Battery housing for a battery module, battery module with battery housing, and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery housing (10) for a battery module, wherein the battery housing (10) has a base body (11). The base body (11) comprises an inner space (12) for arranging at least one battery cell of the battery module, a housing bottom (13) and at least one housing-side wall section (14a, b). At least one section (20) of the base body (11) has a die casting (15) with a channel region (21) comprising at least one slot-shaped channel (22) for conveying a tempering fluid for tempering at least one battery cell of the battery module. The channel region (21) is fluid-tightly covered with at least one cover element (30) for constructing a closed channel structure (23b). The cover element (30) and / or the die casting (15) have at least one structure (40) in the channel region (21) which can be flowed around by the tempering fluid in order to improve heat transfer. The invention also relates to a battery module and a vehicle.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] A battery is an electrochemical energy storage device. Battery systems are used in stationary applications, such as in motor vehicles, as well as in electronic devices. Individual battery cells are interconnected to form battery modules. Battery modules can then be interconnected to form battery systems. Due to the diverse manufacturing spaces in various vehicles, variable module sizes are required. Only in this way can existing structural space be optimally utilized. Furthermore, high requirements are placed on battery modules regarding reliability, safety, power capacity, and lifespan.

[0002] Due to their high energy density, lithium-ion battery cells, in particular, are used as energy storage devices in electrically powered motor vehicles. Lithium-ion or lithium-polymer battery cells become hot due to chemical conversion processes, especially during rapid energy output or absorption. For optimal power balance, sufficiently long lifespan, and safe operation of such battery modules, it is important to operate them within an optimal temperature range. The optimal operating temperature for lithium-ion battery modules is approximately +5°C to +35°C. From an operating temperature of approximately +40°C, the lifespan of the battery cells decreases. Therefore, to achieve a lifespan requirement of approximately 8 to 10 years, adequate thermal conditioning of the battery cells is necessary. The battery cells must be maintained in a thermally noncritical state below +40°C under all operating conditions. Furthermore, to achieve synchronized aging of individual battery cells, the temperature gradient between battery cells must be small.

[0003] For these reasons, battery modules or battery systems are specifically heated or cooled, or in other words, their temperature is regulated. Within the scope of this application, the term "temperature regulation" includes both heating and cooling of individual battery cells.

[0004] Temperature regulation of individual battery cells is known to be achieved using a fluid temperature regulation system comprising a water / glycol mixture. Within the scope of this application, the term "fluid" specifically includes temperature-regulating fluids, such as cooling fluids or coolants, particularly water / glycol mixtures. The fluid is typically guided through channels in a cooling plate disposed beneath the battery module. The supply of the cooling plate is achieved using a cooling fluid piping system with corresponding additional components in the cooling circuit. It is well known that fluid guiding devices with channels are integrated into the battery housing to eliminate the need for additional components and shorten the thermal path from the cooling fluid to the battery cells. Such a battery housing is exemplarily known from WO 10 2017 045 877 A1. A die-cast housing with a channel system integrated into the bottom is shown here, the die-cast housing material being locked to a cover element and thereby forming a closed channel structure for guiding the cooling fluid.

[0005] A disadvantage is that, when using linearly traversed channels, heat transfer from the cell to the temperature-regulating fluid is significantly reduced over the channel's travel length. Furthermore, the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid is constructed in a laminar manner under normal volumetric flow rates and acceptable pressure losses, resulting in low heat transfer. Here, such flow refers to parallel laminar flow in the fluid, where almost no heat exchange occurs between layers in the direction perpendicular to the channel height H parallel to the fluid. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention describes a battery casing, a battery module, and a vehicle according to the present disclosure.

[0007] Other features and details of the invention are derived from the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings. Hereinafter, the features and details described in conjunction with the battery housing according to the invention also apply to the features and details in conjunction with the battery module and vehicle according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosures regarding various aspects of the invention are always cross-referenced or can be cross-referenced.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the present invention describes a battery housing for a battery module, wherein the battery housing has a base. The base includes an internal space for arranging at least one battery cell of the battery module, a housing bottom, and at least one housing-sidewall portion. At least one section of the base has a die-casting with a channel region comprising at least one groove-shaped channel for conveying a temperature-regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell of the battery module. The channel region is fluid-tightly covered by at least one covering element to construct a closed channel structure. The covering element and / or the die-casting has at least one structure in the channel region that allows the temperature-regulating fluid to circulate around it to improve heat transfer.

[0009] Battery casings are particularly useful in vehicles, especially electric or hybrid vehicles, or generally in electronic devices. In particular, battery casings can be used in all products where temperature regulation of components is required, such as electrochemical energy storage devices, especially lithium-ion batteries, or components of these products.

[0010] The substrate can be shape-stable. Here, the substrate can be pressure-resistant and substantially maintain its shape under pressure. The substrate can be constructed in a box shape and, in particular, have a square internal space. Furthermore, the substrate can be thermally conductive. The die-cast sections of the substrate with channel areas are preferably formed by the bottom of the housing or a housing-sidewall portion. Alternatively, the section can be formed by a housing cover. Particularly preferably, multiple sections of the substrate are provided, each having a die-cast section with channel areas, wherein these sections are formed by the bottom of the housing and at least one housing-sidewall portion. The substrate preferably has other necessary components to form a temperature-regulating fluid circuit, such as at least one inlet opening and one outlet opening for the temperature-regulating fluid, which can be exemplarily constructed as connecting pipes.

[0011] The channel region according to the invention is preferably arranged on the die-casting. In particular, the channel region is constructed on the surface of the die-casting facing the cell to be regulated. In other words, the channel region preferably represents a surface on the die-casting on which at least one channel for conveying the temperature-regulating fluid is constructed. Preferably, multiple channels are arranged in the channel region, and these channels can be connected to each other to form a temperature-regulating fluid flow. Preferably, at least one or more channels are respectively constructed in a groove shape, preferably by means of a semi-circular cross-section. In other words, at least one channel is provided with an open side, thereby forming an open channel structure in the channel region of the die-casting. The channel region is fluid-tightly covered by at least one covering element to construct a closed channel structure. In other words, the closed channel structure is arranged between the die-casting and the covering element, and the closed channel structure is formed by the groove-shaped channel and the covering element. The covering element is preferably plate-shaped and particularly form-fittingly connected to the die-casting to provide a fluid-tight covering, thereby forming a closed channel structure. A closed channel structure allows for the guidance of temperature-regulating fluids, especially cooling fluids, within the battery casing during the operation of individual battery cells. In other words, the temperature-regulating fluid flows through channels in the channel region or through the constructed closed channel structure.

[0012] The covering element and / or die-casting has at least one structure in the channel region that allows for the flow of a temperature-regulating fluid to improve heat transfer. In other words, this structure is arranged in the channel region or within a closed channel structure, such that during operation of the battery module, the structure is either surrounded by a temperature-regulating fluid flowing around it or at least partially surrounded by the fluid. Preferably, the structure is arranged in the channel region between the covering element and the die-casting. Preferably, the structure extends at least partially, and particularly substantially completely, into the closed channel structure. Particularly preferably, the die-casting has at least one structure in the channel region. Furthermore, the covering element may also have a structure within the channel region of the die-casting. In other words, this structure can be constructed not only on the covering element but also on the die-casting and arranged separately in the channel regions to allow for the flow of a temperature-regulating fluid.

[0013] The advantages of this invention are that the structure allowing the temperature-regulating fluid to flow around it significantly increases the surface area for heat exchange or heat transfer, thus improving heat transfer between the temperature-regulating fluid and the battery cell to be regulated. Therefore, the overall temperature regulation of the battery cell can be significantly improved. Furthermore, the flow guidance of the temperature-regulating fluid can be optimized. In particular, different flow guidance can be achieved according to the requirements for pressure loss and cooling performance. Additionally, the invention has the advantage that the channel region for guiding the temperature-regulating fluid is preferably realized within the die-cast portion of the base material, thereby eliminating the need for an additional cooling plate and resulting in cost advantages. Furthermore, the channel region for guiding the temperature-regulating fluid is arranged outside the internal space of the battery cell, thus preventing the temperature-regulating fluid from reaching the battery cell in cases where the temperature-regulating fluid circuit may not be sealed, thereby improving the safety of the battery module.

[0014] Advantageously, the structure is configured with multiple flow elements for influencing the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid, said flow elements being arranged, in particular, uniformly staggered from each other, in the channel region. Particularly preferably, the flow elements are arranged within channels of the channel region. Here, the flow elements can preferably be arranged in parallel rows and columns. In particular, the flow elements form a uniform pattern in the channel region, thereby allowing for targeted influence on the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid in the channel region. In other words, the flow elements are arranged at fixed positions in the channel region, particularly in at least one channel. This has the advantage of providing a flow structure optimized in terms of pressure loss and heat transfer. Further advantageously, dead zones in the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid, such as those occurring in U-shaped channels in deflection regions, can be avoided by the targeted influence of the flow elements on the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid.

[0015] According to one preferred embodiment of the invention, the plurality of flow elements are configured as a plurality of flow guide ribs or as a plurality of flow protrusions, particularly circular, teardrop-shaped, or rod-shaped, or a combination thereof. The flow guide ribs, in particular, can help avoid dead zones in deflection regions of the channel, especially in U-shaped channels. Alternatively, the circular flow protrusions are preferably arranged staggered in the channel region to specifically deflect the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid and influence or interfere with its laminar flow. The flow protrusions extend into the channel to be circulated by the temperature-regulating fluid during the operation of the battery module. This advantageously leads to improved heat transfer through targeted mixing of the temperature-regulating fluid. Preferably, any geometry capable of achieving a targeted influence on the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid can be used for the flow elements. It is also preferable to combine different geometries of the flow elements in different regions of the channel. An exemplary and preferred embodiment may be a U-shaped channel with circular flow elements in the extended straight portion of the channel, wherein flow guide ribs are provided as flow elements in the U-shaped portion of the channel.

[0016] Preferably, the structure is integrated into the cover element and / or the die casting, particularly by means of a deep-drawing process. It is also preferable that the structure and the cover element or die casting be constructed as a single unit. Preferably, the structure is incorporated into the cover element and / or the die casting. Particularly preferably, the structure is integrated into the die casting. This has the advantage that the structure can be directly integrated using the die casting process used to manufacture die castings.

[0017] According to an alternative embodiment, the channel region has multiple channels with different channel diameters, particularly wherein the channel diameter increases radially outward. For this purpose, flow guide ribs can be provided as flow elements to divide the channel region into multiple channels. Exemplarily, the flow guide ribs can be arranged only on one side of the die-casting at the bottom of the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the channel region can be divided into a first channel, a second channel, and a third channel. Here, the channels are U-shaped, wherein the bends of the channels can be arranged on the left side of the die-casting at the bottom of the housing. Specifically, the first channel is arranged internally in the direction of the center of the die-casting, while the third channel is arranged externally on the die-casting. The second channel is arranged between the first and third channels. These channels extend radially from the center of the die-casting at the bottom of the housing to the corners of the die-casting at the bottom of the housing. Exemplarily, the channel diameter increases radially outward in the direction of the corners of the die-casting. In other words, the diameter of the internal first channel is smaller than the diameter of the second channel, which in turn is smaller than the diameter of the third channel. This has a particular advantage: by using different channel diameters, the pressure loss in the channel can be made uniform.

[0018] Advantageously, at least one channel is constructed in a U-shape or zigzag shape within the channel area. Specifically, a single channel or multiple interconnected channels can be provided. Generally, any geometry of the channel can be specified. Therefore, straight channels are also possible.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bottom of the housing and the two housing-sidewall portions each have die-cast parts with channel regions to increase the temperature-regulating surface and / or to improve the impact safety of the battery housing. Each channel region includes at least one groove-shaped channel for conveying temperature-regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell in the battery module. The channel regions are fluid-tightly covered by at least one covering element to construct a closed channel structure, particularly wherein the covering element is material-locked to the die-cast part by means of friction stir welding. In other words, temperature regulation of the battery module is thus achieved by bottom cooling and side cooling, particularly using both sides of the battery housing. Preferably, the bottom of the housing and each housing-sidewall portion each have a die-cast part with a channel region and an associated covering element. In particular, the covering elements are material-locked, particularly by friction stir welding, to the corresponding die-cast parts in a fluid-tight manner. By using three cooling surfaces of the battery housing, particularly the bottom and the two housing-sidewall portions, the cooling power can be significantly increased compared to pure bottom cooling. Furthermore, advantageously, the additional cooling surface eliminates the need for additional structural space, thereby providing a compact battery casing. Further advantageously, the additional lateral cooling via the casing-sidewall portion allows for a more uniform temperature distribution in the vertical direction of the battery module. Additionally, the battery module's impact safety in the event of an external collision can be significantly improved advantageously through a sandwich structure, utilizing die-castings and associated cover elements in the corresponding casing-sidewall portion and bottom of the casing. Here, in particular, the material-locking connection between the corresponding die-castings and the corresponding cover elements forms a very rigid sandwich structure, providing high resistance to deformation. This generally improves the safety of the battery module. Furthermore, it is preferable that, in the event of a strong external collision, the weld seams of the friction stir welded joint can tear first, with the temperature-regulating fluid being directed outwards and preferably not intruding into the internal space of the battery casing containing the battery module. Thus, the battery module itself can be protected even in the event of a strong external collision.

[0020] In one exemplary embodiment, the battery casing can be circulated in series by bottom cooling and two side cooling. Specifically, the die-casting here, together with the channel region, the cover element at the bottom of the casing, and the two casing-sidewall portions, respectively form flow spaces. Preferably, three flow spaces are formed by the bottom of the casing and the two opposing casing-sidewall portions. Exemplarily, temperature-regulating fluid flows into the first flow space formed by the first casing-sidewall portion through an inlet opening, particularly an inlet pipe. Exemplarily, a single U-shaped channel can be provided in the channel region of the die-casting in the first casing-sidewall portion. Thus, the temperature-regulating fluid flows, exemplary, in a U-shape along the longitudinal side of the first casing-sidewall portion. The channel in the first casing-sidewall portion preferably connects to the channel region of the die-casting at the bottom of the casing. Thus, the temperature-regulating fluid can flow from the channel region of the first casing-sidewall portion into the channel region of the die-casting at the bottom of the casing. In other words, the temperature-regulating fluid can flow from the first flow space of the first casing-sidewall portion into the second flow space of the bottom of the casing. The channel in the die-cast section at the bottom of the housing is also exemplaryly constructed as a single U-shaped channel. This allows the temperature-regulating fluid to flow in a U-shape along the longitudinal side of the bottom of the housing. Furthermore, the channel at the bottom of the housing connects to the channel in the channel area of ​​the die-cast section of the second housing-sidewall portion. This allows the temperature-regulating fluid to flow from the channel area at the bottom of the housing into the channel area of ​​the second housing-sidewall portion. In other words, the temperature-regulating fluid can flow from the second flow space at the bottom of the housing into the third flow space of the second housing-sidewall portion. Exemplarily, a single U-shaped channel can be provided in the channel area of ​​the die-cast section of the second housing-sidewall portion. Therefore, the temperature-regulating fluid flows exemplary in a U-shape along the longitudinal side of the second housing-sidewall portion. The channel of the die-cast section of the second housing-sidewall portion is preferably connected to a discharge opening, particularly a discharge nozzle. Generally, other flow guides with different geometries in a variable number of flow spaces are considered. The number of channels in the channel area and their geometry, as well as the number of flow spaces, can be flexibly matched to the temperature regulation requirements of the battery cells. For example, the channel region at the bottom of the shell can first be traversed by a temperature-regulating fluid, and the temperature-regulating fluid flow can be split in parallel so as to traverse two opposing channel regions of the shell-sidewall portion in parallel.

[0021] Preferably, the battery casing has at least one thermal contact element, particularly a gap pad or gap filler, a thermally conductive adhesive, or a thermally conductive casting material, for contacting at least one battery cell of the battery module with the battery casing. In other words, the thermal contact element enables thermal connection of the battery cells within the internal space of the battery casing to the battery casing. Here, the thermal contact element is preferably arranged on the bottom of the casing and / or on the casing-side wall portion. Thermal connection from the battery cell to the battery casing can also be achieved by filling the gap between the battery cell and the battery casing with a thermally conductive casting material.

[0022] According to a second aspect, the present invention describes a battery module having a battery housing according to the invention, wherein at least one battery cell is arranged in the internal space of the battery housing. In particular, multiple individual battery cells are arranged in the battery housing. The multiple individual battery cells can be connected together in series and / or in parallel via cell connectors. Therefore, the battery module according to the second aspect of the invention has the same advantages as those already described with respect to the battery housing according to the first aspect of the invention. This battery module is particularly suitable for vehicles, especially electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles.

[0023] According to a third aspect, the present invention describes a vehicle, particularly an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle having a battery module according to the invention. Therefore, the vehicle according to the third aspect of the invention has the same advantages as those already described for the battery module according to the second aspect of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Further improvements to the invention can be derived from the following description of some embodiments of the invention, which are schematically illustrated in the accompanying drawings. All features and / or advantages derived from the claims, description, or drawings, including structural details, spatial arrangements, and method steps, are important not only in themselves but also in various combinations thereof. It should be noted that the drawings are descriptive only and are not intended to limit the invention in any way. Schematic illustrations include: Figure 1 A perspective view of a battery casing according to the invention, based on a first embodiment, is shown, having the shown covering element. Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 A perspective bottom view of the battery casing according to the invention, which has two shown covering elements. Figure 3 It shows that according to Figure 1 A perspective view of the battery casing according to the present invention, which does not have a covering element. Figure 4 Showing according to Figure 1 A perspective bottom view of the battery casing according to the invention, without any covering elements. Figure 5 Showing according to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the battery casing according to the invention, which has three covering elements shown. Figure 6 A perspective bottom view of a battery casing according to another embodiment of the invention is shown, without any covering elements. Figure 7 Showing according to Figure 6 A perspective bottom view of the battery casing according to the invention, which has the shown covering element. Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of a battery casing according to the invention, based on another embodiment, is shown, having the illustrated covering element. Figure 9a A perspective view is shown of a cover element for a battery housing according to another embodiment of the invention. Figure 9b A perspective view is shown of a cover element for a battery housing according to another embodiment of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0025] In the following figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same technical features in different embodiments.

[0026] Figure 1 A perspective view of a battery housing 10 according to the invention, based on a first embodiment, is shown, having the shown covering element 30. The battery housing 10 is configured for a battery module, not shown.

[0027] The battery housing 10 has a base 11, which is exemplary configured as a square and has an internal space 12 for arranging at least one battery cell of the battery module. The base 11 also includes a housing bottom 13 and four housing-sidewall portions. Here, the first housing-sidewall portion 14a is shown in full view in perspective of the battery housing 10. The second housing-sidewall portion 14b is arranged opposite to it. The housing-sidewall portion 14a has a die-cast part 15, which serves as a segment 20 of the base 11, and has a channel region (not shown) including at least one groove-shaped channel for conveying a temperature-regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell of the battery module. The channel region (not shown) is fluid-tightly covered by a cover element 30 to construct a closed channel structure. The cover element 30 is exemplary configured as a floor. Not only the cover element 30 but also the die-cast part 15 may be formed of a thermally conductive material. The cover element 30 is preferably material-locked to the die-cast part 15 of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a.

[0028] Furthermore, the bottom of the housing 13 and the second housing-sidewall portion 14b, each serving as another segment 20 of the base 11, each have another die-cast part 15 with a channel region (not shown), which includes at least one groove-shaped channel for conveying temperature-regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell of the battery module. The channel regions (not shown) of the die-cast parts 15 of the bottom of the housing 13 and the second housing-sidewall portion 14b are fluid-tightly covered by a covering element (not shown) to construct a closed channel structure. Overall, the second housing-sidewall portion 14b and the bottom of the housing 13 are constructed with the die-cast part 15, the channel region 21, and the covering element 30 in a manner similar to that of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a described above.

[0029] Similarly, the corresponding cover element 30 is preferably materially locked to the die-cast part 15 of the second housing-side wall portion 14b and the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13.

[0030] The preferred sandwich structure achieved by means of die-casting parts and associated covering elements has the advantage of significantly improving the collision safety of the battery module in the case of external impacts, particularly in the corresponding housing-sidewall and housing-bottom portions. Here, the material-locking connection between the die-casting parts and the corresponding covering elements is a highly rigid sandwich structure, providing high resistance to deformation. This, in particular, improves the overall safety of the battery module.

[0031] Furthermore, the corresponding die-cast parts 15 of the first and second housing-sidewall portions 14a, b and the housing bottom 13 exemplarily have at least one structure (not shown) in the channel region that can be circulated by a temperature-regulating fluid to improve heat transfer.

[0032] An inlet opening 50 and an outlet opening 51 for a temperature-regulating fluid are exemplary arranged on the housing-sidewall portion adjacent to the first housing-sidewall portion 14a. The inlet opening 50 and the outlet opening 51 are exemplary constructed as an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The supply of the temperature-regulating fluid to the inlet opening 50 and the outlet opening 51 is achieved by means of a piping system, not shown, having corresponding other components in the temperature-regulating fluid circuit. Preferably, the temperature-regulating fluid is provided for cooling the battery cells of the battery module and can be exemplary constructed as a water / glycol mixture. (Refer to...) Figure 3 The flow direction of the temperature-regulating fluid within the battery casing 10 is described in detail.

[0033] Figure 2 Showing according to Figure 1 A bottom perspective view of the battery casing 10 according to the present invention. Figure 2 Therefore, it has information about Figure 1 The same components as described. In particular, in Figure 2The bottom of the housing 13 is fully visible, having a die-cast part 15 as a segment 20 of the base 11. The die-cast part 15 of the bottom of the housing 13 includes a channel region (not shown) comprising at least one groove-shaped channel for conveying temperature-regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell in the battery module. The channel region (not shown) is fluid-tightly covered by a covering element 30 to construct a closed channel structure. The covering element 30 is preferably material-lockingly connected to the die-cast part 15 of the bottom of the housing 13. Generally, preferably, the bottom of the housing 13 as a segment of the base 11 and the second housing-sidewall portion 14b as a segment of the base 11 each have a die-cast part 15 having a channel region 21 and a covering element 30. Therefore, in Figure 1 and 2 The example implements bottom cooling and two side cooling for the battery module. The advantage of this is that the additional surface area of ​​the side cooling significantly increases cooling power compared to purely bottom cooling.

[0034] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 1 A perspective view of the battery housing 10 according to the present invention, which does not have the covering element shown. Figure 3 Therefore, they have the same, about Figure 1 The described component. (and) Figure 1 In contrast, to illustrate the channel region 21 according to the invention, in Figure 3 The image shows the battery casing 10 without the cover element 30. Especially in... Figure 3 The construction of the channel region 21 in relation to the first housing-sidewall portion 14a is described exemplarily in the example.

[0035] The housing-sidewall portion 14a has a die-cast part 15 serving as a segment 20 of the base 11. A channel region 21 is formed in the die-cast part 15. The channel region 21 includes a groove-shaped channel 22 having a semi-circular cross-section. In other words, the channel 22 is provided with an open side, thereby forming an open channel structure 23a in the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15. A closed channel structure is constructed by means of a fluid-tight cover element 30 (not shown). Here, the cover element 30 closes the open side of the channel 22 of the open channel structure 23a. For this purpose, the cover element 30 is preferably material-lockingly connected to the die-cast part 15 of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a. The channel 22 is further configured as a U-shape and is used to convey a temperature-regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell of the battery module.

[0036] Therefore, the temperature-regulating fluid can flow into the base 11 through the inlet 50 and be guided through the channel 22 of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a. The flow direction is illustrated in the figures by means of arrows within the channel region 21. Thus, the temperature-regulating fluid flows in a U-shape along the longitudinal side of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a. The channel 22 of the die-cast part 15 of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a is preferably connected to the channel 22 of the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13. Thus, the temperature-regulating fluid can flow from the channel region 21 of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a into the channel region 21 of the housing bottom 13. The channel 22 of the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13 is also exemplarily constructed as a single U-shaped channel 22. Thus, the temperature-regulating fluid can flow in a U-shape along the longitudinal side of the housing bottom 13. Furthermore, the channel 22 at the bottom 13 of the housing is connected to the channel 22 in the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15 of the second housing-sidewall portion 14b. Thus, temperature-regulating fluid can flow from the channel region 21 at the bottom 13 of the housing into the channel region 21 of the second housing-sidewall portion 14b. Exemplarily, a single U-shaped channel 22 can be provided in the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15 of the second housing-sidewall portion 14b. Thus, the temperature-regulating fluid flows in a U-shape along the longitudinal side of the second housing-sidewall portion 14b. The channel 22 of the second housing-sidewall portion 14b is also connected to the discharge opening 51.

[0037] Overall, the battery housing 10 is permeated with fluid in series via bottom cooling and two side cooling units. It is generally determined here that the flow direction of the temperature-regulating fluid can be variably matched to the requirements of the battery module. Therefore, different combinations with bottom cooling and, exemplarily, with one or more side cooling units can be considered. For this purpose, the flow direction is preferably flexibly matched and, for example, can be arranged in series or parallel.

[0038] The die-cast portion 15 of the housing-sidewall portion 14a exemplarily has a structure 40 in the channel region 21 that allows for the flow of a temperature-regulating fluid to improve heat transfer. For this purpose, the structure 40 is exemplarily configured as a plurality of flow elements 41 to influence the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid. The flow elements 41 are constructed in channels 22 of the channel region 21 of the die-cast portion 15. In other words, the flow elements 41 are integrated into the channels 22 or the die-cast portion 15, particularly by means of a deep-drawing process.

[0039] The flow element 41 extends into the open channel structure 23a so that it is surrounded by temperature-controlled fluid during the operation of the battery module.

[0040] The flow elements 41 are also uniformly staggered from each other in the channels 22 of the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15. Here, the flow elements 41 are arranged in parallel rows and form a uniform pattern in the channels 22 of the channel region 21. This has the advantage that the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid in the channels 22 can be targeted. In this embodiment, each flow element 41 is configured as a circular flow protrusion 43. The flow protrusion 43 extends into the channel 22 so that it is surrounded by the temperature-regulating fluid during the operation of the battery module. This advantageously results in improved heat transfer through targeted mixing of the temperature-regulating fluid. The die-cast part 15 of the second housing-sidewall portion 14b and the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13 are constructed similarly to the die-cast part 15 of the first housing-sidewall portion 14a and therefore also have the described structure 40 or flow elements 41 in the corresponding channels 22 of the channel region 21.

[0041] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 1 A perspective bottom view of the battery casing according to the invention, without any covering elements. The flow direction of the temperature-regulating fluid is exemplarily shown in reference. Figure 3 Describe it. Figure 4 An exemplary configuration of a die-cast part 15 having a housing bottom 13 with a channel region 21 is shown. Here, it is determined that the channel diameter of the channel 22 in the housing bottom 13 may differ from the channel diameter of the channel 22 in the corresponding housing-sidewall portions 14a, b. In particular, the channel diameter of the channel 22 in the housing bottom 13 is larger than the channel diameter of the channel 22 in the corresponding housing-sidewall portions 14a, b.

[0042] Figure 5 Showing according to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the battery housing 10 according to the invention, which has three shown covering elements. Figure 5 Therefore, it has information about Figure 1 The same components as described. In particular, the closed channel structure 23b in Figure 5 It is illustrated in the diagram.

[0043] Not only the bottom 13 of the housing, but also the first and second housing-sidewall portions 14a and b are shown as having corresponding die-cast parts 15, channel regions 21 with grooved channels 22 for constructing open channel structures 23a, and covering elements 30. Here, the corresponding covering elements 30 are material-lockingly connected to their respective die-cast parts 15. Therefore, closed, or in other words, covered channel structures 23b can be constructed between the covering elements 30 and the die-cast parts 15. In other words, closed channel structures 23b are constructed between the covering elements 30 and the die-cast parts 15. Here, the open channel structure 23a of the grooved channels 22 of the channel region 21 of the die-cast parts 15 is fluid-tightly closed by the covering elements 30.

[0044] In addition, Figure 5 The diagram illustrates exemplary bottom cooling at the bottom 13 of the housing, and two side coolings at the first housing-sidewall portion 14a and the opposing second housing-sidewall portion 14b. The flow guidance of the temperature-regulating fluid has been exemplarily referenced. Figure 3 The details are described in detail. The battery module, which has individual battery cells, is preferably arranged in the internal space 12 of the battery housing 10. During the operation of the battery module, a portion of the heat can be absorbed from the battery cells via a temperature-regulating fluid flowing through the housing-sidewall portions 14a, b and the housing bottom 13, thereby cooling the battery cells.

[0045] Figure 6 A perspective bottom view of a battery housing 10 according to another embodiment of the invention is shown, without the shown covering element. The structure of the battery housing 10 is similar to... Figure 1 It similarly has corresponding components. (And...) Figure 1 Conversely, the bottom of the housing 13 is constructed in an alternative embodiment.

[0046] Specifically, the bottom of the housing 13 has a die-cast part 15 serving as a segment 20 of the base 11, which includes a channel region 21. The channel region 21 is exemplarily divided into a first channel region 21a and a second channel region 21b. Generally, the channel region 21 is U-shaped, wherein the temperature-regulating fluid is guided through the channel region 21 of the bottom of the housing 13 in a U-shape. Here, the first channel region 21a forms a straight segment and the second channel region 21b forms a U-shaped curved segment. In the first channel region 21a, a plurality of flow elements 41 are provided as a structure 40 to influence the temperature-regulating fluid. The flow elements 41 are constructed as circular flow protrusions 43 and are arranged to be uniformly offset from each other in the first channel region 21a. In particular, the flow protrusions 43 are uniformly arranged in multiple rows and columns and form a uniform pattern. In order to specifically deflect the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid and affect or interfere with its laminar flow, the flow protrusion 43 extends into the first portion of the channel region 21a so that it is surrounded by the temperature-regulating fluid during battery module operation.

[0047] In the second channel region 21b, a plurality of flow elements 41 are provided as a structure 40 to influence the temperature-regulating fluid. The flow elements 41 are constructed as U-shaped flow guide ribs 42. Exemplarily, four flow guide ribs 42 are constructed, thereby dividing the second channel region 21b into five channels 22. Here, the inner channel has the shortest length, and the channel 22 located at the corner of the housing bottom 13 on the outside has the longest length. Furthermore, the channels 22 in the second channel region 21b have different channel diameters, wherein the channel diameter increases radially outward. Starting from the center of the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13, they extend radially to the corner of the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13. Here, the channel diameter of the channel 22 in the second channel region 21b exemplarily increases radially outward toward the corner of the die-cast part 15. In other words, the channel diameter of the first inner channel 22 is smaller than the channel diameter of the fifth outer channel 22. This has a particular advantage in that the pressure loss in the channels 22 can be uniform by using different channel diameters. Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous to avoid dead zones in the flow of temperature-regulating fluid in the corner areas of the die-cast part 15.

[0048] Figure 7 Showing according to Figure 6 A perspective bottom view of the battery casing according to the invention, showing the covering element 30. The battery casing 10 is exemplarily based on... Figure 6 Construction. In this illustration, the covering element 30 is material-lockingly connected to the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13. The channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13 is based on... Figure 6 The structure comprises a first channel region 21a and a second channel region 21b. The associated cover element 30 has a structure 40 corresponding to the second channel region 21b, which is exemplarily formed by means of a plurality of flow elements 41. Specifically, the flow elements 41 are integrated into the cover element 30 and configured as flow guide ribs 42. The flow guide ribs 42 of the cover element 30 extend into the second channel region 21b. Corresponding to the flow guide ribs 42 (not shown) of the die-cast part 15 at the bottom of the housing 13, the channels 22 formed by the flow guide ribs 42 of the cover element 30 are configured with different channel diameters. Figure 7 As exemplarily provided, not only the cover element 30 but also the die-cast part 15 of the housing bottom 13 has the structure 40 according to the invention. Here, the structure 40 is integrated into the cover element 30 and the die-cast part 15, respectively.

[0049] Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of a battery housing 10 according to another embodiment of the invention is shown, having the shown covering element 30. The structure of the battery housing 10 is similar to... Figure 1 It similarly has corresponding components. (And...) Figure 1 Conversely, the bottom of the housing 13 is configured in an alternative embodiment.

[0050] In particular, the bottom 13 of the housing has a die-cast part 15, which includes a channel region 21 having a U-shaped channel 22. The covering element 30 can be material-locked to the die-cast part 15 to construct a closed channel structure 23b.

[0051] Exemplarily, the cover element 30 has a structure 40 in the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15 that allows for flow of temperature-regulating fluid to improve heat transfer. The structure 40 is integrated into the cover element 30. The structure 40 is exemplary formed as a plurality of flow elements 41, which are uniformly staggered from each other in the channel region 21. The flow elements 41 are exemplary configured as circular flow protrusions 43. The flow elements 41 are preferably arranged in parallel rows. To specifically deflect the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid and influence or interfere with its laminar flow, this flow protrusion 43 extends into the channel region 21 of the die-cast part 15 so that it can be flowed around by the temperature-regulating fluid during battery module operation.

[0052] Figure 9a Figures 1 and 2 show perspective views of a cover element 30 for a battery casing according to another embodiment of the invention. Here, the cover element 30 has a structure 40 in the channel region 21 that allows for the flow of a temperature-regulating fluid to improve heat transfer. The structure 40 is integrated into the cover element 30. Furthermore, the structure 40 is respectively located in… Figure 9a and Figure 9b Multiple flow elements 41 are formed in the channel region 21, and the flow elements are arranged in a uniformly staggered manner relative to each other. Figure 9a In this configuration, the flow element 41 is constructed as a rod-shaped flow protrusion 43. Conversely, in... Figure 9b The flow element 41 is configured as a teardrop-shaped flow protrusion. The flow elements 41 are preferably arranged in parallel rows. To specifically deflect the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid and influence or interfere with its laminar flow, this flow protrusion 43 extends into the channel region 21 of the associated die-casting 15 so that it is surrounded by the temperature-regulating fluid during battery module operation. For structure 40, any combination of flow elements 41, typically configured differently in geometry, is conceivable.

Claims

1. A battery casing (10) for a battery module, wherein, The battery housing (10) has a base (11) having an internal space (12) for arranging at least one battery cell of the battery module, a housing bottom (13) and at least one housing-sidewall portion (14a, b), wherein at least one section (20) of the base (11) has a die-cast part (15) with a channel region (21), the channel region including at least one groove-shaped channel for conveying a temperature-regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell of the battery module, wherein the channel region (21) is fluid-tightly covered by at least one covering element (30) to construct a closed channel structure (23b). The feature is that the covering element (30) and / or the die-casting (15) have at least one structure (40) in the channel region (21) that allows for the flow of a temperature-regulating fluid to improve heat transfer. In order to increase the temperature regulating surface and improve the impact safety of the battery casing, the bottom (13) and the two casing-side wall portions (14a, b) of the casing each have a die-cast part (15) with a channel region (21). The channel region includes at least one groove-shaped channel for conveying temperature regulating fluid for regulating the temperature of at least one battery cell of the battery module. The channel region (21) is fluid-tightly covered by at least one covering element (30) to construct a closed channel structure (23b). The covering element is locked to the die-cast part by means of friction stir welding material. In the event of a collision, the weld seam of the friction stir welded joint can tear first, allowing the temperature-regulating fluid to be discharged outwards.

2. The battery casing (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The structure (40) is configured as a plurality of flow elements (41) for influencing the flow of the temperature-regulating fluid, the flow elements being arranged staggered from each other in the channel region (21).

3. The battery casing (10) according to claim 2. Its features are, The flow elements (41) are arranged in the channel region (21) in a staggered manner.

4. The battery casing (10) according to claim 2. Its features are, The plurality of flow elements (41) are configured as a plurality of flow guide ribs (42) or a plurality of flow protrusions (43), or a combination thereof.

5. The battery casing (10) according to claim 4. Its features are, The plurality of flow elements (41) are configured as a plurality of circular, teardrop-shaped or rod-shaped flow protrusions (43).

6. The battery casing (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Its features are, The structure (40) is integrated into the cover element (30) and / or the die casting (15).

7. The battery casing (10) according to claim 6. Its features are, The structure (40) is integrated into the cover element (30) and / or die casting (15) by means of a deep drawing process.

8. The battery casing (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Its features are, The channel region (21) has multiple channels with different channel diameters.

9. The battery casing (10) according to claim 8. Its features are, The diameter of the channel increases outward in the radial direction.

10. The battery casing (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Its features are, At least one passage is constructed in a U-shape or zigzag shape in the passage area (21).

11. The battery casing (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5. Its features are, The battery housing (10) has at least one thermal contact element for contacting at least one battery cell of the battery module with the battery housing (10).

12. The battery casing (10) according to claim 11. Its features are, The battery housing (10) has a gap pad or gap filler or a thermally conductive adhesive or a thermally conductive casting material for contacting at least one battery cell of the battery module with the battery housing (10).

13. A battery module having a battery housing (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least one battery cell is arranged in the internal space (12) of the battery housing (10).

14. A vehicle having a battery module according to claim 13.

15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the vehicle is an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle.

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