Assembly with thermally controlled enclosure for battery cell

Abstract

An assembly comprises a housing (6) having walls (11) and containing a plurality of battery cells (7). Each wall encloses at least one space in which a hot fluid flow (F2) can exist at a given moment. The space and therefore the corresponding wall (11) have an inlet and an outlet for the fluid flow. The inlet and the outlet of the fluid flow are respectively connected to a supply portion (25a) of the hot fluid flow and a discharge portion (25b) of the fluid flow by sealing the fluid flow, so that the fluid flow can circulate in the space. By surrounding the wall of the space and the closed communication arrangement, the space is physically isolated from the battery cells, so that the fluid flow (F2) contained in the space and the internal space (9) of the housing are not connected. The wall (11) extends parallel to at least one of the multiple sides of at least one battery cell (7).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field of the invention is the thermal management of battery cells of batteries intended to deliver electrical energy, in particular in vehicles, especially hybrid or “pure electric” vehicles, in which there is at least one electric motor, whether or not it is coupled to at least one internal combustion engine.

[0002] It also concerns large batteries that require thermal management, for example on ships or in the railway industry.

[0003] The term "vehicle" is to be understood in a broad sense. Background Art

[0004] One technical problem of the present invention is to thermally manage battery cells of a battery.

[0005] The battery cells are adapted to operate within a preferred temperature range.

[0006] Otherwise, they become less efficient: their service life is shortened and their electrical performance is reduced.

[0007] It has been proposed in the prior art to manage its operating temperature.

[0008] It has thus been proposed, for example, for an electric or hybrid vehicle provided with an electric motor connected to a battery whose battery cells are erected vertically and parallel to one another so that a flow of fluid circulates beneath the battery cells (and therefore on a single underside or underlying surface of these battery cells considered together) so that this fluid flow, during operation, exchanges heat with the battery cells.

[0009] Conceivably, this approach to thermal management of battery cells could be determined by:

[0010] - it is difficult to evaluate this thermal management problem independently of the rest of the vehicle, in particular its direct environment; currently it is considered preferable that the battery and its thermal management must be adapted to the constraints of the vehicle (available space in terms of fluid flow to be circulated under the battery cells, spatial orientation, connection to the power source), and not vice versa due to the lack of detailed consideration of the thermal management problem itself: it is complex; therefore efforts need to be made to ensure that its environment adapts to it, but not over-adapts to it,

[0011] - Industrial approaches to technical solutions that can produce multiple types of batteries or battery cells in series are still not well-developed so far, and there is no almost indivisible vehicle / battery / battery cell thermal management system from the outset.

[0012] Although the problem of the invention does not concern only wheeled vehicles, by way of a more precise example we can cite a technical solution for thermal management of the cells of a battery, which provides a "cooling plate" under the battery, in which a "hot" fluid flow circulates, exchanging heat with the cells of the battery.

[0013] This article stipulates:

[0014] - "battery cell" here refers to an electrochemical cell, more generally a battery cell (one that produces electricity), and

[0015] -Here "thermal fluid flow" refers to adapted flow of fluid:

[0016] for supplying heat to the battery cells in order to heat them when they are at a temperature below a so-called "first temperature range" corresponding to a normal (operating) state of these battery cells,

[0017] -- is used to remove heat from battery cells to cool them in the event that they are at a temperature above this "first temperature range" and then in an overheating or "abnormal (operating) state" due to a thermal runaway condition.

[0018] A "thermal fluid stream" may be described as a heat carrier because it either transports heat (to the battery cells) or removes heat (from the battery cells).

[0019] The above positioning below the battery cell may have several reasons: safety in case of leakage, space and maintenance.

[0020] Each solution involves communication with the BMS (Battery Management System), which is an electronic control system at the interface between the vehicle manager (energy management, actuator control) and the battery pack (which contains all the battery cells).

[0021] In any case, the thermal management issues of the battery cells still exist, which include: insufficient thermal efficiency,

[0022] - new requirements in terms of space (especially height) in confined environments and / or in terms of mechanical protection of thermal management components adjacent to the battery cells,

[0023] - The cost of current technical solutions.

[0024] For example, hot spots on top of battery cells are currently often difficult to address due to the electrical terminals.

[0025] The battery cell / cooling plate exchange area is still relatively small.

[0026] However, especially in the future, increasingly frequent fast charging situations (times of less than 15 minutes) may result in the need to dissipate, for example, 20kW of heat power in the battery compartment (2kW in normal use). This heat would raise the temperature of the entire battery pack to levels above the normal temperature range (e.g. between 20°C and below 35°C for lithium-ion battery cells) where pack operation is required. Devices such as PCM (phase change material) charging elements can help reduce this temperature increase by 3 to 10°C. However, at the end of fast charging, more efficient module cooling systems are required.

[0027] Typically, a lower temperature of the fluid flow exchanging heat with the battery cells (referred to herein as "heat transfer fluid flow" or "thermal fluid flow") will mean a modification of the cooling set point, a loss of efficiency of the refrigeration components and an increase in the flow rate (which may require a variable flow pump and then higher power consumption) or an increase in the exchange surface in terms of the thermal management level of the battery cells.

[0028] There is also the issue of temperature uniformity within the battery cell.

[0029] Invention disclosure:

[0030] The present invention aims to improve the above situation by solving at least some of the problems mentioned. The intended goal is to improve the thermal management of the battery cells. An increase in the electrical efficiency and / or an increase in the life of the battery cells is also one of the goals. Summary of the invention

[0031] For this purpose, a combination is particularly proposed, comprising:

[0032] at least one battery cell of a battery or a module having multiple sides and containing a group of battery cells, said at least one battery cell or said module having multiple sides, and

[0033] at least one wall suitable for exchanging heat with the at least one battery cell and, for this purpose, arranged opposite thereto in a plane parallel to one of the sides of the at least one battery cell or the module, the at least one wall enclosing at least one space in which there may be at least one fluid flow (F1, F2, hereinafter referred to as "fluid flow") suitable for exchanging heat with the at least one battery cell or the module for thermal management,

[0034] The assembly is characterized in that the at least one space comprises at least one first space and at least one second space:

[0035] - at least one first space and at least one second space extend in two planes that are parallel to each other and to the side of at least one battery cell or module to which (to which) the wall extends (as discussed below), the two parallel planes may be combined planes,

[0036] - at least one first space and at least one second space are separated by at least one partition so as not to communicate with each other, and

[0037] - at least one first space and at least one second space are adapted to allow for the presence of an unmixed first fluid flow (F2) and a second fluid flow (F1) as the at least one fluid flow and present at the same operating time or at different operating times of the at least one battery cell or the module, respectively.

[0038] When placed in front of at least one battery cell or module, the aforementioned wall and the present battery cell (or even other battery cells aligned in the same plane as this first battery cell) will be adjacent, ie in close proximity to each other.

[0039] In this way it will be possible to have the two fluid flows used at the right time with optimized geometry.

[0040] In this context, it is also proposed that the at least one wall should be made of a material such that it contains no PCM, the use of which may be retained elsewhere.

[0041] The aforementioned assembly may even be such that the at least one first space and the at least one second space defining respective hollow interiors in the at least one wall are each so large that they will occupy at least a majority of the interior of the at least one wall to accommodate the temperature thereof.

[0042] This would then allow the heat exchange fluid flow to not be limited to circulating in small tubes passing just below the battery cells, as in existing "cold plates".

[0043] Another point to consider may be the extent of the heat exchange area between the fluid and the battery cells.

[0044] Therefore, the following is proposed:

[0045] - said at least one wall has a perimeter along an elongated thin edge,

[0046] - said at least one wall extends in a plane perpendicular to said thin edge and along said plane the wall has a surface (S) delimited by said periphery,

[0047] - and said at least one first space and said at least one second space each occupy more than 50% of said surface (S).

[0048] This is combined with the possibility of producing fine structures and series with particularly large exchange surfaces.

[0049] As a first possibility for optimized manufacturing, the following is proposed:

[0050] - the at least one first space and the at least one second space may be defined between a first plate and a second plate and between the second plate and a third plate, respectively, the first plate, the second plate and the third plate being parallel to each other and connected together, or

[0051] - In order to define said first and second spaces, said first, second and third plates are provided with peripheral flanges arranged to direct a fluid flow.

[0052] As a second optimized manufacturing possibility, it is proposed that at least one of the first and second spaces is defined by a series of tubes arranged in the same plane or in parallel planes.

[0053] As a third optimized manufacturing possibility, it is proposed that each of the first and second spaces is defined by tubes arranged in at least a first series and a second series located in the same plane or in different parallel planes, the first series forming the at least one first space and the second series forming the at least one second space.

[0054] As a fourth optimized manufacturing possibility, it is proposed that at least one of the first and second spaces is defined between a first plate and a second plate parallel to and connected to each other, and the other of the first and second spaces is defined by a series of tubes arranged in the same plane or parallel planes.

[0055] These solutions have different benefits depending on the production method (extrusion / molding / stamping, etc.), the materials, the ease of adapting the solution to the chosen shape, the configuration of the desired flow path, etc.

[0056] Regarding this last point, it is noted that in said first and second spaces, parallel and crossed circulations may be defined for said first and second flows ( F1 / F2 ).

[0057] If the flow is liquid to liquid and can be vaporized in the event of cell overheating, then cross-cycling may be optimal.

[0058] The vaporizable stream is preferably the one farthest from the neighboring cell in question, since it is the overheating of a cell (which during its normal operating conditions can be thermally managed by another stream) that may lead to vaporization of the vaporizable stream.

[0059] The present invention also covers another battery cell thermal management assembly including the above assembly.

[0060] In the present thermal management assembly, it is proposed that it comprises:

[0061] - a plurality of battery cells or groups of battery cells, and

[0062] - a housing containing all the battery cells, the housing comprising, at its periphery, a plurality of sides and one or more walls for each side, the housing surrounding on a plurality of sides:

[0063] - multiple battery cells considered together, or

[0064] -Groups of battery cells considered together.

[0065] Through the technical solution of the present invention, optimized heat exchange can be achieved:

[0066] - the wall enclosing said (first and second) spaces has a peripheral thin edge which extends alone:

[0067] - between two consecutive corners of a limiting side of the housing,

[0068] -- or between two connectors, two walls are assembled by connectors,

[0069] - the walls of the enclosed space each extend in a plane perpendicular to said thin edge and along said plane the walls have a defined surface (S) along said thin edge:

[0070] - between two consecutive corners of the housing,

[0071] -- or between two connectors, and

[0072] - The spaces in the walls of the housing occupy a large part of the surface (S) of these walls.

[0073] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a vehicle comprising a combination as described above, which has all or part of its features, and may particularly relate to a vehicle capable of being driven:

[0074] - it comprises at least one such assembly, wherein a plurality of battery cells are connected to an electric motor, and

[0075] - In at least one wall extending sideways facing at least one battery cell, the at least first and second spaces will contain a first fluid flow (F2) and a second vaporizable flow (F1) present as the first flow and the second flow respectively at the same or different operating moments of the battery cell, the first fluid flow being used (therefore dynamically) to circulate under normal operating conditions of the battery cell, and the second vaporizable flow originating from the same fluid flow or a different fluid flow and being suitable for vaporizing in the second space in the event of overheating of at least one battery cell that is no longer operating in a normal manner.

[0076] In the present vehicle, it is even possible that since the battery cells have a normal state within the first temperature range below their temperature threshold of overheating or degradation, the second fluid flow (F1) contained in the second space of at least one wall arranged adjacent to at least one overheated battery cell actually exists in the second space under the following conditions:

[0077] - In the normal state of the battery cell and during overheating or degradation,

[0078] - or only during overheating or degradation.

[0079] Whatever you choose, here are some points to keep in mind:

[0080] the second fluid flow (F1) contained in the second space can preferably intervene as a fluid flow suitable for assuming a vapor phase when at least one adjacent battery cell is overheated and reaches its vaporization or boiling temperature,

[0081] - and the first fluid flow (F2) contained in the first space can preferably intervene as a fluid flow to keep the adjacent battery cells in their normal operating state as much as possible without overheating.

[0082] As regards the second fluid flow ( F1 ), it is therefore in particular possible that it is a fluid flow which is able to change phase at ambient pressure.

[0083] In the vehicle described, it is also possible to ensure:

[0084] - the second fluid flow (F1) is present in the second space, wherein the at least one battery cell is in an overheated state and exchanges heat with the second fluid flow, so that the second fluid flow (F1) reaches its vaporization temperature at a temperature threshold of the at least one battery cell, and - the one or more second spaces have openings to allow the second fluid flow (F1) vaporized from the wall to be evacuated to the external atmosphere.

[0085] The external atmosphere is the external environment around the vehicle and the assembly. The atmosphere and the external environment are therefore at ambient pressure (atmospheric pressure).

[0086] Now as to the first fluid flow (F2), in order to ensure its presence in dynamic circulation in the first space or spaces, it is possible to ensure that it communicates with the inlet and outlet of the flow in the walls containing the first spaces, and

[0087] - the vehicle further comprises a recirculation circuit for recirculating the fluid from the outlet to the inlet, and means for forced circulation of the fluid and an exchanger for exchanging heat between the first fluid flow and another fluid flow are arranged on the recirculation circuit, one of which will be connected to a pump or a fan, thus ensuring forced circulation of the first flow in the wall.

[0088] The cracking point may be a central area of ​​the housing, as the battery cells may not be easily thermally managed.

[0089] Therefore, the following is proposed:

[0090] - the battery cells are distributed in the housing into a plurality of groups of battery cells, at least one of the walls extending between two groups of battery cells, such as an internal partition of the housing, and

[0091] - At least one of the (at least one) first and second spaces of the internal partition is connected to the corresponding space of the other wall of the housing, so that at least one of the first fluid flow (F2) and the second fluid flow (F1) circulates from one space to the other space of the other wall at a given time.

[0092] This circulation will promote efficient heat transfer.

[0093] Further features may be provided in relation to the invention, in particular, in the case where the battery cells therefore have a normal state within a first temperature range below their temperature threshold for overheating or degradation, the vehicle comprises:

[0094] - a circuit for supplying and draining a fluid flow (F2) from at least some of the first spaces of the wall of the housing, and

[0095] - a control unit which will control the supply of said first fluid flow (F2) at said inlet and / or the discharge of such flow at said outlet, so that said first flow circulates in the first space while the battery cell operates in said normal state.

[0096] The invention also relates to a method for thermal management of battery cells by means of at least one wall suitable for heat exchange with at least one battery cell of a battery, the wall enclosing at least one space in which there can be at least one fluid flow (F1, F2) suitable for heat exchange with said at least one battery cell for thermal management, the method being characterized in that said at least one space comprises at least one first space and at least one second space arranged parallel to each other:

[0097] - at least when the battery cell is operating normally, circulating a first fluid flow (F2) in the first space, and,

[0098] - at least in the event of overheating of a battery cell which is no longer functioning properly, a second vaporizable flow ( F1 ) originating from the same fluid flow or from a different fluid flow and then contained in the second space is vaporized from the second space by heat transfer from the battery cell to the wall.

[0099] suggestion:

[0100] - causing said first fluid flow (F2) to flow into a first space closer to the battery cell than a second space containing said second vaporisable flow (F1).

[0101] Thus, heat exchange with the battery cells will be optimized for normal operation, and / or;

[0102] - The second vaporizable flow ( F1 ) is present in the second space only in the event of overheating of the battery cell when it no longer operates in a normal manner.

[0103] In the first case, the heat exchange with the battery cells will be optimized for normal operation.

[0104] In the second case, the second vaporizable stream (F1) will be kept ready for use at the optimum temperature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0105] [ Figure 1 ] shows a vehicle, such as a car, provided with a housing according to the present invention;

[0106] [ Figure 2 ] shows an example of a battery cell housing according to the present invention;

[0107] [ Figure 3 ] shows a wall of the housing (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the first wall or the second wall, such as 11-11b1 or 11-11b2);

[0108] [ Figure 4 ] is an exploded view showing how to make a functionalized wall as referenced below by reference numerals 11 or 11-11c according to the present invention; different pull-outs detail the magnified areas;

[0109] [ Figure 5 ] shows an assembly for battery thermal management according to the present invention, the assembly comprising at least a first wall and a second wall (two pairs in the example) connected by a connecting block;

[0110] [ Figure 6 ] shows[ Figure 2 ] housing, three pull-outs A, B, and C detail possible magnification areas;

[0111] [ Figure 7] shows a housing wall (referred to as a first wall) and a connecting block (reference numeral 31) to be joined to each other;

[0112] [ Figure 8 ] shows an exploded view of an example of a housing having a battery cell and an assembly skeleton (59) according to the present invention;

[0113] [ Fig. 9 ] shows [ Figure 8 ] in the assembled state without the battery cells and from the top perspective;

[0114] [ Fig.10 ] shows [ Figure 8 ] in the assembled state without the battery cells and from the top perspective;

[0115] [ Fig.11 ] shows [ Fig. 9 ], wherein the battery cells and further elements are placed on the top and bottom for their thermal and / or mechanical protection;

[0116] [ Fig.12 ] relative to [ Figure 2 ] shows a portion of the circulation path of a fluid stream referred to as F2 in the case of recirculation using associated components that may be provided in one example;

[0117] [ Fig.13 ] shows [ Figure 2 ] housing and its cells, without recirculation of the fluid flow F2, but with details of two walls in the pull-out diagram; and

[0118] [ Fig.14 ]Compare[ Fig.13 ] shows in more detail a corner region that may be enclosed around a thermal management side of a housing and in which, in one example, a fluid flow F3 may flow;

[0119] [ Fig.15 ] shows an alternative design of a battery cell, namely the housing of the present invention;

[0120] [ Fig.16 ] shows another alternative embodiment of a battery cell having a structure that can be as [ Figure 1 ]arrive[ Figure 8 ] according to the housing of the present invention;

[0121] [ Fig.17 ] shows yet another alternative embodiment of a battery cell having ... Fig.16 ] and the section of line XVII-XVII is similar to [ Figure 1 ]arrive[ Figure 8] of the housing according to the invention;

[0122] [ Fig.18 ] shows an alternative cycle of flows F1 and F2, where compared to Figure 3 In the middle position, the double walls are inclined by 90°;

[0123] [ Fig.19 ] shows a housing according to the present invention, in which the Figure 4 The hollow walls in FIG. 1 and the F1 fluid flows circulating in “parallel” in some places are shown (without overloading the drawing with information); and

[0124] [ Fig. 20 ] shows the Fig.19 Same housing; fluid flow F1 is shown in some places (still intersecting flow F2 at 90°);

[0125] [ Fig.21 ] shows a housing according to the invention, which is tilted 90° relative to any of the previous cases, wherein the battery cells are still vertical;

[0126] [ Fig. 22 ] is a partial exploded view showing a hollow wall and two connectors coplanarly adjacent to it. Fig. 22 Technical solutions;

[0127] [ Fig.23 ] shows an alternative technical solution, in which Figure 4 One of the double plates in the technical scheme is replaced by a series of tubes, which occupy the same Figure 4 The main surface is almost the same as the situation in FIG.

[0128] [ Fig.24 ] shows another alternative technical solution, in which Figure 4 The two sets of three plates in the technical solution are replaced by double series of tubes, each series occupies Figure 4 The situation in the main surface is almost the same;

[0129] [ Fig.25 ] is an alternative design of the relative positioning between the battery cell and the wall 11;

[0130] [ Fig.26 ]yes Fig.25 A partial exploded view of

[0131] [ Fig. 27 ] is an alternative design of the relative positioning between the battery cell and the wall 11;

[0132] [ Fig.28 ]yes Fig. 27 A partial exploded view of

[0133] [ Fig.29 ] is an alternative design of the relative positioning between the battery cell and the wall 11;

[0134] [ Fig.30 ]yes Fig.29 A partial exploded view of

[0135] [ Fig.31 ] is an alternative design of the relative positioning between the battery cell and the wall 11;

[0136] [ Fig.32 ]yes Fig.31 A partial exploded view of

[0137] [ Fig.33 ] is an alternative design of the relative positioning between the battery cell and the wall 11;

[0138] [ Fig.34 ]The tube layer is shown offset from the battery cell for better visibility. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0139] In conjunction with the referenced figures, the following are intended to be non-limiting examples. Figure 1 A vehicle 1 is shown, in the present example a car, comprising at least one electric motor 3 for its movement (and therefore for driving on the ground 77 , via wheels 4 ) powered by a battery 5 , said electric motor 3 being therefore electrically connected to the battery.

[0140] Thus, the vehicle 1 may be electric or hybrid.

[0141] exist Figure 2 In the vehicle 1, a battery cell 7 of a battery 5 having electrochemical activity (see also Figure 8 ) is contained in at least one internal space 9 defined by the periphery of a wall (or surface) 11 of the housing 6.

[0142] The housing 6 is arranged in a surrounding external environment 13 , which is also the external environment of the vehicle 1 .

[0143] Shell 6 is polygonal. Each of its sides extends parallel to the faces of a battery cell or a series of battery cells parallel to each other.

[0144] The battery 5 and thus its cells 7 are placed on a vehicle chassis or floor 75 which is assumed to be horizontal and which may include the (horizontal) floor plate 35 mentioned below.

[0145] The battery 5 and the housing 6 containing and surrounding it on multiple sides may also be placed on a vehicle, such as a boat, where the battery connected to the engine needs to be protected.

[0146] Each battery cell 7 has:

[0147] - a connection face or side face 7a on which the electrical connection terminals 15 for electrical exchange are located,

[0148] - lateral faces or sides 7b-7e which form an angle with the connecting surface and are adjacent thereto, and

[0149] - A face or side face 7f opposite to face 7a and which may be the bottom face.

[0150] In some drawings, INF and SUP indicate contents in a lower part or an upper part, a lower area or an upper area, or below or above, respectively.

[0151] angle( Figure 2 ) can be a right angle α: the common case of a parallelepiped battery cell.

[0152] Preferably, the connection surfaces 7 a of all battery cells will be oriented identically in the interior 9 .

[0153] In terms of side surface, each battery cell 7 has at least two opposite side surfaces 7b, 7e which define the largest surface of each battery cell.

[0154] Thus, in the example chosen, the walls of the battery cell 7 are rectangular parallelepipeds.

[0155] At least some of the walls 11 are functionalized, as already explained and as further detailed below.

[0156] In this respect, at least one of these walls 11 is functionalized:

[0157] - it extends between groups of battery cells or between battery cells, thereby forming at least one partition, e.g. Figure 2 11-11b or 11-11c, which separates the internal space 9 of the housing, or

[0158] - it extends around the periphery of groups of battery cells or all battery cells, e.g. Figure 2 Wall 11-11a or 11-11d.

[0159] Each of these walls is a functionalized wall, such as a wall Figure 3-4 11-11c (may also be called 11-11a or other):

[0160] - it exchanges heat with some of the battery cells 7 and / or with the external environment 13, and

[0161] - it encloses at least one space 17, a fluid flow (F1 or F2, see Figure 3 ) can be present in the space at a given time, exchanging heat with some battery cells 7.

[0162] The phrase "at a given time" indicates that the above-mentioned fluid flow exists in the space 17 under the following conditions:

[0163] - in the normal state of the battery cells (when they are electrochemically active or discharged), thus respecting their so-called first temperature range below the overheating threshold,

[0164] - and / or in an abnormal state of at least one battery cell exchanging heat adjacent to the fluid flow, when the temperature of this battery cell exceeds said threshold value: it is overheated.

[0165] According to the functionalization of the invention, each wall is further such that:

[0166] - the at least one space 17 and the corresponding wall (thus for example 11-11c) has a fluid inlet 23a and an outlet 23b,

[0167] The fluid inlet 23a and outlet 23b are connected to a supply 25a of hot fluid and a discharge 25b of the fluid flow, respectively, in a fluid-flow-tight manner (if necessary via seals), so that the fluid flow can circulate in the at least one space 17 .

[0168] also:

[0169] - by the structural material 110 of the surrounding walls (in this example walls 11-11c; see Figure 3 ) and are connected through the seal, the space under consideration is physically isolated from the battery cell 7 so that the fluid flow ( Figure 3 The fluid flow F2 in the example of FIG. 1 is not connected to the internal space 9 of the housing, and

[0170] The same wall extends transversely, parallel to at least one of the side faces 7 b - 7 e of at least one battery cell 7 .

[0171] In particular, stream F2 may advantageously be a liquid stream which is more thermally efficient than a gas stream, such as a glycol water stream.

[0172] Since the risk of leakage is prevented and an enlarged heat exchange surface can be used, the supply 25a of the hot fluid flow can be arranged as a liquid supply, so that the liquid F2 reaches the at least one space 17 via the inlet 23a and is then transferred from wall 11 to wall 11 (in a continuous space 17).

[0173] Figure 4 The exploded view of FIG. 1 shows how to manufacture the functionalized wall according to the present invention, for example 11 - 11c .

[0174] Thus, each such wall may comprise at least one plate 170a having first and second opposing faces 170aa, 170ab, at least one of the first, second and third plates having flanges 27a1, 27a2 and / or 27b1, 27b2 and possibly also having protrusions 26, which define the at least one space 17 between the flanges (27a1, 27a2 or 27b1, 27b2) and possibly between the protrusions, respectively.

[0175] Each plate 170a is generally flat, and in this example is rectangular.

[0176] In the example, the protrusion 26 is formed by straight ribs or corrugations 26-26a extending at an angle and parallel to each other (see the partial enlargement). Figure 4 ). Alternatively, on the relevant face, the protrusions 26 may be formed by granulation or local (temporary) embossing 26-26b (see another partial enlargement Figure 4 ).

[0177] In each case, the tops of the projections 26 abut against each other, abutting from one plate to the other, and the gap 17 is defined by the space between the corresponding straight ribs or ridges of the two plates, outside their intersection or abutment area.

[0178] Two identical plates, for example 170a, 170b, resting against each other, one relative to the other, around these plates (and therefore the associated wall 11 ( Figure 3 , 4 The middle horizontal axis X contained in the plane 171 of 11-11c)) is rotated 180° to define the so-called space 17 (reference numerals 17-17a1 or 17-17a2, see Figure 4 ). The two plates 170a, 170b are arranged so that their respective flanges 27a1, 27a2 at the upper and lower horizontal edges, respectively, are horizontal (parallel to the X-axis), facing each other and abutting each other in pairs (see Figure 4 (Enlarged image from top).

[0179] In this way, the relevant fluid flow (in the example F2; but it can be flow F1, see Fig.18 and 20 ) will be guided horizontally and will be able to flow along the X axis from the space 17-17a1 or 17-17a2 of a wall (referred to as the first space) to the same space of the wall adjacent to the previous one.

[0180] Between two such first and second continuous walls, e.g. Figure 5or 11-11b1, 11-11b2 or 11-11c1, 11-11c2 of 6, a hollow connecting block 31 (also referred to as a connector) enclosing at least one space 310 communicating with the aforementioned spaces of these corresponding walls (e.g., 11-11c or 11-11a), respectively (e.g., 11-11c or 11-11a), will allow the fluid flow F2 to circulate horizontally in the internal space 9 or circulate sequentially from wall 11 to wall 11 at the periphery of the housing, as Figure 6 As shown by arrow F2 in (however, the loop with arrows is just an example).

[0181] Pull out Figure 6 In the figure, two different areas are magnified.

[0182] - in a first area surrounded by a dotted line and corresponding to the enlarged view A, the intermediate wall 11 in the center of the casing 6 is detailed; since it is located between two (groups of) battery cells 7, the wall (preferably) has two spaces 17-17a1 and 17-17a2 inside (for the circulation of the fluid flow F2), and preferably two other safety spaces with openings 33 through which the fusible fluid flow F1 can escape, and

[0183] - In a second area surrounded by a dotted line and corresponding to the enlarged view B, another wall 11 is detailed, this time at the periphery of the housing 6; since it is located around the plurality of (groups of) cells 7, the wall has internally spaces 17-17a1 (for the circulation of the relevant fluid flow) and openings 33 (through which another fluid flow F1 or F2 can escape, depending on whether it is in the Figure 3 still Fig.18 ); see as an example Figure 6 Technical solution B.

[0184] It should be noted that technical solution B can also be provided as a downgraded technical solution in the middle wall at the center of the housing 6, between the two groups of battery cells, to replace technical solution A. It should also be noted that, therefore, Figure 6 In FIG. 1 , the arrows (in bold) for the circulation of the fluid flow (F2 in the example) are only a non-limiting example. Other routes from wall 11 to wall 11 are also possible; see Figure 19-20 .

[0185] The internal circulation space 310 in the connection block 31 can be connected to Figure 6 , which depends on the position of the connecting block and the number of spaces in the continuous walls 11 to be connected in pairs.

[0186] Thus, it is possible to have an aligned space 310 (where, for example, only Figure 5 The walls 11-11b1 and 11-11b2 need to be connected), especially T-shaped (blocks 31-31a, see Figure 6 ), L-shaped (blocks 31-31b), X-shaped (blocks 31-31c; see Figure 7 ).

[0187] In order to also combine modularity, compactness and fluid flow distribution in the housing 6, it is also proposed that (each) connection block 31 has at least two mouths, such as Figure 7 311a, 311b:

[0188] - the first or second open side 110a1, 110a2 of the first and second walls are open thereto, respectively, and

[0189] Each communicates with at least one space 310 of the connection block for the inflow or outflow of at least one hot fluid flow, for example F2.

[0190] In order to ensure a sealed connection, thereby preventing the fluid flow (especially F2) from reaching the inner space 9 of the housing, a (each) wall 11 and a (each) connection block 31 can be placed end to end (see Figure 3 walls) or joined to each other two by two (see Figure 7 ), for example by welding them together, thus ensuring a tight mechanical connection (see Figure 5 , 7 51a, 51b in the figure).

[0191] As already mentioned, the fluid flow F1 exists in another space for thermal management (referred to as the "second space") (reference numerals 17-17b1 or 17-17b2, see Figure 4 ) can therefore be arranged in each wall 11.

[0192] For this purpose:

[0193] - On the back side of plate 170b ( Figure 4 170ba), in addition to a possible protrusion 26, two flanges 27b1, 27b2 extend along the vertical edge of the plate,

[0194] - and providing a third plate 170c ( Figure 4 ), which is identical to plate 170b, but around these plates and thus the associated wall 11 ( Figure 4 The intermediate horizontal axes X contained in the plane 171 of 11-11c) are rotated 180° one by one.

[0195] The two plates 170b, 170c are arranged so that their respective transverse flanges 27b1, 27b2, respectively at the vertical left and right edges on either side of the projection 26, are vertical (perpendicular to the axis X), facing each other and abutting each other in pairs (see Figure 4 (enlarged image on the right).

[0196] In this way, the fluid flow F1 will be directed vertically and can escape through the openings (slots) 33 in the upper horizontal part of the relevant space, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 17-17b1; see also Figure 3 .

[0197] In the lower horizontal part of the same space 17, there may be the same opening (or slit) 33. It will thus be possible to supply the meltable fluid flow F1 from the inside and, in due course, from the source 71 to the (each) space associated with one or more walls 11; see Figure 6 If necessary, a seal can be placed here to seal the fluid flow.

[0198] At least in the aforementioned second space ( Figure 4 17-17b1 and / or 17-17b2), for the dynamic presence via source 71, the inlet or outlet of this second space will be connected to a pump or fan (73; see Figure 6 ), thereby providing a forced supply of fluid flow F1 to the inlet.

[0199] At least one fan or at least one pump 53, 43 will do the same for the fluid flow F2 (see below). And, the same is true for the fluid flow F3, if present: see below, and the supply 79 of the fluid flow F3 is via a pump or fan ( Fig.13 81) is connected to an inlet 322 in the wall 37 (corresponding to the space 17-17c). An outlet 323 allows the fluid flow F3 to leave the wall 37 and therefore the corresponding space 17-17c after having circulated there.

[0200] If desired, seals may be placed at the inlet and / or outlet of the housing to seal the fluid flow F3.

[0201] By at least one bottom plate 35 (see Figure 3 ) in an open channel (not shown), the fluid flow F1 can also circulate between the (second) space 17-17b1 and / or 17-17b2 of one wall and the same (second) space of the wall adjacent to the previous one, thereby forming a situation in which the containers are connected, making it possible to balance the liquid levels in the spaces, particularly when the fluid flow F1 is liquid (or has at least one liquid phase in the normal state of the battery cell).

[0202] The fluid stream F1 will be a vaporizable fluid, such as water (saline or non-saline).

[0203] In order to optimize the safety / thermal management trade-off, this fluid flow F1 will therefore effectively be adapted to change phase at ambient temperature and pressure (20° C.; atmospheric pressure).

[0204] exist Figure 4 In the embodiment, the walls 11 - 11 c are respectively formed by a pair of double spaces 17 - 17 a 1 , 17 - 17 b 1 and 17 - 17 a 2 , 17 - 17 b 2 , which are separated by a middle heat insulating plate 29 .

[0205] In fact, the wall 11 - 11 c , like the wall 11 - 11 b , is a wall extending between two battery cells 7 , thus inside the housing, in the space 9 separated by these walls.

[0206] This cross-shaped division further increases the mechanical strength of the housing 6 and the thermal management of the battery cells.

[0207] On either side of the heat insulating plate 29 , each space 17 (eg, 17 - 17 a 1 or 17 - 17 b 1 ) performs heat exchange with at least the battery cell 7 adjacent thereto.

[0208] The plate 170a (its outer face 170aa) therefore rests on one of the battery cells. If there is an air film 30 between them, in particular due to the protrusions 26, there is no fluid flow there.

[0209] The heat shield 29 acts as a shield so that overheating in one battery cell 7 does not spread to another. The double space pair described above acts on both sides.

[0210] However, on the periphery of the housing 6, a single wall (eg, 11-11a, 11-11d) (a series of such continuous walls), whether or not it itself has a heat shield 29 on its periphery, may be sufficient.

[0211] Therefore, for each functionalized wall 11, there is a first and a second space (17-17a1 and 17-17a2 or 17-17b1 and 17-17b2) or even a pair of such first and second spaces (such as Figure 3 ), the first and second spaces will be:

[0212] - are not connected to each other,

[0213] - Suitable for allowing at least one hot fluid flow (for example, F2) and another fluid flow (for example, F1) to exist therein at the same time or at different times, respectively, the first fluid flow being dynamically present and the other fluid flow being able to exist statically or dynamically: in the absence of openings 33 at the bottom of the wall, in the second space 17-17b1 or 17-17b1 and 17-17b2, the fluid flow F1 will exist statically, otherwise it will exist dynamically because it is in circulation (container connection means circulation).

[0214] In this case, the fluid flows F1 and / or F2 are present statically or dynamically on the sides of the housing (thus, until Fig. 20 In the example, neither on the top surface, nor on the surface where the terminals 15 are located, nor on the bottom surface where the base plate 35 can be found), the housing 6 will in any case include a plurality of functionalized walls 11, each wall having at least one space 17 surrounding a plurality of battery cells 7 or a plurality of groups of battery cells to define at least a portion of the housing 6, which will completely surround a plurality of battery cells (whose terminals 7 are arranged on an upper horizontal plane or a lower horizontal plane) or a plurality of groups of such battery cells on several adjacent sides of the housing.

[0215] More specifically, these functionalized walls 11 are intended to define a closed outer contour (or perimeter) C1 of the housing, surrounding on several sides the battery cells 7 considered together (e.g. Fig.13 or around groups of cells considered together (e.g. Figure 2 middle) extension.

[0216] To further improve control and thermal safety, the functionalized wall 11 may also extend between two or more groups of battery cells to separate the housing 6, such as Figure 2 As shown in (see e.g. Figure 6 Walls 11-11c1 and 11-11c2).

[0217] If we return to the situation at the periphery of the housing 6, it will be possible to provide a complementary circulation of another fluid flow F3 at the periphery of the housing (see Fig.13 , 14 ), which is preferably intended to be used for charging the PCM (see below).

[0218] The following relating to fluid flow F3 is independent of the above description relating to the figures. Fluid flow F3 will preferably be different from fluid flows F1 and / or F2. Fluid flow F3 may be gaseous, such as air, which may be connected and therefore under pressure.

[0219] Therefore, whatever the way in which the functionalized wall 11 and its internal space 17 are realized, it may be useful (always useful in terms of thermal management of the battery cell) to insert at least one insulating layer or plate 39 (which may be a vacuum insulating panel) between the wall 37 containing the third space 17-17c and the external mechanical protection wall 40 adjacent thereto (standing vertically on the side of the housing); see Fig.13 , 14 .

[0220] It is even possible to insert at least one further phase change material (PCM) layer or plate 41a, 41b between the insulation 39 and the wall 37 containing the third space 17-17c (standing vertically on the side of the housing).

[0221] One or two PCM layers or panels 41a and 41b containing PCM of different phase change temperatures are able to cope with external ambient temperatures 13 which may be very cold at one given time and very hot at another given time.

[0222] The (each) wall 37 may comprise two plates 37a, 37b ( Fig.14 ), whose passages penetrate them along the walls 11 of the housing parallel thereto (horizontally in the example), thereby forming said third spaces 17-17c; see Fig.13 , 14 .

[0223] The material of the plates 37a, 37b comprises a PCM encapsulated by a rigid structural matrix. This will preferably be a PCM (Phase Change Material) encapsulated by a polymer matrix.

[0224] In particular, fluid flow F3 through the channel will allow regeneration of the PCM when required.

[0225] In this way, a self-supporting composite body can be obtained whatever the phase of the PCM (in particular solid or liquid). Channels, tubes or ducts for the peripheral passage of the fluid flow F3 can be integrated or added (tubes or ducts) to the wall 37 .

[0226] By this combination of PCM, circulating fluid flow F3 and the insulation surrounding it, it will be possible to create an effective dynamic thermal barrier.

[0227] If present, a complementary connection block 32 , which may be functionally identical to the connection block 31 , is inserted between two adjacent walls 37 along the wall 11 of the housing 6 in a continuous manner along the circulation path of the fluid flow F3 parallel to the circulation path of the fluid flow F2 .

[0228] Therefore, each complementary connection block 32 comprises an inner space 320 and at least two mouths (depending on the I-shape, X-shape, L-shape, etc. Fig.14 T-shaped in ...), e.g. Fig.14321a, 321b:

[0229] - the third space 17-17c of the wall 37 is open laterally thereon, and

[0230] Each one communicates with the internal space 320 for the inflow or outflow of the thermal fluid flow F3 , and therefore for its lateral circulation around the casing 6 along the wall 11 and the block 31 .

[0231] In order to ensure a tight connection to prevent the fluid flow (here F3) from entering the inner space 9 of the housing, the (each) wall 37 and the (each) complementary connection block 32 can be assembled together in pairs in a tight manner (see Fig.14 ), thus ensuring a tight mechanical connection (see Fig.14 330a, 330b).

[0232] It will therefore be understood that on the periphery of the casing 6, at least on the aforementioned contour C1, or on this contour C1 and between the two groups of battery cells 7 (as the aforementioned intermediate partition), it is therefore possible to find:

[0233] - two fluid flows F1, F2, so the side walls (eg 11-11a, 11-11d) are each simple (having two adjacent parallel side spaces, eg 17-17a2 and 17-17b2),

[0234] - or three fluid flows F1, F2, F3, so that the walls are each vertically arranged transversely, with three adjacent side spaces, for example 17-17a2, 17-17b2 and 17-17c, as Fig.13 as shown in .

[0235] In each case, all spaces in which the fluid flows ( F1 , F2 , F3 or F1 , F2 respectively) are parallel and adjacent to one another (thus present on the same face of the housing) can be integrated into the same so-called functionalized wall.

[0236] It should also be noted that wherever fluid flow F1 is coupled with fluid flow F2, the space (17-17b1 or 17-17b2) for fluid flow F1 will be adjacent to but laterally disposed outside the space for fluid flow F2. Thus, there will be:

[0237] -Battery cell 7, then there is

[0238] - the (so-called first) space (17-17a1 or 17-17a2) of the fluid flow F2, then there is

[0239] - The (so-called second) space (17-17b1 or 17-17b2) for the fluid flow F1.

[0240] At a location further away from the power supply unit, there may be a thermal insulator 29 or spaces 17 - 17 c for the third fluid flow F3 .

[0241] Thus, if (at least) one cell adjacent to a “functionalized” wall (e.g., 11 - 11 a ), e.g. Figure 4 7-7a produces electrochemical activity, then:

[0242] - within a first temperature range below a threshold value (e.g. between 20 and 35° C. for a lithium-ion battery cell), it will naturally heat up in its so-called normal state, e.g. the threshold value in the above case is 35° C.,

[0243] -But it may reach an abnormal state at a given time, exceed the threshold and overheat or degrade.

[0244] The same applies to the battery cells 7 - 7 b adjacent to the space 17 - 17 a 2 located opposite the present wall 11 - 11 c , which is therefore a partition between two groups of battery cells 7 in the example described.

[0245] At least when the present abnormal state is reached, and preferably already in the normal state, a fluid flow F1 will be present in the second space (17-17b1; 17-17b2).

[0246] Furthermore, preferably during this normal state, the temperature of these battery cells, such as 7-7a, 7-7b, etc., will be able to be thermally managed by heat exchange between them and the fluid flow F2 circulating in the (so-called first) space (17-17a1 or 17-17a2) closest to the relevant battery cell.

[0247] The insulating layer 29, if provided, will act as a thermal shield between the two groups of battery cells to which the battery cells 7-7a and 7-7b respectively belong.

[0248] The heat exchange between the fluid flow F2 and the nearest battery cells will limit the risk of overheating, all the more so for the liquid fluid flow and the fact that the battery cells are located at their sides (7b-7e), thus having the largest exchange surface.

[0249] If overheating still occurs, the heat from the battery cells will heat the fluid flow F1 present in the second closest space (17-17b1 or 17-17b2).

[0250] This may result in a phase change of this fluid flow, if it reaches its vaporization temperature and thus vaporizes (at ambient pressure), it can then be discharged in the gaseous phase through the opening 33 of the associated space ( Figure 3 Or arrow F1 of 18).

[0251] It should also be noted that, unlike the periphery of the housing 6 which is located at the interface between the external environment 13 and the battery cells 7, the entire portion of the housing's interior space 9 which may extend between two groups of battery cells 7 will advantageously be reserved exclusively for heat exchange between:

[0252] - (each) the above-mentioned functionalized wall (e.g. walls 11-11b, 11-11c) forming at least one partition, and

[0253] - at least the battery cells 7 adjacent thereto, so that there will be no Figure 4 , where no PCM is provided) or a phase change material is arranged between them and the adjacent battery cell 7 under consideration.

[0254] This will optimize the trade-off between mechanical strength / size / weight / thermal management.

[0255] On the other hand, for the same purpose, a PCM layer or plate 41c may be placed between two consecutive (adjacent) battery cells 7, such as Figure 2 Each PCM 41c will eliminate the thermal shock of the battery cells adjacent to it.

[0256] As regards the fluid F3 , the following relating to the circulation of the fluid flow F2 is independent of the above description relating to the figures.

[0257] As previously mentioned, the thermal fluid flow F2 is dynamic. It is therefore possible to exploit the fact that it leaves the wall 11 and therefore the housing 6 (from the internal space 9) via the outlet 23b, so that its exhaust 25b is connected via the recirculation circuit 39, which makes it possible to recirculate at least part of the thermal fluid flow to the supply 25a; see Figure 2 .

[0258] At least one three-way valve 41 with a variable flow rate can be used to recirculate all or part of the fluid flow F2 leaving the housing 6, contained in Figure 18-19 In the technical solution shown in , a collecting cover (not shown) can be placed on the open surface of the housing, and the opening 23b is exposed from the open surface.

[0259] In order to improve the energy efficiency, forced circulation means 43 (a pump if the fluid flow F2 is a liquid, a fan if it is a gas) and an exchanger 45 (between the fluid flow F2 and another fluid flow F4) will be provided on the recirculation loop 39 in order to preferably cool the fluid flow F2 and recirculate it in 25a cooler than when it left the housing; see Fig.12 , where Figure 2 As in the foregoing, the circulation path of fluid flow F2 is provided only as a non-limiting example.

[0260] Regarding this fluid flow F2, it is important to note that the control unit 49 ( Fig.12 ) controls the supply of such hot fluid flow at the inlet and / or the discharge of the fluid flow at the outlet, so that the fluid flow F2 thus circulates in the at least one space 17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2 while the battery cell 7 is in a normal state.

[0261] Preferably, it should also be noted that this fluid flow F2 also circulates in the at least one space 17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2, while the battery cell 7 is in an abnormal state: below or above the minimum and maximum temperature thresholds for normal operation of the battery cell, namely:

[0262] -10°C below the minimum temperature threshold, and

[0263] -Above the maximum temperature threshold of 35°C.

[0264] Regardless of whether the fluid flow F2 is recirculated or not, the control unit 49 may be connected to at least one temperature sensor 51 that senses the temperature of the (at least one) battery cell 7; see Figure 2 .

[0265] The control unit 49 may be connected to at least one temperature sensor 51 that senses the temperature of the (at least one) battery cell; see Figure 2 .

[0266] For forced supply of the fluid flow F2 without recirculation (or as an alternative to the means 43 ), the circulation means 53 connected to the control unit 49 will ensure forced circulation of the fluid flow in the housing 6 (the wall 11 thereof).

[0267] The control unit 49 can also be connected to the three-way valve 41 for control; see Fig.12 .

[0268] As regards the circulation of fluid F3 and fluid flow F2 , the following relating to the circulation of fluid flows F1 and / or F2 and / or F3 in housing 6 is independent of the above description relating to the figures.

[0269] Thus, with respect to the circulation of such fluid streams F1 and / or F2 and / or F3, and whether there is one such stream (F1 or F2), two such streams (F1 and F2), or three such streams (F1, F2, and F3), the following should be noted:

[0270] - related to the fluid flow F1; this is therefore a fusible fluid flow, the circulation of which is responsible for ensuring the removal of heat during a thermal runaway of a cell and / or a group of cells, by causing the fluid flow F1 to boil or vaporize in the corresponding space of the wall 11, - related to the fluid flow F2; this is therefore a fluid flow, the circulation of which is responsible for ensuring the maintenance of the normal state of the cell 7 during its operation (electricity generation):

[0271] --If they are heating up, cool them down,

[0272] - If they are still cold, heat them up, as if the battery cells have to operate at too low a temperature (for lithium-ion battery cells, the ideal operating temperature is between +10°C and +35°C; nominally, the permissible temperature range when charging can be considered to be between 0 and +45°C, and the permissible temperature range when discharging is between -20°C and +60°C).

[0273] For example, if the outside temperature is below 10°C, such as after parking in cold winter weather, it is recommended to heat the battery cells to encourage charging.

[0274] However, because the term is misleading, this article generally refers to the "cooling circuit" because cooling may be more frequent than heating.

[0275] However, as has already been suggested in relation to certain vehicles, it is not suitable to provide a thermal fluid flow only underneath the battery cells 7 (accessibility, efficiency, lack of maintenance, etc.).

[0276] The positioning of the cooling circuit on several sides of the housing and thus of the battery cell (as in the present invention) can in particular be peripherally positioned (on the Figure 2 The entire closed contour C1 of the housing 6 or 21 ), wherein the wall 11 generally extends to the periphery of the housing 6 , should be able to remove the heat generated by the battery cells very effectively. In particular, it should be able to handle hot spots near the connection 15 .

[0277] If such peripheral positioning on several sides exists:

[0278] - on (at least) two longer opposite sides of the battery cell, such as Figure 2 As shown in

[0279] - or perpendicular to the axis B1 or perpendicular to the parallelism of the battery cells 7 aligned by their larger faces 7b, 7e (e.g. Fig.21 If the exchange surface area is increased greatly compared to the exchange surface area below the battery cell in a plane P2 of multiple axes B1 (shown in ), this will not cause any significant fluid flow risk given the proposed design.

[0280] During fast charging (e.g., within less than 5 minutes), it should be possible to dissipate a thermal power of, for example, 20 kW in a group of battery cells ( Figure 2 or compartments in 8) rather than, for example, 2 kW during normal use. This heat should be able to raise the temperature of the entire battery pack to a temperature level higher than the permitted temperature for normal operation of the battery pack. Devices such as battery cells (or plates) loaded with PCM can be used to reduce this temperature increase by, for example, 3 to 10 °C. However, at the end of fast charging, a more efficient module cooling system is required:

[0281] -- via a lower temperature of the cooling fluid flow F2 (which means a change in the cooling set point and a loss of efficiency of the cooler), and / or

[0282] -- via an increase in the flow rate (which requires a variable flow pump and higher consumption) and / or

[0283] -- via an increase in the exchange surface.

[0284] In the concerns regarding heat in the peripheral, multi-faceted, especially perimeter technical solutions proposed by the present invention, we can note that:

[0285] - When there is such cooling, better homogenization of the temperature within the battery cells 7,

[0286] - Availability of important heat exchange surfaces: Exchange plates with a lower thermal conductivity (λ) than aluminum or stainless steel can be envisaged: composite materials, plastics, glass, which of course have a higher thermal resistance; but this can be compensated for by a larger exchange surface and a higher convective exchange coefficient within the cooling path, especially in the case where protrusions 26 are present.

[0287] Therefore, regarding the fluid flow F3, this is the fluid flow that can maintain the temperature of the compartment 9 / battery cells 7 when the battery cells are not operating (not generating electricity). If present, the circulation of the fluid flow F3 can thermally charge the PCM side plates 41a, 41b.

[0288] In Fig.15 the technical solution shown, the prismatic battery cells 7 of the battery 5 have lateral connection terminals 15, here marked as 15a (anode) and 15b (cathode).

[0289] These connection terminals 15 are neither on the upper side 7a nor on the opposite lower side, but on two opposite side faces 7c, 7d.

[0290] This means that the functionalized wall 11 of the housing 6 of the present invention is lower than (i.e., vertically lower than) the battery cells 7: H3 < H4, see Fig.15 .

[0291] By not extending to the height of these lateral connection terminals 15, the wall 11 and the terminal block 31 will not interfere with the connection terminals 15, so in the example shown, they will overhang the two longer opposite sides of the housing 6. This ensures that the electrical connections and the fluid flows F1, F2 and / or F3 are not disturbed.

[0292] exist Fig.16 In FIG. 5 , an example is shown in which the cells 7 of the battery 5 are cylindrical and have upper connection terminals 15 : two terminals referenced here 15 a (anode) and 15 b (cathode) are located on the top side 7 a of each cell.

[0293] Fig.17 An example is shown in which the battery cell 7 of the battery 5 is still cylindrical but has connection terminals 15a and 15b, one on the upper side 7a and the other on the lower side 7f:

[0294] Although the electrical connections between the battery cells and the electrical connections to the electric motor 3 are not shown, it is understood that the battery 5 is always in its functionalized housing 6, especially in Figure 16-17 in two instances.

[0295] The wall 11 and the terminal block 31 are located laterally to the opposite sides 7 a , 7 f of the battery cell and also do not interfere with the connection terminals 15 .

[0296] exist Figure 16-17 In the illustration, it is assumed that the further fluid flow F1 is present statically in the wall 11. The inflow and outflow of the fluid flow F2 to / from the housing 6 are not shown.

[0297] On the other hand, Fig.16 In FIG. 1 , the inlet 23a and the outlet 23b of the fluid flow F2 circulating in one wall 11 are shown. Internally, in each wall 11, the design may be as follows Fig.17 As shown in Figure 3 Or 7 in.

[0298] However, a method of rotating the plane P ( Fig.18 ) is possible, the panels can be connected to each other in a coplanar manner, such as Figure 5 or as shown in 6.

[0299] In this case, if Fig.18 , 19 and 20:

[0300] - The fluid flow F1 will circulate "in series" and be discharged from the panel 11 to the adjacent panel 11 via the connection block 31 ( Fig. 20 arrow F1), and at the same time:

[0301] - The fluid flow F2 will circulate "in parallel" (each panel 11 has its outlet; see Fig.19 arrow F2).

[0302] If the wall 11 is vertical, the fluid flow F2 can flow from the bottom to the top, or vice versa (in Fig.18 In the same way, except Fig. 20 In addition to the example in , a "series" fluid flow F1 can also be obtained.

[0303] In any case, it is desirable to provide better battery cell thermal management by maintaining the fluid flows ( F1 , F2 ) at lower temperatures for longer periods of time.

[0304] The above content can of course be applied to Figure 21-22 A case in which the associated wheeled vehicle (a portion of its horizontal chassis has been shown, namely the (horizontal) floor 35) comprises a housing 6 as presented previously, in particular walls 11 on several sides with flows F1 and F2, but the special case is that one of the walls (11-11a in the figure) of the housing enclosing at least one space (17-17a1 / 17-17b1 in the figure) is oriented on the vehicle so as to be arranged parallel to said chassis (parallel to its floor 35) facing it.

[0305] Thus, the contour C1 is in a vertical plane P2 and the axis B1 of each row of aligned battery cells is horizontal.

[0306] With the aid of this figure (considered merely as a non-limiting example), it will be noted that if, according to the invention, the casing 6 surrounds on several sides the casing (and therefore the battery cell 7 ):

[0307] - the battery cells considered together, or

[0308] - multiple groups of battery cells 7 considered together, the walls 11 with a hollow interior allowing the fluids F1 and F2 to be present therein (thus with an internal space 11) can be organized as follows: one of these walls (marked 11-11e) is the bottom wall, lying in a plane parallel to the plane P2.

[0309] Thus, the functionalized walls 11 may extend in three perpendicular planes, these walls being adjacent to one another so that one and / or the other of the fluids F1 and F2 can be transferred from one wall 11 to an adjacent wall 11 if necessary.

[0310] exist Fig.21 and 22 In the technical solution, it can also be noted that:

[0311] - each battery cell 7 has side faces, wherein two opposite side faces (including 7e) define the largest surface of each battery cell 7, and

[0312] The perimeter C1 extends perpendicularly to the largest surface of the battery cell considered together or of a plurality of groups (here two groups) of battery cells considered together.

[0313] This results in an efficient battery cell layout:

[0314] - in which their connection faces (terminals 15) are arranged face to face, one row after another, parallel to the plane P2, with the terminals 15 oriented towards the center of the housing, with a free volume 55 allowing cables (not shown) for the electrical connection of the battery cells with each other and with the associated electric motor to be placed, - and their thin edges (sides of the smaller surfaces 7a and 7f) are elongated in the vertical direction.

[0315] The orientation of the butt joint is not very practical.

[0316] In different ways, Figure 2 , 13 And in the technical solution of 15:

[0317] - if each cell 7 always has side faces, of which two opposite side faces ( 7 b , 7 e ) define the largest surface of each cell,

[0318] The perimeter C1 passes around the largest surface of the battery cell considered together or of groups of battery cells considered together.

[0319] As already mentioned, both technical solutions are very efficient in terms of thermal efficiency, energy performance and / or compactness or space requirements.

[0320] In this respect, it can be noted that, in both cases, each cell 7 thus has sides, of which two are opposite sides (7b, 7e) defining a larger surface of each cell, said surface being connected to the cells arranged in a row ( Fig.15 ) or multiple lines ( Figure 2 or 13) the battery cells are arranged in parallel in the housing.

[0321] With regard to the walls 11 enclosing the spaces (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2; 17-17b1, 17-17b2, ...), it should also be noted that these walls each have two thin, elongated, opposite edges (111a and 111b, see Figure 7 ), each of which extends:

[0322] - between two connectors 31 (such as Figure 7 ), the two walls 11 are connected by a connector 31,

[0323] - or between two consecutive corners of the limiting side of the housing 6 (e.g. Fig.11 Corners 57a and 57b in FIG.

[0324] In the latter case, the housing 6 may be a single piece (wherein the walls 11 are integrated, for example molded together, and the bottom ( Fig.21 11-11e) can also be integrated or attached to other walls).

[0325] By means of this thin edge wall 11 design, such as 111a and 111b, the relevant walls 11 with the inner space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2; 17-17b1, 17-17b2, ...) will each advantageously be in one plane ( Figure 3 171 and Fig.11 P3) extends in the plane:

[0326] - perpendicular to the thin edge, and

[0327] - a wall along which it has a surface S (see shaded Fig.11 and Figure 3 of alternating long / short lines around the perimeter).

[0328] The surface S is defined by the two thin edges 111a and 111b and by:

[0329] - two consecutive corners of the housing (e.g., 57a and 57b),

[0330] --or the two connectors 31.

[0331] Furthermore, the spaces (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2; 17-17b1, 17-17b2) of the walls of the housing occupy a large part of the surfaces (S) of these walls.

[0332] In other words, in order to optimize the efficiency in terms of heat exchange performance, it is proposed to define spaces (17...) of the walls of the housing defining a corresponding hollow interior among these walls:

[0333] -are so large that they occupy at least a substantial portion of the interior of the wall, and

[0334] - Contains fluid flows (F1, F2) to adapt the temperature of the battery cells.

[0335] There is another technical solution to consider. Fig.23 and 24 Two examples are shown in FIG.

[0336] The present solution is partly inspired by the networked realization of at least one of the spaces 17. In fact, in the solution with internal protrusions 26, these protrusions form a suitable network for the circulation of the fluid flow F1 or F2 in the corresponding space 17.

[0337] Thus, as the space 17 is large enough to occupy at least a large part of the interior of the wall 11 (and therefore said surface area S), there will not necessarily be a single space, but a network or compartmentalized space.

[0338] exist Fig.23 In the solution shown in , one of the plates or panels defining the wall, in this case the outer plate or panel 170a, has been replaced by a series 1700a of tubes 173. It is not important in the example described that it is located on two opposite sides of the panel 11 (the two series 1700a).

[0339] If one of these sides is of interest (or each side itself is considered), then the entire series of tubes 173 (e.g., front Fig.23 The tubes 173 in the series 173 define together a surface for conveying the fluid F2 which is almost identical to the previous case and whose volume is as large as the previous case: the series 173 of tubes extends almost over the entire aforementioned surface S. All the tubes 173 are therefore hollow and extend along the aforementioned surface S; in this case, along the entire length L of the remaining panels 170b, 170c, the fluid F1 can be present therebetween, as previously described. Regardless of whether they are parallel to one another or not, all the tubes 173 of one (each) series will form a structure extending parallel to the aforementioned common plane 171 of the remaining panels.

[0340] If desired, the end of each tube 173 can be fluidly connected to the connector 31 already shown, so that such a panel 11 can be connected to another adjacent identical panel 11.

[0341] Fig.24 The technical solutions and Fig.23 The solution in FIG. 1 differs in that the three plates 170 a , 170 b , 170 c of the first solution have been replaced by two adjacent series 1700 a , 1700 b placed against each other in a plane 171 .

[0342] Each series allows the circulation of one of the fluids F2 (outermost) and F1 (innermost), and said series of tubes 173 occupies an area almost equivalent to the entire aforesaid surface S.

[0343] The heat shield 29 extends between the two most central series 1700b in the plane 171 to transform the present technical solution into Figure 4It is a perfect alternative to the technical solution in and is equivalent to it in terms of the performance of heat exchange with the battery cells 7 which are erected on either side parallel to the plane 171 in this case.

[0344] The tubes 173 may be metallic, for example aluminium. But in practice, whether they are made of plates, tubes or other materials, the hollow walls will be made of polymer (plastic) or metallic material or even composite materials, but preferably without PCM. As polymeric materials, elastomers are of interest. Examples of composite materials include organic matrix composites (OMC) and metal matrix composites (MMC). The metal wall 11 will advantageously be thermally conductive, with a thermal conductivity λ greater than 1 W / mk, even preferably greater than 5 or even 10 W / mk, in fact greater than the thermal conductivity λ of the PCM that can be used for the housing 6.

[0345] If they are in contact with the flat plate of the housing (e.g. Fig.23 170b or 170c) in the technical solution in the embodiment extends relatively to each other, and they can be attached thereto, for example by gluing or welding.

[0346] exist Fig.24 In the solution with two adjacent tube groups 1700a, 1700b, the groups can also be attached together and in this case to the plate 29 to form an integral assembly.

[0347] If the tubes 173 in the series are vertical, they may have a closed bottom end 173a and contain a fluid F1 which will vaporize in due course if an adjacent cell overheats.

[0348] In the case where the wall 11 has two fluids F1 and F2, through two adjacent tube series 1700a, 1700b, or through a wall 11 having two internal spaces (e.g., 17-17a1 and 17-17b1 and / or 17-17a2 and 17-17b2) in the plane of the wall (e.g., Figure 3 The two fluid flows F1 and F2 in the wall preferably cross each other as shown in the figure; but this is not absolutely necessary: ​​parallel flows (straight or angled, depending on the Figure 4 The flanges (27a1, 27a2, 2b1, ...) on the plates 170a, 170b, 170c in a corresponding technical solution).

[0349] In order to further explain the specific features of the present invention, please refer to Figures 25 to 34 , which show five possible situations in pairs, combining three different embodiments, in each case shown in an assembled situation, with the relevant wall 11 removed from the relevant battery cell or cells 7, or even in exploded form ( Fig.26 , 28 , 30, 32). The battery cell considered is prismatic.

[0350] In these five cases, there is a set of arrangements that include:

[0351] - at least one battery cell 7 (in the example described, a plurality of battery cells are arranged in a row), the battery cell having a plurality of sides (e.g., 7a and 7e described above), and

[0352] at least one wall 11 suitable for thermal exchange with the battery cells and, for this purpose, arranged opposite them in a plane P5 parallel to one of the sides of the battery cells 7 (or, if there are several sides, to the common side between the battery cells), the wall 11 enclosing at least a first and a second space:

[0353] - Spaces 17-17a1, 17-17b1 (in the example of the three-plate technical solution) Figure 25-28 ; See also Figure 4 Detailed description of

[0354] - or a series of internal passages 61 of tube 173 layers.

[0355] The corresponding space extends on two planes, which are:

[0356] -- parallel to each other (P6 and P7; but they can also be the merging plane P8)

[0357] - and parallel to the side of one or more cells towards which the wall 11 extends: the large side 7e or the small side 7c in the figures.

[0358] In addition, the corresponding space:

[0359] - are separated by at least one partition (the jacket 65 of any tube 173 or for example the intermediate plate 170b) so as not to communicate with each other, and

[0360] - a first fluid flow (F2) and a second fluid flow (F1) adapted so as to be present at the same operating time or at different operating times of the battery cell, respectively, and therefore not to mix.

[0361] As already mentioned, from Figures 25 to 34 It is clear that the first and second spaces defining a respective hollow interior in the wall 11 are each so large that they occupy at least a majority of the interior of the wall 11 as manufactured.

[0362] Again, regarding the first and second spaces, it is further stipulated that:

[0363] - Spaces 17-17a1, 17-17b1 (in the example of the three-plate technical solution) Figure 25-28 ; See also Figure 4 Detailed description of

[0364] - Figure 29-32 a series of internal passages 61 of the corresponding tube 173 layers in the two-layer solution (considered together), and

[0365] - Figure 33-34 61 of the tubes 173 in FIG. 6 , but here an alternation of tubes in two coplanar groups is considered (plane P8): a first group of tubes 173 for flow F1 and a second group of other tubes 173 for flow F2. Thus, in this case, the tubes 173 are considered together, but in groups. One group of tubes is interspersed between one or more consecutive tubes of the other group.

[0366] In the first case ( Fig.25 , 26 ), so we find Figure 4 The three parallel plates 170a, 170b, 170c of the technical solution in FIG. 1 are arranged parallel to the same aligned short sides 7c of the battery cells.

[0367] Flows F1 and F2 flow in parallel and offset (planes P6, P7), as shown and described above.

[0368] The second case ( Fig. 27 , 28 ) is the same as the first case, except that the set of parallel plates 170a, 170b, 170c are now arranged opposite and adjacent to the same aligned long side 7e of the battery cell.

[0369] Flows F1 and F2 flow in parallel and offset (planes P6, P7), as shown and described above.

[0370] The third case ( Fig.29 , 30 ) and the fourth case ( Fig.31 , 32 ) is the same, except that the tube 173 of layer 1700a and the tube of another layer 1700b:

[0371] - In the third case parallel ( Fig.29 , 30 )and

[0372] - in the fourth case it crosses (in this case vertically) ( Fig.31 , 32 ).

[0373] In the fifth case ( Fig.33 , 34), tubes 137 with envelopes or walls 65 and openings 161 can be seen, but alternating along the short sides of the cell in the same plane P8, even though this may also be at least opposite to its long sides.

Claims

1. An assembly with a thermal control housing for a battery cell, the assembly comprising: - at least one battery cell (7) or a module (700) of a battery (5), the at least one battery cell (7) having a plurality of sides (7a-7f), the module (700) having a plurality of sides (70a-70f) and containing a group of battery cells (7, 70), and - at least one wall (11) adapted to exchange heat with the at least one battery cell (7) or with the module (700) and, for this purpose, arranged opposite thereto in a plane parallel to one of the plurality of side surfaces of the at least one battery cell (7) or the module (700), the at least one wall (11) enclosing at least one first space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2) and at least one second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2): - the at least one first space and the at least one second space extend in two planes parallel to each other and parallel to the side surface of the at least one battery cell or the side surface of the module (700), the wall (11) extends towards the side surface of the at least one battery cell or the side surface of the module (700) or extends to the side surface of the at least one battery cell or the side surface of the module (700), -- the at least one first space and the at least one second space are separated by at least one partition so as not to communicate with each other, and - in the at least one first space and the at least one second space, there are a first fluid flow (F2) and a second fluid flow (F1) at the same operating time or different operating times of the at least one battery cell or module, respectively, and the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow do not mix in the at least one first space and the at least one second space, The assembly is used for: - In the second space, a fluid flow capable of changing phase under ambient pressure is taken as the second fluid flow (F1), - ensuring that the second fluid flow (F1) is present in the second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2), wherein at least one battery cell is in an overheated state and then exchanges heat with the second fluid flow (F1), so that the second fluid flow (F1) reaches a vaporization temperature at a temperature threshold of the at least one battery cell corresponding to the overheated state, and - The second space has an opening (33) and communicates with the external atmosphere to allow the second fluid flow (F1) vaporized from the wall to be evacuated to the external atmosphere.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that The liquid is circulated as a first fluid stream (F2).

3. The assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that The liquid is ethylene glycol water.

4. A combination according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that Since each battery cell (7) has a connection surface (7a) on which an electrically connected terminal (15) is located, a plurality of side surfaces (7b-7e) forming an angle with the connection surface (7a) and adjacent to the connection surface, and a surface (7f) opposite to the connection surface (7a), the presence of the first and second fluid flows in the lateral direction is ensured by arranging the wall (11) so that it extends laterally parallel to at least one of the plurality of side surfaces (7b-7e) of the at least one battery cell (7).

5. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that Since the assembly comprises: - a plurality of battery cells or a plurality of groups of battery cells (7), and - a housing (6) containing all the battery cells, the housing (6) comprising a plurality of sides and one or more walls for each side at the periphery, the housing surrounding on a plurality of sides: -- multiple cells considered together (7), or - a plurality of battery cells (7) considered together, each battery cell having an upper side, a lower side and at least one side between the upper side and the lower side, a terminal (15) for electrical connection being located on at least one of the upper side, the lower side and the side, It is thus ensured that the first and / or second fluid flow: - is present on the side of the housing which is not opposite the underside of the battery cell, or, - if the terminals (15) are located on two opposite sides (7c, 7d) of the cell, they are present in the wall (11) at a lower height than the cell (7) so that the wall (11) does not cover the terminals (15).

6. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that Since the assembly comprises: - a plurality of battery cells or a plurality of groups of battery cells (7), and - a housing (6) containing all the battery cells, the housing (6) comprising a plurality of sides and one or more walls for each side at the periphery, the housing surrounding on a plurality of sides: -- multiple cells considered together (7), or -- a plurality of battery cells (7) considered together, each battery cell having two longer opposing sides, It is thus ensured that the first and / or second fluid flow is present at least on two longer opposite sides of the battery cell.

7. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The first fluid flow (F2) and the second fluid flow (F1) are directed into the at least one wall (11) by: - the at least one first space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2) and the at least one second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2) are defined between the first plate (170a) and the second plate (170b) and between the second plate (170b) and the third plate (170c), respectively, the first plate (170a), the second plate (170b) and the third plate (170c) being parallel to each other and connected together, the first plate (170a), the second plate (170b) and the third plate (170c) having peripheral flanges (27a1, 27a2, 2b1, ...) arranged to guide the first fluid flow (F2) and the second fluid flow (F1), and / or - at least one of the at least one first space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2) and the at least one second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2) is defined by a series of tubes (173) arranged in the same plane or in parallel planes.

8. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that Each of the at least one first space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2) and the at least one second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2) is defined by tubes (173) arranged along at least a first series and a second series located in the same plane or parallel planes, the first series forming the at least one first space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2) and the second series forming the at least one second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2).

9. Method for thermal management of a battery cell (7) by means of at least one wall (11) suitable for heat exchange with at least one battery cell (7) of a battery (5), the wall (11) enclosing at least one space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2; 17-17b1, 17-17b2), in which at least one fluid flow suitable for heat exchange with at least one battery cell (7) for thermal management can exist, It is characterized in that Since the at least one space includes at least one first space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2) and at least one second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2) arranged in parallel with each other, therefore: - at least when the battery cell is operating normally, a first fluid flow (F2) is circulated in the first space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2), and, - at least in the event that the battery cell overheats and then no longer functions properly, a second fluid flow (F1) is vaporized from the second space (17; 17-17a1, 17-17a2) by heat transfer from the battery cell to the wall (11), said second fluid flow (F1): -- Suitable for changing phase at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure, -- is generated by the same flow as the first fluid flow (F2) or by a different fluid flow, -- is contained in the second space (17; 17-17b1, 17-17b2), and -- Allow to discharge to the outside atmosphere at atmospheric pressure.

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