Battery Pack

Abstract

A battery pack includes a housing and electrochemical cells disposed in the housing. The housing includes a container and a lid that closes an open end of the container. The container has a base, an outer wall the surrounds the base, and a first and a second inner wall disposed inside the outer wall. The first inner wall extends between, and is fixed to, a first portion and a third portion of the outer wall, and is spaced apart from a second portion and a fourth portion of the outer wall. The second inner wall extends between the first portion and the third portion, and is disposed between the first inner wall and the fourth portion. The second inner wall is movable relative to the outer wall such that spacing of the second inner wall from the first inner wall can be changed.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention relates to a battery pack for storage of electrochemical cells, including a battery pack housing having passive cooling features as well as features that minimize outer wall stress due to electrochemical cell growth.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]Battery packs provide power for various technologies ranging from portable electronics to renewable power systems and environmentally friendly vehicles. For example, hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) use a battery pack and an electric motor in conjunction with a combustion engine to increase fuel efficiency. Battery packs are formed of a plurality of battery modules, where each battery module includes several electrochemical cells. The cells are arranged in stacks and are electrically connected in series or in parallel. Likewise, the battery modules within a battery pack are electrically connected in series or in parallel.[0005]Some battery packs used with conve...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is for a battery pack used in a hybrid electric vehicle that produces a lower voltage to reduce costs and complexity. The battery pack is designed with a housing that is non-conductive and thermally conductive, which allows the cells to rest in direct contact with the housing without risk of short-circuiting. The housing includes inner wall portions that accommodate any expansion or force from cell growth, ensuring the outer wall remains stable and allowing for a better seal and improved battery operability, reliability, and longevity. Overall, the invention simplifies the battery pack design, reduces costs, and improves its performance.

Problems solved by technology

Moreover, to accommodate the high voltage, the components in the electrical system are relatively expensive and subject to high voltage protection requirements.

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