown, a front end region of the stiffening insert 16a (e.g. made of steel) can be welded to an inner surface of the at least one side part 22 facing the battery cell stack 30. Additionally or alternatively, as exemplified in 4 is shown, an inner surface of the section 22a facing the end plate 10 can be welded to the section 16a ₁ of the stiffening insert 16a received in the slot 18a. In both cases, corresponding recesses (not shown) can be present on the at least one side part 22. It goes without saying that the at least one side part 22 - additionally or alternatively - can also be welded to the at least one further stiffening insert 16b.

Furthermore, the at least one end plate 10 can preferably have two end plates 10, as described in this document. The two end plates 10 should preferably be arranged at two opposite ends or end faces of the battery cell stack 30. The two end plates 10 can be designed the same or different. Furthermore, the at least one side part 22 can preferably have two side parts 22. The two side parts 22 should preferably be arranged on two opposite side surfaces of the battery cell stack 30. The two side parts 22 can also be designed the same or different. Overall, a holding frame can be provided in an advantageous manner, which enables reliable and secure clamping of the battery cells 32 of the battery cell stack 30.

Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments disclosed, but is intended to include all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the subclaims, regardless of the claims referred to.

Reference symbol list

10

End plate

12

Basic body

12a

first outside surface

12b

second outside surface

12c

third outside area

14

Hollow profile section

14a

hollow chamber

14b

another hollow chamber

16a

Stiffening insert

16b

further stiffening insert

16a1

Section

18a

slot

18b

another slot

20

Holding device

22

Side part

22a

Section

30

Battery cell stack

32

Battery cells

34

Gap filler

L

Longitudinal axis

H

vertical axis

Q

Transverse axis

S

Stacking direction

Claims (15)

End plate (10) for a holding device (20), preferably a holding frame, for holding a battery cell stack (30), comprising: a base body (12), preferably made of an aluminum alloy, which has a hollow profile section (14) with a, preferably continuous, hollow chamber (14a); and a stiffening insert (16a), preferably made of steel, which is accommodated in the hollow chamber (14a) and stiffens the base body (12). End plate (10). Claim 1 , wherein the stiffening insert (16a): a) is essentially rod-shaped; and/or b) is designed as a profile, preferably a full profile; and/or c) extends through the entire hollow chamber (14a); and/or d) has an outer contour which is designed to be at least partially adapted in shape to an outer contour of the hollow chamber (14a); and/or e) essentially completely fills the hollow chamber (14a). End plate (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the stiffening insert (16a): a) is made of a different material than the base body (12) and/or the hollow profile section (14); and or b) is made of a heavier and/or stiffer material than the base body (12) and/or the hollow profile section (14); and or c) is made of a weldable material, preferably steel. End plate (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the base body (12) is an extruded profile and/or is made of an aluminum alloy; and or b) the hollow profile section (14) is an extruded profile and/or is made of an aluminum alloy. End plate (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: a) the hollow profile section (14) has a closed, preferably rectangular or square, cross section; and or b) the stiffening insert (16a) is completely surrounded on the circumference by the hollow profile section (14). End plate (10) according to one of the Claims 1 until 5 , wherein: the hollow profile section (14) has a, preferably straight, slot (18a), via which the hollow chamber (14a) is connected to an external space. End plate (10) according to one of the Claim 6 , wherein the stiffening insert (16a): a) is not completely surrounded on the circumference by the hollow profile section (14); and/or b) fills the slot (18a), preferably flush; and/or c) has a preferably straight section (16a ₁ ) received in the slot (18a), which is flush with an outer surface (12c) of the hollow profile section (14). End plate (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the hollow profile section (14) is a, preferably integral, one-piece, multi-chamber hollow profile section which has, preferably continuous, further hollow chambers (14b). End plate (10). Claim 8 , whereby the hollow chamber (14a) and the further hollow chambers (14b): a) each have the same training; and/or b) are each oriented the same, preferably parallel to one another; and/or c) each extend through the entire base body (12); and/or d) are arranged next to each other, preferably in a row next to each other. End plate (10). Claim 8 or 9 , comprising: at least one further stiffening insert (16b), preferably made of steel, which is accommodated in at least one of the further hollow chambers (14b) and stiffens the base body (12). End plate (10) according to one of the Claims 9 until 10 , wherein: at least one of the further hollow chambers (14b) of the multi-chamber hollow profile section (14) is empty to reduce the weight of the base body (12); and/or no insert stiffening the base body (12) is accommodated in at least one of the further hollow chambers (14b) of the multi-chamber hollow profile section (14). End plate (10). Claim 10 or 11 , wherein the multi-chamber hollow profile section (14) has a stiffening insert distribution that is a) irregular and / or asymmetrical; and/or b) which has a larger number of stiffening inserts (16a, 16b) in a central region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section (14) than in an edge region of the multi-chamber hollow profile section (14); and/or c) in which the stiffening inserts (16a, 16b) are arranged essentially in areas in which an increased load, preferably compressive load, is to be expected on the multi-chamber hollow profile section (14) during operation of the battery cell stack (30). Holding device (20), preferably holding frame, for holding, preferably in a tensioned manner, a battery cell stack (30), having at least one end plate (10) according to one of the preceding claims. Holding device (20). Claim 13 , further comprising: at least one side part (22), preferably a side plate, for attachment to a side surface of the battery cell stack (30), wherein preferably the at least one side part (22): is welded, preferably butt, to the stiffening insert (16a); and/or which surrounds at least one end plate (10), preferably by means of a radius of the at least one side part (22); and/or is connected to the at least one end plate (10) in such a way that the at least one side part (22) is exposed to a tensile load due to a compressive load acting on the at least one end plate (10). Battery module (40) for a motor vehicle, preferably commercial vehicle, comprising: a battery cell stack (30) made of a plurality of battery cells (32) stacked in a stacking direction (S); and a holding device (20). Claim 13 or 14 , by means of which the battery cell stack (30), preferably clamped, is held, preferably within the holding device (20).

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