Coolant tank for battery module, battery module, battery pack, and vehicle

Abstract

Disclosed is a battery module (3; the invention relates to a coolant tank (1, 1 ') comprising a plurality of wall segments (w1-w6, w1'-w6 ') of the coolant tank (1, 1'), where the coolant tank (1, 1 ') is configured to contain coolant in an internal volume (V, V') delimited by a plurality of wall segments (w1-w6, w1 '-w6') of the coolant tank (1, 1 '), where one wall segment (w1, w1') of the plurality of wall segments (w1-w6, w1 '-w6') forms a plurality of recessed configurations (4, 4 '), each comprising an outer surface (6, 6') delimiting the internal volume (V, V ') of the coolant tank (1, 1') and an inner surface (4, 4 ') delimiting a plurality of battery cells (8, 8 '). The disclosure also relates to a battery module (3, 3'), a battery pack (10) and a vehicle (2).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a coolant tank for a battery module. The present disclosure also relates to a battery module comprising a coolant tank, a battery pack comprising a plurality of battery modules, and a vehicle comprising a plurality of battery packs. BACKGROUND

[0002] Vehicles using electric power for propulsion have many advantages, especially in terms of local emissions. Such vehicles include one or more electric propulsion motors configured to provide power to the vehicle. These types of vehicles can be classified as pure electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles. Pure electric vehicles, sometimes referred to as battery electric vehicles, electric-only vehicles, and all-electric vehicles, include a pure electric powertrain and do not include an internal combustion engine, and therefore do not produce emissions where they are used.

[0003] Hybrid electric vehicles include two or more different types of power, such as an internal combustion engine and an electric propulsion system. The combination of the internal combustion engine and the electric propulsion system provides advantages in terms of energy efficiency, in part because the internal combustion engine is less energy efficient at lower power output levels. In addition, some hybrid electric vehicles are capable of operating in pure electric drive when needed, such as when driving in certain areas.

[0004] Electricity is typically stored in a plurality of battery packs comprising a plurality of rechargeable battery cells. Some different types of battery cells are used, such as lithium-ion battery cells, lithium-polymer battery cells, and other types of rechargeable battery cells. Large numbers of battery cells are often needed to ensure sufficient available operating range, system voltage, and power for the vehicle, especially in battery packs for heavier types of vehicles. One common packaging solution is to arrange the battery cells in modules, each module comprising a row of battery cells, and to arrange several modules side-by-side in several module layers inside a housing, thereby forming a battery pack comprising several battery cell layers inside the housing.

[0005] One problem associated with propulsion batteries is that most types of battery cells, such as those listed above, are temperature sensitive, meaning that they have a most efficient temperature range. In addition, too high and too low temperatures can damage and / or shorten the life of the propulsion battery. In addition, too high and too low temperatures can reduce the energy storage capacity of the battery cells of the battery, which can have a negative impact on the available operating range of the vehicle.

[0006] Battery cells generate heat internally when charging and discharging, and during high discharge rates from the battery cells, for example during high output levels of an electric propulsion system of a vehicle, a large amount of heat can be generated inside the battery pack. Furthermore, the vehicle can be operated under various temperature conditions that affect the temperature of the battery cells. Therefore, and for the above-mentioned reasons, the temperature of the propulsion battery is preferably regulated by a thermal management system of the vehicle.

[0007] Conventionally, battery modules for electric vehicles have battery cells arranged in rows, and have straight coolant tubes placed against each row of battery cells. It is known in the art to use thermal management systems that use cooling plates, where the battery cells are attached to the cooling plates, for example using thermal paste or the like. These types of solutions provide limited thermal contact between the battery cells and the coolant tubes / cooling plates, which results in relatively low temperature regulation performance of the battery cells. Furthermore, due to the limited thermal contact between the battery cells and the coolant tubes / cooling plates, the battery cells can be subjected to relatively uneven cooling, which can result in uneven temperatures of the battery cells.

[0008] Under some operating conditions, for example during start-up of the vehicle at low ambient temperatures, it can be required to heat the battery cells to enhance the operational performance of the battery cells. In the above-mentioned types of thermal management systems, the limited heat transfer capacity between the battery cells and the coolant tubes / cooling plates can provide insufficient and / or uneven heating of the battery cells.

[0009] Some other types of thermal management systems use immersion cooling, where the battery cells are immersed in a coolant contained in a coolant tank. In such solutions, the battery cells are in direct physical contact with the coolant. Immersion cooling provides several advantages. For example, immersion cooling provides a high degree of thermal contact between the battery cells and the coolant, which can provide high temperature regulation performance of the battery cells. Furthermore, immersion cooling can provide more even cooling / heating of the battery cells.

[0010] However, immersion cooling is also associated with some problems and drawbacks. For example, due to the physical contact between the battery cells and the coolant, it is typically required to use a dielectric coolant, i.e. a non-conductive coolant. Dielectric coolants are typically more expensive than other types of coolants, for example a mixture of water and glycol. Furthermore, in addition to the cost aspect, the use of dielectric coolants can make the service and repair procedures of the battery pack more difficult, since dielectric coolants can be more difficult to find and purchase than for example water and glycol.

[0011] Furthermore, dielectric coolants can have a lower heat capacity than other types of coolants, such as mixtures of water and glycol. Furthermore, it can be further difficult to maintain good dielectric properties over time, which can require frequent coolant replacement. In addition, battery pack manufacturing can be more demanding and costlier due to the physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells, due to the number of required seals, using immersion cooling.

[0012] Furthermore, it would generally be advantageous if products, such as battery packs and associated components, systems and devices, had conditions and / or properties that are suitable to be manufactured and assembled in a cost-effective manner. SUMMARY

[0013] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least alleviate at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the object is achieved by a coolant tank for a battery module, wherein the coolant tank is configured to contain a coolant in an inner volume delimited by a plurality of wall segments of the coolant tank, and wherein one of the plurality of wall segments forms a plurality of recessed configurations, each recessed configuration comprising an outer surface delimiting the inner volume of the coolant tank and an inner surface delimiting a battery compartment for containing a battery cell.

[0015] Since the wall segment forms a plurality of recessed configurations, each recessed configuration comprising an outer surface delimiting the inner volume of the coolant tank and an inner surface delimiting a battery compartment for containing a battery cell, a coolant tank is provided which has conditions for providing a high thermal conductivity between a battery cell arranged in the cell compartment of the coolant tank and a coolant contained in the inner volume of the coolant tank without requiring any physical contact between the battery cell and the coolant. Thus, due to the features of the coolant tank, conditions are provided for a battery pack in which a high thermal conductivity can be provided between a battery cell and a coolant without requiring any physical contact between the coolant and the battery cell. In other words, due to the features of the coolant tank, the high thermal conductivity provided by immersion cooling can at least partly be replicated without requiring physical contact between the coolant and the battery cell.

[0016] Furthermore, since the high thermal conductivity provided by immersion cooling can at least partly be replicated, conditions are provided for efficiently and uniformly regulating the temperature of a battery cell arranged in the cell compartment of the coolant tank of a battery module. Thus, conditions are also provided for efficiently cooling a battery cell at high load conditions of the battery cell.

[0017] Further, due to the features of the coolant tank, the need for using a dielectric coolant is avoided. Thus, conditions for reducing the manufacturing and maintenance costs of a battery pack comprising the coolant tank are provided.

[0018] Further, due to the features of the coolant tank, the need for sealing the electrical connections of a battery pack comprising the coolant tank is reduced. Also for this reason, a coolant tank is provided having conditions for reducing the manufacturing and assembly costs of a battery pack while ensuring an effective and uniform temperature regulation capacity of the battery cells of the battery pack.

[0019] Further, due to the features of the coolant tank, conditions are provided for a battery pack comprising a structurally simple arrangement for cooling the battery cells of the battery pack. Also for this reason, a coolant tank is provided having conditions for reducing the manufacturing and assembly costs of a battery pack.

[0020] Thus, a coolant tank is provided which overcomes or at least alleviates at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. Thus, the above-mentioned objects are achieved.

[0021] Optionally, the inner volume of the coolant tank encloses more than 35% or 60% of the circumference of each cell compartment in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the cell compartment. Thus, a high thermal conductivity between the coolant accommodated in the coolant tank and the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank can be ensured without the need for any physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells. In other words, due to these features, conditions for efficiently and uniformly regulating the temperature of the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank are provided.

[0022] Optionally, the coolant tank comprises a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet, and wherein the coolant tank is configured such that when coolant is pumped into the coolant inlet and through the inner volume of the coolant tank to the coolant outlet, the coolant is guided to flow within the gaps between adjacent cell compartments. Thus, an efficient transfer of heat between the coolant and the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank can be ensured.

[0023] Optionally, each inner surface of the respective cell compartment defines a venting recess extending from a bottom portion of the cell compartment to a top portion of the cell compartment. Thus, it can be ensured that any gas formed within a battery cell arranged in a cell compartment of the coolant tank can be vented from the bottom portion of the cell compartment to the top portion of the cell compartment in an efficient manner via the venting recess. Moreover, due to these features, it can be ensured that a tight fit between the inner surfaces defining the cell compartment and the battery cells arranged therein is ensured, while at the same time it is ensured that any gas formed inside a battery cell can be vented in an efficient manner via the venting recess. Thus, due to these features, conditions for efficiently and uniformly regulating the temperature of the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank are provided.

[0024] Preferably, the wall segments are provided in a polymeric material. Thus, conditions for a lightweight and durable coolant tank are provided. Moreover, the need to provide an electrical insulation between the battery cells and the inner surfaces of the cell compartments is avoided or at least reduced. Thus, a coolant tank is provided which has conditions for reducing the assembly and manufacturing costs of a battery pack.

[0025] Optionally, the wall segments are provided by injection molding. Thereby, a coolant tank is provided which has conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured in a cost-efficient manner.

[0026] Optionally, according to some embodiments, the wall segments are provided in metal. According to these embodiments, each battery cell accommodated in the cell compartments of the coolant tank can be wrapped in an electrically insulating material.

[0027] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the object is achieved by a battery module comprising a coolant tank according to some embodiments of the present disclosure and a plurality of battery cells each arranged in a cell compartment of the coolant tank.

[0028] Since the wall segments of the coolant tank form a plurality of recessed formations, each recessed formation comprising an outer surface delimiting an inner volume of the coolant tank and an inner surface delimiting a cell compartment for accommodating a battery cell, a coolant tank is provided which has conditions for providing a high thermal conductivity between the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank and a coolant accommodated in the inner volume of the coolant tank without any physical contact between the battery cells and the coolant. Thus, due to the features of the battery module, a high thermal conductivity can be provided between the battery cells and the coolant without any physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells. In other words, due to the features of the battery module, a high thermal conductivity provided by immersion cooling can be at least partially replicated without the need for a physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells.

[0029] Further, since high thermal conductivity provided by immersion cooling can be at least partially replicated, conditions for efficiently and uniformly regulating the temperature of the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank of the battery module are provided. Thus, conditions for efficiently cooling the battery cells under high load conditions of the battery cells of the battery module are also provided.

[0030] Further, due to the features of the battery module, the need for using dielectric coolant is avoided. Thus, conditions for reducing the manufacturing and maintenance costs of the battery module are provided.

[0031] Further, due to the features of the coolant tank of the battery module, the need for sealing the electrical connections of the battery module is reduced. Also for this reason, a battery module is provided which has conditions for reducing the manufacturing and assembly costs while ensuring the effective and uniform temperature regulation capacity of the battery cells of the battery module.

[0032] Further, a battery module is provided which comprises a structurally simple arrangement for cooling the battery cells of the battery module. Thereby, a battery pack is provided which has conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-effective manner.

[0033] Thus, a battery module is provided which overcomes or at least alleviates at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. Thereby, the above-mentioned objects are achieved.

[0034] Optionally, each of the plurality of battery cells has a shape conforming to the shape of the cell compartment of the coolant tank. Thus, high thermal conductivity between the coolant accommodated in the coolant tank and the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank can be ensured without requiring any physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells. In addition, a space-efficient arrangement of the battery cells can be provided in order to obtain a power-dense battery module.

[0035] Optionally, the battery cells and the cell compartments are cylindrical. Thus, high thermal conductivity between the coolant accommodated in the coolant tank and the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank can be ensured without requiring any physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells. In addition, a space-efficient arrangement of the battery cells can be provided in order to obtain a power-dense battery module.

[0036] Optionally, the battery cells and the cell compartments have respective rectangular cross-sections in a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the cell compartments. Thus, high thermal conductivity between the coolant accommodated in the coolant tank and the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank can be ensured without requiring any physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells. In addition, a further space-efficient arrangement of the battery cells can be provided in order to obtain a power-dense battery module.

[0037] Optionally, the depth of each cell compartment is at least 20% or at least 35% of the length of each battery cell, as measured in a direction parallel to the central axis of each cell compartment. Thus, conditions are provided for efficiently and uniformly regulating the temperature of the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank. Thus, conditions are also provided for efficiently cooling the battery cells in case of high load of the battery cells.

[0038] Optionally, the battery module comprises a connection plate, and wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is attached to the connection plate. Thus,

[0039] A battery module is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for manufacturing and assembling in a cost-effective manner.

[0040] Optionally, the connection plate comprises a plurality of electrical conductors, and wherein each of the plurality of battery cells is electrically connected to at least one electrical conductor of the connection plate. Thereby, electrical connections to / from the plurality of battery cells can be provided in an efficient and economic manner.

[0041] Optionally, the connection plate comprises a plate body and a plurality of electrical conductors arranged on the plate body, and wherein the plate body is provided in a polymer material. Thus, conditions are provided for a lightweight and durable battery module. Furthermore, the need for providing electrical insulation between the various parts of the battery module is reduced. In addition, a battery module is provided having conditions and characteristics suitable for manufacturing and assembling in a cost-effective manner.

[0042] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the object is achieved by a battery pack configured to power an electric propulsion system of a vehicle, wherein the battery pack comprises a plurality of battery modules according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] As the wall segments of the coolant tank of the battery pack form a plurality of recessed formations, each comprising an outer surface defining an inner volume of the coolant tank and an inner surface defining a battery compartment for accommodating a battery cell, a battery pack is provided having conditions for providing a high thermal conductivity between the battery cell and a coolant accommodated in the inner volume of the coolant tank without requiring any physical contact between the battery cell and the coolant. In other words, due to the features of the battery module, the high thermal conductivity provided by immersion cooling can at least partly be replicated without requiring physical contact between the coolant and the battery cell.

[0044] As a result, conditions are provided for efficiently and uniformly regulating the temperature of the battery cells arranged in the cell compartments of the coolant tank of the battery pack. Thus, conditions are also provided for efficiently cooling the battery cells in case of high load of the battery cells of the battery module.

[0045] Furthermore, due to the features of the battery pack, the need to use a dielectric coolant is avoided. Thus, conditions are provided for a battery pack with low manufacturing and maintenance costs.

[0046] Furthermore, due to the features of the coolant tank of the battery pack, the need to seal the electrical connections of the battery pack is reduced. Also for this reason, a battery pack is provided which has conditions for reducing the manufacturing and assembly costs while ensuring an effective and uniform temperature regulation capability of the battery cells of the battery pack.

[0047] Furthermore, a battery pack is provided which comprises a structurally simple arrangement for cooling the battery cells of the battery pack. Thus, a battery pack is provided which has conditions and characteristics suitable for being manufactured and assembled in a cost-effective manner.

[0048] Thus, a battery pack is provided which overcomes or at least mitigates at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. Thereby, the above-mentioned objects are achieved.

[0049] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, the object is achieved by a vehicle comprising an electric propulsion motor configured to provide power to the vehicle, and wherein the vehicle further comprises a plurality of battery packs according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Thereby, a vehicle is provided which has at least some of the above-mentioned advantages. Thus, a vehicle is provided which overcomes or at least mitigates at least some of the above-mentioned problems and drawbacks. Thereby, the above-mentioned objects are achieved.

[0050] Optionally, the vehicle comprises a battery coolant system configured to circulate coolant through the inner volume of the coolant tank of the battery modules in the plurality of battery packs. Thereby, an effective and uniform temperature regulation capability of the battery cells of the battery pack / plurality of battery packs can be ensured while avoiding the need for physical contact between the coolant and the battery cells of the battery pack / plurality of battery packs.

[0051] Optionally, the vehicle is a heavy road vehicle, such as a truck or a bus. Thereby, a heavy road vehicle is provided which has at least some of the above-mentioned advantages.

[0052] Further features and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the detailed description of the application and from the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0053] The various aspects of the application, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, from which:

[0054] Figure 1 A vehicle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated,

[0055] Figure 2 schematically illustrates Figure 1 a battery pack of the vehicle shown in

[0056] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a battery module according to some embodiments,

[0057] Figure 4 schematically illustrates Figure 3 a coolant tank of the battery module shown in

[0058] Figure 5 schematically illustrates Figure 3 a perspective view of a connection plate of the battery module shown in

[0059] Figure 6 schematically illustrates Figure 3 a second perspective view of the coolant tank of the battery module shown in Figure 7 schematically illustrates Figure 3 a first cross-section of a portion of the battery module shown in

[0060] Figure 8 schematically illustrates Figure 3 a second cross-section of the portion of the battery module shown in

[0061] Figure 9 schematically illustrates a battery module according to some further embodiments, Figure 10 schematically illustrates Figure 9 a coolant tank of the battery module shown in Figure 11 schematically illustrates Figure 9 a perspective view of a connection plate of the battery module shown in

[0062] Figure 12 schematically illustrates Figure 9 a second perspective view of the coolant tank of the battery module shown in Figure 13 schematically illustrates Figure 9 a first cross-section of a portion of the battery module shown in

[0063] Figure 14 schematically illustrates Figure 9 a second cross-section of the battery module shown in DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Aspects of the present application will now be described more fully. Like reference numerals may refer to like elements throughout. For the sake of clarity, well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail.

[0065] Figure 1 A vehicle 2 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated. According to the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 2 is a truck, i.e. a heavy road vehicle, and a heavy commercial vehicle. According to further embodiments, as referred to herein, the vehicle 2 can be another type of heavy or lighter type of manned or unmanned vehicle for land- or water-based propulsion, such as a lorry, a bus, a construction vehicle, a tractor, a car, a ship, a boat, etc.

[0066] The vehicle 2 comprises an electric powertrain 42. According to the illustrated embodiment, the electric powertrain 42 is configured to provide power to the vehicle 2 via wheels 47 of the vehicle 2. The electric powertrain 42 comprises the electric powertrain 20. The electric powertrain 20 is capable of providing power to the vehicle 2 via the wheels 47 of the vehicle 2, as well as providing regenerative braking of the vehicle 2. Thus, according to the illustrated embodiment, the electric powertrain 20 comprises an electric machine capable of operating as an electric motor as well as an electric generator. The electric machine of the electric powertrain 20 of the vehicle 2 can also be referred to as a vehicle propulsion electric machine / generator.

[0067] According to the illustrated embodiment, the electric powertrain 42 of the vehicle 2 is a pure electric powertrain 42, i.e. a powertrain not comprising a combustion engine. According to further embodiments, the electric powertrain 42 of the vehicle 2 can be a so-called hybrid electric powertrain 42 comprising a combustion engine in addition to the electric powertrain 20 for providing power to the vehicle 2.

[0068] Furthermore, as indicated in Figure 1 The vehicle 2 comprises a battery pack 10 and an electrical system 40. The battery pack 10 is operably connected to the electric powertrain 20 via the electrical system 40. In other words, the battery pack 10 is configured to provide power to the electric powertrain 20 via the electrical system 40. Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack 10 is configured to receive power from the electric powertrain 20 via the electrical system 40 during regenerative braking of the vehicle 2. As further explained herein, the battery pack 10 comprises a plurality of battery cells. In Figure 1 The vehicle 2 is illustrated as comprising one battery pack 10. However, the vehicle 2 can comprise more than one battery pack 10.

[0069] In Figure 1 The vehicle 2 is illustrated as being positioned on a flat horizontal surface H in an intended use position. Furthermore, in Figure 1In FIG, the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 is indicated. When the vehicle 2 is positioned on a flat horizontal surface H in the intended use position, the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 is perpendicular to the flat horizontal surface H. In addition, when the vehicle 2 is positioned on a flat horizontal surface H in the intended use position, the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 coincides with the local gravity vector at the position of the vehicle 2. Figure 1 , a horizontal direction hd of the vehicle 2 is indicated. The horizontal direction hd of the vehicle 2 is parallel to the flat horizontal surface H when the vehicle 2 is positioned on the flat horizontal surface H in the intended use position.

[0070] like Figure 1 As can be seen in FIG, when the vehicle 2 is positioned on a flat, horizontal surface Hs in its intended upright position for use, the wheels 47 of the vehicle 2 abut the flat, horizontal surface Hs. The vehicle 2 has a longitudinal direction Id. When the vehicle 2 is positioned on the flat, horizontal surface Hs in its intended upright position for use, the longitudinal direction Id of the vehicle 2 is parallel to the flat, horizontal surface Hs. Furthermore, the longitudinal direction Id of the vehicle 2 is parallel to the forward movement direction fd of the vehicle 2 and parallel to the reverse movement direction rd of the vehicle 2. The reverse movement direction rd of the vehicle 2 is opposite to the forward movement direction fd of the vehicle 2.

[0071] Figure 2 Schematically shows Figure 1 1. The battery pack 10 of the vehicle 2 is shown in FIG. The battery pack 10 includes a plurality of layers L1, L2, L3, L4 of battery cells. For the sake of brevity and clarity, the reference numerals of the layers L1, L2, L3, L4 of battery cells are abbreviated as "L1-L4" in some places herein. Figure 2 In the embodiment shown in FIG, the battery pack 10 includes four layers L1-L4 of battery cells. However, the battery pack 10 may include another number of layers L1-L4 of battery cells, for example, a number between two and twelve, or a number between one and eight. According to the embodiment shown, each layer L1-L4 of battery cells includes a plurality of battery modules 3, 3', wherein each battery module 3, 3' includes a plurality of battery cells.

[0072] exist Figure 2 In the Figure 1 The longitudinal direction Id, the forward movement direction fd, the horizontal direction hd and the vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2 are shown in FIG. The vehicle 2 is shown in its intended installation orientation relative to these directions. Figure 2 Hereinafter, unless otherwise indicated, reference is made to the battery pack 10 shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 .according to Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of layers LI - L4 of battery cells are stacked on top of each other along a vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2. However, according to further embodiments, the plurality of layers LI - L4 of battery cells can be oriented and stacked in another way with respect to the vertical direction of the vehicle 2.

[0073] In Figure 2 , only a battery module 3, 3' of one layer LI of battery cells is indicated. However, as understood from the above, each layer LI - L4 of battery cells comprises a plurality of battery modules 3, 3'. Furthermore, in Figure 2 , one layer LI of battery cells is shown to comprise one battery module 3, 3'. However, each layer LI - L4 of battery cells can comprise another number of battery modules 3, 3'.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack 10 comprises a plurality of housing segments 18.1, 18.2, 18.3, 18.4. For brevity and clarity, the reference signs of the housing segments 18.1, 18.2, 18.3, 18.4 of the housing 7 are abbreviated to "18.1 - 18.4" in some places herein. According to the illustrated embodiment, each housing segment 18.1 - 18.4 is configured to accommodate one layer LI - L4 of battery cells. According to the illustrated embodiment, two adjacent housing segments 18.1 - 18.4 of the plurality of housing segments 18.1 - 18.4 are attached to each other via a plurality of fastening elements.

[0075] Figure 3 A battery module 3 according to some embodiments is schematically illustrated as Figure 2 Illustrated is that the battery pack 10 can comprise a plurality of battery modules 3 according to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 3 .

[0076] The battery module 3 comprises a connection plate 15 and a coolant tank 1. Furthermore, as explained further herein, the battery module 3 comprises a plurality of battery cells attached to the connection plate 15. The connection plate 15 comprises electrical connection conductors 26, 27 electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, as explained further below. The coolant tank 1 comprises a coolant inlet 11 and a coolant outlet 12, as visible in Figure 3 .

[0077] Figure 4 Schematically illustrated is Figure 3 the coolant tank 1 of the battery module 3 as illustrated in Figure 4 . In , three wall segments wl, w3, w4 of the coolant tank 1 are seen and indicated. However, as explained further below, according to the illustrated embodiment, the coolant tank 1 comprises six wall segments wl, w3, w4.

[0078] As Figure 4 can be seen, one of the wall segments w1 forms a plurality of recessed formations 4. As further explained below, each of the plurality of recessed formations 4 comprises an inner surface 5 defining a cell compartment 7 for accommodating a battery cell.

[0079] For reasons of brevity and clarity, in Figure 4 , the wall segment w1 is schematically shown as forming seven recessed formations 4. However, the wall segment w1 can form a significantly larger number of recessed formations 4. Merely as an example, the wall segment w1 can form a number of recessed formations 4 in the range of 20-200.

[0080] Figure 5 A perspective view of the connection plate 15 of the battery module 3 shown in Figure 3 is schematically shown. In the following, reference is made to Figures 1-5 .

[0081] The connection plate 15 comprises a plate body 19 and a plurality of electrical conductors 17 arranged on the plate body 19. According to the shown embodiment, the plate body 19 is provided in a polymer material and the plurality of electrical conductors 17 is provided in a metal.

[0082] Furthermore, Figure 5 A plurality of battery cells 8 is schematically shown. Each of the plurality of battery cells 8 is configured to be attached to the connection plate 15. Furthermore, each of the plurality of battery cells 8 comprises a pair of electrodes, each electrode being configured to be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors 17 arranged on the plate body 19. For reasons of brevity and clarity, the electrodes of the battery cells 8 are not provided with reference numerals in Figure 5 . The plurality of electrical conductors 17 is electrically connected to electrical connection conductors 26, 27 of the connection plate 15.

[0083] For reasons of brevity and clarity, in Figure 5 , only 3 battery cells 8 are shown. However, the connection plate 15 of the battery module 3 can comprise the same number of battery cells 8 as the number of recessed formations 4 formed by the wall segment w1 of the coolant tank 1 of the battery module 3. In other words, the battery module 3 can comprise a plurality of battery cells 8, each battery cell being arranged in one of the battery compartments 7 of the coolant tank 1. Each of the plurality of battery cells 8 can be a lithium-ion battery cell, a lithium-polymer battery cell, etc.

[0084] Figure 6 A perspective view of the connection plate 15 of the battery module 3 shown in Figure 3, wherein the coolant tank 1 is shown in a partially assembled state, wherein one wall segment w1 has been removed from the other wall segments w2 - w6 of the coolant tank 1. Figures 1-6 .

[0085] exist Figure 6 In the figure, all wall segments w1-w6 of the coolant tank 1 are visible and indicated. The wall segments w1-w6 of the coolant tank 1 include a bottom wall segment w2 and four side wall segments w3-w6. The bottom wall segment w2 and the four side wall segments w3-w6 can together form a coherent unit. The bottom wall segment w2 and the four side wall segments w3-w6 can be provided in a polymer material or a metal. The unit formed by the bottom wall segment w2 and the four side wall segments w3-w6 can include a fluid-tight sealing member arranged against the inner surfaces of the bottom wall segment w2 and the four side wall segments w3-w6, wherein the bottom wall segment w2 and the four side wall segments w3-w6 are arranged to support the fluid-tight sealing member.

[0086] As described above, one wall segment w1 of the plurality of wall segments w1-w6 of the coolant tank 1 forms a plurality of recessed structures 4. Furthermore, as mentioned, each of the plurality of recessed structures 4 includes an inner surface 5 defining a cell compartment 7 for accommodating a battery cell 8. Figure 6 As seen in FIG. 1 , each of the plurality of recessed formations 4 includes an outer surface 6. When the coolant tank 1 is in an assembled state, the outer surfaces 6 of the plurality of recessed formations 4 define the interior volume of the coolant tank 1, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in .

[0087] According to the illustrated embodiment, the wall segment w1 forming the plurality of recessed structures 4 constitutes the top wall segment of the coolant tank 1. However, according to other embodiments, the wall segment w1 forming the plurality of recessed structures 4 may constitute the bottom wall segment or a side wall segment of the coolant tank 1. The feature that the wall segment w1 forming the plurality of recessed structures 4 constitutes the top wall segment of the coolant tank 1 means that the wall segment w1 is arranged above the bottom wall segment w2 when the battery module 3 is arranged in the battery pack 10, as viewed in the vertical direction vd relative to the vehicle 2, the battery pack 10 is mounted to the vehicle 2, and the vehicle 2 is placed on a flat, horizontal surface H in its intended use position.

[0088] like Figure 6 As seen in FIG, the plurality of concave formations 4 of the wall segment w1 form a plurality of recesses as seen from a first side of the wall segment w1 and a plurality of protrusions as seen from a second side of the wall segment w1 , wherein the second side of the wall segment w1 is opposite to the first side of the wall segment w1 .

[0089] Figure 5 The plurality of battery cells 8 of the connecting plate 15 shown in FIG are configured to be inserted into the cell compartments 7 formed by the plurality of recessed structures 4 from the first side of the wall segment w1 mentioned above.Figure 6 The center axis Ca of one of the cell compartments 7 is indicated in the middle. The center axis Ca of a cell compartment 7 as referred to herein can be a geometric center axis, wherein the distance from the center axis to the inner surface 5 delimiting the cell compartment 7 is maximized in all radial directions. Figure 5 The plurality of battery cells 8 of the connection plate 15 shown in the middle is configured to be inserted into the cell compartment 7 in a direction coinciding with the center axis Ca of the cell compartment 7.

[0090] The wall segments wl forming the plurality of recessed formations 4 can be provided in a polymer material. According to such embodiments, the wall segments wl can be provided by injection molding. According to some further embodiments, the wall segments wl forming the plurality of recessed formations 4 can be provided in a metal. According to such embodiments, as well as in other embodiments explained herein, each of the plurality of battery cells 8 can be covered by an electrical insulation. Further, according to such embodiments, the wall segments wl forming the plurality of recessed formations 4 can be provided by pressing a sheet metal material.

[0091] Figure 7 A first cross section of a portion of the battery module 3 shown schematically in Figure 3 The first cross section of a portion of the battery module 3 shown in Figure 7 In the middle, the cross section is made in a plane P2 parallel to the center axis Ca of the cell compartment 7. The plane P2 is also indicated in Figure 3 In the middle, the cross section is made in a plane P2 parallel to the center axis Ca of the cell compartment 7. The plane P2 is also indicated in Figure 7 In the middle, the cross section is made in a plane P2 parallel to the center axis Ca of the cell compartment 7. The plane P2 is also indicated in Figure 3 In the middle, a plane PI perpendicular to the center axis Ca of the cell compartment 7 is indicated. In the following, if not indicated otherwise, reference is made to Figures 1-7 .

[0092] According to the shown embodiment, the plane PI perpendicular to the center axis Ca of the cell compartment 7 is parallel to the bottom wall segment w2 and to the top surface of the wall segments wl forming the recessed formations 4. Further, according to the shown embodiment, the plane P2 parallel to the center axis Ca of the cell compartment 7 is parallel to the two side wall segments w4, w6 of the coolant tank 1.

[0093] In the middle, the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1 is indicated. Figure 7 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The coolant inlet 11 and the coolant outlet 12 indicated in Figure 6 are fluidly connected to the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1. Further, as Figure 1As indicated in the middle, the vehicle 2 comprises a battery coolant system 23. The battery coolant system 23 is configured to circulate coolant through the interior volume V of the coolant tank 1 by pumping coolant into the coolant inlet 11 and retrieving coolant from the coolant outlet 12. The coolant can comprise a mixture of water and ethylene glycol. This is because the characteristics of the coolant tank 1 of the battery module 3 obviate the need for using a dielectric coolant while at least partly replicating the advantages of immersion cooling as further explained herein.

[0094] The battery coolant system 23 can comprise one or more radiators configured to scatter heat from the coolant retrieved from the coolant outlet 12 of the coolant tank 1 to the surrounding environment. Further, the battery coolant system 23 can comprise a heat pump circuit configured to lower the temperature of the coolant supplied to the coolant inlet 11 of the coolant tank 1 to a temperature lower than the ambient temperature. Further, the battery coolant system 23 can comprise a heater, e.g. an electric heater, configured to heat the coolant before the coolant is supplied to the coolant inlet 11 of the coolant tank 1, e.g. at low ambient temperatures.

[0095] In Figure 7 The depth D of the cell compartment 7 is indicated in Figure 7 The length L of the battery cell 8 is indicated in

[0096] According to the illustrated embodiment, the depth of each cell compartment 7 is slightly larger than the length L of each battery cell 8 as measured in a direction parallel to the central axis Ca of each cell compartment 7. In other words, according to the illustrated embodiment, the entire length L of each battery cell 8 is accommodated inside each cell compartment 7 of the coolant tank 1. In this way, an effective and uniform regulation of the temperature of the battery cell 8 can be provided while not requiring any physical contact between the battery cell 8 and the coolant accommodated in the interior volume V of the coolant tank 1. According to further embodiments, the depth of each cell compartment 7 can be at least 20%, at least 35% or at least 50% of the length L of each battery cell 8 as measured in a direction parallel to the central axis Ca of each cell compartment 7. In this way, the advantages of immersion cooling can be at least partly replicated while obviating the need for physical contact between the battery cell 8 and the coolant accommodated in the interior volume V of the coolant tank 1.

[0097] As seen in Figure 7 As understood from the above description and as seen in the middle, the plurality of battery cells 8 is arranged outside the interior volume V of the coolant tank 1 when the battery module 3 is in an assembled state.

[0098] Figure 8 Schematically shows Figure 3 A second cross section of a portion of the battery module 3 is shown, Figures 1-8 In the embodiment, the cross section is made in a plane P1 perpendicular to the central axis Ca of the unit cell 7. In the following, if not otherwise indicated, reference is made simultaneously to Figure 4 .

[0099] As in comparison Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 8 and Figure 7 As can be seen, according to these embodiments, the battery cells 8 and the cell compartments 7 are cylindrical, i.e. have a circular cross section in a plane P1 perpendicular to the central axis Ca of the cell compartment 7. Figure 8 and Figure 8 As best seen in FIG, each of the plurality of battery cells 8 has a shape that conforms to the shape of the cell compartment 7 of the coolant tank 1 .

[0100] In addition, if Figure 8 As best seen in FIG, according to the illustrated embodiment, the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1 surrounds the entire circumference of each cell cell 7 in a plane P1 perpendicular to the central axis Ca of the cell cell 7. In this way, effective and uniform regulation of the temperature of the battery cells 8 can be provided without requiring any physical contact between the battery cells 8 and the coolant contained in the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1. According to further embodiments, the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1 can surround more than 35% or 60% of the circumference of each cell cell 7 in a plane P1 perpendicular to the central axis Ca of the cell cell 7. In this way, the advantages of immersion cooling can be at least partially replicated while avoiding the need for physical contact between the battery cells 8 and the coolant contained in the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1.

[0101] In addition, if Figure 8 As shown, according to the illustrated embodiment, the coolant tank 1 is configured such that when coolant is pumped into the coolant inlet 11 and reaches the coolant outlet 12 through the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1 , the coolant is directed to flow within the gap G between adjacent unit cells 7 .

[0102] In addition, if Figure 7 As shown in FIG, according to the illustrated embodiment, each inner surface 5 of the corresponding unit cell 7 defines a degassing groove 13. The degassing groove 13 of the unit cell 7 extends from the bottom portion bp of the unit cell 7 to the top portion tp of the unit cell 7. The bottom portion bp and the top portion tp of the unit cell 7 are Figure 8Indicated in. Since the vent groove 13 of the cell compartment 7 extends from the bottom portion bp of the cell compartment 7 to the top portion tp of the cell compartment 7, it is ensured that any gas formed inside the battery cell 8 can be exhausted from the bottom portion bp of the cell compartment 7 to the top portion tp of the cell compartment 7 in an effective manner via the vent groove 13. In addition, the vent groove 13 allows the use of a battery cell 8 having a vent valve and / or vent opening positioned at the corresponding bottom portion bp of the battery compartment 7. According to another embodiment, the corresponding cell compartment 7 may lack a vent groove.

[0103] like Figure 8 As schematically shown in , the coolant tank 1 of the battery module 3 may include a plurality of structures 16, 16' arranged inside the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1, wherein the plurality of structures 16, 16' are arranged to occupy space so as to reduce the size of the internal volume V of the coolant tank 1. The plurality of structures 16, 16' may be attached to one or both of the bottom wall segment w2 and the wall segment w1 that form the recessed structure 4. According to the embodiment shown, each of the plurality of structures 16, 16' has a substantially triangular cross-section in a plane P1 perpendicular to the central axis Ca of the unit compartment 7. In addition, according to the embodiment shown, each of the plurality of structures 16, 16' is hollow. However, according to another embodiment, the plurality of structures 16, 16' may have another shape and may be solid.

[0104] exist Figure 9 , only three structures 16, 16' are schematically indicated. However, the coolant tank 1 of the battery module 3 may include a greater number of structures 16, 16', for example, one structure 16 concentrically arranged between each group of three adjacent unit cells 7 and one structure 16' arranged between each pair of adjacent unit cells 7 along the side wall sections w3-w6 of the coolant tank 1.

[0105] Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the plurality of structures 16, 16' can form part of a structural assembly configured to divert coolant flow through the interior volume V of the coolant tank 1 so as to provide at least substantially uniform coolant flow around the cell compartment 7 as the coolant is pumped into the coolant inlet 11 and through the interior volume V of the coolant tank 1 to the coolant outlet 12. In this way, the plurality of battery cells 8 of the battery module 3 can be cooled in an at least substantially uniform manner.

[0106] Figure 2 Schematically shows a battery pack 3' according to some further embodiments. Figure 9 As shown, the battery pack 10 may include Figure 9 The embodiment shown in FIG.

[0107] The battery module 3' comprises a connection plate 15' and a coolant tank 1'. Furthermore, as explained further herein, the battery module 3' comprises a plurality of battery cells attached to the connection plate 15'. The connection plate 15' comprises electrical connection conductors 26', 27' electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, as explained further below. As Figure 10 As can be seen in

[0108] Figure 9 A perspective view of the connection plate 15' of the battery module 3' shown in Figure 10 As can be seen in Figure 10 In

[0109] As Figure 10 As can be seen in

[0110] In Figure 11 As can be seen in

[0111] Figure 9 A perspective view of the connection plate 15' of the battery module 3' shown in Figure 1 As can be seen in Figure 2 , Figures 9 to 11 , Figure 11 .

[0112] The connection plate 15' comprises a plate body 19' and a plurality of electrical conductors 17' arranged on the plate body 19'. According to the shown embodiment, the plate body 19' is provided in a polymer material and the plurality of electrical conductors 17 is provided in a metal.

[0113] Furthermore, Figure 11 A battery cell 8' is schematically shown. For reasons of brevity and clarity, in Figure 11Only one battery cell 8' is shown. However, the connection plate 15' of the battery module 3' can comprise the same number of battery cells 8' as the number of recessed formations 4' formed by the wall segments wl' of the coolant tank 1' of the battery module 3'. In other words, the battery module 3' can comprise a plurality of battery cells 8', each battery cell being arranged in one battery compartment 7' of the coolant tank 1'. Each of the plurality of battery cells 8' can be a lithium-ion battery cell, a lithium-polymer battery cell, or the like.

[0114] Each of the plurality of battery cells 8' is configured to be attached to the connection plate 15'. Further, each of the plurality of battery cells 8' comprises a pair of electrodes, each electrode being configured to be electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of electrical conductors 17' arranged on the plate body 19'. For reasons of brevity and clarity, the electrodes of the battery cell 8' are not provided with reference signs in Figure 12 The plurality of electrical conductors 17' is electrically connected to the electrical connection conductors 26', 27' of the connection plate 15'.

[0115] Figure 9 The battery module 3' is shown in a perspective view in Figure 1 The second perspective view of the coolant tank 1' of the battery module 3' shown in is shown in a perspective view in Figure 2 , Figures 9 to 12 , Figure 12 .

[0116] In Figure 12 all wall segments wl'-w6' of the coolant tank 1' are seen and indicated. The wall segments wl'-w6' of the coolant tank 1' comprise a bottom wall segment w2' and four side wall segments w3'-w6'. The bottom wall segment w2' and the four side wall segments w3'-w6' can together form one coherent unit. The bottom wall segment w2' and the four side wall segments w3'-w6' can be provided in a polymeric material or in metal. The unit formed by the bottom wall segment w2' and the four side wall segments w3'-w6' can comprise a fluid-tight sealing member arranged against inner surfaces of the bottom wall segment w2' and the four side wall segments w3'-w6', wherein the bottom wall segment w2' and the four side wall segments w3'-w6' are arranged to support the fluid-tight sealing member.

[0117] As mentioned above, one of the plurality of wall segments wl'-w6' of the coolant tank 1' forms a plurality of recessed formations 4'. Further, as mentioned, each of the plurality of recessed formations 4' comprises an inner surface 5' delimiting a battery compartment 7' for accommodating a battery cell 8'. Further, as Figure 10As seen in Fig. 1, each of the plurality of recessed formations 4' comprises an outer surface 6'. When the coolant tank 1'is in an assembled state, the outer surfaces 6' of the plurality of recessed formations 4' delimit an inner volume of the coolant tank 1 ', as seen in Fig. 1. Figure 12 As seen in Fig. 1, each of the plurality of recessed formations 4' comprises an outer surface 6'. When the coolant tank 1'is in an assembled state, the outer surfaces 6' of the plurality of recessed formations 4' delimit an inner volume of the coolant tank 1 ', as seen in Fig. 1.

[0118] According to the illustrated embodiment, the wall segment w1'forming the plurality of recessed formations 4' constitutes a top wall segment of the coolant tank 1 '. However, according to further embodiments, the wall segment w1'forming the plurality of recessed formations 4' can constitute a bottom wall segment or a side wall segment of the coolant tank 1 '. The feature that the wall segment w1'forming the plurality of recessed formations 4' constitutes a top wall segment of the coolant tank 1'implies that the wall segment w1'is arranged above a bottom wall segment w2', as seen with respect to a vertical direction vd of the vehicle 2, the battery pack 10 is mounted to the vehicle 2, and the vehicle 2 is placed onto a flat horizontal surface H in an intended position of use.

[0119] As seen in Fig. 1, each of the plurality of recessed formations 4' comprises an outer surface 6'. When the coolant tank 1'is in an assembled state, the outer surfaces 6' of the plurality of recessed formations 4' delimit an inner volume of the coolant tank 1 ', as seen in Fig. 1. Figure 11 As seen in Fig. 1, each of the plurality of recessed formations 4' comprises an outer surface 6'. When the coolant tank 1'is in an assembled state, the outer surfaces 6' of the plurality of recessed formations 4' delimit an inner volume of the coolant tank 1 ', as seen in Fig. 1.

[0120] Figure 12 The plurality of battery cells 8' of the connection plate 15' illustrated in Fig. 1 are configured to be inserted into the cell compartments 7' formed by the plurality of recessed formations 4' from the first side of the wall segment w1'mentioned above. In Figure 11 In Fig. 1, a central axis Ca' of one of the cell compartments 7' is indicated. The central axis Ca' of a cell compartment 7' as referred to herein can be a geometric central axis, wherein the distance from the central axis to the inner surface 5 delimiting the cell compartment 7' is maximized in all radial directions. Figure 13 The plurality of battery cells 8' of the connection plate 15' illustrated in Fig. 1 are configured to be inserted into the cell compartments 7' in a direction coinciding with the central axis Ca' of the battery compartment 7'.

[0121] The wall segment w1'forming the plurality of recessed formations 4' can be provided in a polymer material. According to such embodiments, the wall segment w1 can be provided by injection molding. According to some further embodiments, the wall segment w1'forming the plurality of recessed formations 4' can be provided in a metal. According to such embodiments, the wall segment w1'forming the plurality of recessed formations 4' can be provided by pressing a sheet metal material. Further, according to such embodiments as well as in other embodiments explained herein, each of the plurality of battery cells 8' can be covered by an electrical insulation.

[0122] Figure 9 schematically illustrated in Fig. 1, the plurality of recessed formations 4' of the wall segment w1'form a plurality of recesses as seen from a first side of the wall segment w1'and a plurality of protrusions as seen from a second side of the wall segment w1 ', wherein the second side of the wall segment w1'is opposite the first side of the wall segment w1 '. Figure 13a first cross section of a portion of the battery module 3’ as shown, in Figure 9 In the cross section in Figure 13 In the cross section in Figure 9 In the cross section in Figure 1 In the following, if not indicated otherwise, reference is made to Figure 2 , Figures 9 to 13 , Figure 13 .

[0123] According to the shown embodiment, the plane P1 ’ perpendicular to the central axis Ca’ of the cell compartment 7’ is parallel to the bottom wall section w2’ and parallel to a top surface of the wall section w1 ’, which top surface forms the recessed formation 4’. Further, according to the shown embodiment, the plane P2’ parallel to the central axis Ca’ of the cell compartment 7’ is parallel to the two side wall sections w3’, w5’ of the coolant tank 1 ’.

[0124] In the cross section in Figure 9 In the cross section in Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 1 The coolant inlet 11 ’ and the coolant outlet 12’ as shown in Figure 13 The vehicle 2 comprises a battery coolant system 23, as indicated in

[0125] The battery coolant system 23 can comprise one or more heat sinks configured to scatter heat from the coolant retrieved from the coolant outlet 12’ of the coolant tank 1 ’ to the surrounding environment. Further, the battery coolant system 23 can comprise a heat pump circuit configured to reduce the temperature of the coolant supplied to the coolant inlet 11 ’ of the coolant tank 1 ’ to a temperature below the ambient temperature. Further, the battery coolant system 23 can comprise a heater, e.g. an electric heater, configured to heat the coolant before it is supplied to the coolant inlet 11 ’ of the coolant tank 1 ’, e.g. at low ambient temperatures.

[0126] In the cross section in Figure 13In particular, the depth D' of the cell compartment 7' is indicated. The depth D' of the cell compartment 7' of the coolant tank 1'can be measured in a direction parallel to the central axis Ca' of each cell compartment 7'. Further, in Figure 13 In particular, the length L' of the battery cell 8' is indicated. As explained above, the length L' of the battery cell 8' can be measured in a direction parallel to the central axis Ca' of each cell compartment 7'.

[0127] According to the illustrated embodiment, the depth D' of each cell compartment 7' is slightly larger than the length L' of each battery cell 8', as measured in a direction parallel to the central axis Ca' of each cell compartment 7'. In other words, according to the illustrated embodiment, the entire length L' of each battery cell 8' is accommodated inside each battery cell compartment 7' of the coolant tank 1 '. In this way, an effective and uniform regulation of the temperature of the battery cell 8' can be provided, while not requiring any physical contact between the battery cell 8' and the coolant accommodated in the internal volume V' of the coolant tank 1 '. According to further embodiments, the depth D' of each battery compartment 7' can be at least 20%, at least 35% or at least 50% of the length L' of each battery cell 8', as measured in a direction parallel to the central axis Ca' of each cell compartment 7'. In this way, the advantages of immersion cooling can be at least partially replicated, while avoiding the need for physical contact between the battery cell 8' and the coolant accommodated in the internal volume V' of the coolant tank 1 '.

[0128] As Figures 9-13 illustratively shown in

[0129] According to the illustrated embodiment, each of the plurality of elements 36 is formed of a space-occupying material, while being impermeable to the coolant. As an alternative or in addition, according to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 8 Figure 13 According to the illustrated embodiment of Figures 3-8 Figure 13 According to the illustrated embodiment of Figure 14

[0130] As Figure 9 ​​​As can be seen in the figures and as is understood from the above description, when the battery module 3' is in the assembled state, the plurality of battery cells 8' is arranged outside the inner volume V' of the coolant tank 1 '.

[0131] Figure 14 A second cross-section of the battery module 3' as shown in the figures is schematically illustrated Figure 1 Figure 2 Figures 9 to 14 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 .

[0132] As can be seen in the comparative Figure 12 , Figure 14 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 , according to these embodiments, the battery cells 8' and the battery compartments 7' have respective rectangular cross-sections in the plane P1'perpendicular to the central axis Ca' of the cell compartments 7'. Furthermore, as best seen in Figure 14 and Figure 14 , each of the plurality of battery cells 8' has a shape that conforms to the shape of the cell compartment 7' of the coolant tank 1 '.

[0133] Furthermore, as best seen in Figure 14 , according to the illustrated embodiments, the inner volume V' of the coolant tank 1'surrounds the entire circumference of each cell compartment 7' in the plane P1'perpendicular to the central axis Ca' of the cell compartments 7'. In this way, an effective and uniform regulation of the temperature of the battery cells 8' can be provided, while not requiring any physical contact between the battery cells 8' and the coolant contained in the inner volume V' of the coolant tank 1 '. According to further embodiments, the inner volume V' of the coolant tank 1'can surround more than 35% or 60% of the circumference of each cell compartment 7' in the plane P1'perpendicular to the central axis Ca' of the cell compartments 7'. In this way, the advantages of immersion cooling can be at least partially replicated, while avoiding the need for physical contact between the battery cells 8' and the coolant contained in the inner volume V' of the coolant tank 1 '.

[0134] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 13 , according to the illustrated embodiments, the coolant tank 1'is configured such that, when the coolant is pumped into the coolant inlet 11'and through the inner volume V' of the coolant tank 1'to the coolant outlet 12', the coolant is guided to flow within the gaps G' between adjacent cell compartments 7'.

[0135] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 14 ​​As indicated in FIG. 1, according to the illustrated embodiment, each inner surface 5 of a respective cell compartment 7 defines an exhaust groove 13. The exhaust groove 13 of a cell compartment 7 extends from a bottom portion bp of the cell compartment 7 to a top portion tp of the cell compartment 7. The bottom portion bp and the top portion tp of a cell compartment 7 are indicated in FIG. 1. As the exhaust groove 13 of a cell compartment 7 extends from the bottom portion bp of the cell compartment 7 to the top portion tp of the cell compartment 7, it can be ensured that any gas formed inside a battery cell 8 can be exhausted from the bottom portion bp of the cell compartment 7 to the top portion tp of the cell compartment 7 in an efficient manner via the exhaust groove 13. Further, the exhaust groove 13 allows for the use of battery cells 8 having an exhaust valve and / or an exhaust opening positioned at the respective bottom portion bp of a battery compartment 7. According to further embodiments, a respective cell compartment 7 can lack a vent groove. Figures 9-14

[0136] Further, in these embodiments, the coolant tank 1' can comprise a structural assembly configured to divert coolant flow through the internal volume V' of the coolant tank 1' such that, when coolant is pumped into the coolant inlet 11', an at least substantially uniform coolant flow is provided around the cell compartments 7' and through the internal volume V' of the coolant tank 1' to the coolant outlet 12'. In this way, the plurality of battery cells 8 of the battery module 3' can be cooled in an at least substantially uniform manner. The structural assembly may, for example, comprise a plurality of partition walls which prevent coolant flow through certain passages. For reasons of brevity and clarity, such a structural assembly is not shown in FIG. 1. Figure 8

[0137] As mentioned, the coolant tank 1' according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 can comprise a plurality of structures 16, 16' as explained above with reference to FIG. 2. ​ ​ According to such embodiments, the plurality of structures 16, 16' can form part of a structural assembly for diverting coolant flow through the internal volume V' of the coolant tank 1' such that an at least substantially uniform coolant flow is provided around the cell compartments 7'.

[0138] It is to be understood that the above description is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the present application is defined by the appended independent claims only. Those skilled in the art will recognize modifications or variations of example implementations which fall within the scope of the present application as defined by the appended independent claims. Thus, it is intended that the present application encompass all such modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended independent claims.

[0139] ​​​As used herein, the terms "comprising" or "comprises" are open-ended, and include one or more stated features, elements, steps, components or functions but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, components, functions or groups thereof.

Claims

1. A coolant tank (1, 1’) for a battery module (3, 3’), wherein the coolant tank (1, 1’) is configured to contain coolant in an inner volume (V, V’) delimited by a plurality of wall segments (w1-w6, w1’-w6’) of the coolant tank (1, 1’), and wherein one wall segment (w1, w1’) of the plurality of wall segments (w1-w6, w1’-w6’) forms a plurality of recessed formations (4, 4’), each recessed formation comprising an outer surface (6, 6’) delimiting the inner volume (V, V’) of the coolant tank (1, 1’) and an inner surface (5, 5’) delimiting a cell compartment (7, 7’) for containing a battery cell (8, 8’).

2. The coolant tank (1, 1’) according to claim 1, wherein the inner volume (V, V’) of the coolant tank (1, 1’) surrounds more than 35% or 60% of the circumference of each cell compartment (7, 7’) in a plane (P1, P1’) perpendicular to a central axis (Ca, Ca’) of the cell compartment (7, 7’).

3. The coolant tank (1, 1’) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the coolant tank (1, 1’) comprises a coolant inlet (11, 11’) and a coolant outlet (12, 12’), and wherein the coolant tank (1, 1’) is configured such that, when coolant is pumped into the coolant inlet (11, 11’) and through the inner volume (V, V’) of the coolant tank (1, 1’) to the coolant outlet (12, 12’), coolant is guided to flow within gaps (G, G’) between adjacent cell compartments (7, 7’).

4. The coolant tank (1, 1’) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each inner surface (5, 5’) of the respective cell compartment (7, 7’) defines a gas exhaust groove (13, 13’) extending from a bottom portion (bp, bp’) of the cell compartment (7, 7’) to a top portion (tp, tp’) of the cell compartment (7, 7’).

5. The coolant tank (1, 1’) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wall segment (w1, w1’) is provided in a polymeric material.

6. The coolant tank (1, 1’) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wall segment (w1, w1’) is provided by injection molding.

7. A battery module (3, 3’) comprising a coolant tank (1, 1’) according to any one of the preceding claims and a plurality of battery cells (8, 8’) each arranged in a cell compartment (7, 7’) of the coolant tank (1, 1’).

8. The battery module (3, 3’) according to claim 7, wherein each of the plurality of battery cells (8, 8’) has a shape that conforms to the shape of the cell compartment (7, 7’) of the coolant tank (1, 1’).

9. The battery module (3) according to claim 8, wherein the battery cell (8) and the cell compartment (7) are cylindrical.

10. The battery module (3') according to claim 8, wherein the battery cells (8') and the cell compartments (7') have respective rectangular cross sections in a plane (PI') perpendicular to a central axis (Ca') of the cell compartments (7').

11. The battery module (3, 3') according to any one of claims 7-10, wherein a depth (D, D') of each compartment cell (7, 7') is at least 20% or at least 35% of a length (L, L') of each battery cell (8, 8'), as measured in a direction parallel to a central axis (Ca, Ca') of each battery compartment (7, 7').

12. The battery module (3, 3') according to any one of claims 7-11, wherein the battery module (3, 3') comprises a connection plate (15, 15'), and wherein each of the plurality of battery cells (8, 8') is attached to the connection plate (15, 15').

13. The battery module (3, 3') according to claim 12, wherein the connection plate (15, 15') comprises a plurality of electrical conductors (17, 17'), and wherein each of the plurality of battery cells (8, 8') is electrically connected to at least one electrical conductor (17, 17') of the connection plate (15, 15').

14. The battery module (3, 3') according to any one of claims 12 or 13, wherein the connection plate (15, 15') comprises a plate body (19, 19') and a plurality of electrical conductors (17, 17') arranged on the plate body (19, 19'), and wherein the plate body (19, 19') is provided in a polymer material.

15. A battery pack (10) configured to power an electric propulsion system (20) of a vehicle (2), wherein the battery pack (10) comprises a plurality of battery modules (3, 3') according to any one of claims 7-14.

16. A vehicle (2) comprising an electric propulsion system (20) configured to power the vehicle (2), and a plurality of battery packs (10) according to claim 15.

17. The vehicle (2) according to claim 16, wherein the vehicle (2) comprises a battery coolant system (23) configured to circulate coolant through the inner volume (V, V') of the coolant tank (1, 1') of the battery modules (3, 3') in the plurality of battery packs (10).

18. The vehicle (2) according to any one of claims 16 or 17, wherein the vehicle (2) is a heavy road vehicle, such as a truck or a bus.

Images