Prismatic battery cell, battery assembly, electric energy storage system and vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a prismatic battery cell, a battery assembly, an electric energy storage system and a vehicle. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a prismatic battery cell (1) for an electrical energy storage system (3), the prismatic battery cell extending in a longitudinal direction (L), a width direction (W) and a height direction (H), the prismatic battery cell (1) comprising: a housing (10) for enclosing the electrochemical cell, the housing (10) has a longitudinal extension (L1) in the longitudinal direction (L) and a width extension (W1) in the width direction (W), where the housing (10) comprises, as seen in the height direction (H), a bottom end section (12), where the bottom end section (12) comprises a recess (14) for the coolant, and where the recess (14) for the coolant extends in the longitudinal direction (L) from a coolant inlet portion (142) to a coolant outlet portion (144). A battery assembly (2), an electrical energy storage system (3) and a vehicle (4) are also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to electrical energy storage systems. In particular aspects, the present disclosure relates to a prismatic battery cell for an electrical energy storage system, a battery assembly for an electrical energy storage system, an electrical energy storage system, and a vehicle. The present disclosure may be applicable to heavy vehicles such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment, as well as other vehicle types. Although the present disclosure may be described with respect to a particular vehicle, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular vehicle. The present disclosure may also be applicable to stationary machinery. Background Art

[0002] An electrical energy storage system, such as a high voltage electrical energy storage system, typically includes a plurality of electrochemical battery cells electrically connected to one another (i.e., connected in series and / or in parallel). The electrochemical battery cells typically include a housing enclosing the electrochemical cells. As is known, prismatic battery cells and cylindrical battery cells are provided. Prismatic battery cells have a housing formed as a prism (e.g., having rectangular sides and a rectangular bottom), while cylindrical cells have a housing formed as a cylinder (typically having a round bottom).

[0003] During use, the electrochemical cells generate heat, and the electrochemical cells may also be exposed to high ambient temperatures. Since the performance and service life of the electrochemical cells may be negatively affected by excessively high temperatures, it may be necessary to cool the electrochemical cells during use, such as by a cooling system including one or more coolant conduits.

[0004] In view of the foregoing, efforts have been made to develop improved techniques related to the cooling of prismatic battery cells, battery assemblies, and electrical energy storage systems. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a prismatic battery cell for an electrical energy storage system according to claim 1. Therefore, there is provided a prismatic battery cell for an electrical energy storage system, wherein the prismatic battery cell extends in a longitudinal direction, a width direction and a height direction. The prismatic battery cell comprises: - a housing for enclosing an electrochemical cell, the housing having a longitudinal extension in a longitudinal direction and a width extension in a width direction, wherein the housing comprises a bottom end section as seen in the height direction, wherein the longitudinal extension of the housing, as seen in a section perpendicular to the height direction at the bottom end section, is longer than the width extension of the housing, wherein the bottom end section comprises a recess for a coolant, wherein the recess for the coolant has a coolant inlet portion and a coolant outlet portion, Wherein as seen in the longitudinal direction, the coolant inlet portion is located at a first end side of the bottom end section, and the coolant outlet portion is located at an opposite second end side of the bottom end section, and wherein the recess for the coolant extends in the longitudinal direction from the coolant inlet portion to the coolant outlet portion. A first aspect of the present disclosure may seek to provide improved cooling for prismatic battery cells in an economical manner. Technical advantages may include that by integrating the coolant conduit into the housing (i.e., through the recess for the coolant), improved cooling can be achieved in an economical manner. This in turn means improved performance and extended service life. For example, the orientation of the recess for the coolant has been shown to provide more heat dissipation for the coolant, which means that cooling is more beneficial during use. As another example, the orientation of the recess for the coolant has been shown to provide compact packaging possibilities for connected prismatic battery cells while also providing more uniform cooling between the cells.

[0006] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the bottom end segment includes a first wall segment and a second wall segment, wherein each of the first wall segment and the second wall segment extends between a first end side and a second end side in a longitudinal direction, and wherein the first wall segment and the second wall segment are offset from each other in a width direction so that the first wall segment and the second wall segment define a recess for a coolant therebetween. Technical advantages may include improved integration of the recess for a coolant with the housing, thereby implying reliable cooling and an economically efficient configuration.

[0007] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the first wall segment and the second wall segment are respective outer wall segments of the housing. Technical advantages may include improved integration of the recess for the coolant with the housing, improved packaging possibilities, for example, a smoother outer profile of the housing may be provided.

[0008] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the bottom end section comprises at least one intermediate wall section, wherein the at least one intermediate wall section extends between the first end side and the second end side in the longitudinal direction, and wherein the at least one intermediate wall section is located between the first wall section and the second wall section as seen in the width direction, so that the recess for the coolant comprises two or more sub-recesses for the coolant. Technical advantages may include more intense turbulence in the recess for the coolant, for example, caused by increased friction between the coolant and the recess for the coolant. This may mean that the cooling effect is further improved.

[0009] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the bottom end segment includes at least one sealing element configured to seal the recess for the coolant in a longitudinal direction relative to the support surface when the bottom end segment is supported on the support surface. Technical advantages may include a reduced risk of coolant leakage, which means improved cooling effect and a more reliable and robust configuration.

[0010] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, at least one sealing element is disposed on the bottom of the first wall segment and / or the second wall segment. Technical advantages may include improved integration of the sealing element with the housing. This may mean a cost-effective configuration and / or reduced coolant leakage.

[0011] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, at least one sealing element is disposed in a sealing element recess of the bottom. Technical advantages may include improved integration of the sealing element with the housing. This may mean a cost-effective configuration and / or reduced coolant leakage.

[0012] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the housing includes four side walls for enclosing the electrochemical cell, wherein the four side walls extend in a height direction between the bottom end section and the top section of the prismatic battery cell, wherein the four side walls and the bottom end section are made of a single piece of material. Technical advantages may include a more cost-effective configuration, i.e., integrating a recess for a coolant into a single piece of material.

[0013] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the housing is made by impact extrusion.Technical advantages may include cost-effective manufacturing of the housing.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a battery assembly for an electrical energy storage system according to claim 6. Thus, there is provided a battery assembly for an electrical energy storage system, the battery assembly comprising at least two prismatic battery cells arranged side by side with each other, wherein each of the at least two prismatic battery cells is a prismatic battery cell according to any one of the examples of the first aspect of the disclosure. The second aspect of the disclosure may seek to provide improved cooling for the battery assembly in an economical manner. For example, the orientation of the recesses for the coolant has been shown to provide compact packaging possibilities for the connected prismatic battery cells while also providing more uniform cooling between the cells.

[0015] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery assembly further comprises a bottom support member, wherein the bottom end segments of at least two prismatic battery cells are supported by a support surface of the bottom support member. Technical advantages may include that the recess for coolant and the support surface form a coolant conduit for the prismatic battery cells in a reliable and robust manner.

[0016] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, at least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells forming the first group of prismatic battery cells are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows. Technical advantages may include more uniform cooling, which means improved cooling of the prismatic battery cells. For example, parallel coolant flows may mean that the coolant temperature at the inlet of the recess for coolant may be substantially the same, or at least not deviate too much, compared to the inlet temperature of the serial coolant flow.

[0017] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery assembly further comprises at least one first coolant distribution member located near the inlet portion of the first group of prismatic battery cells, wherein the first coolant distribution member is configured to supply coolant to the inlet portion of the first group of prismatic battery cells. Technical advantages may include a more reliable and more robust configuration, which means, for example, improved cooling efficiency.

[0018] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery assembly further comprises at least one second coolant distribution member located near the outlet portion of the first group of prismatic battery cells, wherein the second coolant distribution member is configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion of the first group of prismatic battery cells. Technical advantages may include a more reliable and more robust configuration, which means, for example, improved cooling efficiency.

[0019] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, in addition to the first group of prismatic battery cells, at least two prismatic battery cells forming a second group of prismatic battery cells are also arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows, and wherein the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells are arranged so that the outlet portion of the first group of prismatic battery cells faces the inlet portion of the second group of prismatic battery cells. Technical advantages may include more compact packaging while providing more uniform cooling for each group of corresponding prismatic battery cells.

[0020] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery assembly further comprises at least one intermediate common coolant distribution member for the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells, the at least one intermediate common coolant distribution member being located between the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells, wherein the intermediate common coolant distribution member is configured to discharge coolant from an outlet portion of the first group of prismatic battery cells and supply coolant to an inlet portion of the second group of prismatic battery cells. Technical advantages may include a more reliable and more robust configuration, which means, for example, improved cooling efficiency.

[0021] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, at least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells are arranged side by side with each other such that their recesses for coolant form a substantially aligned coolant flow therebetween. Technical advantages may include improved packaging of prismatic battery cells.

[0022] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, any of the first coolant distribution member, the second coolant distribution member, and the intermediate common coolant distribution member is configured so that the coolant flow therein is arranged to flow in a direction substantially perpendicular to the coolant flow direction in the recess for coolant of at least two prismatic battery cells of the battery assembly. Technical advantages may include more compact packaging of prismatic battery cells.

[0023] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electrical energy storage system according to claim 14. Thus, there is provided an electrical energy storage system comprising a prismatic battery cell according to any one of the examples of the first aspect of the present disclosure and / or a battery assembly according to any one of the examples of the second aspect of the present disclosure. The third aspect of the present disclosure may seek to provide improved cooling for the electrical energy storage system in an economical manner. For example, the orientation of at least one recess for a coolant has been shown to provide compact packaging possibilities for connected prismatic battery cells while also providing more uniform cooling between the cells.

[0024] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vehicle according to claim 15. Hence, there is provided a vehicle comprising an electrical energy storage system according to any one of the examples of the third aspect of the present disclosure.

[0025] The disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or the appended claims may be appropriately combined with each other, which is obvious to any person skilled in the art. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the detailed description, claims, and drawings, and in part will be obvious to those skilled in the art or recognized by practicing the disclosure as described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Examples are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary vehicle according to an example.

[0028] Figure 2a is a perspective view of an exemplary prismatic battery cell according to an example.

[0029] Figure 2b to Figure 2d is an exemplary prismatic battery cell shown from below according to an example.

[0030] Figure 3a to Figure 3b is a side view of an exemplary battery assembly according to an example.

[0031] Figures 4a to 4c is a schematic diagram of an exemplary battery assembly according to an example.

[0032] Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method according to an example.

[0033] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. It should also be noted that some details in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated in order to better describe and illustrate specific examples. Throughout the specification, unless otherwise indicated, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure.

[0035] The present disclosure may seek to provide improved cooling for prismatic battery cells, battery assemblies, and / or energy storage systems in an economically efficient manner. For example, the energy storage system may be a high voltage energy storage system such as one having a voltage of at least 60 V, or at least 100 V, 200 V, or 300 V. The energy storage system may be used to provide power to one or more electrical devices of a vehicle, such as to one or more electric motors to generate propulsion. Alternatively, the energy storage system may be a stationary system such as for storing electrical energy that may be provided to a power grid. An object of the present disclosure may be to provide an improved prismatic battery cell that at least partially mitigates one or more disadvantages of the prior art or at least provides a suitable alternative. Other objects of the present disclosure may be to provide a battery assembly, an energy storage system, a vehicle, and a method that at least partially mitigates one or more disadvantages of the prior art or at least provides a suitable alternative.

[0036] Figure 1 is a side view of an exemplary vehicle 4 according to the example. In this example, the vehicle 4 is a heavy truck. More specifically, the vehicle 4 is a tractor truck for towing one or more trailers (not shown). However, it should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to this type of vehicle, but any other vehicle may be used, such as buses, passenger cars and construction equipment, such as wheel loaders, dump trucks, excavators, etc. The vehicle may also be a vessel, such as a ship or a steamer. The vehicle 4 includes an energy storage system 3 according to the present disclosure. The energy storage system 3 may be a high-voltage energy storage system suitable for powering one or more electrical devices, such as powering one or more electric motors (not shown) to generate propulsion for the vehicle 4.

[0037] Figure 2a is a perspective view of a prismatic battery cell 1 according to an example of the present disclosure. The prismatic battery cell 1 may be, for example, Figure 1 The battery cells of the energy storage system 3 shown in FIG. 3 may include, for example, Figure 2a There are shown dozens or hundreds of prismatic battery cells 1 which are electrically connected in series and / or in parallel. In the example shown, the prismatic battery cells 1 are rectangular.

[0038] Figure 2b Shown from below Figure 2a Prismatic battery cell 1 in.

[0039] The prismatic battery cell 1 extends in a longitudinal direction L, a width direction W and a height direction H. The directions L, W and H here are perpendicular to one another and can be defined, for example, according to a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0040] As shown, the prismatic battery cell 1 comprises two electrodes A, B which, in the example shown, are located at the top of the prismatic battery cell 1 .

[0041] The prismatic battery cell 1 comprises a housing 10 for enclosing an electrochemical cell (not shown). The housing 10 may be made, for example, of aluminum or any other suitable material. The electrochemical cell may be, for example, a lithium-ion electrochemical cell, or any other type of cell for storing electrical energy (i.e., by chemical energy). The housing 10 has a longitudinal extension L1 along a longitudinal direction L and a width extension W1 along a width direction W.

[0042] As seen in the height direction H, the housing 10 comprises a bottom end section 12, wherein as seen in a section perpendicular to the height direction H at the bottom end section 12, a longitudinal extension L1 of the housing 10 is longer than a width extension W1 of the housing 10. For example, the longitudinal extension L1 may be at least twice as long as the width extension W1, such as at least three times as long or at least four times as long as the width extension W1.

[0043] The bottom end section 12 comprises a recess for coolant 14. Therefore, the bottom end section 12 may correspond or at least partially correspond to the extension of the recess for coolant 14 in the height direction H. The recess for coolant 14 has a coolant inlet portion 142 and a coolant outlet portion 144.

[0044] As seen in the longitudinal direction L, the coolant inlet portion 142 is located at the first end side 122 of the bottom end section 12, while the coolant outlet portion 144 is located at the opposite second end side 124 of the bottom end section 12, and the recess 14 for the coolant extends from the coolant inlet portion 142 to the coolant outlet portion 144 in the longitudinal direction L. Figure 2a to Figure 2b As shown in the example in FIG. 1 , the recess 14 for the coolant may extend in a longitudinal direction L with a substantially straight profile from a coolant inlet portion 142 to a coolant outlet portion 144 .

[0045] For example Figure 2a and Figure 2b As shown, the bottom end section 12 may include a first wall section 126 and a second wall section 128, wherein each of the first wall section 126 and the second wall section 128 extends between the first end side 122 and the second end side 124 along the longitudinal direction L, and wherein the first wall section 126 and the second wall section 128 are offset from each other along the width direction W, so that the first wall section 126 and the second wall section 128 define a recess 14 for a coolant therebetween. For example, each of the first wall section 126 and the second wall section 128 may extend between the first end side 122 and the second end side 124 along the longitudinal direction L with a substantially straight profile.

[0046] As shown, the first wall segment 126 and the second wall segment 128 may be respective outer wall segments of the housing 10 .

[0047] Figure 2c is an example of another configuration of the bottom end section 12. Figure 2b similar, Figure 2c A prismatic battery cell 1 according to the present disclosure is also shown from below. As shown, the bottom end section 12 may include at least one intermediate wall section 130, wherein the at least one intermediate wall section 130 extends between the first end side 122 and the second end side 124 along the longitudinal direction L, and wherein the at least one intermediate wall section 130 is located between the first wall section 126 and the second wall section 128 as seen along the width direction W, so that the recess 14 for the coolant includes two or more sub-recesses for the coolant. As shown, the at least one intermediate wall section 130 may extend between the first end side 122 and the second end side 124 along the longitudinal direction L with a substantially straight profile.

[0048] Figure 2d is an example of another configuration of the bottom end section 12. Figure 2b similar, Figure 2d The prismatic battery cell 1 according to the present disclosure is also shown from below. As shown, the bottom end section 12 may include at least one sealing element 132, which is configured to seal when the bottom end section 12 is supported on a support surface ( Figure 2d126 and the second wall segment 128. When the first wall segment 126 and the second wall segment 128 are placed on the first wall segment 126 (not shown), the recess 14 for the coolant is sealed relative to the support surface in the longitudinal direction L. For example, at least one sealing element 132 can be made of a polymer (such as rubber). As shown, at least one sealing element 132 is arranged on the bottom of the first wall segment 126 and / or the second wall segment 128. More specifically, in the example shown, at least one sealing element 132 is arranged in a sealing element recess 1322 at the bottom. As shown, the sealing element 132 can be arranged on each of the first wall segment 126 and the second wall segment 128.

[0049] As in e.g. Figure 2a As further depicted in , the housing 10 may include four side walls 16, 16' (only two of the side walls 16, 16' are shown in the perspective view) for enclosing the electrochemical cell, wherein the four side walls 16, 16' extend between the bottom end section 12 and the top section 18 of the prismatic battery cell 1 along the height direction H. For example, the four side walls 16, 16' and the bottom end section 12 may be made from a single piece of material. Thus, for example, the housing 10 may be made by impact extrusion to form a single-piece unit. Thus, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing a prismatic battery cell according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is provided, wherein the method includes impact extruding a piece of material to form a housing according to an example of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 3a and Figure 3b A side view of an example of a battery assembly 2 according to the present disclosure is shown. The battery assembly 2 comprises at least two prismatic battery cells 1 arranged side by side with each other, wherein each of the at least two prismatic battery cells 1 is a prismatic battery cell according to any one of the examples of the first aspect of the present disclosure. In the example shown, there are three prismatic battery cells 1 arranged side by side with each other.

[0051] As further shown, the battery assembly 2 may further include a bottom support member 22, wherein the bottom end sections 12 of at least two prismatic battery cells 1 are supported by a support surface 222 of the bottom support member 22. For example, the bottom support member 22 may be a floor portion of an electrical energy storage system (not shown).

[0052] At least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells 1 forming a first group of prismatic battery cells 1 may be arranged side by side with each other as shown in the figure, so that their recesses 14 for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows. In these examples, the first group of prismatic battery cells 1 is formed by three prismatic battery cells 1. It should be noted that any number of at least two or more prismatic battery cells 1 may be arranged in this manner.

[0053] like Figure 3bAs shown, the battery assembly 2 may further include at least one first coolant distribution member 24 located near the inlet portion 142 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1 , wherein the first coolant distribution member 24 is configured to supply coolant to the inlet portion 142 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1 .

[0054] Figures 4a to 4c A schematic diagram of a battery assembly 2 according to the present disclosure is shown from above. More specifically, Figures 4a to 4c The flow direction of the coolant flow through the recess 14 for the coolant is shown (indicated by the flow arrows).

[0055] exist Figure 4a , a battery assembly 2 is shown including two prismatic battery cells 1 arranged side by side with each other. More specifically, in this example, the two prismatic battery cells 1 are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses 14 for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows. Furthermore, a first coolant distribution member 24 located near the inlet portion 142 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1 is shown.

[0056] As further shown in the figure, the battery assembly 2 may also include at least one second coolant distribution member 26 located near the outlet portion 144 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1, wherein the second coolant distribution member 26 is configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion 144 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1. As further shown in the figure, the first coolant distribution member 24 and / or the second coolant distribution member 26 may be configured so that the coolant flow therein is arranged to flow in a direction substantially perpendicular to the coolant flow direction in the recess 14 for coolant of at least two prismatic battery cells 1 of the battery assembly 2.

[0057] Figure 4b Another example of a battery assembly 2 is shown. In this example, six prismatic battery cells 1 are shown. The three prismatic battery cells 1 on the right side of the figure form a first group of battery cells, and the three prismatic battery cells are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses 14 for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows. The three prismatic battery cells 1 on the left side of the figure form a second group of prismatic battery cells 1. The prismatic battery cells 1 in the second group are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses 14 for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows. In addition, as shown in the figure, the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells 1 can be arranged so that the outlet portion 144 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1 faces the inlet portion 142 of the second group of prismatic battery cells 1.

[0058] like Figure 4bAs further shown, the battery assembly 2 may also include at least one intermediate common coolant distribution member 28 for the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells 1, which is located between the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells 1. As shown, the intermediate common coolant distribution member 28 may be configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion 144 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1 and supply coolant to the inlet portion 142 of the second group of prismatic battery cells 1. As further shown, the intermediate common coolant distribution member 28 may be configured so that the coolant flow therein is arranged to flow in a direction substantially perpendicular to the coolant flow direction in the recess 14 for coolant of the prismatic battery cells 1 of the battery assembly 2. .

[0059] The coolant as mentioned herein may be, for example, a water-based coolant, an oil-based coolant, or the like.

[0060] Figure 4c Another example of a battery assembly 2 is shown. In this example, there are nine prismatic battery cells 1. As shown in this example, the first group of three prismatic battery cells on the right side of the figure are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses 14 for coolant form a substantially parallel coolant flow. A similar configuration is also shown for the second group of three prismatic battery cells in the middle of the figure, and a similar configuration is also shown for the third group of three prismatic battery cells on the left side of the figure. In addition, as shown in the figure, the battery assembly 2 may also include a first coolant distribution member 24, which is configured to supply coolant to the inlet portion 142 of the first group of prismatic battery cells 1. Further, as shown in the figure, the battery assembly 2 may also include a second coolant distribution member 26, which is configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion 144 of the third group of prismatic battery cells 1. Therefore, the coolant distribution member for supply and discharge may be located near any one of the inlets / outlets of different groups of prismatic battery cells 1.

[0061] like Figure 4c As further shown, at least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells 1 may be arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses 14 for the coolant form a substantially aligned coolant flow therebetween. In the example shown, there is an aligned coolant flow between the prismatic battery cells 1 of the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells 1, and there is also an aligned coolant flow between the second group of prismatic battery cells and the third group of prismatic battery cells 1. Thus, in some examples, there may be a direct flow connection between two adjacent prismatic battery cells 1.

[0062] Figure 5 A flow chart of a method according to an example of the present disclosure is shown. A method for manufacturing a prismatic battery cell according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the method comprises: S1: A block of material is impact-extruded to form a housing 10 of a prismatic battery cell 1 according to an example of the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0063] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the present disclosure are described as a series of examples.

[0064] Example 1: A prismatic battery cell (1) for an electrical energy storage system (3), the prismatic battery cell extending in a longitudinal direction (L), a width direction (W) and a height direction (H), the prismatic battery cell (1) comprising: - a casing (10) for enclosing an electrochemical cell, said casing (10) having a longitudinal extension (L1) along said longitudinal direction (L) and a width extension (W1) along said width direction (W), wherein, as seen along the height direction (H), the housing (10) comprises a bottom end section (12), wherein, as seen in a cross section perpendicular to the height direction (H) at the bottom end section (12), the longitudinal extension (L1) of the housing (10) is longer than the width extension (W1) of the housing (10), wherein the bottom end section (12) comprises a recess (14) for a coolant, wherein the recess (14) for coolant has a coolant inlet portion (142) and a coolant outlet portion (144), wherein the coolant inlet portion (142) is located at a first end side (122) of the bottom end section (12) as seen along the longitudinal direction (L), and the coolant outlet portion (144) is located at an opposite second end side (124) of the bottom end section (12), and wherein the recess (14) for coolant extends along the longitudinal direction (L) from the coolant inlet portion (142) to the coolant outlet portion (144).

[0065] Example 2: A prismatic battery cell (1) according to Example 1, wherein the bottom end segment (12) includes a first wall segment (126) and a second wall segment (128), wherein each of the first wall segment and the second wall segment extends between the first end side (122) and the second end side (124) along the longitudinal direction (L), and wherein the first wall segment (126) and the second wall segment (128) are offset from each other along the width direction (W) so that the first wall segment (126) and the second wall segment (128) define the recess (14) for the coolant therebetween.

[0066] Example 3: The prismatic battery cell (1) according to Example 2, wherein the first wall segment and the second wall segment are respective outer wall segments of the housing (10).

[0067] Example 4: A prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of Examples 2 to 3, wherein the bottom end segment (12) includes at least one intermediate wall segment (130), wherein the at least one intermediate wall segment (130) extends between the first end side (122) and the second end side (124) along the longitudinal direction (L), and wherein as seen along the width direction (W), the at least one intermediate wall segment (130) is located between the first wall segment (126) and the second wall segment (128), so that the recess (14) for the coolant includes two or more sub-recesses for the coolant.

[0068] Example 5: A prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the bottom end section (12) includes at least one sealing element (132), and the at least one sealing element is configured to seal the recess (14) for the coolant along the longitudinal direction (L) relative to the support surface (222) when the bottom end section (12) is supported on the support surface (222).

[0069] Example 6: A prismatic battery cell (1) according to example 5 which also belongs to any of examples 2 to 4, wherein the at least one sealing element (132) is arranged on the bottom of the first wall segment (126) and / or the second wall segment (128).

[0070] Example 7: The prismatic battery cell (1) according to Example 6, wherein the at least one sealing element (132) is disposed in a sealing element recess (1322) of the bottom.

[0071] Example 8: A prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the housing (10) comprises four side walls (16, 16') for enclosing the electrochemical cell, wherein the four side walls (16, 16') extend along the height direction (H) between the bottom end section (12) and the top section (18) of the prismatic battery cell (1), wherein the four side walls (16, 16') and the bottom end section (12) are made of a single piece of material.

[0072] Example 9: The prismatic battery cell (1) according to Example 8, wherein the housing (10) is made by impact extrusion.

[0073] Example 10: A battery assembly (2) for an electrical energy storage system (3), the battery assembly (2) comprising at least two prismatic battery cells (1) arranged side by side with each other, wherein each of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) is a prismatic battery cell according to any one of the preceding examples.

[0074] Example 11: The battery assembly (2) according to Example 10, further comprising a bottom support member (22), wherein the bottom end segments (12) of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) are supported by a support surface (222) of the bottom support member (22).

[0075] Example 12: A battery assembly (2) according to any one of Examples 10 to 11, wherein at least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) forming a first group of prismatic battery cells (1) are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses (14) for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows.

[0076] Example 13: According to the battery assembly (2) described in Example 12, it also includes at least one first coolant distribution member (24) located near the inlet portion (142) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1), wherein the first coolant distribution member (24) is configured to supply coolant to the inlet portion (142) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1).

[0077] Example 14: A battery assembly (2) according to any one of Examples 12 to 13, further comprising at least one second coolant distribution member (26) located near the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1), wherein the second coolant distribution member (26) is configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1).

[0078] Example 15: A battery assembly (2) according to any one of Examples 12 to 14, wherein in addition to the first group of prismatic battery cells (1), at least two prismatic battery cells (1) forming a second group of prismatic battery cells (1) are also arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses (14) for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows, and wherein the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells (1) are arranged so that the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1) faces the inlet portion (142) of the second group of prismatic battery cells (1).

[0079] Example 16: According to the battery assembly (2) described in Example 15, it also includes at least one intermediate common coolant distribution member (28) for the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells (1), and the at least one intermediate common coolant distribution member is located between the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells (1), wherein the intermediate common coolant distribution member (28) is configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1) and supply coolant to the inlet portion (142) of the second group of prismatic battery cells (1).

[0080] Example 17: A battery assembly (2) according to any one of Examples 10 to 16, wherein at least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses (14) for coolant form a substantially aligned coolant flow therebetween.

[0081] Example 18: An electrical energy storage system (3), comprising a prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of Examples 1 to 9 and / or a battery assembly (2) according to any one of Examples 10 to 17.

[0082] Example 19: A vehicle (4) comprising an electrical energy storage system (3) according to Example 18.

[0083] Example 20: A method for manufacturing a prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the method comprises: - A block of material is subjected to impact extrusion (S1) so as to form a housing (10) of a prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of Examples 1 to 9.

[0084] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific aspects and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "one", "a kind of" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should also be understood that the terms "including", "comprising" when used herein specify the existence of stated features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements and / or components, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, components and / or their groups.

[0085] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element.

[0086] Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element, as shown in the figures. It should be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to cover different device orientations in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, the element may be directly connected or directly coupled to the other element, or there may be intervening elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0087] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It should also be understood that, unless otherwise clearly defined herein, the terms used herein should be interpreted as meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of this specification and the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0088] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and shown in the accompanying drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims. In the drawings and description, various aspects have been disclosed for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes, and the scope of the present disclosure is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A prismatic battery cell (1) for an electrical energy storage system (3), the prismatic battery cell extending in a longitudinal direction (L), a width direction (W) and a height direction (H), the prismatic battery cell (1) comprising: - a casing (10) for enclosing an electrochemical cell, said casing (10) having a longitudinal extension (L1) along said longitudinal direction (L) and a width extension (W1) along said width direction (W), wherein, as seen along the height direction (H), the housing (10) comprises a bottom end section (12), wherein, as seen in a cross section perpendicular to the height direction (H) at the bottom end section (12), the longitudinal extension (L1) of the housing (10) is longer than the width extension (W1) of the housing (10), wherein the bottom end section (12) comprises a recess (14) for a coolant, wherein the recess (14) for coolant has a coolant inlet portion (142) and a coolant outlet portion (144), wherein the coolant inlet portion (142) is located at a first end side (122) of the bottom end section (12) as seen along the longitudinal direction (L), and the coolant outlet portion (144) is located at an opposite second end side (124) of the bottom end section (12), and wherein the recess (14) for coolant extends along the longitudinal direction (L) from the coolant inlet portion (142) to the coolant outlet portion (144).

2. The prismatic battery cell (1) according to claim 1, wherein the bottom end section (12) comprises a first wall section (126) and a second wall section (128), wherein each of the first wall section and the second wall section extends between the first end side (122) and the second end side (124) along the longitudinal direction (L), and wherein the first wall section (126) and the second wall section (128) are offset from each other along the width direction (W) such that the first wall section (126) and the second wall section (128) define the recess (14) for the coolant therebetween.

3. The prismatic battery cell (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first wall segment and the second wall segment are respective outer wall segments of the housing (10).

4. A prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the bottom end segment (12) includes at least one intermediate wall segment (130), wherein the at least one intermediate wall segment (130) extends between the first end side (122) and the second end side (124) along the longitudinal direction (L), and wherein as seen along the width direction (W), the at least one intermediate wall segment (130) is located between the first wall segment (126) and the second wall segment (128), so that the recess (14) for the coolant includes two or more sub-recesses for the coolant.

5. The prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom end section (12) comprises at least one sealing element (132), the at least one sealing element being configured to seal the recess (14) for the coolant relative to the support surface (222) along the longitudinal direction (L) when the bottom end section (12) is supported on a support surface (222).

6. Prismatic battery cell (1) according to claim 5 which is also dependent on any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the at least one sealing element (132) is arranged on the bottom of the first wall section (126) and / or the second wall section (128).

7. The prismatic battery cell (1) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one sealing element (132) is arranged in a sealing element recess (1322) of the bottom.

8. A prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (10) comprises four side walls (16, 16') for enclosing the electrochemical cell, wherein the four side walls (16, 16') extend along the height direction (H) between the bottom end section (12) and a top section (18) of the prismatic battery cell (1), wherein the four side walls (16, 16') and the bottom end section (12) are made of a single piece of material.

9. The prismatic battery cell (1) according to claim 8, wherein the housing (10) is produced by impact extrusion.

10. A battery assembly (2) for an electrical energy storage system (3), the battery assembly (2) comprising at least two prismatic battery cells (1) arranged side by side with each other, wherein each of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) is a prismatic battery cell according to any one of the preceding claims.

11. The battery assembly (2) according to claim 10, further comprising a bottom support member (22), wherein the bottom end sections (12) of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) are supported by a support surface (222) of the bottom support member (22).

12. The battery assembly (2) according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein at least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) forming a first group of prismatic battery cells (1) are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses (14) for coolant form essentially parallel coolant flows.

13. The battery assembly (2) according to claim 12, further comprising at least one first coolant distribution member (24) located near the inlet portion (142) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1), wherein the first coolant distribution member (24) is configured to supply coolant to the inlet portion (142) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1).

14. The battery assembly (2) according to any one of claims 12 to 13, further comprising at least one second coolant distribution member (26) located near the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1), wherein the second coolant distribution member (26) is configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1).

15. A battery assembly (2) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein in addition to the first group of prismatic battery cells (1), at least two prismatic battery cells (1) forming a second group of prismatic battery cells (1) are also arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses (14) for coolant form substantially parallel coolant flows, and wherein the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells (1) are arranged so that the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1) faces the inlet portion (142) of the second group of prismatic battery cells (1).

16. The battery assembly (2) according to claim 15, further comprising at least one intermediate common coolant distribution member (28) for the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells (1), the at least one intermediate common coolant distribution member being located between the first group of prismatic battery cells and the second group of prismatic battery cells (1), wherein the intermediate common coolant distribution member (28) is configured to discharge coolant from the outlet portion (144) of the first group of prismatic battery cells (1) and to supply coolant to the inlet portion (142) of the second group of prismatic battery cells (1).

17. The battery assembly (2) according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein at least two of the at least two prismatic battery cells (1) are arranged side by side with each other so that their recesses (14) for coolant form a substantially aligned coolant flow therebetween.

18. An electrical energy storage system (3) comprising a prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and / or a battery assembly (2) according to any one of claims 10 to 17.

19. A vehicle (4) comprising an electrical energy storage system (3) according to claim 18.

20. A method for producing a prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the method comprises: - impact pressing (S1) of a material block so as to form a housing (10) of a prismatic battery cell (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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