Modular battery pack device

Abstract

A modular battery pack arrangement (30) comprising: a main battery pack (31) arranged in a main battery pack housing (132) and a battery disconnect unit (33) configured to disconnect the main battery pack (31) from a load and / or a power source (10); one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) arranged in respective slave battery pack housings (142, 152) physically separate from the master battery pack housing (132), where the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) share the battery disconnect unit (33) with the master battery pack (31).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a modular battery pack device. In particular aspects, the present disclosure relates to a modular battery pack device that includes a main battery pack electrically connected in series with one or more slave battery packs. The present disclosure may be applicable to heavy vehicles such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment, as well as other vehicle types including ships. Although the present disclosure may be described with respect to specific vehicles, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular vehicle. Background Art

[0002] Vehicles typically include an engine for propelling the vehicle. The engine can be powered in various ways (e.g., by burning a liquid or gaseous fuel in a combustion engine or an internal combustion engine). Alternatively, the vehicle can also be driven by electric power in an electric motor. Additionally, there are hybrid solutions where the vehicle is propelled by both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. In either case, an energy storage device is used to store the energy required to propel the vehicle. The energy storage device can also be used to power auxiliary loads in the vehicle.

[0003] For many vehicles, the energy storage device is included in an energy storage system, where the energy storage system is configured to power the electric motor used to propel the vehicle and any auxiliary loads. For example, for an electric vehicle, the energy storage device can be a battery or a battery pack, which is configured to operate the electric motor and electric auxiliary devices. The electric motor and / or electric auxiliary devices are generally referred to as loads. Several batteries or several battery cells connected in series and / or in parallel can be grouped into a battery pack. The battery pack needs to be charged regularly and then electrically connected to an electrical energy source, for example, via a plug directly connected to the power grid or through an on-board charger. Such chargers are generally referred to as power sources.

[0004] In many applications, multiple battery packs are included in the energy storage system by being connected in parallel or in series to, for example, a common traction voltage bus. For battery packs connected in series, the first battery pack can be arranged to be electrically connected to the load and / or the power source, and the second battery pack can be electrically connected in series with the first battery pack. However, managing such series-connected battery packs can be troublesome, and thus there is a need in the industry for an improved energy storage system that includes series-connected battery packs. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a modular battery pack device. The modular battery pack device includes: a main battery pack including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a main battery pack housing and a battery disconnect unit configured to disconnect the main battery pack from a load and / or a power source; one or more slave battery packs, each of the one or more slave battery packs including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a corresponding slave battery pack housing physically separated from the main battery pack housing, wherein the one or more slave battery packs share the battery disconnect unit with the main battery pack; each of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs includes at least two terminal connection pairs such that the main battery pack can be electrically connected in series with the one or more slave battery packs; and one of the two terminal connection pairs in the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack is short-circuited. The first aspect of the present disclosure may seek to overcome the problem of difficult management of modular battery pack devices. That is to say, through the first aspect, and particularly due to the shared battery disconnect unit and the fact that the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack has a short-circuited terminal connection pair, it is beneficial to access the modular battery pack device for, for example, maintenance. In other words, the electrical interface (usually corresponding to the battery disconnect unit) can be accessed from one location because the arrangement of the terminal connection pairs (including the short-circuited terminal connection pairs of the battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack) enables the two electrical connections of the terminal connection pairs of the modular battery pack device to be routed to the main battery pack and the battery disconnect unit. That is to say, since the terminal connection pairs enable the main battery pack to be electrically connected in series with one or more slave battery packs, and the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack has a short-circuited terminal connection pair, the shared battery disconnect unit (i.e., shared by the main battery pack and one or more slave battery packs) forms a common electrical interface that can be accessed from one location of the modular battery pack device. Technical benefits may include improved management of the modular battery pack device. It should be noted that the plurality of battery cells in the main battery pack and / or one or more slave battery packs may be connected in series and / or in parallel. For example, a predetermined number of battery cells in one battery pack may be connected in parallel to form a "logical cell", and then several "logical cells" may be connected in series inside the battery pack. The short-circuited terminal connection pair may be implemented by an electrical connection that is a fuse, a cable, or a conductive bus. In particular, using a fuse to short-circuit the terminal connection pair can provide an efficient means of disconnecting the electrical connection between battery packs.

[0006] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit is directly electrically connected to the main positive terminal and / or the main negative terminal of the main battery pack. Technical benefits can include an advantageous location of the battery disconnect device within the main battery pack. For example, in an example where the battery disconnect unit is directly electrically connected to the main positive terminal and the main negative terminal of the main battery pack, a first component of the battery disconnect unit can be directly electrically connected to the main positive terminal, and a second component of the battery disconnect unit can be directly electrically connected to the main negative terminal. Thus, the electrical interfaces of the battery disconnect unit for both the positive terminal connection and the negative terminal connection of the modular battery pack device are arranged in a common location or position of the modular battery pack device. It should be understood that a pair of terminal connections of the main battery pack can include the main positive terminal and the main negative terminal. The main positive terminal and the negative terminal form, for example, the terminals to which a load (e.g., an electric traction machine) or a power source (e.g., a charger) is electrically connected. The battery disconnect unit is preferably arranged between the main positive terminal and the plurality of battery cells of the main battery pack, and / or between the main negative terminal and the plurality of battery cells of the main battery pack. As will be mentioned later, but only briefly commented on here, the battery disconnect unit can be a contactor, or include a contactor (i.e., the components of the battery disconnect unit can be contactors). Thus, for example, a first battery disconnect unit that is a first contactor or includes a first contactor is arranged between the main positive terminal and the plurality of battery cells of the main battery pack, and a second battery disconnect unit that is a second contactor or includes a second contactor is arranged between the main negative terminal and the plurality of battery cells of the main battery pack. Thus, the first contactor is configured to connect and disconnect the main positive terminal from the plurality of battery cells of the main battery pack (and thus from the plurality of battery cells of one or more slave battery packs connected in series to the main battery pack), and the second contactor is configured to connect and disconnect the main negative terminal from the plurality of battery cells of the main battery pack (and thus from the plurality of battery cells of one or more slave battery packs connected in series to the main battery pack). The first contactor and the second contactor can be included in a common contactor unit. However, it should be understood that other battery disconnect units or components of the battery disconnect unit can be arranged between the battery cells in the main battery pack.

[0007] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, each terminal connection pair of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs is a negative and positive terminal connection. Technical benefits may include that both the positive and negative electrical connections of the modular battery pack device are routed to the main battery pack and the battery disconnect device. For example, as described above, the battery disconnect unit is electrically connected to both the positive and negative electrical connections of the modular battery pack device, and the arrangement of the terminal connection pairs (including the short-circuit terminal connection pair of the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack) enables both the positive and negative electrical connections of the modular battery pack device to be routed to the battery disconnect unit of the main battery pack. That is, the positive electrical connection is routed from the positive terminal connection of the main battery pack and the terminal connection pair to the positive terminal connection of the one or more slave battery packs and its corresponding terminal connection pair, and the negative electrical connection is routed from the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack and its short-circuit terminal connection pair through the negative terminal connection of the terminal connection pairs of the one or more slave battery packs to the negative terminal connection of the main battery pack and its corresponding terminal connection pair. It should be noted that the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack is arranged farthest with respect to the electrical connection (series connection) of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs.

[0008] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the negative terminal and the positive terminal of each terminal connection pair for the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs are adjacent. Technical benefits may include a favorable routing of the positive and negative electrical connections from the main battery pack to the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack and back to the main battery pack. Here, adjacent may mean within 0.1 meter, or within 0.2 meter.

[0009] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device can be scaled by the number of the one or more slave battery packs. Technical benefits may include an efficient way to adjust the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device. That is, an additional slave battery pack can be added between the main battery pack and the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack and one of its terminal connection pairs can be short-circuited, or one of the terminal connection pairs of this slave battery pack can be short-circuited. In the case where this slave battery pack is arranged farthest from the main battery pack, the short-circuit of the additional slave battery pack's terminal connection pair can also be achieved.

[0010] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the modular battery pack device further includes a high-voltage connection electrically connecting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs. Technical benefits can include high-voltage operation of the modular battery pack. For example, the previously mentioned positive electrical connection and negative electrical connection are high-voltage connections. Thus, the positive high-voltage connection can connect the main battery pack to the one or more slave battery packs through the positive terminal of the corresponding terminal connection pair, and the negative high-voltage connection can connect the main battery pack to the one or more slave battery packs through the negative terminal of the corresponding terminal connection pair.

[0011] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the modular battery pack device further includes a low-voltage connection electrically connecting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs. Technical benefits can include additional functions of the modular battery pack.

[0012] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit includes a low-voltage connection contactor configured to disconnect the low-voltage connection. Such a low-voltage connection contactor can be included in the previously mentioned first contactor, second contactor, or common contactor unit.

[0013] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the low-voltage connection is arranged to transmit signals indicating voltage and / or temperature measurements between the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs. Technical benefits can include efficient signal transmission between the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs. Thus, the low-voltage connection can be configured to transmit sensor data including voltage and / or temperature data.

[0014] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the modular battery pack device further includes a transport frame, the transport frame including a first type of fastening device, wherein each of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs includes a second type of fastening device configured to be detachably attached to the first type of fastening device for transporting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs in the transport frame. Technical benefits can include an efficient structure for transporting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs of the modular battery pack device. Additionally, since the battery disconnect unit (e.g., including the previously mentioned first contactor and / or second contactor or consisting thereof) is shared between the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs, the modular battery pack device can be transported in a safe manner even if the slave battery packs are not equipped with separate battery disconnect units (i.e., there is no separate battery disconnect unit including a contactor or consisting thereof for the high-voltage connection associated with the slave battery packs).

[0015] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the first type of fastening device includes a plurality of first fastening structures, each of the first fastening structures being associated with a corresponding battery pack of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs, and wherein at least two of the plurality of first fastening structures are arranged side by side for mechanically coupling at least one of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs that are adjacent to each other in the transport frame. Technical benefits can include an efficient structure for transporting a main battery pack and one or more slave battery packs for a modular battery pack device. The first fastening structure can be, for example, an L-shaped bracket.

[0016] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the at least two first fastening structures arranged side by side are releasably attached to each other. Technical benefits can include an advantageous structure for releasably attaching the main battery pack to one of the slave battery packs or for releasably attaching two slave battery packs. Thus, the first of the first fastening structures associated with the main battery pack (and attached to the main battery pack by the second fastening device) can be releasably attached to the second of the first fastening structures associated with one of the slave battery packs (and attached to the slave battery pack by the second fastening device). The at least two first fastening structures can be releasably attached to each other by using a first fastener. That is, the first of the first fasteners (such as a screw or a bolt and nut) can interact with the opening or through-hole of the first of the first fastening structures and the opening or through-hole of the second of the first fastening structures. Thus, the first of the first fasteners can be configured to threadedly engage the opening or through-holes of the first and second of the first fastening structures. Further, in the case where the first of the first fasteners is a bolt and nut, the bolt head can be arranged on the first side of the first fastening structure and the second first fastening structure, the shank or thread of the bolt can extend through the opening or through-hole of the first of the first fastening structures and through the opening or through-hole of the second of the first fastening structures, and the nut can threadedly engage the thread of the bolt located on the second side of the first fastening structure and the second fastening structure opposite to the first side.

[0017] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the second type of fastening device includes a plurality of second fastening structures, each of the second fastening structures being associated with a corresponding battery pack of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs, and wherein each of the second fastening structures is detachably attached to a corresponding first fastening structure of the transport frame. Technical benefits can include an efficient structure for attaching a transport frame to a main battery pack and one or more slave battery packs. Thus, the first fastening structure associated with a battery pack (e.g., the main battery pack) can be detachably attached to the second fastening structure of that battery pack using a second fastener. That is, the first of the second fasteners (e.g., a screw) can interact with an opening or through-hole of the first fastening structure and an opening of the second fastening structure. Thus, the first of the second fasteners can be configured to engage the opening or through-hole of the first fastening structure and the opening of the second fastening structure in a threaded manner. The second fastening structure can, for example, include or consist of threaded holes in the corresponding battery pack housings of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs. Thereby, the second fastener (e.g., a corresponding screw) can extend through the through-hole of the first fastening structure and then engage the threaded holes of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs in a threaded manner. For example, the first fastening structure can be an L-shaped bracket having a first type of through-hole disposed in a first stem portion of the L-shaped bracket for interacting with a first fastener and a second type of through-hole disposed in a second stem portion of the L-shaped bracket for interacting with a second fastener, wherein the first stem portion and the second stem portion together form the L-shape of the bracket (i.e., at a 90-degree angle relative to each other).

[0018] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit is configured to simultaneously disconnect the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs from the load or the power source. Technical benefits can include a common function for disconnecting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs from a load or power source. Thus, there is no need to include corresponding separate battery disconnect units for the one or more slave battery packs.

[0019] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit includes at least one contactor. Technical benefits can include a common function for disconnecting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs from a load or power source by using a contactor. Thus, the contactor can be configured to connect or disconnect the main battery pack as well as the one or more slave battery packs from the load or power source. The contactor can be, for example, the first contactor and / or the second contactor mentioned previously.

[0020] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit includes a positive contactor disposed on the positive side of the main battery pack and one or more slave battery packs connected in series, and a negative contactor disposed on the negative side of the main battery pack and one or more slave battery packs connected in series. Technical benefits can include that the positive and negative contactors can be accessed through the same electrical interface corresponding to the battery disconnect unit. The positive contactor can be, for example, a first contactor, and the negative contactor can be, for example, the second contactor mentioned previously.

[0021] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit includes a PCB that includes battery management functions. Technical benefits can include additional shared functions between the main battery pack and one or more slave battery packs.

[0022] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, each of the slave battery pack housings does not accommodate a battery disconnect unit that includes at least one contactor. Technical benefits can include reducing the complexity and / or cost of the modular battery device because the battery disconnect unit including at least one contactor (e.g., a contactor configured to connect and disconnect the slave battery pack from a load or power source) is shared with the main battery pack. For example, each of the slave battery pack housings does not accommodate a battery disconnect unit that includes at least one contactor configured to connect and disconnect the corresponding slave battery pack from the main battery pack and / or from a load and / or power source.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle including the modular battery pack device of the first aspect of the present disclosure. The second aspect of the present disclosure may seek to solve the same problems as those described for the first aspect of the present disclosure. Therefore, the effects and features of the second aspect of the present disclosure are largely similar to those described above in connection with the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0024] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the vehicle further includes an electric motor for propelling the vehicle, the electric motor being powered by the modular battery pack device.

[0025] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device can be adjusted by the number of slave battery packs in the modular battery pack device, and wherein the number of slave battery packs in the modular battery pack device corresponds to the relevant requirements of the electric motor. Technical benefits can include an efficient way to adjust the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device of a vehicle. Therefore, the main battery pack can be used as an independent battery pack and connected to one or more slave battery packs (which are not independent battery packs).

[0026] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or the appended claims can be appropriately combined with each other. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims, and drawings, and will be partly apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art or will be recognized by practicing the present disclosure as described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Figure 1 is an exemplary, partially schematic side view of an electric vehicle according to an example, the electric vehicle including an electric motor for propelling the vehicle and a modular battery pack device for powering the electric motor.

[0028] Figure 2 is an exemplary, partially schematic side view of a modular battery pack device according to an example.

[0029] Figure 3 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a main battery pack and a first slave battery pack and a second slave battery pack of a modular battery pack device according to an example.

[0030] Figure 4 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a high-voltage connection and a low-voltage connection between a main battery pack and a first slave battery pack according to an example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology in sufficient detail for those of ordinary skill in the art to practice the present disclosure.

[0032] The disclosed technology can solve problems related to the difficulty of managing a modular battery pack device. The disclosed technology provides an improved electrical interface, at least an electrical interface corresponding to a battery disconnect unit. That is, since one or more slave battery packs and a main battery pack share a common battery disconnect unit and are connected in series electrically through corresponding terminal connection pairs, and one of the two terminal connection pairs in the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack is short-circuited, at least the accessibility of the battery disconnect unit is improved. Technical benefits can include improved management of the modular battery pack device. By sharing a common battery disconnect unit between a main battery pack and one or more serially connected slave battery packs and providing a short-circuited terminal connection pair for the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack, the electrical connection of the terminal connection pairs can be routed to the same location of the modular battery pack device (usually the battery disconnect unit), making it easier to access and manage. In addition, the modular battery pack device can be transported in a safe manner even if the slave battery pack is not equipped with a separate battery disconnect device.

[0033] Figure 1Vehicle 1 in the form of an exemplary heavy-duty truck is shown. Vehicle 1 is an electric vehicle, such as a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, including at least one electric motor 10 (as an electric traction machine) powered by a modular battery pack device 30, where in Figure 1 the example, the modular battery pack device 30 includes three battery packs 31, 41, 51 connected in series. The battery packs 31, 41, 51 are configured to power at least one load, such as the electric motor 10. In addition, vehicle 1 includes a control unit 17 that is arranged and configured to control at least part of the operation of the modular battery pack device 30, such as the operation of the battery disconnect unit of the modular battery pack device 30. Vehicle 1 generally also includes other parts of the powertrain, such as a transmission, a drive shaft, and wheels (not shown in detail). The electric motor 10 can act as an electric motor, consuming the electric power provided by the battery packs 31, 41, 51, for example, to provide propulsion power, and can act as a generator to generate electric power to charge the battery packs 31, 41, 51.

[0034] In Figure 2 more detail, the modular battery pack device 30 is shown. The modular battery pack device 30 includes a main battery pack 31 that includes a plurality of battery cells (as Figure 4 shown) arranged in a main battery pack housing 132; a first slave battery pack 41 that includes a plurality of battery cells (as Figure 4 shown) arranged in a first slave battery pack housing 142; and a second slave battery pack 51 that includes a plurality of battery cells (as Figure 4 shown) arranged in a second slave battery pack housing 152. The first slave battery pack 41 is physically and electrically arranged closest to the main battery pack 31, while the second slave battery pack 52 is physically and electrically arranged farthest from the main battery pack 31. The main battery pack housing 132 is physically separated from the first slave battery pack housing 142 and the second slave battery pack housing 152. It should be noted that Figure 2 the modular battery pack device 30 in

[0035] The modular battery pack device 30 includes a battery disconnect unit 33 configured to connect or disconnect the main battery pack 31 from a power source and / or a load (such as the motor 10). The battery disconnect unit 33 is disposed in the main battery pack housing 132 and may include a positive contactor 33a, a negative contactor 33b, and a PCB 33c that includes battery management functions. The first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51 both share the battery disconnect unit 33 with the main battery pack 31. In other words, the main battery pack 31, as well as the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51, share a common battery disconnect unit 33.

[0036] As Figure 2 shown, each of the main battery pack 31, the first slave battery pack 41, and the second slave battery pack 51 includes at least two terminal connection pairs 133, 134, 143, 144, 153, 154 such that the main battery pack 31 can be electrically connected in series with the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51. Accordingly, the main battery pack 31 includes a first terminal connection pair 133 for electrically connecting the modular battery pack device 30 to a load and / or a power source (such as the motor 10), and a second terminal connection pair 134 electrically connected to the first terminal connection pair 143 of the first slave battery pack 41. Correspondingly, the first slave battery pack 41 includes a second terminal connection pair 144 that is electrically connected to the first terminal connection pair 153 of the second slave battery pack 51. The second slave battery pack 51 includes a short-circuited second terminal connection pair 154. Thus, the electrical connection that serially connects the main battery pack 31 with the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51 is routed from the main battery pack 31 to the first slave battery pack 41 and further to the second slave battery pack 51. Thereafter, the electrical connection is routed back through the short-circuited second terminal connection 154 of the second slave battery pack 51 to the second slave battery pack 41 and further back to the main battery pack 31. Thus, among the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51, the second slave battery pack 51 is electrically arranged furthest from the main battery pack 31. As will be referred to Figure 4 hereinafter, each of the terminal connection pairs 133, 134, 143, 144, 153, 154 includes a positive terminal connection and a negative terminal connection, and as Figure 2 shown, the negative terminals 133a and the positive terminals 133b of each terminal connection pair 133, 134, 143, 144, 153, 154 of the main battery pack 31 and one or more slave battery packs 41, 51 (only the first terminal connection 133 of the main battery pack 31 is indicated in Figure 2 ) are adjacent, for example, such as within 0.1 m or 0.2 m of each other.

[0037] Figure 2The modular battery pack device 30 further includes a transport frame 70. The transport frame 70 includes a first type of fastening device 71, and the first type of fastening device includes a plurality of first fastening structures 72, 73, 74, 75 for arranging the main battery pack 31, the first secondary battery pack 41, and the second secondary battery pack 51 in the transport frame 70. For example, the first type of fastening device 71 can be used to arrange the main battery pack 31, the first secondary battery pack 41, and the second secondary battery pack 51 side by side. As Figure 2 shown, a first pair of the plurality of first fastening structures (such as the first one in the first fastening structure 72 (associated with the main battery pack 31) and the third one in the first fastening structure 74 (associated with the first secondary battery pack 31)) are arranged side by side. Correspondingly, a second pair of the plurality of first fastening structures (such as the second one in the first fastening structure 73 (associated with the main battery pack 31) and the fourth one in the first fastening structure 75 (associated with the first secondary battery pack 31)) are arranged side by side. Thus, the main battery pack 31 can be mechanically coupled to the first secondary battery pack 41 side by side, such that the main battery pack 31 is arranged adjacent to the first secondary battery pack 41. Each pair of such side-by-side arranged first fastening structures 71 can be releasably attached to each other by using first fasteners 91a, 91b. Each of the first fasteners 91a, 91b can be composed of, for example, a bolt and a nut. Although Figure 2 it is not explicitly mentioned, the first secondary battery pack 41 can be releasably attached to the second secondary battery pack 51 by using the transport frame 70 and the first fasteners in a manner corresponding to that of the main battery pack 31 and the first secondary battery pack 41.

[0038] As Figure 2As shown, each of the main battery pack 31, the first slave battery pack 41, and the second slave battery pack 51 includes a second type of fastening device 81, which includes a plurality of associated second fastening structures 82, 83, 84, 85. The second fastening structures 82, 83, 84, 85 are configured to be detachably attached to the first fastening structures 72, 73, 74, 75 by second fasteners 92. Thus, the transport frame 70 can be detachably attached to the main battery pack 31, the first slave battery pack 41, and the second slave battery pack 51 in an advantageous manner. For example, the first of the first fastening structures 72 associated with the main battery pack 31 is detachably attached to the first of the second fastening structures 82 of the main battery pack 31 by the first of the second fasteners 92a on the first side of the main battery pack 31. The first of the second fasteners 92a is, for example, a screw that extends through a through-hole in the first of the first fastening structures 72 and into a threaded hole in the first of the second fastening structures 82 to engage therewith in a threaded manner. The corresponding second of the first fastening structures 73, the second of the second fastening structures 83, and the second of the second fasteners 92b can be used to detachably attach the main battery pack 31 to the transport frame 70 on the second side of the main battery pack 31 opposite the first side. Corresponding structures, namely the third and fourth of the first fastening structures 74, 75, the third and fourth of the second fastening structures 84, 85, and the third and fourth of the second fasteners 92c, 92d can be used to detachably attach the first slave battery pack 41 to the transport frame 70 on the first side and the opposite second side of the first slave battery pack 41. In addition, although Figure 2 not explicitly mentioned in

[0039] it, corresponding structures can be used to detachably attach the second slave battery pack 51 to the transport frame 70 on the first side and the opposite second side of the second slave battery pack 51. Figure 2 For example, and as

[0040] shown, in order for the first type of fastening device 71 to be detachably attached to each other and detachably attached to the battery packs 31, 41, 51, the first fastening structures 72, 73, 74, 75 can be L-shaped brackets. Thus, the first rod portion of the first L-shaped bracket 72 is arranged to face the corresponding first rod portion of another L-shaped bracket 74, and the second rod portions of the L-shaped brackets 72, 74 are arranged to face the corresponding battery packs 31, 41. Thus, the modular battery pack device 30 can be transported in an improved manner. Figure 2Only the first fastening structure and the second fastening structures 72, 73, 74, 75, 82, 83, 84, 85 for the main battery pack 31 and the ends of the first slave battery pack 41 releasably attached to the main battery pack 31 are indicated, but it should be understood that corresponding first and second fastening structures exist for the ends of the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51 releasably attached to the second slave battery pack 51.

[0041] Go to Figure 3 , showing Figure 2 A partial schematic view of the main battery pack 31, the first battery pack 41, and the second battery pack 51 of the modular battery pack device 30. Each of the main battery pack 31 and the first and second slave battery packs 41 and 51 includes a plurality of battery cells 131, 141, 151, and the plurality of battery cells form high-voltage lines 160a, 160b that electrically connect the main battery pack 31 and the first and second slave battery packs 41 and 51. As Figure 3 shown, the low-voltage line 162 electrically connects the main battery pack 31 to the first and second slave battery packs 41 and 51. The low-voltage line 162 can transmit signals indicating voltage and / or temperature measurements between the main battery pack 31 and one or more slave battery packs 41, 51. For example, the low-voltage line 162 can include one or more low-voltage components 163a, 163b, 163c, such as sensors for measuring voltage and / or temperature. The high-voltage lines 160a, 160b can be configured for voltages above 100V, and the low-voltage line 162 can be configured for voltages below 100V. For example, the high-voltage lines 160a, 160b can be configured for voltages above 200V, such as between 200V and 1000V, or between 600V and 1000V. The low-voltage line 162 can be configured for voltages above 5V, such as between 5V and 95V, or between 12V and 24V.

[0042] Each of the first and second terminal connection pairs 133 and 134 of the main battery pack 31 includes corresponding positive terminal connections 133a, 134a and corresponding negative terminal connections 133b, 134b. Correspondingly, each of the first and second terminal connection pairs 143 and 144 of the first slave battery pack 41 includes corresponding positive terminal connections 143a, 144a and corresponding negative terminal connections 143b, 144b, and each of the first and second terminal connection pairs 153 and 154 of the second slave battery pack 51 includes corresponding positive terminal connections 153a, 154a and corresponding negative terminal connections 153b, 154b. Thus, the positive high-voltage line 160a is connected through the positive terminal connections 133a, 134a, 143a, 144a, 153a, 154a, and the negative high-voltage line 160b is connected through the negative terminal connections 133b, 134b, 143b, 144b, 153b, 154b. In Figure 2 , the battery cells 131, 141, 151 are present in both the positive high-voltage line 160a and the negative high-voltage line 160b, but it should be noted that the multiple battery cells 131, 141, 151 may alternatively be arranged only in the positive high-voltage line 160a or the negative high-voltage line 160b. As Figure 2 shown, the second terminal connection pair 154 of the second slave battery pack 51 is short-circuited because the positive terminal connection 154a is directly electrically connected to the negative terminal connection 154b through an electrical connection 155 that is a fuse, a cable, or a conductive bus.

[0043] As Figure 3 shown, the battery disconnect unit 33 is directly electrically connected to the main positive terminal 133a and the main negative terminal 133b of the main battery pack 31. Thus, the battery disconnect unit 33 includes a first component 33a (illustrated here as a first contactor 33a or a positive contactor 33a) arranged between the main positive terminal 133a and the multiple battery cells 131, and a second component 33b (illustrated here as a second contactor 33b or a negative contactor 33b) arranged between the main negative terminal 133b and the multiple battery cells 131. In addition, since the second terminal connection pair 134 of the main battery pack 31 is directly electrically connected to the first terminal connection pair 143 of the first slave battery pack 41, and since the second terminal connection pair 144 of the first slave battery pack 41 is directly electrically connected to the first terminal connection pair 153 of the second slave battery pack 51, the battery disconnect unit 33 is configured to simultaneously disconnect the main battery pack 31 and one or more slave battery packs 41, 51 from the load or the power source.

[0044] Turning to Figure 4, shows a high-voltage connection 60 that electrically connects the main battery pack 31 and the first slave battery pack 41. However, it should be noted that corresponding high-voltage connections are typically used to electrically connect the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51.

[0045] In the high-voltage connection 60, the second terminal connection pair 134 of the main battery pack 31 is directly electrically connected to the first terminal connection pair 143 of the first slave battery pack 41. Thus, the high-voltage connector 60 electrically connects the high-voltage lines 160a, 160b of the main battery pack 31 and the first slave battery pack 41. Additionally, as Figure 4 shown, the modular battery pack device 30 may include a low-voltage connection 62 that electrically connects the main battery pack 31 and the first slave battery pack 41. Thus, the low-voltage connector 62 electrically connects the low-voltage lines 162 of the main battery pack 31 and the first slave battery pack 41. Thereby, signals transmitted in the low-voltage line 162 can be transmitted between the main battery pack 31 and the first slave battery pack 41. Additionally, it should be noted that corresponding low-voltage connections are typically used to electrically connect the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 51. As Figure 4 shown, the high-voltage connection 60 and the low-voltage connection 62 can be integrated into one connection unit.

[0046] From Figure 4 it can be clearly seen that the first slave battery pack 41 and the second slave battery pack 52 do not include corresponding battery disconnect units 33 like the main battery pack 31. Thus, each of the slave battery pack housings 142, 152 (as Figure 2 shown) does not accommodate a battery disconnect unit including at least one contactor.

[0047] Example 1. A modular battery pack device, comprising: a main battery pack including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a main battery pack housing and a battery disconnect unit configured to disconnect the main battery pack from a load and / or a power source; one or more slave battery packs, each of the one or more slave battery packs including a plurality of battery cells arranged in a corresponding slave battery pack housing physically separated from the main battery pack housing, wherein the one or more slave battery packs share the battery disconnect unit with the main battery pack; each of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs including at least two terminal connection pairs such that the main battery pack can be electrically connected in series with the one or more slave battery packs; and wherein one of the two terminal connection pairs in the slave battery pack arranged farthest from the main battery pack is short-circuited.

[0048] Example 2. The modular battery pack device according to Example 1, wherein the battery disconnect unit is directly electrically connected to the main positive terminal and / or the main negative terminal of the main battery pack.

[0049] Example 3. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 2, wherein each terminal connection pair of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs is a negative and positive terminal connection.

[0050] Example 4. The modular battery pack device according to Example 3, wherein the negative terminal and the positive terminal of each terminal connection pair for the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs are adjacent.

[0051] Example 5. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device can be scaled by the number of the one or more slave battery packs.

[0052] Example 6. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising a high-voltage connection electrically connecting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs.

[0053] Example 7. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, further comprising a low-voltage connection electrically connecting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs.

[0054] Example 8. The modular battery pack device according to Example 7, wherein the low-voltage connection is arranged to transmit signals indicating voltage and / or temperature measurement values between the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs.

[0055] Example 9. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, further comprising a transport frame, the transport frame including a first type of fastening device, wherein each of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs includes a second type of fastening device configured to be detachably attached to the first type of fastening device for transporting the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs in the transport frame.

[0056] Example 10. The modular battery pack device according to Example 9, wherein the first type of fastening device includes a plurality of first fastening structures, each of the first fastening structures being associated with a corresponding battery pack among the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs, and wherein at least two of the plurality of first fastening structures are arranged side by side for mechanically coupling at least one of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs adjacent to each other in the transport frame.

[0057] Example 11. The modular battery pack device according to Example 10, wherein at least two of the side-by-side arranged first fastening structures are releasably attached to each other.

[0058] Example 12. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 10 to 11, wherein the second type of fastening device includes a plurality of second fastening structures, each of the second fastening structures being associated with a corresponding battery pack of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs, and wherein each of the second fastening structures is detachably attached to a corresponding first fastening structure of the transport frame.

[0059] Example 13. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the battery disconnect unit is configured to simultaneously disconnect the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs from the load or the power source.

[0060] Example 14. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the battery disconnect unit includes at least one contactor.

[0061] Example 15. The modular battery pack device according to Example 14, wherein the battery disconnect unit includes a positive contactor disposed on the positive electrode side of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs connected in series, and a negative contactor disposed on the negative electrode side of the main battery pack and the one or more slave battery packs connected in series.

[0062] Example 16. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the battery disconnect unit includes a PCB, and the PCB includes battery management functions.

[0063] Example 17. The modular battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 16, wherein each of the slave battery pack housings does not accommodate a battery disconnect unit including at least one contactor.

[0064] Example 18. A vehicle comprising the modular battery pack device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

[0065] Example 19. The vehicle according to Example 18, further comprising an electric motor for propelling the vehicle, the electric motor being powered by the modular battery pack device.

[0066] Example 20. The vehicle according to Example 19, wherein the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device can be adjusted by the number of slave battery packs in the modular battery pack device, and wherein the number of the slave battery packs in the modular battery pack device corresponds to the relevant requirements of the electric motor.

[0067] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should also be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising", when used herein, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, acts, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, acts, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0068] 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. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, a first element may be termed a second element, and similarly, a second element may be termed a first element.

[0069] 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, as well as those discussed above, are intended to cover different device orientations in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. It should be understood that when an element is referred to as "connected to" or "coupled to" another element, the element can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element, no intervening elements are present.

[0070] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It should also be understood that, unless explicitly defined herein, the terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0071] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and shown in the figures; rather, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the present disclosure and the appended claims. In the figures and the specification, the aspects have been disclosed for illustrative purposes only and not for purposes of limitation, and the scope of the disclosure is set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A modular battery pack device (30), comprising: - a main battery pack (31), the main battery pack comprising a plurality of battery cells (131) arranged in a main battery pack housing (132) and a battery disconnect unit (33), the battery disconnect unit being configured to disconnect the main battery pack (31) from a load and / or a power source (10); - one or more slave battery packs (41, 51), each of the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) comprising a plurality of battery cells (141, 151) arranged in a corresponding slave battery pack housing (142, 152) physically separated from the master battery pack housing (132), wherein the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) share the battery disconnect unit (33) with the master battery pack (31), Each of the master battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) includes at least two terminal connection pairs (133, 134, 143, 144, 153, 154), so that the master battery pack (31) can be electrically connected in series with the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51), and One of the two terminal connection pairs (153, 154) in the slave battery pack (51) arranged farthest from the master battery pack (31) is short-circuited.

2. The modular battery pack device (30) according to claim 1, wherein the battery disconnect unit (33) is directly electrically connected to the main positive terminal (133a) and / or the main negative terminal (133b) of the main battery pack (31).

3. A modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein each terminal connection pair (133, 134, 143, 144, 153, 154) of the master battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) is a negative and positive terminal connection (133a, 133b, 134a, 134b, 143a, 143b, 144a, 144b,153a, 153b, 154a, 154b).

4. A modular battery pack device (30) according to claim 3, wherein the negative terminal and the positive terminal (133a, 133b, 134a, 134b, 143a, 143b, 144a, 144b,153a, 153b, 154a, 154b) of each terminal connection pair (133, 134, 143, 144, 153, 154) for the master battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) are adjacent.

5. A modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device (30) can be expanded or reduced according to the number of the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51).

6. The modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a high voltage connection (60) electrically connecting the master battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51).

7. The modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a low voltage connection (62) electrically connecting the master battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51).

8. A modular battery pack device (30) according to claim 7, wherein the low voltage connection (62) is arranged to transmit a signal indicating a voltage and / or temperature measurement value between the master battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51).

9. A modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a transport frame (70), the transport frame (70) comprising a first type of fastening device (71), wherein the main battery pack (31) and each of the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) comprises a second type of fastening device (81), the second type of fastening device being configured to be detachably attached to the first type of fastening device (71) for transporting the main battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) in the transport frame (70).

10. A modular battery pack device (30) according to claim 9, wherein the first type fastening device (71) includes a plurality of first fastening structures (72, 73, 74, 75), each of the first fastening structures (72, 73, 74, 75) being associated with a corresponding battery pack among the main battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51), and wherein at least two of the plurality of first fastening structures (72, 73, 74, 75) are arranged side by side for mechanically connecting the main battery pack (31) and at least one of the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) adjacent to each other in the transport frame (70).

11. The modular battery pack device (30) according to claim 10, wherein the at least two first fastening structures (72, 73, 74, 75) arranged side by side are releasably attached to each other.

12. A modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the second type fastening device (81) includes a plurality of second fastening structures (82, 83, 84, 85), each of the second fastening structures (82, 83, 84, 85) being associated with a corresponding battery pack among the main battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51), and wherein each of the second fastening structures (82, 83, 84, 85) is detachably attached to a corresponding first fastening structure (72, 73, 74, 75) of the transport frame (70).

13. A modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the battery disconnect unit (33) is configured to simultaneously disconnect the master battery pack (31) and the one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) from the load or the power source.

14. The modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the battery disconnect unit (33) comprises at least one contactor (33a, 33b).

15. A modular battery pack device (30) according to claim 14, wherein the battery disconnect unit (33) includes a positive contactor (33a) arranged on the positive side of a main battery pack (31) and one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) connected in series, and a negative contactor (33b) arranged on the negative side of the main battery pack (31) and one or more slave battery packs (41, 51) connected in series.

16. A modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the battery disconnect unit (33) comprises a PCB (33c), which includes a battery management function.

17. The modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein each of the slave battery pack housings (142, 152) does not accommodate a battery disconnect unit including at least one contactor.

18. A vehicle (1) comprising a modular battery pack device (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. The vehicle (1) according to claim 18, further comprising an electric motor (10) for propelling the vehicle (1), the electric motor (10) being powered by the modular battery pack device (30).

20. The vehicle (1) according to claim 19, wherein the operating voltage of the modular battery pack device (30) can be adapted by the number of slave battery packs (41, 51) in the modular battery pack device (30), and wherein the number of slave battery packs (41, 51) in the modular battery pack device (30) corresponds to relevant requirements of the motor (10).

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