Battery holder for holding battery cells, and battery module

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery holder (1) for holding cylindrical battery cells (2), preferably for traction batteries of electric or hybrid vehicles or vehicles with fuel cells, wherein the battery holder (1) comprises a plurality of holding portions (10), each holding portion having a base (11) and a side wall (12), thus each holding portion being formed as a portion arranged to receive and secure a bottom surface (2a) and at least a part of a side surface (2b) of one respective battery cell (2), wherein the side wall (12) of the respective holding portion (10) comprises at least one contact surface (12a) arranged in an area contacting the battery cell (2) substantially perpendicular to the base (11), the contact surface being arranged to face contact or line contact with a part of the side surface (2b) of the battery cell (2) when the battery cell (2) is inserted, the side wall further comprising at least one deformable contact portion (12b) arranged to be deformable when the battery cell (2) is inserted into the respective holding portion (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery holder for holding at least one cylindrical battery cell, preferably for a traction battery of an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle or a vehicle with a fuel cell, and also to a method of manufacturing the battery holder. Background Technology

[0002] Battery systems for electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and vehicles with fuel cells are currently a focus of research and development. Typically, multiple cylindrical battery cells are combined into a battery module, also known as a "battery pack." A vehicle's traction battery consists of one or more battery modules.

[0003] A battery module has a battery holder, the purpose of which is to mechanically secure the battery cells, thereby assembling them into a larger unit, namely the battery module. The battery holder can be made by molding one or more pieces, or it can be made wholly or partially from a casting compound after the battery cells are initially positioned, so as to permanently fix it in the battery housing.

[0004] One known design uses a honeycomb battery holder, such as the honeycomb battery holder described in US2010 / 0136413A1. In this case, the battery cells are arranged parallel, upright, and offset in rows, thus forming a circular packaging structure with the highest density when viewed in cross-section relative to the longitudinal extension of the battery cells. Each battery cell is held on one side of the axial direction by a battery holder having a cup-shaped recess corresponding to the battery cell into which it is inserted.

[0005] Figure 1 A cross-sectional detail of an exemplary battery holder 1 is shown, which has a cup-shaped retaining portion 10 consisting of a base 11 and sidewalls 12. The retaining portion 10 is arranged to receive and secure the axial end of a corresponding battery cell 2, which is parallel to and facing the base 11. The battery cell 2 is upright in the installed state, i.e., its axial direction or battery cell axis A is perpendicular to the base 11. By using two such battery holders 1, each holding one end of the battery cell 2, the battery cell 2 is held in a sandwich-like manner, thereby forming a battery module or battery pack.

[0006] As is well known, the battery holder 1 is injection molded from plastic. However, this injection-molded battery holder has a so-called draft angle or draft slope to facilitate demolding from the molding tool. Figure 1 The demolding angle α is shown in an exaggerated manner, which is represented by the sidewall 12 gradually tapering axially from the base 11. After the plastic hardens, the battery holder 1 is removed from the molding tool (not shown in the figure) along the demolding direction E, which is parallel to the battery cell axis A.

[0007] This manufacturing-related demolding angle affects the surface contact between the sidewalls and the battery cell. The battery cell can typically only be positioned along a linear profile (see...). Figure 1 The contact area K) is supported by sidewalls instead of a surface, which hinders the precise positioning, orientation, and secure fixing of the battery cell. This also negatively impacts assembly, potentially resulting in significant gaps. The interface between the battery cell and the battery holder is also sensitive to the manufacturing tolerances of both. The sidewalls of the battery holder completely surround the corresponding battery cell, which typically increases installation space, but this is also particularly true due to the thickened bottom caused by the demolding angle.

[0008] When arranging battery cells, it is crucial to maintain sufficient spacing between adjacent cells to prevent heat transfer to neighboring cells in the event of thermal runaway and to prevent short circuits. For this purpose, battery holders are typically arranged to ensure adequate spacing between the cells. In this configuration, the cells form a cell pattern, such as a square or hexagonal shape, with equal spacing between adjacent cells.

[0009] However, the probability of a short circuit between adjacent battery cells depends not only on the spacing but also on their connection method. Therefore, the spacing between adjacent series-connected battery cells must be greater than the spacing between adjacent parallel-connected battery cells. However, generally, current battery holders have a uniform cell spacing, which is necessary for safety reasons and must meet the spacing requirements for two cells connected in series. If the electrical connections within the battery module are known and cannot be changed, it will lead to a lower-than-optimal cell packing density, resulting in a lower-than-optimal energy density. However, if the battery holder arrangement allows for different electrical connection modes, the number of technically feasible configurations is limited; therefore, in these cases, the spacing between most battery cells remains unnecessarily large. Besides negatively impacting energy density, a larger cell spacing also leads to increased material consumption and weight of the battery holder. Summary of the Invention

[0010] One object of the present invention is to provide an improved battery holder and an improved battery module for holding at least one cylindrical battery cell.

[0011] The battery holder having the features of claim 1, the battery holder having the features of claim 8, and the battery module having the features of claim 13 can achieve the above objectives. Advantageous embodiments can be found in the dependent claims, the following description of the invention, and the description of preferred embodiments.

[0012] The battery holder disclosed in this invention is preferably used in the traction battery of electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or vehicles with fuel cells. The battery module or battery pack generally has multiple battery cells and may have one or two battery holders for assembling and holding the battery cells.

[0013] According to the invention, the battery holder includes a plurality of retaining portions, each having a base and a sidewall, thereby forming (preferably concave) portions for receiving and securing the axial end, i.e., the bottom surface, of each battery cell, and at least a portion of the side surface of the battery cell. Since the battery cell is cylindrical, it defines the battery cell axis and the side surface, which extends along the battery cell axis and in the circumferential direction of the battery cell. The battery cell is secured by the battery holder in at least one direction, but preferably in multiple directions. Therefore, the base and sidewall are preferably arranged to secure the respective battery cell in all directions parallel to the base and in the direction toward the base.

[0014] Each retaining portion includes a sidewall comprising at least one contact surface disposed in a substantially perpendicular region to the base that contacts the battery cell. This contact surface is arranged to make surface or line contact with a portion of the battery cell's side surface when the battery cell is inserted. The sidewall also includes at least one deformable contact portion designed to deform when the battery cell is inserted into the corresponding retaining portion. In this case, the contact surface preferably does not deform.

[0015] In other words, the contact surface is concave and curved, coinciding with a corresponding portion of the side of the battery cell, thus forming a surface contact. A deformable contact portion is located at another point, preferably opposite the contact surface. The contact portion is preferably elastically deformable to function like a spring.

[0016] The contact surface is preferably cylindrical or partially cylindrical. It should be noted that "cylindrical" and "circular" here do not necessarily refer to a complete cylindrical circumference or a circle, but rather to the outline of the corresponding part, because the contact surface does not completely surround the battery cell, but only abuts against a part of the circumference of the battery cell in a surface manner, for example, abutting against a part within the range of 20° to 90°.

[0017] Battery holders manufactured in this manner can be produced in a resource- and cost-effective way because the geometry of the retaining portion with corresponding sidewalls can be manufactured using simple methods such as injection molding. The retaining portion allows for precise positioning and orientation, as well as a defined mechanical connection between the battery cell and the battery holder. The deformable contact portion facilitates battery assembly. Since the side surfaces of the inserted battery cell can remain free between the contact areas without being completely surrounded by the battery holder material, the retaining portion also allows for direct adjacent arrangement of the battery cells, saving significant space. The achieved effects are also relatively insensitive to manufacturing tolerances of the battery holder and battery cell. Due to insensitivity to variations in battery cell diameter, the battery holder can accommodate battery cells from different manufacturers without modification, thus saving resources and costs in situations where battery cell type / manufacturer changes are possible.

[0018] Preferably, the contact surface is attached to the base, so that the area in the corresponding retaining portion that substantially defines the position and orientation of the battery cell is configured particularly stably. The base and the contact surface are preferably integrally formed.

[0019] Preferably, the deformable contact portion is not attached to the base, thus achieving deformability in a structurally simple manner.

[0020] Preferably, the contact surface is concave, particularly circular, in a cross section parallel to the base, thereby achieving optimal interaction with the correspondingly shaped circular-cylindrical battery cell.

[0021] Preferably, when the battery is not inserted, the contact surface and the deformable contact portion form a non-zero angle when viewed from a cross-section perpendicular to the ground. This allows for tolerance compensation and improves the fixation of the battery cell. Therefore, the deformable contact portion can also be used as an insertion chamfer for the corresponding battery cell.

[0022] Preferably, in each case, the retaining portion includes multiple deformable contact portions, particularly exactly two deformable contact portions, thereby improving the fixation and proper orientation of the corresponding battery cell and stabilizing the battery holder. The features, technical effects, and advantages associated with the use of deformable contact portions also apply to any other deformable contact portions.

[0023] Preferably, the sidewalls of the bearing contact surface of the retaining portion have deformable contact portions of adjacent retaining portions. In other words, the contact surface and one or more deformable contact portions of adjacent retaining portions are preferably integrally configured from a single structural component. In this way, adjacent retaining portions are structurally integrated with each other, resulting in a particularly compact battery holder structure.

[0024] Preferably, the battery holder is made of plastic, particularly using an injection molding method. The battery holder is preferably integrally molded. A battery holder according to one of the above variations is particularly suitable as an injection-molded component because its structural properties and manufacturing method can work synergistically, as can be clearly seen from the method description.

[0025] The above objective can also be achieved by a battery holder for holding cylindrical battery cells, preferably for traction batteries of electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or fuel cell vehicles, wherein the battery holder includes a plurality of holding portions, each holding portion having a base and a sidewall, such that each holding portion forms a portion of the bottom surface of the battery cell and at least a portion of the side surface of the battery cell arranged to receive and fix the battery cell, wherein the holding portions are arranged such that at least a portion of the spacing between the inserted battery cell and the adjacent battery cell is different.

[0026] The battery holder may have one or more of the features described above. Therefore, the technical effects, advantages, and embodiments described also apply to the battery holder defined above.

[0027] When measuring the spacing, the shortest distance is found between the side surfaces of adjacent battery cells on a cross-section perpendicular to the cell axis. It should also be noted that the holding portion clearly predetermines the position and orientation of the battery cells; therefore, in the inserted state, the battery cells, particularly the aforementioned defined spacing, define the structure of the holding portion. When determining the spacing between adjacent battery cells, it is assumed that the battery holder is fully occupied, thus eliminating spacing variations due to unoccupied holding portions.

[0028] Because the battery holder's structure allows for varying spacing between partially inserted battery cells, it optimizes cell packing density without compromising safety compared to equidistant cell positioning. This reduces material consumption, cost, and the weight of the battery holder.

[0029] Preferably, multiple retaining parts, such as three retaining parts, are combined together to form a corresponding battery pack, which can achieve both the advantages of high-density packaging and the flexibility of electrical connection.

[0030] Adjacent battery packs are preferably spaced apart by pack walls to improve electrical insulation and / or mechanical safety. Therefore, battery packs are preferably separated by stabilizing webs or pack walls. There are no pack walls inside the battery pack. Depending on the application, the material of the battery holder, and the stability requirements, more or fewer retaining sections can be combined into a battery pack. Such combinations, in turn, save materials and space, thus allowing for a particularly compact configuration of the battery module composed of battery cells and the one or two battery holders shown therein.

[0031] Preferably, the arrangement is such that the spacing between adjacent battery cells in a battery pack is smaller than the spacing between adjacent battery cells in an adjacent battery pack.

[0032] From a purely electrical perspective, in extreme cases, a battery module can consist of an entire battery pack (i.e., a logic unit, a battery pack connected in parallel) to achieve maximum packaging density. However, for mechanical reasons, such a battery pack is preferably subdivided into multiple battery packs with corresponding battery walls. This also allows for flexible electrical connections without altering the structure or design of the battery holder. Compared to traditional designs, this approach achieves both flexibility and safety in electrical connections while maintaining high packaging density with lower material consumption.

[0033] Preferably, the retaining portions are arranged in rows, with the retaining portions of adjacent rows particularly preferably arranged offset from each other, for example, offset by half the size of the retaining portions. This allows for the formation of a honeycomb structure or a densest circular filler structure from a cross-section parallel to the base. Thus, the number of battery cells that can be accommodated in each surface unit can be maximized.

[0034] For the same reason, one or more retaining portions are preferably configured such that their sidewalls do not completely cover the side surface of the corresponding inserted battery cell. Grouping of the aforementioned retaining portions can be provided, or at least facilitated.

[0035] Preferably, the holding portion of a corresponding battery pack is in one row, i.e., in this case, the battery pack does not span multiple rows, thereby achieving a good trade-off between the flexibility of electrical connections and mechanical stability.

[0036] A battery module can also achieve the above objectives. This battery module is preferably used in the traction battery of an electric vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or a vehicle with a fuel cell. The battery module includes: at least one battery holder conforming to one of the above variations; a plurality of battery cells, each inserted into and secured by a holding portion of the battery holder; and a connecting portion electrically connecting the battery cells together. The battery module preferably has two battery holders, holding the battery cells in a sandwich-like manner.

[0037] The features, technical effects, advantages, and implementation methods described for the battery holder also apply to battery modules equipped with battery holders.

[0038] Preferably, the connection portion is arranged to connect the battery cells in the battery pack in parallel, and to connect the battery cells of different battery packs in series, thereby ensuring electrical and mechanical safety under high-density packaging.

[0039] Parallel-connected battery cells define the battery packs within the battery module. Preferably, the battery packs within the battery module are of the same size, i.e., they comprise the same number of battery cells. Preferably, the number of battery cells in the battery pack is divisible by the number of retaining portions in each battery pack, thus combining the advantages of high-density packaging with the flexibility of electrical connections.

[0040] For example, according to one specific embodiment, the battery module comprises 297 battery cell positions, oriented in 11 rows and 27 columns, where three battery cells are combined in a row to form a corresponding battery pack. This structure allows for various connection configurations. Therefore, battery cells can be connected in parallel within a row, and rows can be connected in series to form columns. This connection is called a "basic connection," abbreviated as "11s27p," where "s" represents series and "p" represents parallel in SP terminology. The basic connection is a preferred configuration in terms of bus geometry and uniform power distribution. However, considering the safety concerns of avoiding closely spaced battery cells in series, the grouping of battery cells allows for other connection modes or configurations.

[0041] The battery module preferably includes multiple cylindrical battery cells and two battery holders, with each battery holder holding the battery cells on both sides in the axial direction of the battery cells.

[0042] The aforementioned objective can also be achieved through a method of manufacturing a battery holder, preferably for a traction battery in an electric vehicle, hybrid vehicle, or fuel cell vehicle, wherein the battery holder is arranged to hold at least one cylindrical battery cell defining the battery cell axis. According to this method, the battery holder is injection molded from a plastic material, preferably using an injection mold with two halves. In the case of using multiple tool parts / tool ​​halves, these tool parts / tool ​​halves can be displaced, pivoted, or moved relative to each other in different ways to open the tool. In any case, the battery holder can be removed from the molding tool after the plastic has sufficiently hardened in the molding tool.

[0043] According to the present invention, the battery holder is removed from the molding tool along the demolding direction, wherein the demolding direction is not parallel to the battery cell axis.

[0044] Because the demolding direction is not parallel to the battery cell axis, the contact between the battery cell and the battery holder can be improved. This is because the conventional demolding angle required for injection molding does not cause any quality loss and can be directly used to stabilize the battery cell.

[0045] Based on the above description, this technical effect can be achieved specifically through the aforementioned battery holder. The features, technical effects, advantages, and embodiments described for the battery holder are also applicable to this method.

[0046] Further advantages and features of the present invention can be found in the following description of preferred embodiments. The described features may be implemented individually or in combination with one or more of the above features, provided that these features do not contradict each other. Preferred embodiments are now described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Other preferred embodiments of the present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the following illustrations.

[0048] In the figure

[0049] Figure 1 The details of a conventional battery holder are shown in a cross-section parallel to the battery cell axis, with the demolding angle shown in an exaggerated manner and the demolding direction parallel to the battery axis.

[0050] Figure 2 A plan view of the battery holder is shown, which has multiple rows of relatively offset retaining portions;

[0051] Figure 3 The details of the battery holder are shown in a cross section parallel to the battery cell axis, and its demolding direction is not parallel to the battery axis;

[0052] Figure 4 The battery holder is shown in perspective detail, showing the free-holding portion and the holding portion occupied by the battery cells;

[0053] Figure 5 The image shows a perspective detail of the battery holder's retaining portion, which is a slanted view of the retaining portion.

[0054] Figure 6 The image shows a bottom-up view of the battery holder's retaining portion, in which the battery cells are inserted;

[0055] Figure 7 Perspective details of a battery holder manufactured according to another embodiment are shown;

[0056] Figure 8 Showing perspective details of the battery holder viewed from different angles;

[0057] Figure 9 A plan view of the battery holder is shown;

[0058] Figure 10 A qualitative schematic diagram of a battery cell assembly with different spacing is shown;

[0059] Figure 11 An exploded perspective view of the battery module in the basic connection is shown; and

[0060] Figure 12a , 12b Figures 12c and 12c show schematic diagrams of alternative connection methods. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Preferred embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical, similar, or similarly functioning elements are provided with the same reference numerals in the drawings, and repeated descriptions of these elements are omitted in some cases to avoid repetition.

[0062] Figure 2This is a plan view of the battery holder 1, which has multiple retaining portions 10 arranged to receive cylindrical battery cells 2. Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The battery holder 1 is preferably made of plastic, particularly by injection molding. The battery holder 1 is also preferably configured as a single piece or substantially a single piece.

[0063] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the retaining portion 10 is formed into a recessed portion, that is, configured as a cup or recess, so that one of the two axial ends of the battery cell 2 can be inserted into the retaining portion 10.

[0064] In this embodiment, the retaining portions 10 are arranged in rows R, wherein adjacent rows R are offset by half the size of the retaining portions 10, thereby forming a honeycomb structure or the densest circular packaging structure. In this way, the number of battery cells 2 accommodated in each surface unit can be maximized. However, the retaining portions 10 can also be arranged in different ways, for example, without offset between adjacent rows R.

[0065] The retaining part 10 includes a base 11, which contacts at least a portion of the corresponding bottom surface 2a of the battery cell 2 when the battery cell 2 is inserted, thereby axially fixing the battery cell 2, i.e., fixing it along the battery axis A (see...). Figure 3 It should be noted that the bottom surface 2a of the battery cell 2 does not necessarily have to be a perfect plane; it can also have bending, deformation, etc., in the axial direction A of the battery cell 2, for example... Figure 6 As shown.

[0066] The base 11 preferably has a base opening 11a, which may be a spacious hole to allow or facilitate electrical contact of the battery cell 2.

[0067] The retaining portion 10 also includes a sidewall 12, which is arranged to fix the battery cell 2 laterally, i.e., perpendicular to the battery cell axis A, in the inserted state. This can be achieved by utilizing a demolding angle α related to manufacturing (see...). Figure 3 This is to improve the interface between the retaining portion 10 and the battery cell 2.

[0068] refer to Figure 3 The direction in which the injection-molded battery holder 1 is removed from the corresponding mold (not shown) is marked as the demolding direction E. According to this embodiment, the demolding direction E forms a non-zero angle β with the battery cell axis A, which coincides with the demolding angle α when the battery cell 2 is vertical. Since the demolding direction E and the battery cell axis A are not parallel, the contact between the battery cell 2 and the sidewall 12 of the corresponding holding portion 10 can be improved, as will be explained in detail below.

[0069] According to this embodiment, the sidewall 12 of the retaining portion 10 includes a contact surface 12a, which is substantially perpendicular to the base 11 and can be attached to the base 11. This contact surface is curved perpendicularly to the base 11 in a concave, particularly cylindrical, manner, so that it coincides with a corresponding portion of the side surface 2b of the battery cell 2, thereby contacting the surface of the battery cell 2. The cylindrical contact surface 12a is preferably curved in a circular manner perpendicular to the battery cell axis A, so as to perfectly fit the cylindrical battery cell 2.

[0070] The terms "cylindrical" and "circular" here do not necessarily refer to the complete circumference of a cylinder or a circle. Rather, since the cylindrical contact surface does not completely surround the battery cell, but only contacts a portion of the battery cell's circumference (e.g., within a range of 20° to 90°) in a planar manner, it also includes the corresponding partial contour, i.e., the segment.

[0071] The sidewall 12 also includes one or more, preferably exactly two, deformable contact portions 12b for a corresponding retaining portion 10. Unlike the contact surface 12a, the deformable contact portions 12b deform at least partially upon insertion of the battery cell 2, which is evident from... Figure 3 This can be seen very clearly. The contact portion 12b is preferably elastic, like a spring, and therefore preferably not attached to the base 11 or not fully attached to the base 11. The deformable contact portion 12b can form surface contact or line contact with the side surface 2b of the battery cell 2 in the axial direction.

[0072] When the battery cell 2 is not inserted, the contact surface 12a and the corresponding contact portion 12b preferably maintain a non-zero angle 2α, see Figure 3 α represents the aforementioned demolding angle. The demolding angle α defines the taper of the retaining portion 10 in the demolding direction E starting from the base 11. This simplifies the process of removing the battery holder 1 from the corresponding injection mold, and, due to the deformability of the contact portion 12b, reliably holds the battery cell 2 to be inserted. The vertical contact surface 12a simultaneously ensures the precise positioning and orientation of the battery 2.

[0073] In this embodiment, each retaining portion 10 has a sidewall 12 with a vertical contact surface 12a and two opposing contact portions 12b, so that each battery cell 2 has three contact points, wherein at least the contact surface 12a is a surface contact. When viewed relative to the battery cell axis A, the contact portions 12b are preferably oblique, thus serving as an insertion chamfer for the corresponding battery cell 2. The contact portions 12b deform during battery assembly. The contact portions can be manufactured using conventional ejection angles or by injection molding using only two half-molds.

[0074] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the contact surface 12a and the deformable contact portion 12b can be structurally integrated with each other. The sidewall 12 of the bearing contact surface 12a of the retaining portion 10 can simultaneously form the contact portion 12b of the adjacent retaining portion 10. Therefore, the contact portion 12b of the retaining portion 10 in a particular row R is located at the apex height of the contact surface 12a of the adjacent retaining portion in row R-1, for example, see Figure 3 .

[0075] Figures 7 to 9 Another embodiment is shown, in which the structure of the contact surface 12a differs from that of the aforementioned embodiment. According to... Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 In one embodiment, the contact surface 12a is cylindrically curved (viewed from a section parallel to the base 11) to form a surface contact with the side surface 2b of the battery cell 2. However, according to this embodiment, the contact surface 12a and the side surface 2b of the battery cell 2 form a substantially line contact at two points, which is... Figure 9 This is clearly evident in the image. Therefore, the contact surface 12a does not necessarily correspond to the curvature of the battery cell 2. For example, viewed from a cross-section perpendicular to the base 11, the contact surface 12a can be a straight line or a polygon. In this way, the battery holder 1 can be used with particular flexibility for battery cells 2 of different shapes and / or sizes.

[0076] The result of dividing the sidewall 12 into contact surfaces 12a and one or more deformable contact portions 12b is that the side surface 2b of the inserted battery cell 2 can remain free between these contact areas without being completely covered 360° by the material of the battery holder 1.

[0077] In this way, a battery pack 1a consisting of adjacent battery cells 2 can be provided. Figure 2 An example is illustrated of a battery pack 1a consisting of three corresponding retaining portions 10. The battery pack 1a is separated by a stabilizing web or pack wall 1b along the R direction. Depending on the application, the material of the battery holder 1, stability requirements, and other factors, more or fewer retaining portions 10 can be combined to form the battery pack 1a. This combination, in turn, saves material and space, so the battery module 100, consisting of the battery cell 2 and one or two battery holders 1 shown therein, can be configured in a particularly compact manner (see...). Figure 11 ).

[0078] The battery cells 2 in the battery pack 1a are preferably connected in parallel because the side surfaces 2b of the battery cells 2 have the same potential and may also be in contact.

[0079] The manufacture of the battery holder 1 is efficient in terms of resources and cost because the geometry of the retaining portion with the corresponding sidewall 12 can be injection molded in a simple manner, such as by a corresponding half-mold tool. The retaining portion 10 allows the battery cell 2 to be accurately positioned and mechanically secured to the battery holder 1. The insert chamfer formed by the deformable contact portion 12b facilitates battery assembly. The battery holder 1 maintains a consistent component wall thickness, which is beneficial for manufacturing and achieving fire rating. The retaining portion 10 allows the battery cells 2 to be arranged directly adjacent to each other, thus saving installation space. The achieved effects are also relatively insensitive to the manufacturing tolerances of the battery holder 1 and the battery cell 2. Due to insensitivity to fluctuations in battery cell diameter, the battery holder 1 can accommodate battery cells 2 from different manufacturers without modification, thus saving resources and costs if the battery cell type / manufacturer may change.

[0080] Return to reference Figure 2 The described grouping of battery cells 2 can be achieved by different spacings between adjacent battery cells 2 within a battery pack 1a and different spacings between adjacent battery cells 2 in adjacent battery packs 1a. Figure 10 This is illustrated below, where a1 represents the spacing between battery cells within a group, i.e., the spacing between adjacent battery cells 2 within battery group 1a, and a2 represents the spacing between battery cells between groups, i.e., the spacing between adjacent battery cells 2 in adjacent battery groups 1a. In each case, the minimum spacing is used between the side surfaces 2b of the corresponding battery cells 2.

[0081] Figure 2 and Figure 10 The three arrangements shown are merely examples; more or fewer battery cells 2 can also be combined to form corresponding battery packs 1a. If grouping is achieved through different spacings a1 and a2, the battery holder 1 does not necessarily need to have a web or group wall 1b in the larger spacing sections, although this is based on… Figure 2 Preferred embodiments.

[0082] Particularly preferably, the battery cells 2 with a small pitch a1 are connected in parallel, that is, the battery cells 2 within a battery pack 1a are connected in parallel. In this case, the battery cells 2 of different battery packs 1a are connected in series. In this way, a higher packaging density can be achieved compared to the positioning of battery cells with equal spacing, without reducing safety.

[0083] Figure 11 A battery module 100 is shown, which has two battery holders 1 and a battery cell 2 sandwiched in between in a sandwich-like manner. A housing portion 3, a cooling portion 4, and a connecting portion 5 are also shown in the figure.

[0084] exist Figure 11In one embodiment, the battery module 100 contains a total of 297 battery positions, arranged in 11 rows and 27 columns. Three battery cells 2 are combined in rows to form a corresponding battery pack 1a. The battery cells 2 are also connected in parallel in rows, and in series in columns. This connection can be called a "basic connection," abbreviated as "11s27p," where "s" represents series and "p" represents parallel in SP terminology. Regarding the geometry of the busbar (e.g....) Figure 11 For the connection portion (shown in 5) and for uniform power distribution, the basic connection is a preferred configuration.

[0085] However, the grouping of battery cells 2 allows for other connection modes or configurations, while taking into account safety concerns, namely avoiding the connection of battery cells 2 in series with a small spacing a1. Figures 12a to 12c An example configuration is shown that reasonably represents the bus geometry and power distribution. Areas of uniform grayscale represent parallel-connected battery cells 2, while areas of varying grayscale represent series-connected battery cells. The numbers in parentheses following the term "sp" indicate the actual number of positions occupied by the battery cell within the battery module 100, where areas marked with "u" (…) Figure 12b and 12c () represents the free area. Figure 11 , Figure 12a , Figure 12b , Figure 12c The configuration in the document is not complete; there are many more variations that can be made.

[0086] Furthermore, the number and configuration of useful connection modes vary depending on the number of battery cells 2 assembled into battery pack 1a. From a purely electrical perspective, in extreme cases, to achieve maximum packing density, battery module 100 could consist of an entire battery pack (i.e., a logic unit, a group of parallel battery cells 2). However, for mechanical reasons, such a battery pack is typically subdivided into multiple battery packs 1a, which also allows for flexibility in possible electrical connections without altering the structure or design of the battery holder 1. Compared to conventional designs, this achieves higher packing density with lower material consumption while maintaining flexibility and safety in electrical connections.

[0087] Preferably, the connecting portion 5 is arranged such that any differences that may exist between adjacent battery cells, i.e., series connection, only occur along the partition wall, particularly the group wall 1b.

[0088] Using different spacings a1 and a2 between battery cells 2, and specifically grouping the battery cells 2 using group walls 1b, optimizes packaging density without compromising safety compared to equally spaced battery cell positioning. This reduces material consumption, cost, and the weight of the battery holder 1. If the number of holding portions 10 in each battery group 1a is a divisor of the number of battery cells 2 in the battery group (i.e., the group of parallel battery cells 2), the advantages of high-density packaging can be combined with the flexibility of electrical connections.

[0089] All individual features shown in the embodiments of the present invention can be combined together and / or interchanged without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0090] List of reference numerals

[0091] 1 Battery holder

[0092] 1A battery pack

[0093] Group 1b wall

[0094] 2 battery cells

[0095] 2a Bottom surface

[0096] 2b side surface

[0097] 3. Outer shell

[0098] 4 Cooling section

[0099] 5. Connection parts

[0100] 10. Maintaining part

[0101] 11 bases

[0102] 11a base opening

[0103] 12 sidewalls

[0104] 12a contact surface

[0105] 12b Deformable contact portion

[0106] 100 battery module

[0107] A. Battery cell axis / axial direction

[0108] E Demolding direction

[0109] K contact area

[0110] R row

[0111] α Demolding angle

[0112] β angle

[0113] Spacing between battery cells in group a1

[0114] a2 inter-group battery cell spacing

Claims

1. A battery holder (1) for holding a cylindrical battery cell (2), wherein, The battery holder (1) includes: Multiple retaining portions (10), each retaining portion (10) having a base (11) and a sidewall (12), such that each retaining portion (10) is formed as a portion of the bottom surface (2a) and at least a portion of the side surface (2b) of a corresponding battery cell (2) arranged to receive and secure it. The sidewall (12) of the corresponding retaining portion (10) includes at least one contact surface (12a) arranged in a region that contacts the battery cell (2) and is substantially perpendicular to the base (11). The contact surface is arranged to make surface or line contact with a portion of the side surface (2b) of the battery cell (2) when the battery cell (2) is inserted. The sidewall also includes at least one deformable contact portion (12b) arranged to deform when the battery cell (2) is inserted into the corresponding retaining portion (10). Its features are, Without the battery cell (2) inserted, the contact surface (12a) and the deformable contact portion (12b) form a non-zero angle with each other.

2. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact surface (12a) is attached to the base (11) and / or the deformable contact portion (12b) is not attached to the base (11) or is not entirely attached to the base and / or the contact surface (12a) is concavely curved in a cross section parallel to the base (11).

3. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The contact surface (12a) is cylindrical or partially cylindrical, wherein the cylindrical contact surface (12a) is curved in an arc shape on a cross section parallel to the base (11).

4. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Each of the retaining portions (10) includes exactly two of the deformable contact portions (12b).

5. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sidewall (12) of the bearing contact surface (12a) of the retaining portion (10) has a deformable contact portion (12b) of the adjacent retaining portion (10).

6. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, One or more of the retaining portions (10) are configured such that their sidewalls (12) do not completely surround the side surface (2b) of the corresponding inserted battery cell (2) with material.

7. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The retaining portion (10) is arranged such that the spacing (a1, a2) between the inserted battery cell (2) and the adjacent battery cell is at least partially different.

8. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Multiple retaining portions (10) are combined to form corresponding battery packs (1a), wherein adjacent battery packs (1a) are bounded to each other by pack walls (1b).

9. The battery holder (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The retaining portion (10) is arranged such that the spacing (a1) between adjacent battery cells (2) in a battery pack (1a) is smaller than the spacing (a2) between adjacent battery cells (2) in an adjacent battery pack (1a).

10. The battery holder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The retaining portions (10) are arranged in rows (R), wherein the retaining portions (10) of adjacent rows (R) are arranged to be offset from each other by half the size of the retaining portions (10).

11. The battery holder (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The holding portion (10) of a corresponding battery pack (1a) is arranged in a row (R).

12. A battery module (100), comprising: At least one battery holder (1) according to any one of claims 1-11; Multiple battery cells (2), each battery cell being inserted into and secured in the retaining portion (10) of the battery holder (1); and The connection part (5) electrically connects the battery cell (2).

13. The battery module (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The connection portion (5) is arranged such that the battery cells (2) in a battery pack (1a) are connected in parallel, while the battery cells (2) in different battery packs (1a) are connected in series.

14. The battery module (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The battery cells (2) connected in parallel in the battery module (100) all define a battery pack, and the number of battery cells (2) in the battery pack can be divided by the number of holding portions (10) of each battery pack (1a).

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