Battery pack apparatus including battery disconnect unit

Abstract

The present application relates to a battery pack device comprising a battery disconnect unit, in particular to a battery pack device (31) comprising: a housing (40) having an opening (42); a battery pack (50) comprising a plurality of battery cells (52) electrically connected to battery pack terminals (54) of the battery pack (50), the battery pack (50) being arranged in the case (40); a battery disconnect unit (60) configured to disconnect the battery pack (50) from a high voltage connection (100) for the load and / or the power source (10); a tray (70) supporting the battery disconnect unit (60), where the tray (70) is telescopically arranged in the housing (40) such that the tray (70) supporting the battery disconnect unit (60) is movable through the opening (42) of the housing (40) to access the battery disconnect unit (60).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a battery pack device. In particular aspects, the present disclosure relates to a battery pack device including a battery disconnect unit. The present disclosure may be applicable to heavy vehicles such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment, as well as other types of transportation vehicles 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 generally include an engine for propelling the vehicle. The engine can be powered in various ways, such as by burning a liquid or gaseous fuel in a combustion engine or an internal combustion engine. Alternatively, the vehicle can be propelled by electric power in an electric motor. In addition, 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-vehicle charger. Such chargers are generally referred to as power sources.

[0004] In many applications, the battery pack is controlled by a battery disconnect unit, which is used to connect and disconnect the battery pack from the load. However, accessing the battery disconnect unit is often cumbersome, and thus the industry requires improved devices. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery pack device, comprising: a housing having an opening; a battery pack including a plurality of battery cells electrically connected to battery pack terminals of the battery pack, the battery pack being disposed within the housing; a battery disconnect unit configured to disconnect the battery pack from a high voltage connection to a load and / or a power source; a tray supporting the battery disconnect unit; wherein the tray is telescopically disposed within the housing such that the tray supporting the battery disconnect unit is movable through the opening of the housing to access the battery disconnect unit. The first aspect of the present disclosure may seek to overcome the problem of accessing the battery disconnect unit. That is, since the tray supporting the battery disconnect unit is movable relative to the housing and is configured to move through the opening of the housing in a telescopic manner, the battery disconnect unit can be accessed in an improved manner. Technical advantages may include generally improving the structure of the battery pack device, particularly the support structure of the battery disconnect unit. In other words, the tray may be configured in a first position within the housing and a second position outside the housing, wherein the tray is configured to move telescopically between the first position and the second position through the opening. For example, the tray may be attached to the housing or a structure within the housing (e.g., a guide rail) in both the first position and the second position. However, according to some examples, the tray may be removably disposed to the housing or a structure within the housing (e.g., a guide rail) and may be removed and detached from the housing or a structure within the housing (e.g., a guide rail) in the second position. In the first position of the tray, the battery disconnect unit is disposed inside the housing, while in the second position of the tray, the battery disconnect unit is disposed outside the housing. The tray may, for example, be slidably movable relative to the housing and may be configured to slide over the opening.

[0006] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit includes a battery pack busbar device electrically connected to the battery pack terminals, wherein the battery pack device further includes: a high-voltage busbar device electrically connected to the high-voltage connection; and a first fastener structure configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the high-voltage busbar device to the battery pack busbar device. Technical advantages can include an effective structure for releasably connecting the battery disconnect unit to the high-voltage connector. Thus, the battery pack busbar device should be understood as the busbar of the battery disconnect unit, which can be electrically connected to the battery pack via the battery pack terminals. The high-voltage connection should be understood as being disposed inside the housing outside the tray. Additionally, the high-voltage busbar device is typically attached to the high-voltage connection, such as fixedly attached to the high-voltage connection. However, when the tray is disposed inside the housing (e.g., the previously mentioned first position of the tray), the high-voltage busbar device can extend from the high-voltage connection to a position above the tray inside the housing. Thereby, the high-voltage busbar device can be arranged adjacent to the battery pack busbar device for electrical connection to the battery pack busbar device. The first fastener structure can be configured in a first state such that the high-voltage busbar device can be electrically and mechanically connected to the battery pack busbar device, and can be configured in a second state such that the high-voltage busbar device can be electrically and mechanically disconnected from the battery pack busbar device. Thus, in the second state, the high-voltage busbar device is physically disconnected from the battery pack busbar device. By reconfiguring the first fastener structure from the first state to the second state, the high-voltage busbar device is released from the battery pack busbar device. According to some examples, the battery disconnect unit is releasably attached to the high-voltage connection via the first fastener structure. For example, by reconfiguring the first fastener structure from the first state to the second state, the battery disconnect unit is released from the high-voltage connection and can thus be telescopically moved relative to the housing via the opening.

[0007] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, each of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device includes a first interaction structure configured to releasably engage with a first fastener structure. Technical advantages may include a favorable structure for interacting with the first fastener structure. Generally, the first interaction structures of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device arranged to interact with a common first fastener structure are aligned. For example, the first interaction structures of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device are aligned about a common central axis, where the first fastener structure is arranged to releasably engage with the first interaction structures of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device along the common central axis. The first fastener structure can be, for example, a fastener such as a threaded screw, a bolt and nut, a clamp, a hook structure, or a snap lock. Accordingly, the first interaction structure can be a threaded through-hole for interacting with a threaded screw, a through-hole for interacting with a bolt, a clamping surface for interacting with a clamp, a hook aperture for interacting with a hook structure, or a snap-receiving surface for interacting with a snap lock.

[0008] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the first fastener structure and the first interaction structure are configured to interact with each other threadedly. Technical advantages may include a reliable interaction between the first fastener structure and the first interaction structures of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device. Thereby, the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device can be firmly and releasably fastened together. As previously mentioned, the first fastener structure can be a threaded screw, and the first interaction structure is accordingly a threaded through-hole.

[0009] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit includes an internal portion facing the high-voltage connection of the load and / or power supply, and an external portion disposed opposite the internal portion with respect to the central axis of the battery disconnect unit, where the first interaction structure for the battery pack busbar device is disposed in the external portion of the battery disconnect unit. Technical advantages may include improved access to the first interaction structure of the battery pack busbar device. Thereby, the first fastener structure can be accessed, for example, through an opening in the housing, from the external portion of the battery disconnect unit, and thus the battery pack busbar device can be released from the high-voltage busbar device by releasing the first fastener structure. Generally, the high-voltage busbar device extends towards and up to the external portion of the battery disconnect unit such that the first interaction structures of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device are aligned for releasable attachment by the first fastener structure. The external portion can, for example, extend from the outer end of the battery disconnect unit towards the central axis and occupy at most 50% of the battery disconnect unit. Thus, when the tray is disposed in its first position (i.e., within the housing), the outer end generally faces away from the high-voltage connection towards the opening of the housing.

[0010] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the high-voltage busbar device is elongate, wherein the first interaction structure of the high-voltage busbar device is arranged at an end of the elongate high-voltage busbar device. Technical advantages may include simplifying the connection to the battery pack busbar device. When the tray is arranged in its first position (i.e., within the housing), the end of the elongate high-voltage busbar device is typically arranged near the first interaction structure of the battery pack busbar device.

[0011] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery pack busbar device is elongate, wherein the first interaction structure of the battery pack busbar device is arranged at an end of the elongate battery pack busbar device. Technical advantages may include simplifying the connection to the high-voltage busbar device. By having an elongate high-voltage busbar device and a battery pack busbar device, the corresponding first interaction structures can advantageously be arranged within the housing to improve access to the first interaction structures and the first fastener structures for releasably attaching the first interaction structures of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device.

[0012] Optionally, in some examples, including at least one preferred example, the battery pack device further comprises a second fastener structure configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the battery pack busbar device to the battery pack terminal. Technical advantages may include an effective structure for releasably connecting the battery disconnect unit to the battery pack terminal. The battery pack terminal should be understood to be arranged inside the housing outside the tray. In addition, the battery pack terminal is generally attached to the battery pack, such as, for example, forming a part of the battery pack. However, when the tray is arranged inside the housing (e.g., the previously mentioned first position of the tray), the battery pack terminal can extend from the battery pack to a position within the housing below the tray or flush with the tray. Thus, the battery pack terminal can be arranged in close proximity to the battery pack busbar device so as to be electrically connected thereto. The second fastener structure can be configured in a first state so that the battery pack terminal can be electrically and mechanically connected to the battery pack busbar device, and can be configured in a second state so that the battery pack terminal can be electrically and mechanically disconnected from the battery pack busbar device. Therefore, in the second state, the battery pack terminal is physically disconnected from the battery pack busbar device. By reconfiguring the first fastener structure from the first state to the second state, the battery pack terminal is released from the battery pack busbar device. According to some examples, the battery disconnect unit is releasably attached to the battery pack via the second fastener structure. For example, by reconfiguring the second fastener structure from the first state to the second state, the battery disconnect unit is released from the battery pack and can therefore be telescopically moved relative to the housing via the opening. According to some examples, the battery disconnect unit is releasably attached to the battery pack and the high-voltage connection via the first fastener structure and the second fastener structure. For example, by reconfiguring the first fastener structure and the second fastener structure from the first state to the second state, the battery disconnect unit is released from the battery pack and the high-voltage connection and can therefore be telescopically moved relative to the housing via the opening.

[0013] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, each of the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device includes a second interaction structure configured to releasably engage with the second fastener structure. Technical advantages may include a favorable structure for interacting with the second fastener structure. Generally, the second interaction structures of the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device arranged to interact with a common second fastener structure are aligned. For example, the second interaction structures of the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device are aligned about a common central axis, wherein the second fastener structure is arranged to releasably engage with the second interaction structures of the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device along the common central axis. The second fastener structure can be, for example, a fastener such as a threaded screw, a bolt and nut, a clamp, a hook structure, or a snap lock. Accordingly, the second interaction structure can be a threaded through-hole for interacting with a threaded screw, a through-hole for interacting with a bolt, a clamping surface for interacting with a clamp, a hook aperture for interacting with a hook structure, or a snap-receiving surface for interacting with a snap lock.

[0014] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the second fastener structure and the second interaction structure are configured to interact threadedly with each other. Technical advantages may include a reliable interaction between the second fastener structure and the second interaction structures of the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device. Thereby, the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device can be firmly and releasably fastened together. As previously mentioned, the second fastener structure can be a threaded screw, and the second interaction structure is accordingly a threaded through-hole.

[0015] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the second interaction structure of the battery pack busbar device is arranged in an external portion of the battery disconnect unit. Technical advantages may include improved access to the second interaction structure of the battery pack busbar device. Thereby, the second fastener structure can be accessed, for example, through an opening in the housing in the external portion of the battery disconnect unit, and thus the battery pack busbar device can be released from the battery pack terminal by releasing the second fastener structure. Generally, the battery pack terminal faces the battery disconnect unit such that the second interaction structures of the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device are aligned for releasable attachment by the second fastener structure.

[0016] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the previously mentioned end of the battery pack busbar device is a first end, and wherein the elongated battery pack busbar device includes a second end arranged at an end opposite to the first end, and wherein the second interaction structure of the battery pack busbar device is arranged in the second end of the elongated battery pack busbar device. Technical advantages may include simplified connection to the battery pack terminal.

[0017] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery pack busbar device includes: a positive battery pack busbar that is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal of the battery pack terminal; and a negative battery pack busbar that is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal of the battery pack terminal. Technical advantages can include improving the structure of the battery pack busbar device for both the positive and negative sides of the battery pack busbar device. The positive battery pack busbar and the negative battery pack busbar can be arranged to transfer high voltage (e.g., a voltage exceeding 100 V) from the battery pack to the high voltage connection via a battery disconnect unit. That is, the battery disconnect unit is typically arranged between the main positive terminal and the main negative terminal of the battery pack terminal and the high voltage connection. Accordingly, all features associated with the previously mentioned battery pack busbar device apply to each of the positive battery pack busbar and the negative battery pack busbar. Thus, the positive battery pack busbar is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal of the battery pack terminal by a second fastener structure and a second interaction structure. Correspondingly, the negative battery pack busbar is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal of the battery pack terminal by a second fastener structure and a second interaction structure.

[0018] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the high voltage busbar device includes: a positive high voltage busbar that is electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal of the high voltage connection; and a negative high voltage busbar that is electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal of the high voltage connection. Technical advantages can include improving the structure of the high voltage busbar device for both the positive and negative sides of the battery pack busbar device. The positive high voltage busbar and the negative high voltage busbar can be arranged to transfer high voltage from the battery pack and the battery disconnect unit to the high voltage connection. That is, the battery disconnect unit is typically arranged between the high voltage connection and the main positive terminal and the main negative terminal of the battery pack. Accordingly, all features associated with the previously mentioned high voltage busbar device apply to each of the positive high voltage busbar and the negative high voltage busbar. Thus, the positive high voltage busbar is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the positive battery pack busbar by a first fastener structure and a first interaction structure. Correspondingly, the negative high voltage busbar is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the negative battery pack busbar by a first fastener structure and a first interaction structure.

[0019] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery pack device further includes at least one contactor configured to electrically connect and disconnect the battery pack from the high-voltage connection, wherein the contactor is arranged in the battery pack bus device. Technical advantages may include an effective structure for electrically connecting and disconnecting the battery pack from the high-voltage connection without mechanically disconnecting the battery disconnect unit from the battery pack and / or the high-voltage connection. For example, the at least one contactor may include a first contactor or a positive contactor arranged in the positive battery pack bus for electrically connecting and disconnecting the positive terminal of the battery pack terminal and the positive terminal of the high-voltage connection. For example, the at least one contactor may include a second contactor or a negative contactor arranged in the negative battery pack bus for electrically connecting and disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery pack terminal and the negative terminal of the high-voltage connection.

[0020] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the tray is arranged above the battery pack. Technical advantages may include the advantageous position of the tray and the battery disconnect unit relative to the battery pack. In other words, the tray is arranged at a higher vertical position compared to the battery pack. The tray may be arranged, for example, between the battery pack and the high-voltage connection.

[0021] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery pack device further includes a guide rail arranged in the housing adjacent to the opening, the guide rail including a first engagement surface, wherein the tray includes a second engagement surface configured to move along the first engagement surface when the tray moves through the opening of the housing. Technical advantages may include an advantageous structure for enabling the telescopic movement of the tray relative to the housing. For example, the first engagement surface may be arranged to always be in contact with the second engagement surface. The first engagement surface may be included in an elongated slot or track of the guide rail, and the second engagement surface may be included in a wheel of the tray. Alternatively, the second engagement surface is a flat surface of the tray, typically arranged in the lateral side of the tray, wherein when the tray is telescopically moved from the inside of the housing to the outside of the housing via the opening (i.e., moved between the previously mentioned first position and second position of the tray), the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface are arranged to slide relative to each other.

[0022] Optionally, in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the battery disconnect unit includes a PCB that includes battery management functions. Technical advantages may include improved functionality of the battery disconnect unit. It should be understood that the battery disconnect unit may further include additional components, such as one or more fuses, in addition to including at least one contactor and / or the PCB. Such fuses may be arranged, for example, in the battery pack bus device.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided that includes the 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. Thus, 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 in at least one preferred example, the vehicle further includes an electric motor for propelling the vehicle, the electric motor being powered by the battery pack device.

[0025] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or appended claims may be appropriately combined with each other. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims, and drawings, and will be in part apparent to those of skill in the art or will be recognized by practicing the present disclosure as described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is an exemplary partial schematic side view of an electric vehicle according to an example, the electric vehicle including an electric motor for propelling the vehicle and a battery pack device for powering the electric motor.

[0027] Figure 2 is an exemplary partial schematic perspective view of a battery pack device according to an example.

[0028] Figure 3 is an exemplary partial schematic perspective view of a battery pack device according to an example.

[0029] Figure 4 is an exemplary partial schematic top view of a battery disconnect unit supported by a tray in a battery pack device according to an example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology in sufficient detail for those of skill in the art to practice the present disclosure.

[0031] The disclosed technology can solve problems related to accessing the battery disconnect unit of a battery pack device. The disclosed technology provides an improved electrical interface that at least corresponds to the battery disconnect unit. Since the tray supporting the battery disconnect unit is movable relative to the housing of the battery pack, and since the tray is configured to move through an opening in the housing in a retractable manner, the battery disconnect unit can be accessed in an improved manner. Technical advantages can include generally improving the structure of the battery pack device, and in particular, improving the support structure of the battery disconnect unit. By providing a retractable tray, the tray can be arranged in a first position within the housing and a second position outside the housing, such that the battery disconnect unit can be accessed outside the housing in an improved manner.

[0032] Figure 1 A vehicle 1 in the form of an exemplary heavy-duty truck is shown. The vehicle 1 is an electric vehicle, such as a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, that includes at least one electric motor 10 (as a traction motor) powered by a battery pack system 30, where in Figure 1 the example, the battery pack system 30 includes at least one battery pack device 31. However, as Figure 1 shown, the battery pack system 30 can include additional battery pack devices 131, 231. At least one battery pack device 31 is configured to power at least one load, such as the electric motor 10. In addition, the vehicle 1 includes a control unit 17 that is arranged and configured to control at least part of the operation of the battery pack system 30, such as the operation of the battery disconnect unit of at least one battery pack device 31. The 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 electrical power provided by at least one battery pack device 31, for example, to provide propulsion power, and can act as a generator to generate electrical power to charge at least one battery pack device 31.

[0033] In Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the battery pack device 31 is shown in more detail. However, Figure 1 each of the additional battery pack devices 131, 231 shown in Figure 2 can be arranged accordingly. The battery pack device 31 includes a housing 40 having an opening 42. The opening 42 is generally arranged at the top of the housing 40, as shown by the dashed rectangular box in Figure 2(shown schematically in). A plurality of battery cells 52 can be connected in series and / or in parallel. For example, a predetermined number of battery cells in the battery pack 50 can be connected in parallel to form a "logic unit", and then several "logic units" can be connected in series inside the battery pack 50. It should be noted that in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the top wall and the side wall of the housing 40 are made transparent to improve the visibility of the components inside the housing 40.

[0034] In addition, the battery pack device 31 includes a battery disconnect unit 60 configured to disconnect the battery pack 50 from the high-voltage connection 100 for the load and / or the power source. For example, the high-voltage connection 100 can be electrically connected to Figure 1 the motor 10. The high-voltage connection 100 can be at least partially arranged outside the battery pack device 31 and / or can be at least partially arranged inside the housing 40.

[0035] The battery pack device 31 also includes a tray 70 that supports the battery disconnect unit 60. In Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the tray 70 is arranged vertically above the battery pack 50. Generally, the battery disconnect unit 60 is fixedly attached to the tray 70 and can thus move with the tray 70. The tray 70 is telescopically arranged in the housing 40 such that the tray 70 can be configured to move through the opening 42 of the housing 40 to access the battery disconnect unit 60. That is, the tray 70 can be configured in Figure 2 the first position inside the housing 40 shown in Figure 3 and the second position outside the housing 40 shown in

[0036] Figure 2 and Figure 3 . Thus, the tray 70 is configured to move telescopically between the first position and the second position through the opening 42. In other words, the battery disconnect unit 60 is arranged to move with the tray 70 from the first position inside the housing 40 to the second position outside the housing 40. Thereby, the battery disconnect unit 60 can be moved from the inside of the housing 40 to the outside of the housing 40 to improve access. Figure 3As best shown, the battery pack device 31 includes guide rails 44 disposed in the housing 40 adjacent to the opening 42. The guide rails 44 are generally disposed on the inner side walls of the housing 40 and extend into the housing 40 from the opening 42. The guide rails 44 include first engaging surfaces 44a, 44b, typically a first engaging surface 44a disposed in the first inner side wall of the housing 40 among the first engaging surfaces 44a, 44b and a second engaging surface 44b disposed in the opposite second inner side wall of the housing 40 among the first engaging surfaces 44a, 44b. In addition, the tray 70 may include corresponding second engaging surfaces 70a, 70b, here illustrated as a first engaging surface 70a disposed in a lateral side portion (such as a first outer side wall) of the tray 70 among the second engaging surfaces 70a, 70b and a second engaging surface 70b disposed in an opposite lateral side portion (such as a second outer side wall) of the tray 70 among the second engaging surfaces 70a, 70b. The first engaging surfaces 44a, 44b and the second engaging surfaces 70a, 70b are configured to engage with each other when the tray 70 moves through the opening 42 of the housing 40 (e.g., from a first position to a second position). In Figure 2 and Figure 3 the example of, the second engaging surfaces 70a, 70b are flat surfaces of the first outer side wall and the second outer side wall of the tray 70. Thus, when the tray 70 is telescopically moved from inside the housing 40 to outside the housing 40 via the opening 42, the first engaging surfaces 40a, 40b and the second engaging surfaces 70a, 70b are arranged to slide relative to each other. It is worth mentioning that the tray 70 may be detachably arranged on the guide rails 44 and can thus be moved outside the housing 40 together with the battery disconnect unit 60.

[0037] With further reference to Figure 4 (which shows the tray 70 and the battery disconnect unit 60 in more detail), the battery pack device 31 will be further described in connection with Figure 2 and Figure 3 As Figure 4 shown, the battery disconnect unit 60 is supported on the tray 70 and may be attached to the tray 70 by fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts), by adhesives, by welding or any other suitable means. The battery disconnect unit 60 includes a battery pack bus device 64 electrically connected to the battery pack terminal 54.

[0038] The battery pack bus device 64 includes: a positive battery pack bus 64a that is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal 54a among the battery pack terminals 54; and a negative battery pack bus 64b that is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal 54b among the battery pack terminals 54. The battery pack device 31 further includes a high-voltage bus device 62 electrically connected to the high-voltage connection 100. In Figure 4In the example, the high-voltage busbar device 62 includes: a positive high-voltage busbar 62a, which is electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal 100a of the high-voltage connection 100; and a negative high-voltage busbar 62b, which is electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal 100b of the high-voltage connection 100. Therefore, the positive battery pack busbar 64a, the negative battery pack busbar 64b, the positive high-voltage busbar 62a, and the negative high-voltage busbar 62b are arranged to transfer high voltage (usually a voltage exceeding 100 V or a voltage exceeding 200 V, such as, for example, between 200 V and 1000 V or between 600 V and 1000 V) from the battery pack 50 to the high-voltage connection 100 via the battery disconnect unit 60.

[0039] The battery pack device 31 may further include a first fastening structure 80, which is configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the high-voltage busbar device 62 to the battery pack busbar device 64. More specifically, the first fastening structure 80a in the first fastening structure 80 releasably connects the positive battery pack busbar 64a to the positive high-voltage busbar 62a, and the second fastening structure 80b in the first fastening structure 80 releasably connects the negative battery pack busbar 64b to the negative high-voltage busbar 62b. Each of the first fastening structures 80a, 80b may be, for example, a screw or a bolt, and may be arranged in a first state such that the corresponding positive high-voltage busbar 62a and negative high-voltage busbar 62b can be electrically and mechanically connected to the corresponding positive battery pack busbar 64a and negative battery pack busbar 64b, and may be arranged in a second state such that the corresponding positive high-voltage busbar 62a and negative high-voltage busbar 62b can be electrically and mechanically disconnected from the corresponding positive battery pack busbar 64a and negative battery pack busbar 64b.

[0040] For example, and as Figure 3As best shown, each of the high-voltage busbar device 62 and the battery pack busbar device 64 includes a corresponding first interaction structure 63, 65, which is configured to releasably engage with the first fastener structure 80. More specifically, each of the positive high-voltage busbar 62a and the negative high-voltage busbar 62b includes a corresponding first interaction structure 63a, 63b, and each of the positive battery pack busbar 64a and the negative battery pack busbar 64b includes a corresponding first interaction structure 65a, 65b. Thus, the first fastener structure 80a in the first fastener structure 80 releasably connects the positive battery pack busbar 64a to the positive high-voltage busbar 62a through the first pair of first interaction structures 63a, 65a of the positive high-voltage busbar 62a and the positive battery pack busbar 64a, and the second fastener structure 80b in the first fastener structure 80 releasably connects the negative battery pack busbar 64b to the negative high-voltage busbar 62b through the second pair of first interaction structures 63b, 65b of the negative high-voltage busbar 62b and the negative battery pack busbar 64b. The first interaction structures 63a, 63b, 65a, 65b can be, for example, threaded through-holes, and the first fastener structures 80a, 80b can be, for example, threaded screws. Thus, by aligning the threaded through-holes of the first pair of first interaction structures 63a, 65a, the threaded screw of the first fastener structure 80a in the first fastener structure 80 can threadedly interact with the threaded through-hole in the first state of the first fastener structure 80. By releasing the threaded screw of the first fastener structure 80a in the first fastener structure 80 from the threaded through-hole, the first fastener structure 80 enters its second state, and the positive high-voltage busbar 62a is physically disconnected from the positive battery pack busbar 64a. In addition, by aligning the threaded through-holes of the second pair of first interaction structures 63b, 65b, the threaded screw of the second fastener structure 80b in the first fastener structure 80 can threadedly interact with the threaded through-hole in the first state of the first fastener structure 80. By releasing the threaded screw of the second fastener structure 80b in the first fastener structure 80 from the threaded through-hole, the first fastener structure 80 enters its second state, and the negative high-voltage busbar 62b is physically disconnected from the negative battery pack busbar 64b.

[0041] The battery pack device 31 may further include a second fastening structure 90 configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the battery pack busbar device 64 to the battery pack terminal 54. More specifically, a first fastening structure 90a in the second fastening structure 90 releasably connects the positive battery pack busbar 64a to the positive terminal 54a of the battery pack terminal 54, and a second fastening structure 90b in the second fastening structure 90 releasably connects the negative battery pack busbar 64b to the negative terminal 54b of the battery pack terminal 54. Each of the second fastening structures 90a, 90b may be, for example, a screw or a bolt, and may be arranged in a first state such that the corresponding positive battery pack busbar 64a and negative battery pack busbar 64b can be electrically and mechanically connected to the corresponding positive terminal 54a and negative terminal 54b of the battery pack terminal 54, and may be arranged in a second state such that the corresponding positive battery pack busbar 64a and negative battery pack busbar 64b can be electrically and mechanically disconnected from the corresponding positive terminal 54a and negative terminal 54b of the battery pack terminal 54.

[0042] For example, each of the battery pack busbar device 64 and the battery pack terminal 54 includes a corresponding second interaction structure 67, 55 configured to releasably engage with the second fastener structure 90. More specifically, each of the positive battery pack busbar 64a and the negative battery pack busbar 64b includes a corresponding second interaction structure 67a, 67b, and each of the positive terminal 54a and the negative terminal 54b of the battery pack terminal 54 includes a corresponding second interaction structure 55a, 55b. Thus, the first fastener structure 90a of the second fastener structure 90 releasably connects the positive battery pack busbar 64a to the positive terminal 54a of the battery pack terminal 54 through the first pair of second interaction structures 67a, 55a of the positive battery pack busbar 64a and the positive terminal 54a, and the second fastener structure 90b of the second fastener structure 90 releasably connects the negative battery pack busbar 64b to the negative terminal 54b of the battery pack terminal 54 through the second pair of second interaction structures 67b, 55b of the negative battery pack busbar 64b and the negative terminal 54b. The second interaction structures 67a, 67b, 55a, 55b can be, for example, threaded through holes, and the second fastener structures 90a, 90b can be threaded screws. Thus, by aligning the threaded through holes of the first pair of second interaction structures 67a, 55a, the threaded screw of the first fastener structure 90a of the second fastener structure 90 can threadedly interact with the threaded through hole in the second state of the first fastener structure 90. By releasing the threaded screw of the first fastener structure 90a of the second fastener structure 90 from the threaded through hole, the second fastener structure 90 enters its second state, and the positive battery pack busbar 65a is physically disconnected from the positive terminal 54a of the battery pack terminal 54. In addition, by aligning the threaded through holes of the second pair of second interaction structures 67b, 55b, the threaded screw of the second fastener structure 90b of the second fastener structure 90 can threadedly interact with the threaded through hole in the second state of the first fastener structure 90. By releasing the threaded screw of the second fastener structure 90b of the second fastener structure 90 from the threaded through hole, the second fastener structure 90 enters its second state, and the negative battery pack busbar 65b is physically disconnected from the negative terminal 54b of the battery pack terminal 54.

[0043] Thus, by reconfiguring the first fastener structure 80 and the second fastener structure 90 from the first state to the second state (e.g., by unscrewing the threaded screws of the first fastener structure 80a, 80b and the second fastener structure 90a, 90b from the threaded through-holes of the first interaction structures 63a, 63b, 65a, 65b and the second interaction structures 67a, 67b, 55a, 55b), the battery disconnect unit 60 can be released from the battery pack 50 and the high-voltage connection 100. Thereby, the battery cut-off unit 60 can move freely relative to the housing 40 and can move telescopically relative to the housing 40 together with the tray 70 through the opening 42.

[0044] As Figures 2 to 4 shown, the battery disconnect unit 60 can include an inner portion 60a facing the high-voltage connection 100 and an outer portion 60b disposed opposite the inner portion 60a about the central axis C of the battery disconnect unit 60. In other words, when the tray 70 is disposed in the first position (i.e., inside the housing 40), the outer portion 60b is disposed closer to the opening 42 than the inner portion 60a. In other words, the inner portion 60a is disposed closer to the high-voltage connection 100 than the outer portion 60b.

[0045] Generally, the first interaction structures 65a, 65b of the battery pack busbar device 64 are disposed in the outer portion 60b of the battery disconnect unit 60. Thereby, the first fastener structure 80 can be accessed, for example, through the opening 42 in the housing 40 in the outer portion 60b of the battery disconnect unit 60. Thus, the battery pack busbar device 64 can be released from the high-voltage busbar device 62 by releasing the first fastener structure 80, as described above.

[0046] Accordingly, the first interaction structures 63a, 63b of the high-voltage busbar device 62 are disposed to extend from the high-voltage connection 100 up to the outer portion 60b of the battery disconnect unit 60. Thereby, the first interaction structures 63a, 63b, 65a, 65b of the high-voltage busbar device 62 and the battery pack busbar device 64 can be aligned for releasable attachment by the first fastener structure 80. Preferably, the high-voltage busbar device 62 is elongated. That is, in Figure 2 and Figure 4 the example of, each of the positive high-voltage busbar 62a and the negative high-voltage busbar 62b is elongated and extends from the high-voltage connection 100 towards the opening 42 of the housing 40. Generally, the first interaction structures 63a, 63b of the high-voltage busbar device 62 are disposed at the ends 62c of the elongated high-voltage busbar device 62 (as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in the corresponding ends of the positive high-voltage bus 62a and the negative high-voltage bus 62b). Accordingly, and as a supplement or alternative to the elongated high-voltage bus device 62, the battery pack bus device 64 is elongated. That is, in Figures 2 to 4 's example, each of the positive battery pack bus 64a and the negative battery pack bus 64b is elongated. Generally, the first interaction structures 65a, 65b of the battery pack bus device 64 are arranged in the ends 64c of the elongated battery pack bus device 64 (as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, in the corresponding ends of the positive battery pack bus 64a and the negative battery pack bus 64b).

[0047] The battery disconnect unit 60 may include, for example, at least one contactor to electrically connect and disconnect the battery pack 50 from the high-voltage connection 100. For example, the battery disconnect unit 60 may include a first contactor 68a arranged in the positive battery pack bus 64a for electrically connecting and disconnecting the positive terminal 54a of the battery pack terminals 54 and the positive terminal 100a of the high-voltage connection 100, and / or include a second contactor 68b arranged in the negative battery pack bus 64b for electrically connecting and disconnecting the negative terminal 54b of the battery pack terminals 54 and the negative terminal 100b of the high-voltage connection 100. The battery disconnect unit 60 may include additional components, such as, for example, a PCB 69 including a battery management function and / or one or more fuses (schematically shown in Figure 3 ).

[0048] Example 1. A battery pack device, comprising: a housing having an opening; a battery pack including a plurality of battery cells electrically connected to battery pack terminals of the battery pack, the battery pack being arranged in the housing; a battery disconnect unit configured to disconnect the battery pack from a high-voltage connection for a load and / or a power source; a tray supporting the battery disconnect unit, wherein the tray is telescopically arranged in the housing such that the tray supporting the battery disconnect unit can move through the opening of the housing to access the battery disconnect unit.

[0049] Example 2. The battery pack device according to Example 1, wherein the battery disconnect unit includes a battery pack bus device electrically connected to the battery pack terminals, and wherein the battery pack device further includes: a high-voltage bus device electrically connected to the high-voltage connection; and a first fastening structure configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the high-voltage bus device to the battery pack bus device.

[0050] Example 3. The battery pack device as described in Example 2, wherein each of the high-voltage busbar device and the battery pack busbar device includes a first interaction structure configured to releasably engage with the first fastener structure.

[0051] Example 4. The battery pack device as described in Example 3, wherein the first fastener structure and the first interaction structure are configured to interact with each other threadably.

[0052] Example 5. The battery pack device as described in any one of Examples 3 to 4, wherein the battery disconnect unit includes an internal portion facing the high-voltage connection of the load and / or power supply, and an external portion disposed opposite to the internal portion with respect to the central axis of the battery disconnect unit, and wherein the first interaction structure for the battery pack busbar device is disposed in the external portion of the battery disconnect unit.

[0053] Example 6. The battery pack device as described in any one of Examples 3 to 5, wherein the high-voltage busbar device is elongate, and wherein the first interaction structure of the high-voltage busbar device is disposed at an end of the elongate high-voltage busbar device.

[0054] Example 7. The battery pack device as described in any one of Examples 3 to 6, wherein the battery pack busbar device is elongate, and wherein the first interaction structure of the battery pack busbar device is disposed at an end of the elongate battery pack busbar device.

[0055] Example 8. The battery pack device as described in any one of Examples 2 to 7, further comprising a second fastener structure configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the battery pack busbar device to the battery pack terminal.

[0056] Example 9. The battery pack device as described in Example 8, wherein each of the battery pack terminal and the battery pack busbar device includes a second interaction structure configured to releasably engage with the second fastener structure.

[0057] Example 10. The battery pack device as described in Example 9, wherein the second fastener structure and the second interaction structure are configured to interact with each other threadably.

[0058] Example 11. The battery pack device as described in any one of Examples 8 to 10, wherein the battery pack busbar device includes: a positive battery pack busbar releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal of the battery pack terminals; and a negative battery pack busbar releasably electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal of the battery pack terminals.

[0059] Example 12. The battery pack device according to any one of Examples 2 to 11, wherein the high-voltage bus device includes: a positive high-voltage bus electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal of the high-voltage connection; and a negative high-voltage bus electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal of the high-voltage connection.

[0060] Example 13. The battery pack device according to any one of Examples 2 to 12, further comprising at least one contactor configured to electrically connect and disconnect the battery pack from the high-voltage connection, wherein the contactor is arranged in the battery pack bus device.

[0061] Example 14. The battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the tray is arranged above the battery pack.

[0062] Example 15. The battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, further comprising guide rails arranged in the housing adjacent to the opening, the guide rails including a first engagement surface, wherein the tray includes a second engagement surface configured to move along the first engagement surface when the tray moves through the opening of the housing.

[0063] Example 16. The 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.

[0064] Example 17. A vehicle comprising the battery pack device according to any one of Examples 1 to 16.

[0065] Example 18. The vehicle according to Example 17, further comprising a motor for propelling the vehicle, the motor being powered by the battery pack device.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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, the first element may be referred to as the second element, and similarly, the second element may be referred to as the first element.

[0068] 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 also intended to cover different device orientations in addition to the orientations 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 an intermediate element may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element, no intermediate element is present.

[0069] 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.

[0070] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and shown in the drawings; 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 drawings 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 battery pack device (31), comprising: - a housing (40) having an opening (42); - a battery pack (50) comprising a plurality of battery cells (52) electrically connected to a battery pack terminal (54) of the battery pack (50), the battery pack (50) being arranged in the housing (40); - a battery disconnect unit (60) configured to disconnect the battery pack (50) from a high voltage connection (100) for a load and / or a power source (10); - a tray (70) supporting the battery disconnect unit (60), wherein the tray (70) is telescopically arranged in the housing (40) so that the tray (70) supporting the battery disconnect unit (60) can be moved through the opening (42) of the housing (40) to access the battery disconnect unit (60).

2. The battery pack device (31) of claim 1, wherein the battery disconnect unit (60) comprises a battery pack bus bar device (64) electrically connected to the battery pack terminal (54), and wherein the battery pack device (31) further comprises: a high voltage busbar arrangement (62), the high voltage busbar arrangement being electrically connected to the high voltage connection (100); and a first fastener structure (80) configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the high voltage busbar assembly (62) to the battery pack busbar assembly (64).

3. The battery pack device (31) of claim 2, wherein each of the high-voltage busbar device (62) and the battery pack busbar device (64) includes a first interaction structure (63, 65), and the first interaction structure is configured to releasably engage with the first fastener structure (80).

4. The battery pack device (31) of claim 3, wherein the second fastener structure (80) and the second interaction structure (63, 65) are configured to threadingly interact with each other.

5. A battery pack device (31) as described in any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein the battery disconnect unit (60) includes an inner part (60a) of the high voltage connection (100) facing the load and / or power source (10), and an outer part (60b) arranged relative to the inner part (60a) with respect to the central axis (C) of the battery disconnect unit (60), and wherein the first interaction structure (65) for the battery pack busbar device (64) is arranged in the outer part (60b) of the battery disconnect unit (60).

6. A battery pack device (31) as described in any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the high-voltage busbar device (62) is elongated, and wherein the first interaction structure (63) of the high-voltage busbar device (62) is arranged in the end (62c) of the elongated high-voltage busbar device (62).

7. A battery pack device (31) as described in any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the battery pack busbar device (64) is elongated, and wherein the first interaction structure (65) of the battery pack busbar device (64) is arranged in the end (64c) of the elongated battery pack busbar device (64).

8. The battery pack device (31) as described in any one of claims 2 to 7 further includes a second fastener structure (90), which is configured to releasably electrically and mechanically connect the battery pack busbar device (64) to the battery pack terminal (54).

9. The battery pack device (31) of claim 8, wherein each of the battery pack terminal (54) and the battery pack busbar device (64) includes a second interaction structure (67), and the second interaction structure is configured to releasably engage with the second fastener structure (90).

10. The battery pack device of claim 9, wherein the second fastener structure (90) and the second interaction structure (67) are configured to threadingly interact with each other.

11. The battery pack device (31) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the battery pack busbar device (64) comprises: a positive battery pack bus bar (64a) which is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to a positive terminal (54a) among the battery pack terminals (54); and a negative battery pack bus bar (64b) which is releasably electrically and mechanically connected to a negative terminal (54b) among the battery pack terminals (54).

12. The battery pack device (31) according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the high-voltage busbar device (62) comprises: a positive high-voltage busbar (62a) electrically and mechanically connected to the positive terminal (100a) of the high-voltage connection (100); and a negative high-voltage busbar (62b) electrically and mechanically connected to the negative terminal (100b) of the high-voltage connection (100).

13. A battery pack device (31) as described in any one of claims 2 to 12, further comprising at least one contactor (68a, 68b), wherein the at least one contactor is configured to electrically connect and disconnect the battery pack (50) to the high voltage connection (100), wherein the contactor (68a, 68b) is arranged in the battery pack busbar device (64).

14. The battery pack device (31) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the tray (70) is arranged above the battery pack (50).

15. A battery pack device (31) as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a guide rail (44) arranged in the shell (40) adjacent to the opening (42), the guide rail (44) comprising a first engaging surface (44a, 44b), wherein the tray (70) comprises a second engaging surface (70a, 70b), the second engaging surface being configured to move along the first engaging surface (44a, 44b) when the tray (70) moves through the opening (42) of the shell (40).

16. The battery pack device (31) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the battery disconnect unit (60) comprises a PCB (69), which includes a battery management function.

17. A vehicle (1) comprising a battery pack device (31, 32, 33) according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. The vehicle (1) according to claim 17, further comprising an electric motor (10) for propelling the vehicle (1), the electric motor (10) being powered by the battery pack device (31, 32, 33).

Images